Palcoyo Mountain Peru
Right after the launch of the Classic rainbow mountain to the world, the Palcoyo Mountain Peru resonated in the world of tourism as well. Located in these arid regions deep into the mountains of Cusco Perú. Similarly, to the rainbow mountain. The locals of the Palcoyo community decided to open up and show the world what they possessed. These beautiful rolling mountains, striped, three in total looking exactly like the famed rainbow mountain also have captivated visitors from all around. This is the one-day Palcoyo Mountain exploration guide and joins us.
Table of Contents
Helpful info
- Driving distance from Cusco: (76 Miles / 125 KM)
- Driving time: 4 hours one way, including breakfast time, and 4 hours for coming back including lunchtime.
- Entrance fee: S/ 15 / $ 4.5
- Base elevation: (15,400 ft. / 4,700 masl.)
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Trail: Dirt path at the beginning, then a cobblestone path. It is mostly flat with a gradual ascent. The last part to the stone forest is a 20-minute switchback walk.
- Hiking distance: (2.5 ML / 4 KM round trip)
- Horse rentals: None existent.
- Walking time: Approx. 45 minutes to the last viewpoint and 30 minutes to return.
- Photoshoots: Locals often offer photos with alpacas in exchange for a tip.
- Top elevation: (16,076 ft / 4900 masl.)
- Duration of the complete day: 10 hours.
- Elevation difference during trek: (656 ft. / 200 m)
Why is Palcoyo mountain colorful?
The coloration of Palcoyo Mountain responds to a vast amount of minerals. Minerals such as iron or sulfur dye the hillsides. The red coloring is due to iron oxide rust (hematite). Metallic yellow contains sulfur and iron sulfide, green tones come from chlorite or iron silicate clays, and whitish tones are quartzite sandstone.
Prepare for the altitude
Altitude sickness can affect anybody. For most travelers, it is nothing more than a headache and dizzy sensation that diminishes over one to two days. We highly recommend getting used to the altitude in Cusco city before the hike. Drinking coca tea or chewing coca leaves can help limit the effects.
Is Palcoyo mountain worth it?
Yes, it is totally worth it. Beyond the colored hills, you can see the majestic Ausangate glacier, red valleys, and amazing Andean landscapes filled with alpacas and traditional straw huts.
Where are Palcoyo mountains?
The Palcoyo Mountain is located in the province of Canchis, Pitumarca district, nearly 76 miles / 125 KM southeast of Cusco.
When is the best time for hiking Palcoyo mountain?
The rainy season (December – April)
This season offers lush green valleys but brings hailstorms, lightning, and heavy rain. There is a high chance that mist or snow will cover the colors of the mountain.
Dry season (May – early October)
These are days of endless sunshine and clear skies. It is the best time for hiking, though you should be prepared for cold temperatures in the mornings and afternoons.
Palcoyo mountain weather
The weather is unpredictable and changes rapidly. It can be below freezing in the early hours. We recommend dressing in layers and always carrying a rain jacket, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Are there restrooms along the trail?
Yes, there are restrooms at the controlled stall (10 minutes before arrival) and at the parking lot. The cost is S/ 1.00. Make sure to use them at the beginning as there are no restrooms at the top.
The piled stones known as apachetas
Apachetas represent the reverence of Andean natives to nature and the spirits of the mountains (Apus). Hikers often add a rock to these piles when reaching a mountain pass to ask for strength.
The overlook of the Ausangate mountain
Ausangate is one of the highest peaks in Peru (20,900 ft / 6373 masl). The Palcoyo excursion offers a much closer view of this giant snowcapped mountain.
Stone forest at the top of all
An extra 20-minute hike leads to the Stone Forest (4900 masl). It features sharp rock formations and offers a unique perspective where you can see the three rainbows in one single view.
Is there any danger on the hiking path?
There is no major danger from animals. It is too cold for snakes, though you might see small, harmless lizards. Dogs in the area are usually playful.
Useful information
- Leaving Cusco early allows you to arrive before the crowds.
- Palcoyo is less crowded than Vinicunca, providing more space for photos.
- Safety first: if you feel dizzy or nauseous, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
- The first rainbow is visible just 15 minutes into the hike.
- The red river only flows during the rainy season.
Biosafety protocol for covid-19
- Site hours are from 06:00 am to 02:00 pm.
- Maximum group size is 8 people (7 travelers + 1 guide).
- Masks and social distancing (1.5m) are required.
- Maximum time at the main viewpoint is 25 minutes.
My name is Abel, and I am the co-founder of AB Expeditions, a local travel company based in Cusco. I was born in Chinchero, in the community of Chusso. My journey began working as a farmer, then later as a porter on the Inca Trail. After that, I studied to become a tour guide, learned English, and spent 20 years guiding different treks around the Cusco region.
Over the years, I began writing blogs about the treks I’ve done and sharing useful tips about traveling in Cusco. Eventually, I founded AB Expeditions to offer authentic travel experiences with a strong commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
- Abel
- Abel
- Abel
- Abel
