Palcoyo Mountain Tour from Cusco: Vibrant Day Hike in the Andes

Day Trip

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Cusco, Peru

Duration

15 Hours

Language

English

Group Size

10 Peopele

Tour Overview

Explore one of Peru’s most colorful and peaceful natural wonders on this full-day Palcoyo Mountain tour from Cusco. Located in the southern Andes, Palcoyo offers an unforgettable alternative to the more crowded Rainbow Mountain, with stunning layered landscapes, surreal rock formations, and panoramic views of the Ausangate region.


Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup in Cusco, followed by a scenic two-hour drive to the village of Cusipata where you’ll enjoy a countryside breakfast. From there, a journey along a rugged mountain road brings you to the trailhead. Unlike other high-altitude treks, the hike to Palcoyo is relatively gentle and suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by vibrant red, green, and yellow striated mountains, flocks of alpacas, and the untouched beauty of the Andes.


Your expert guide will share stories about the geology, wildlife, and Quechua culture, making this journey more than just a hike—it’s a cultural immersion. After enjoying time at the colorful summit and capturing your best photos, you’ll descend to a well-earned traditional lunch before heading back to Cusco in the afternoon.


Why Choose This Tour?

  • Avoid the crowds of Rainbow Mountain and enjoy a quieter, equally beautiful trail
  • Great for travelers looking for an easier hike with big rewards
  • Includes private transport, meals, and expert local guides
  • See Peru’s Andes in their most colorful and tranquil form
  • Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a unique day trip from Cusco

Tour highlights

  • Discover Palcoyo, Peru’s lesser-known colorful mountain range
  • Relax with a scenic drive and traditional countryside meals
  • Easy hike perfect for all levels of fitness
  • See the striking “Stone Forest” and vibrant rock formations
  • Learn from expert local guides about the Andes and its culture
  • Capture breathtaking 360° views with minimal crowds
  • Ideal alternative to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain
  • Immersive, nature-filled day trip from Cusco

Whats Included

  • Private round-trip transportation from Cusco
  • Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
  • Traditional Andean breakfast and lunch
  • Entrance ticket to Palcoyo Mountain
  • Permanent bilingual guide throughout the tour
  • All local taxes and service charges
  • First aid kit and oxygen tank onboard

  • Any personal purchases or snacks not listed
  • Tips for guides or drivers (optional)
  • VAT (IGV) for Peruvian nationals or resident businesses
  • Travel insurance
  • Hiking poles (available upon request at extra cost)

Know before you go (faq's)

How difficult is the hike to Palcoyo Mountain?

 Palcoyo is considered an easy-to-moderate hike. The trail is short and mostly flat compared to other mountain treks, making it suitable for beginners and older travelers.


Is Palcoyo Mountain less crowded than Rainbow Mountain?

 Yes. Palcoyo is a hidden gem and sees far fewer tourists than the popular Rainbow Mountain, offering a more peaceful and personal experience.


What is the altitude of Palcoyo Mountain?

 The highest point you’ll reach is approximately 4,900 meters (16,000 feet) above sea level. While this is high altitude, the short hike and slow ascent make it manageable for most visitors.


What should I bring for the Palcoyo tour?

 Bring warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, and waterproof footwear. A poncho or rain jacket is recommended during the rainy season (December to March).


Can I take good photos on this tour?

 Absolutely. Palcoyo is a paradise for photographers, with panoramic views, colorful layered hills, and beautiful wildlife like alpacas grazing along the route.

Itiniray

  • Early Pickup in Cusco: Depart before dawn for maximum daylight and clear views.
  • Drive to Cusipata: Enjoy a scenic 2-hour ride through the Andean highlands.
  • Traditional Breakfast: Stop in Cusipata for a hearty country-style meal.
  • Continue to Trailhead: Travel along a mountain road for ~1.5 hours, passing herds of alpacas and dramatic landscapes.
  • Hike to Palcoyo Summit: Walk a gentle, scenic trail while your guide shares insights about the geology and local culture.
  • Explore the Stone Forest: Wander among jagged rock spires and take stunning photos.
  • Panoramic Summit Views: Enjoy 360° vistas of colorful mountains and the Ausangate range.
  • Return Hike: Head back to the trailhead at a relaxed pace.
  • Lunch in Cusipata: Refuel with a traditional Andean lunch.
  • Return to Cusco: Arrive in the afternoon with memories of an authentic, peaceful Andean adventure.

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