Colorful Mountain Tour Palcoyo | Cusco

The Colorful Mountain Tour Palcoyo in Cusco, Peru, offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes. This guided excursion promises to whisk visitors away on a 12-hour journey through lush forests, rocky terrain, and captivating Andes vistas. With a moderate 2-hour hike and a delectable buffet lunch included, it’s a perfect day trip for those eager to discover the vibrant mountain hues and the renowned "Forest of Stones." What lies beyond this initial exploration is an adventure waiting to unfold.

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Key Points

The Colorful Mountain Tour Palcoyo is a 12-hour tour in Cusco, Peru that provides access to three scenic viewpoints of vibrant, multi-colored mountains.
The moderately difficult 2-hour hike winds through lush forests and rocky terrain, led by an experienced local guide, and culminates in the "Forest of Stones".
The tour includes hotel pickup, a breakfast stop, and a buffet lunch, with ample time for photo-taking and leisurely exploration of the stunning natural landscapes.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year, and pets, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.
Cancellations can receive a full refund within 24 hours, and there is an option to reserve a spot and pay later, making the tour flexible for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Colorful Mountain Tour Palcoyo in Cusco offers a captivating one-day adventure for visitors. Priced from $54 per person, the tour lasts approximately 12 hours and features an easy to moderate hiking difficulty.

Departing from the historic center of Cusco, the tour takes travelers on a journey to the Palcoyo Mountain, part of the Andes at an altitude of 4,900 meters.

The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to witness the stunning, colorful mountains and the unique forest of stones along the way.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with hotel pick-up between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m. from locations near or within the Historic Center of Cusco.

The journey takes travelers to Cusipata for breakfast before heading to the parking area to begin the hike.

The 2-hour moderate hike includes breaks and access to 3 viewpoints as well as exploration of the nearby forest of stones.

After the hike, a buffet lunch is provided.

The tour concludes with drop-off near Cusco’s Plaza de Armas around 6:00 p.m.

Hiking Experience

After the breakfast stop, hikers embark on the 2-hour moderate trek up Palcoyo Mountain.

The path winds through lush forests and across rocky terrain, with occasional steep inclines. Guided by an experienced local, the group stops at three scenic viewpoints to admire the vibrant hues of the mountainside.

The path winds through lush forests and across rocky terrain, with occasional steep inclines. Guided by an experienced local, the group stops at three scenic viewpoints to admire the vibrant hues of the mountainside.

Hikers can use the provided walking sticks to navigate the uneven ground. The final destination is the "Forest of Stones", a unique geological formation that offers ample opportunity for exploration and photography.

The return trip to Cusco follows the same route, arriving around 6 p.m.

Scenery and Landscapes

Though the hike to Palcoyo Mountain begins with a moderate incline, the scenic landscapes that unfold along the way captivate hikers.

The tour offers a chance to experience:

Vibrant, multi-colored mountains that shimmer in the sunlight.
A unique "forest of stones," where wind-carved boulders dot the terrain.
Breathtaking vistas of the Andes mountain range stretching out in the distance.
The opportunity to explore these stunning natural wonders at a leisurely pace, with ample time for photo-taking and soaking in the views.

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Tour Guide and Inclusions

While the Palcoyo Mountain tour offers stunning scenery, its highlights also include the knowledgeable tour guide and the comprehensive inclusions.

The tour is led by experienced local guides fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.

Experienced local guides fluent in Spanish and English ensure clear communication and a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, a hearty breakfast and buffet lunch, as well as essential hiking equipment like walking sticks and a first-aid kit.

With these thoughtful inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the breathtaking beauty of the Palcoyo Mountains without worrying about logistics.

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Important Considerations

When planning this tour, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year.

Travelers with mobility issues or special needs may find the hike challenging.

Pets, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited on the tour.

Travelers should plan accordingly and respect the rules.

Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour are subject to a full refund, providing flexibility for last-minute changes.
Payment can be made later, allowing travelers to reserve their spot in advance.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Palcoyo Mountain Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

Customers raved about the tour’s beautiful mountains and affordable hiking experience. One reviewer described the scenery as "breathtaking," while another praised the "knowledgeable and friendly" guide.

The tour’s accessibility and ease of hike were also highlights, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.

Booking and Reservations

How does one go about booking the Palcoyo Mountain Tour? It’s a straightforward process with a few key details.

First, there’s a flexible cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Second, the tour offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, making it easy to secure your spot.

Third, the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, including pregnant women, wheelchair users, and babies under 1 year.

Finally, be aware of prohibited items like pets, alcohol, and drugs.

With these guidelines in mind, booking your Palcoyo adventure is simple and hassle-free.

Since You Asked

What Is the Weather Like at Palcoyo Mountain?

The weather at Palcoyo Mountain is typically cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from around 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). Visitors should dress in layers and bring warm clothing to prepare for the alpine environment.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks on the tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t include snacks, so packing your own is recommended to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can arrange for a private or customized tour if they’d like a longer experience. The standard tour is designed to provide an affordable, one-day introduction to the Palcoyo mountain.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Hike?

There are no explicit restrictions on photography during the hike. Hikers are generally free to take photos throughout the tour, capturing the colorful mountain landscapes and natural formations. However, it’s recommended to be mindful of others on the trail.

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour for your group. The tour operator offers private tours upon request, allowing you to customize the experience to your group’s needs and preferences.

The Sum Up

The Colorful Mountain Tour Palcoyo in Cusco, Peru, offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. Featuring a moderate 2-hour hike, the tour showcases vibrant mountain hues, breathtaking Andes vistas, and the stunning "Forest of Stones." With a buffet lunch included and an experienced local guide, it’s a perfect day trip for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: