The Excursion to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain offers a captivating alternative to the more popular Vinicunca. This full-day adventure from Cusco promises breathtaking landscapes, from the vibrant viewpoint to the enchanting Stone Forest. With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a hearty breakfast, the tour caters to travelers seeking moderate hikes and stunning vistas. At just $36 per person, it’s an ideal choice for those hoping to explore Peru’s natural wonders without the crowds.

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About Your Stay

A full-day excursion from Cusco to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, offering an alternative to the popular Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
The tour includes a relatively flat hike to the viewpoint of the multicolored mountain and a visit to the captivating Stone Forest.
Private transportation, breakfast, and lunch are provided, along with oxygen assistance and walking sticks for the hike.
The tour is not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or limited mobility, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Pricing is currently $36 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on reviews.

Tour Overview

This excursion to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain offers an alternative to the popular Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, providing a less crowded and more intimate small-group tour experience.

The full-day tour departs from Cusco and takes you to the stunning Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, you’ll stop for breakfast in Pitumarca before embarking on a relatively flat hike to the viewpoint of the multicolored mountain.

The tour also includes a visit to the captivating Stone Forest. With private transportation, tour guide assistance, and basic amenities provided, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey to one of Peru’s natural wonders.

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Itinerary Details

The excursion departs from Cusco and travels to Pitumarca, where participants enjoy a breakfast before embarking on the hike to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

The trail is relatively flat, leading to a viewpoint of the multicolored mountain. Along the way, the group visits the Stone Forest.

The total travel time is approximately 8 hours, with 4 hours each way. The tour includes private transportation with hotel pickup in Cusco, oxygen assistance, and walking sticks.

A tour guide accompanies the group throughout the experience, which lasts a full day.

Inclusions

The excursion includes breakfast and lunch, with private transportation provided from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco.

Oxygen assistance and walking sticks are available to help manage the hike. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey. A tour guide is also provided to lead the small group of up to 15 travelers.

This full-day excursion allows visitors to explore the multicolored Palcoyo Mountain and the nearby Stone Forest, with the total travel time amounting to approximately 8 hours, including 4 hours each way.

Health and Accessibility

Although the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain excursion offers a stunning visual experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers.

The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain excursion offers a stunning visual experience, but may not be suitable for all travelers.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions. Pregnant travelers should also avoid this activity.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness. Travelers should carefully consider their health and abilities before booking this tour.

Not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions
Not suitable for pregnant travelers
Not wheelchair accessible

Pricing and Reviews

How much does the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain excursion cost? Currently, the tour is offered at a special price of $36.00 per person, down from the original price of $40.00. This makes it an affordable option for travelers on a budget.

The tour company also provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, giving customers flexibility.

However, reviews of the tour are mixed, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews. Some customers have commented on the quality of the guide and transportation, so it’s worth considering these factors when booking.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Departure From Cusco

The excursion to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain begins with a departure from Cusco.

Travelers are picked up from their hotels and whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle for the journey.

The trip includes:

A breakfast stop in Pitumarca to fuel up before the hike.
Assistance with oxygen and walking sticks provided as needed.
A total travel time of approximately 8 hours, with 4 hours each way.

The comfortable transportation and pre-arranged logistics ensure a seamless start to this colorful adventure in the Andes.

Hike to Viewpoint

After the comfortable drive from Cusco, travelers embark on a relatively flat hike towards the viewpoint of the multicolored mountain.

The trail winds through the scenic landscape, offering glimpses of the unique geology. Along the way, visitors stop at the Stone Forest, a fascinating geological formation.

The hike is moderate, with oxygen assistance and walking sticks available if needed. Though not wheelchair accessible, the trail is accessible for travelers with a moderate fitness level.

The total hiking time is approximately 4 hours, allowing ample time to take in the breathtaking panorama of the Rainbow Mountain.

Visiting the Stone Forest

Along the hike to the viewpoint, visitors get to explore the Stone Forest, a captivating geological formation.

This unique landscape features towering rock formations, some reaching up to 15 feet tall.

The Stone Forest offers:

Opportunities to marvel at the intricate shapes and textures of the ancient rock structures.
Chances to learn about the geological processes that led to the formation of this natural wonder.
Scenic photography spots with the multicolored mountain in the background.

Trekking through the Stone Forest is an added highlight of the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain excursion.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider allows visitors to pack their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the hike and at the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

What Additional Equipment Should I Bring for the Hike?

You should bring hiking poles, sunscreen, a hat, and layered clothing. The tour provides oxygen assistance and walking sticks, but extra layers and sun protection are recommended for the moderate hike to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Rainbow Mountain?

The tour does not mention any specific photography restrictions at the Rainbow Mountain. Visitors are generally free to take photos, but it’s recommended to be respectful of the natural environment and avoid disturbing the landscape.

Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco Before or After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Cusco before or after the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain tour. The tour operator doesn’t restrict the length of your Cusco stay, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

How Difficult Is the Hike, and What Is the Terrain Like?

The hike to Palcoyo’s viewpoint is relatively flat and easy, with a moderate fitness level required. The terrain consists of a well-maintained trail passing through a scenic stone forest before reaching the colorful mountain vista.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Excursion to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain offers a full-day adventure from Cusco, providing a stunning alternative to the more popular Vinicunca. Travelers enjoy a hearty breakfast, a relatively flat hike to the vibrant viewpoint, and the captivating Stone Forest. With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and an affordable price, this tour is an ideal choice for those seeking breathtaking landscapes without intense physical exertion.