The Palcoyo Colored Mountain Hike offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. This moderate 2-hour trek takes visitors to breathtaking viewpoints, including the captivating stone forest at the summit. With professional guides to enhance the experience, the tour includes hotel pickup, meals, and well-equipped support. Prepare for high altitude conditions while enjoying the natural beauty of the second most visited colorful mountain in the country. There’s much more to discover about this remarkable hiking experience.
Key Points
- The Palcoyo Colored Mountain hike offers a 2-hour moderate trek to the second most visited colorful mountain in the region.
- The hike includes 3 viewpoints and a guided tour at the summit to explore the great forest of stones.
- Breakfast and a buffet lunch are provided, making it a full-day adventure with transportation, guides, and necessary equipment included.
- Proper preparation, such as appropriate hiking attire and high-altitude acclimation, is recommended for a comfortable and memorable experience.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year, and operates in sunny weather or other conditions.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Palcoyo colored mountain hike and stone forests tour is priced at $37.00 per person.
This one-day tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, and lunch. The tour also provides handmade walking sticks and a first aid kit.
Entrance to the Rainbow Mountain Palcoyo is included in the price. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours for a full refund, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.
The tour operates in sunny weather and includes guided exploration of the colorful mountain and stone forests.
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Itinerary and Hiking Details
Pickup from the hotel (near or within Historic Center) occurs between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m. before travelers head to Cusipata for breakfast.
After breakfast, the group drives to the parking lot to begin the 2-hour moderate hike. Breaks are taken during the ascent as the hikers explore the forest of stones at the top.
Upon arrival, a guided tour is provided, allowing time to further discover the site.
The return to Cusipata for lunch precedes the drop-off near Plaza de Armas around 6:00 p.m.
Highlights of the Experience
After the moderate hike and guided tour, visitors can enjoy the main highlights of the Palcoyo colored mountain experience. Hikers can visit the second most visited colorful mountain in Cusco and enjoy 3 viewpoints during the trek. They’ll also discover the great forest of stones that caps the mountain’s peaks. As the final highlight, guests can savor a delicious buffet lunch after their hiking adventure.
| Highlights |
| — |
| Visit the 2nd most visited colorful mountain |
| Enjoy 3 viewpoints during the hike |
| Discover the great forest of stones |
| Guided tour upon arrival |
| Buffet lunch after hiking |
Inclusions and Exclusions
To cover the inclusions and exclusions, the tour package includes hotel pickup, tourist transportation, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch, and handmade walking sticks.
The tour also provides a first aid kit and entrance to the Rainbow Mountain Palcoyo.
However, the package excludes:
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Food not mentioned
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Extra expenses
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year.
Visitors are recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, and cash.
The tour operates in sunny weather or other conditions, with an English and Spanish live tour guide.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Recommendations
Although the Palcoyo colored mountain hike is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year, visitors are recommended to bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and cash. The tour operates in sunny weather or other conditions, with a live tour guide available in English and Spanish. To ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, guests should be prepared for the moderate 2-hour hike and explore the stunning forest of stones at the top.
| What to Bring | Weather Conditions | Tour Guide |
| — | — | — |
| Comfortable shoes | Sunny | English |
| Sun hat | Other conditions | Spanish |
| Sunscreen | | |
| Cash | | |
Getting to the Trailhead
The tour begins with hotel pickup from the Historic Center between 4:00 – 5:00 a.m., allowing participants to travel to the starting point of the hike.
The journey takes them to Cusipata, where they enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing to the trailhead parking lot.
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The early start ensures comfortable hiking temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Traveling from the urban center to the rural countryside sets the stage for an immersive nature experience.
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Fueled by a nutritious breakfast, hikers are ready to embark on the 2-hour moderate trek to the stunning Palcoyo colored mountain.
What to Expect on the Hike
After arriving at the trailhead, hikers embark on a moderate 2-hour trek to the stunning Palcoyo colored mountain.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy 3 breathtaking viewpoints. The hike is considered moderate, with some uphill sections and rocky terrain. Breaks are taken to catch one’s breath and take in the awe-inspiring landscape.
At the summit, hikers are greeted by the magnificent forest of stones, a surreal natural wonder. With their guide’s expertise, they’ll explore this captivating geological formation and learn about its unique history and formation.
Finally, the group descends and heads to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch.
Preparing for the Palcoyo Colored Mountain Adventure
To ensure a comfortable and memorable Palcoyo colored mountain adventure, it’s important to come prepared.
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Pack proper hiking attire, including sturdy, broken-in shoes, breathable layers, and sun protection. The terrain can be challenging, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must.
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Bring plenty of water and snacks to fuel your hike. The high altitude can be demanding, so staying hydrated and energized is crucial.
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Don’t forget your camera! The stunning vistas and unique geological formations of Palcoyo make for incredible photo opportunities you’ll want to capture.
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to fully learn about the beauty of this remarkable natural wonder.
Since You Asked
Is the Hike Suitable for People With Chronic Health Conditions?
The tour is not suitable for those with certain chronic health conditions. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and babies under 1 year old are also advised against taking the hike due to its moderate difficulty level.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?
Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the hike. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but hikers are welcome to pack additional items to have during the trek or for personal preferences.
How Difficult Is the Hike Compared to Rainbow Mountain?
The Palcoyo hike is generally less challenging than Rainbow Mountain, with a shorter duration of around 2 hours and a moderate difficulty level. However, it still requires a good level of fitness and preparation to complete the hike comfortably.
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?
There are no restroom facilities available during the hike. Hikers should plan accordingly before and after the tour. The tour provider does not mention any restroom stops along the hiking route.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers private tours for groups, providing a more personalized experience. Pricing and group size details can be discussed directly with the tour company.
The Sum Up
The Palcoyo Colored Mountain Hike promises an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. With professional guides, this moderate trek offers captivating viewpoints, including a stone forest at the summit. Travelers can expect high-altitude conditions, but the well-equipped tour ensures a supportive and enjoyable experience amidst the natural beauty of one of Peru’s most vibrant and visited colored mountains.
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