Discover Palccoyo Mountain on a Full-Day Tour from Cusco

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines stunning scenery with a bit of adventure, the Palccoyo Mountain Tour offers an excellent option. Priced at around $40 per person and lasting roughly 12.5 hours, this tour takes you south of Cusco to experience one of the region’s quieter but equally beautiful alternatives to the famous Rainbow Mountain.
What we find most appealing is the chance to see herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely—truly a sight that captures the essence of rural Peru. Plus, the views from the Forest of Stones are genuinely breathtaking, with dramatic mountain backdrops and the chance to get some memorable photos.
A possible consideration is the early start—at around 4:00 a.m.—which might be tough for some. Also, the tour’s organization has received mixed reviews, so staying flexible and patient is wise. This experience suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty and aren’t shy about a long day on the road, especially those who enjoy guided insights into local landscapes.

Key Points

Early start for a full day of scenic exploration
Includes breakfast and lunch, adding value to the experience
Guided in English and Spanish, with knowledgeable guides
Beautiful views of Ausangate and the Forest of Stones
Opportunity to see llamas and alpacas in their natural environment
Not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions due to altitude and walking

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An In-Depth Look at the Palccoyo Mountain Tour from Cusco

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An Early Morning Start with Purpose

The adventure kicks off very early, around 4:00 a.m., so setting your alarm is a must if you want to catch the full experience. The guide will contact you roughly 15 minutes before pickup, usually in the hotel lobby—most likely in Cusco’s historical center. This early start is designed to maximize your day, allowing ample time for stops and sightseeing.

The journey begins with a scenic drive south to the town of Cusipata, where you’ll first enjoy a breakfast. This break is a good chance to energize before the main hike, and it also provides an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers or just enjoy the countryside views.

Visiting Colonial and Inca Bridges

Before reaching Palccoyo, the tour makes stops at a colonial bridge and an Inca bridge—both quite picturesque. These stops are brief but offer a window into Peru’s layered past. The colonial bridge showcases Spanish influence, while the Inca bridge hints at the ancient civilization’s engineering skills.

Reaching Palccoyo Mountain at 4,900 Meters

The highlight is, of course, arriving at Palccoyo Mountain itself. Sitting at 4,900 meters above sea level, it’s a high-altitude spot that offers sweeping vistas. Here, you’ll have free time to take photos, enjoy the mountain scenery, and observe the snowy peak of Ausangate nearby.

The scenery is notably less crowded than Rainbow Mountain, offering a more peaceful atmosphere, though the views are just as stunning. The Forest of Stones—a natural rock formation—provides a unique landscape backdrop for photos, and many find this spot particularly memorable.

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Observing Local Wildlife and Landscapes

One of the tour’s charms is the chance to see herds of llamas and alpacas wandering freely, a quintessential Peruvian image. The guides often point out interesting facts about the animals and their role in local culture, adding a layer of insight to your visit.

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Returning and Lunch

After exploring Palccoyo, you’ll head back to the parking lot and then to a local restaurant in Cusipata for lunch. This meal is included in the tour price, offering good value and a chance to relax after the morning’s activities.

The return trip to Cusco typically concludes around 6:00 p.m., with drop-off near Plaza Regocijo in the city center. The long day means you’ll want to have comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection, as the high altitude and sun can be intense.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

The tour is not heavily walking, making it accessible for most travelers, but the altitude can be a challenge. Packing comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and gloves is recommended. The tour provider offers walking sticks, which can help navigate uneven terrain, and a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are on hand for safety.

The entrance fee to Palccoyo Mountain is paid on-site (around 15 soles), so bring some cash. The tour also supplies transportation, a bilingual guide, and meals, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.

Considerations and Limitations

A notable issue from some travelers is organizational hiccups—one review mentions a mix-up where two guides tried to assign the traveler to different buses, leading to a rush to catch the correct one. While such incidents seem isolated, they highlight the importance of staying alert and patient.

The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, vertigo, high blood pressure, recent surgeries, or motion sickness—the high altitude and some walking could pose risks.

Authentic Experiences and What We Love

We loved the guides’ knowledge and their ability to share insights about local landscapes and wildlife. Their enthusiasm added a genuine touch to the trip, making the scenery come alive. The less crowded nature of Palccoyo compared to Rainbow Mountain makes for a more tranquil experience, which many travelers appreciate.

Seeing herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely is a highlight that captures Peru’s rural charm. The views from the Forest of Stones are breathtaking, with jagged rocks and mountain peaks creating a dramatic scene that photographs beautifully at dawn or dusk.

Balancing the Experience

While the early start and altitude can be tiring, the value of included meals and guided insights make this tour attractive for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals themselves.

The mixed reviews about organization suggest that while most travelers enjoy the scenery, some encounters with guides and logistics might require patience. It’s advisable to keep expectations flexible and remember that a lot of this experience hinges on enjoying the natural beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits nature lovers and those seeking quieter spots away from the crowds. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with early mornings and high altitudes. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see stunning mountain vistas with guided commentary, this tour offers solid value.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more luxurious or hassle-free experience, or have mobility issues, you might want to explore other options or consider smaller, more organized tours.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour is accessible for most, the high altitude and early hours may be challenging for very young children or elderly travelers with health conditions.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and lunch, both of which are good value and convenient.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee to Palccoyo Mountain is paid on-site and is approximately 15 soles per person.

What should I bring?
You should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection gear, water, and appropriate clothing for high-altitude weather.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, due to the altitude and physical activity involved, it’s not recommended for pregnant women.

What if I have health problems?
People with heart issues, vertigo, high blood pressure, recent surgeries, or motion sickness should consider the potential risks before booking.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 12.5 hours, with departures starting around 4:00 a.m..

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, the Palccoyo Mountain Tour from Cusco provides an excellent value for those wanting a peaceful, scenic journey with knowledgeable guides. You’ll love the less crowded atmosphere, the chance to see local wildlife, and the stunning mountain views that define the Peruvian highlands. While organizational hiccups are possible, the natural beauty and cultural insights make this a worthwhile adventure for most travelers seeking an authentic experience outside the busy crowds.