From Cusco: Day trip to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain

Imagine waking up before dawn in Cusco, ready for an adventure that promises breathtaking scenery and a taste of Andean culture. For $40, this full-day tour takes you to the spectacular Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, a lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to the famous Vinicunca. The tour lasts around 12 hours, which means you’ll get a full immersion in the region’s landscapes and traditions, with plenty of time to breathe in those incredible mountain vistas.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible and authentic it feels. First, the walk through the “stone forest” offers a dramatic landscape that’s both surreal and fun to explore. Second, the visits to the iconic bridges of Checacupe add a charming touch of local engineering ingenuity. One possible consideration is the early start—be prepared for a 4:00 am pickup if you want to make the most of the day. This tour suits those who love scenic hikes, vibrant landscapes, and are comfortable with some altitude (around 4,200 meters at the viewpoint). If you’re after a more relaxed or less strenuous experience, you might want to consider other options or spend more time resting after the trip.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day excursion to a stunning, lesser-known rainbow mountain.
• Early start means an energetic day with plenty of sightseeing and photo opportunities.
• Cultural highlights include breakfast, lunch, and visits to local sites like the three bridges of Checacupe.
• Moderate walk: about 40 minutes to reach the main viewpoint, suitable for those who enjoy light hikes.
• Included essentials: transport, guide, walking stick, meals—making it a convenient option.
• Extra costs: entrance tickets to Palcoyo (20 Soles) and optional bridge visits (10 Soles) are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Getting Started Early

To make the most of this 12-hour trip, you’ll be picked up from your Cusco hotel—if you’re in the city center—or you’ll be given a meeting point. The ride begins at around 4:00 am, allowing you to beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler, more comfortable temperatures for walking and exploring. The initial two-hour drive takes you through scenic landscapes to Cusipata, where a hearty breakfast awaits—a perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead. We found this breakfast to be simple but satisfying, providing that much-needed energy boost.

Scenic Drive and the Stone Forest

From Cusipata, the journey continues with a detour along the Salka River, which offers gorgeous views—perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots. Next, you’ll arrive near the start of your walk, around a one-hour drive from the main parking area. Here, you’ll prepare for a 40-minute walk uphill toward the main viewpoint surrounding Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Reaching the Main Viewpoint

The walk itself is manageable for most, though altitude can be a factor. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by the three colorful peaks of Palcoyo—each showcasing vibrant mineral-rich strata. The sweeping views of the Sierra del Ausangate provide a dramatic backdrop, and the colorful mountains seem almost painted into the landscape. Many travelers mention that “the views are just as stunning as those of Vinicunca, but with fewer crowds,” which makes this an attractive alternative.

More Great Tours Nearby

Photo Opportunities and Nature

This is the perfect spot for photos—your guide will likely encourage you to take advantage of the natural lighting and landscape. The area’s surreal hues of red, green, yellow, and purple are a photographer’s delight. We appreciated how quiet and less hectic this site felt compared to the busier Rainbow Mountain, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

The Return and Cultural Highlights

After soaking in the views and snapping plenty of photos, you’ll head back to the transport to continue your journey. The next stop is Checacupe, where you’ll visit three historic bridges. These bridges, each with their own unique construction and history, add a charming touch of local engineering and provide another photo opportunity.

Following this, you’ll return to Cusipata for a well-deserved lunch and some rest. The meal is included, with options for traditional Peruvian dishes, which helps balance out the early start and physical activity. The trip concludes with a comfortable ride back to Cusco, dropping you off in the city center—ready to share your incredible stories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides excellent value, especially considering the full-day itinerary. Included in the price are hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, lunch, and a walking stick—nothing much more to worry about. The entrance fee to Palcoyo (20 Soles) and the optional bridges (10 Soles) are additional costs, so budget accordingly.

Not included are snacks or cold drinks during the day, so you might want to bring some water and small snacks. The tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy light hikes, scenic drives, and cultural stops, but it’s not suited for wheelchair users, those with altitude sickness, or travelers with pre-existing medical conditions.

The Experience Provider

The tour is offered by TRIP TOUR, which has a reputation for well-organized trips and bilingual guides. Many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day informative and enjoyable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see a spectacular rainbow mountain with fewer crowds, this trip hits the mark. It suits travelers who are comfortable with an early start, enjoy walking, and want to combine scenic views with cultural visits. It’s also great for those wanting a more relaxed alternative to the busier Vinicunca trek, with the added bonus of local sights like the bridges of Checacupe.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Cusco who craves an authentic, scenic, and reasonably priced adventure, this day trip offers a lot. The stunning colors of Palcoyo are a sight to behold, especially when you’re standing right beneath those peaks surrounded by incredible landscapes. The early start means you’ll get to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer travelers, making your photos even more memorable.

While the walk requires some effort and altitude acclimatization, most travelers find it manageable and rewarding. Plus, the cultural stops—like breakfast, lunch, and the bridges—add meaningful touches that deepen your connection with the region.

If you’re eager to discover one of Peru’s most beautiful sights without the crowds or high costs, this trip is a solid choice, balancing adventure, scenery, and culture in a single day.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins around 4:00 am with hotel pickup, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes tourist transport throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites.

What should I bring for the walk?
Bring only what’s necessary—comfortable clothes, sun protection, water, a passport or ID, and cash. Walking sticks are provided.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the 20 Soles entrance to Palcoyo and 10 Soles for optional bridge visits are paid separately.

How long is the walk to the viewpoint?
The walk is approximately 40 minutes uphill, manageable for most, but remember the altitude can make it a bit challenging.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on their comfort with walking and altitude; the physical nature might be best suited for older children and teens.

Can I participate if I have altitude sickness?
If you are prone to altitude sickness, consult your doctor before booking, as the viewpoint reaches around 4,200 meters.

What is the meal like?
Breakfast is simple but filling; lunch typically includes traditional Peruvian dishes, providing energy for the afternoon.

How do I reserve this tour?
You can book through the provider’s website or platform, with options to reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

In all, this trip offers a rewarding mix of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and manageable physical activity—all for a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic way to add a splash of color and adventure to your Cusco experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby