From Cusco: Palccoyo Mountain+Forest Stones |Private|

From Cusco: Palccoyo Mountain+Forest Stones |Private|
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8 (based on user reviews and overall feedback)
Price: $150 per person
Supplier: Todo Turismo

Quick overview:
This private day trip from Cusco takes you to the less-crowded Palccoyo Mountain, known for its striking multi-colored rock formations and the mysterious Forest Stones. For $150 per person, you’ll enjoy a full 10-hour experience that includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and a delicious lunch. The route offers spectacular landscapes, with gentle hikes that don’t demand peak physical conditioning, making it accessible to most travelers.

What we love most about this experience is the serenity of Palccoyo, which feels like a secret jewel away from the crowds, and the opportunity to see part of the mighty Ausangate Mountain, which adds a majestic backdrop to your photos. The other highlight is the chance to observe local flora and fauna, making the visit feel more authentic and connected to the environment.

A potential drawback is the early start — the pickup at 4:00 a.m. could be tough for some. Also, because the tour is subject to weather conditions and other unforeseen events, there’s a chance your plans might shift or cancel, with no reimbursement if that happens. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic, relaxed outings and are comfortable with an early start to maximize daylight.

If you’re craving a peaceful escape to nature that offers striking scenery and light hiking, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The multi-colored rocks of Palccoyo make for incredible photographs.
• Less crowded experience: Perfect for those wanting a peaceful visit without the crowds of Rainbow Mountain.
• Flexible itinerary: The schedule is subject to weather and other factors, which keeps safety a priority.
• Authentic surroundings: The tour includes observing local flora and fauna, adding depth to your visit.
• Comfortable walk: The hike is accessible to most, with walking sticks provided and no difficult terrains.
• Inclusion of essentials: Transportation, guide, lunch, and safety gear are included — good value for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at what to expect from this private tour

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

We start our day well before dawn, with a hotel pickup around 4:00 a.m.—a very early start but necessary to catch the best light and avoid crowds. Your guide, whose friendly demeanor helps make the early hours feel more manageable, will give a quick overview of the day’s plan.

The drive south of Cusco is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of rural Peruvian life and stunning landscapes that change from urban to mountainous in a flash. Your transport is comfortable and private, a real plus when compared to large group tours, ensuring a tailored experience.

Breakfast Stop at Cusipata

Our first stop is at Cusipata, where a hearty breakfast awaits. This break is vital for replenishing energy after the early start. The town serves as a gateway to the Andes and offers a chance to stretch your legs amid local scenery.

Colonial and Inca Bridges

On the way to Palccoyo, we make a brief stop to admire a colonial bridge and the original Inca bridge—both historical structures that add a layer of cultural context to your journey. These photo stops are great for capturing the blend of Peruvian history and stunning scenery.

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Arrival at Palccoyo Mountain

Finally, we arrive at Palccoyo, at around 4,900 meters above sea level. Don’t worry— the walk to the viewpoint is gentle and well-graded, designed for comfort rather than strenuous exertion. Here, you’ll have free time to take pictures of the mesmerizing multi-colored rock formations, which are smaller and less crowded than Rainbow Mountain but equally breathtaking.

Views and Flora

From the summit area, you’ll also catch a glimpse of Ausangate, Peru’s sacred snow-capped mountain, providing a dramatic backdrop. We loved the way the flora and fauna bring the landscape alive, with occasional sightings of local wildlife and lush alpine plants. The quietness here makes it a perfect moment for reflection or capturing that perfect photo.

Return and Lunch

After soaking in the scenery and snapping countless photos, we head back to the parking lot, then continue to Cusipata for lunch—a simple yet satisfying meal that offers a taste of local flavors. The rest of the journey back to Cusco is relaxing, with the guide sharing stories and answering questions.

Drop-off and End of Day

We arrive back in Cusco around 6:00 p.m., and your driver will take you straight to your hotel. This timing makes it easy to relax after a long day and reflect on the memorable sights.

What makes this experience stand out?

The tranquility of Palccoyo is a significant advantage. Unlike Rainbow Mountain, which can get crowded, Palccoyo’s smaller size and lower profile mean you’ll enjoy the views more peacefully. One traveler described it as “a hidden treasure,” emphasizing how much they appreciated the quiet.

The scenic route and authentic stops—from colonial and Inca bridges to local flora—add layers to the experience that go beyond just viewing colorful rocks. The inclusion of safety gear, such as walking sticks and a first aid kit, shows the tour’s attention to traveler comfort.

Considerations for travelers

The early start may be challenging for some, but it’s necessary to enjoy the best light and avoid crowds. Weather can affect the itinerary; rain or storms might cause some plans to shift or cancel, with no refunds if the trip is canceled due to these reasons. That unpredictability is typical for mountain excursions, so flexibility is key.

This tour is ideal for those who prefer a gentler hike and more intimate scenery over the bustling crowds at Rainbow Mountain. It suits travelers looking for a peaceful connection with nature and who appreciate cultural highlights along the way.

The Sum Up

This private tour to Palccoyo Mountain and Forest Stones offers a compelling alternative to the busier Rainbow Mountain, combining stunning visual scenery with authentic, peaceful surroundings. The route’s ease and the inclusion of essential amenities make it a fantastic choice for light hikers, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy Peru’s majestic landscapes without the hustle and bustle.

While the early start can be tough, the reward is a more personal experience with breathtaking views and fewer travelers. The tour’s flexible approach, guided by a friendly bilingual guide, ensures you gain a genuine appreciation of the landscape and local environment.

If you’re after a beautiful, calming escape that emphasizes authentic scenery, safety, and comfort, this tour is a valuable addition to your Cusco itinerary.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $150 per person, which includes transportation, a bilingual guide, lunch, walking sticks, and safety gear like a first aid kit and oxygen.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, approximately 10 hours long, starting with a pickup around 4:00 a.m. and returning by 6:00 p.m.

What is included in the price?
You get hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, a traditional lunch, walking sticks, and safety equipment.

Are there extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, tickets cost 15 soles per person and are not included. Additional expenses and travel insurance are personal costs.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the walk to Palccoyo is gentle and accessible for most, with plenty of breaks and support. The main concern might be the early start and altitude.

What might cause the tour to be canceled or altered?
Weather conditions, strikes, floods, or other events could cause schedule changes or cancellations, with no refunds if the trip is canceled for these reasons.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility should your plans change.

This private trip to Palccoyo balances stunning scenery with light walking, making it a worthwhile day out for those wanting to experience Peru’s natural beauty without the crowds. The serene landscape, combined with cultural and scenic stops, provides a well-rounded adventure that’s both memorable and manageable.

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