Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes doesn’t have to break the bank. The "Cusco: Palccoyo Mountain Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch" offers an exhilarating 12-hour adventure starting at just $38 per person. Trekkers can expect a scenic drive, a moderate uphill hike, and stunning views of the vibrant rainbow mountains. With essential equipment and a delicious buffet lunch included, this tour promises a memorable experience amidst the majestic peaks. For those seeking an affordable way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, this day trip could be the perfect opportunity to…
Key Points
- This day trip offers a guided tour to the Palccoyo Mountains near Cusco, with stunning views of the rainbow-colored mountains and the Stone Forest.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, breakfast and lunch buffets, and equipment like oxygen and walking canes to assist during the hike.
- The 2-hour uphill trek to Wallata Qasa at 4,790 meters in elevation is considered moderately difficult, making it unsuitable for children under 13 or pregnant women.
- Participants can expect a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the trailhead, three viewpoints showcasing the natural wonders, and a return to Cusco by 5:30 pm.
- With an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on customer reviews, the tour provides good value and a unique opportunity to experience Cusco’s stunning natural landscapes.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour, titled "Cusco: Palccoyo Mountain Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch," is priced from $38.00 per person.
It’s a 12-hour excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour includes pickup from accommodations in Cusco’s historic center, transportation to the trailhead, a 2-hour uphill hike to the Wallata Qasa viewpoint at 4,790 meters, and lunch in Cusipata before returning to Cusco by 5:30 pm.
The tour provides a live guide, round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, oxygen, and walking canes.
It’s not suitable for children under 13 or pregnant women.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Palccoyo Mountain
Itinerary and Experience
Pickup from accommodation in Cusco’s historic center occurs between 4:30 – 5:30 am, kicking off the 12-hour adventure.
After a 1.5-hour drive to Cusipata for breakfast, the group heads to Combapata. A 2-hour uphill trek leads to Wallata Qasa at 4,790 meters above sea level.
From there, three viewpoints showcase multiple rainbow mountains and the Stone Forest at 4,960 meters.
Following the hike, the group enjoys a lunch buffet in Cusipata before returning to Cusco by 5:00-5:30 pm.
Throughout the day, guides provide live commentary in Spanish and English, and oxygen and walking canes are available to support participants.
Inclusions
Throughout the tour, participants receive a range of inclusions to enhance their experience. Pickup and drop-off at their Cusco hotel, as well as round-trip transportation, are provided. The tour also includes a live guide who can communicate in Spanish and English. Breakfast and lunch buffets are served, and oxygen and walking canes are available if needed. Entrance fees are covered, and tips are optional.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Roundtrip |
| Meals | Breakfast and lunch buffet |
| Equipment | Oxygen, walking canes |
| Guide | Live, Spanish and English |
| Fees | Entrance fees covered |
Participant Guidelines
Certain participant guidelines apply to this Palccoyo Mountain day trip.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 13 or pregnant women. Participants should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, rain gear, and cash. Shorts and drones are prohibited.
The hike to the viewpoints involves a 2-hour uphill trek, reaching an altitude of 4,790 meters. Trekking poles and oxygen are provided to assist participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
According to the customer reviews, the Palccoyo Mountain day trip has an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.
Reviewers highlight the trip’s value and the quality of the overall experience. Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views of the rainbow mountains, and the convenience of the hotel pickup and drop-off service.
While the majority of feedback is positive, some reviewers note that the uphill hike can be challenging for those unaccustomed to high altitudes.
Getting to Cusco
Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire, is the primary gateway for travelers exploring Peru’s renowned Andean region.
Located high in the Andes Mountains at an average elevation of 3,400 meters (11,200 feet), Cusco is easily accessible by air and land transportation. The city’s international airport receives regular flights from Lima and other major hubs, while a network of highways and buses connects Cusco to destinations throughout the country.
Many tour operators, including the one offering the Palccoyo Mountain Day Trip, provide convenient pickup and drop-off services from accommodations in Cusco’s historic center, ensuring a seamless start and end to the adventure.
What to Expect on the Hike
After the early morning pickup in Cusco’s historic center, the day trip to Palccoyo Mountain begins with a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Cusipata for a hearty breakfast. The real adventure starts with a 2-hour uphill trek to Wallata Qasa, situated at an impressive 4,790 meters above sea level. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with three stunning viewpoints showcasing the multicolored Palccoyo Mountains and the Stone Forest at 4,960 meters. The trek may be challenging, but guides provide oxygen and walking canes to assist participants.
| Hiking Difficulty | Elevation Gain | Trail Length | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate | 170 meters | 4 kilometers | 2 hours |
After the hike, a delicious lunch is served in Cusipata before the return to Cusco by 5:30 pm.
Planning Your Trip
To plan your Palccoyo Mountain day trip, first consider the physical demands of the hike. The trek involves a 2-hour uphill climb to an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters, which can be challenging for some.
Be honest about your fitness level and acclimation to high elevations. Additionally:
- Dress in layers and bring rain gear, as the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes.
- Ensure you have proper footwear to navigate the uneven terrain.
- Bring cash for the entrance fee and any additional expenses.
Careful planning will help you make the most of this stunning natural wonder and create lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altitude Sickness a Concern for This Tour?
Altitude sickness is a concern for this tour as the highest elevation reached is around 4,960 meters (16,300 feet) above sea level. Participants should be prepared for the potential effects of high altitude and follow the guide’s recommendations.
Can I Rent Hiking Gear or Equipment on the Tour?
The tour provides oxygen and walking canes, but doesn’t offer rental gear. Hikers should bring their own comfortable shoes, rain gear, and layered clothing to prepare for the high-altitude trek.
Do I Need to Be in Good Physical Shape for This Hike?
The tour requires a moderate level of fitness, as it involves a 2-hour uphill trek to an altitude of 4,790 meters. Participants should be comfortable with hiking and prepared for the physical exertion, but no specialized gear or equipment is needed.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
The tour provider does not allow the use of drones during the hike. However, participants are encouraged to bring cameras to capture the stunning landscapes at the multiple viewpoints along the trek.
Is There an Option to Book Private or Group Tours?
The tour offers both private and group options. Travelers can book a private tour for their group or join a scheduled group tour. Pricing and availability may vary, so customers should check with the tour provider for specific options.
Recap
The Cusco: Palccoyo Mountain Day Trip offers an unforgettable adventure in the Andes for just $38. Participants can enjoy a scenic drive, a moderate hike to stunning rainbow mountains, and a delicious buffet lunch, all while being provided with essential equipment. This tour provides a memorable experience amidst the majestic surroundings, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Cusco.
You can check if your dates are available here: