Palcoyo – Explore Rainbow Mountains Secret Sister

Palcoyo, the lesser-known sister of Peru’s famous Rainbow Mountains, beckons adventurous travelers with its own brand of natural enchantment. Tucked away in the Andes, this captivating destination offers a chance to explore vibrant landscapes and take in the rich culture of the region. With a 13-hour guided tour from Cusco, visitors can discover charming villages, witness the wonder of a camelid hatchery, and embark on a breathtaking hike to the Stone Forest and Cordillera de Colores. Though it may not boast the same renown as its iconic sibling, Palcoyo’s hidden gems promise an unforgettable experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Key Points

• Palcoyo is a stunning natural wonder, often referred to as the "hidden sister" of the renowned Rainbow Mountains in Peru.
• The 13-hour tour from Cusco offers a chance to explore Palcoyo’s vibrant landscape, including the Stone Forest and Cordillera de Colores.
• Highlights of the tour include a charming village visit, a camelid hatchery, and the Checacupes bridge, along with a 30-minute ascent to the viewpoint.
• The tour is priced at $54.28 per person, with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options, providing excellent value.
• Proper acclimatization is essential, as the trek starts at an elevation of 4,200 meters, with the guide providing support for any altitude sickness symptoms.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Palcoyo, the hidden sister of the Rainbow Mountains, offers visitors an opportunity to explore its stunning natural beauty.

This 13-hour tour whisks you away from Cusco, taking you on a journey to the breathtaking Palcoyo region. Along the way, you’ll visit a charming village, a South American camelid hatchery, and the majestic Checacupes bridge.

The highlight of the tour is the 30-minute ascent to the Stone Forest and Cordillera de Colores, where you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Apu Ausangate.

Priced at just $54.28 per person, this tour is a steal, with free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from accommodations in Cusco’s historic center, before embarking on a 2-hour trip to the charming village of Cusipata for breakfast.

Along the way, you’ll visit the Checacupes bridge and a South American camelid hatchery.

The journey continues with an additional 1-hour drive to the starting point of the Palcoyo trek at an elevation of 4,200 meters.

After a pleasant 30-minute ascent, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Stone Forest and the Cordillera de Colores.

Enjoy the opportunity to offer a ceremony to Pachamama and take in the majestic sight of Apu Ausangate before returning to Cusipata for a well-deserved buffet lunch and the journey back to Cusco.

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup from your accommodation in Cusco.

You’ll be accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide throughout the journey.

Private transportation takes you to and from the trek.

Savor a hearty breakfast and buffet lunch, with vegetarian options available.

A first-aid kit and bottle of oxygen ensure your safety.

Your entrance ticket is included, and a horse is on hand to assist if needed.

With these comprehensive inclusions, you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes of Palcoyo without worrying about logistics.

This seamless experience allows you to make the most of your day exploring the hidden Rainbow Mountains.

Pricing and Cancellation

At just $54.28 per person, this tour offers excellent value for exploring the stunning Palcoyo Rainbow Mountains.

The price provides a savings of up to 8% compared to the regular rate. Plus, there’s the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option, making it easier to secure their spot.

With these flexible booking policies and a competitive price, this tour makes for an affordable and accessible way to discover the hidden sister of the famous Rainbow Mountains.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Accommodation Pickup

As an added convenience, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation in Cusco Centro Historico.

Expect an early morning start, as the driver will collect you and transport you to the first stop, the village of Cusipata, about a 2-hour drive from Cusco.

Along the way, you’ll make a couple of interesting stops, including the Checacupes bridge and a South American camelid hatchery.

After breakfast in Cusipata, you’ll continue your journey to the starting point of the Palcoyo trek, an additional 1-hour drive.

This seamless door-to-door service ensures a stress-free experience as you embark on your adventure to the hidden Rainbow Mountains.

Breakfast and Lunch

After the early morning pickup in Cusco, the tour heads to the village of Cusipata for the first stop – breakfast. This hearty meal sets the stage for the day’s adventure.

The journey then continues, with stops at the Checacupes bridge and a South American camelid hatchery along the way.

The tour includes:

1. A 2-hour trip to Cusipata for breakfast.
2. Visits to points of interest en route to the Palcoyo trailhead.
3. A buffet lunch back in Cusipata after the hike.
4. Transport back to Cusco, arriving around 5-6 PM.

This well-rounded itinerary ensures travelers are fueled and energized for the stunning Palcoyo trek.

Hiking and Panoramic Views

From the starting point, the 30-minute ascent to the Palcoyo viewpoint offers a pleasant hike through the Stone Forest and Cordillera de Colores. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, showcasing the vibrant hues of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can gaze upon the majestic Apu Ausangate, standing tall at approximately 6,380 meters, and partake in an offering ceremony to Pachamama, the Andean earth goddess.

Viewpoint	Elevation	Highlights
Stone Forest	4,200 m	Unique rock formations
Cordillera de Colores	4,200 m	Multicolored mountain ranges
Apu Ausangate	6,380 m	Towering snow-capped peak

Hikers are advised to be fully acclimated to the high altitude for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Altitude Acclimatization

Proper acclimatization is vital for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the high-altitude landscapes of Palcoyo.

The tour includes a stop in Cusipata village, located at an elevation of 4,200 meters, before the ascent to Palcoyo. This allows participants to gradually adjust to the thinner air.

Key tips for a successful trek include:

1. Arrive in Cusco a few days prior to the tour to acclimate.
2. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
3. Pace yourself during the hike and take breaks as needed.
4. Inform your guide of any altitude sickness symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not specified. The overview indicates it’s a private tour, so the group size likely varies based on the number of participants who book the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Trekking Equipment?

The tour operator allows participants to bring their own trekking equipment. However, they recommend using the provided equipment as it’s been carefully selected for the hike’s conditions and safety. Bringing your own gear isn’t required but is permitted.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions?

There are no age or fitness level restrictions, but participants should be fully acclimated for the hike at high altitude. The tour provider recommends preparing adequately and consulting with them if unsure about your fitness level.

Can I Take Side Trips or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour is fixed with a set itinerary, but travelers can’t make side trips or customize the schedule. However, the tour operator may accommodate special requests if informed in advance, subject to availability and feasibility.

What Happens in Case of Bad Weather During the Hike?

If inclement weather arises during the hike, the tour guide will assess the situation and make a decision to either proceed cautiously, temporarily pause the hike, or cancel it altogether to ensure the group’s safety.

Recap

Palcoyo’s hidden charms beckon adventurers to explore its vibrant landscapes. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable experience, with knowledgeable guidance, hearty meals, and convenient transportation. Ascend to the Stone Forest and Cordillera de Colores, where breathtaking vistas await. An accessible yet awe-inspiring hiking adventure amidst the majestic Andes, Palcoyo is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and enchanting natural wonder.

You can check if your dates are available here: