If you want to see a colorful mountain in Cusco without hiking for hours or sharing the viewpoint with hundreds of people, Palcoyo is one of the best options. It is located in the district of Checacupe, in Canchis Province, near Ausangate Mountain.
Instead of just one mountain, here you will find three colorful mountains with red, ocher, green, and purple stripes, along with a stone forest that few travelers get to explore. The hike is short, and the scenery can be enjoyed from the very beginning of the trail.
In this guide, we explain how to get there, how long the hike takes, what to bring, and how Palcoyo differs from Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
How to Get to Palcoyo from Cusco
Palcoyo is located about 125 km southeast of Cusco, and the drive takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. The route follows the highway toward Sicuani, passes through Cusipata and Checacupe, and then continues uphill along an unpaved road to the community parking area.
There are two ways to visit:
- With a full-day tour: this is the most convenient option. It usually includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide, breakfast, lunch, and admission. You leave early in the morning and return to Cusco in the afternoon.
- On your own: you can take a bus to Checacupe and hire a taxi from there to the community. Public transportation in the higher areas is limited, so this option can take more time and offers less flexibility.
If you have limited time, a tour to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain saves you the trouble of arranging transportation and gets you to the starting point of the hike early, when the light brings out the colors at their best.
What the Palcoyo Hike Is Like
The route is about 3 km round trip, following a marked trail without steep slopes. At a relaxed pace, it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the main viewpoint.
Along the hike, you will pass three places worth seeing:
- The three colorful mountains: they can be seen from the beginning of the trail, and their colors change depending on the time of day and cloud cover.
- The main viewpoint: from here, you can see all three mountains together and, on clear days, the snowcapped peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range with Ausangate in the background.
- The stone forest: rock formations shaped over time by wind and rain. It is a great place for photos and is usually very quiet.
In total, including the hike, breaks, and time for photos, plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours in the area. The difficulty level is low to moderate; the altitude is usually more challenging than the physical effort itself.
Best Time to Visit Palcoyo and What to Bring
The dry season, from April to October, usually offers clearer skies and better views of Ausangate. From November to March, rain is more frequent, and on some days snow may cover the colorful stripes. Even so, the rainy season makes the surrounding hills greener and creates a striking contrast with the mountain colors.
Temperatures can drop below 0 °C in the morning, while the midday sun can be intense. Bring the following:
- A warm jacket and windbreaker
- A hat, gloves, and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Hiking shoes with good traction
- A waterproof poncho if you travel between November and March
- Water, snacks, and cash in Peruvian soles for the entrance fee and restrooms
Altitude and Acclimatization Before the Hike
The Palcoyo viewpoint is located at around 4,900 m.a.s.l., so you should spend at least two days in Cusco before taking the tour. Even though the hike is short, there is less oxygen at this altitude, and your body will feel the difference.
To be better prepared:
- Walk slowly and rest whenever you need to.
- Drink water throughout the day and avoid alcohol the night before.
- Eat a light breakfast.
- If you experience a severe headache, dizziness, or nausea that does not improve, descend to a lower altitude and inform your guide.
If you have a heart or respiratory condition, consult your doctor before traveling to high-altitude areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Palcoyo
How much is the entrance fee to Palcoyo?
The local community charges an entrance fee in Peruvian soles. The cost is usually low and must be paid in cash upon arrival. If you visit with a tour, the entrance fee is normally included.
Can you visit Palcoyo on horseback?
Yes. Horses are available for rent in the community for part of the route. However, the final section to the viewpoint must still be completed on foot.
Are Palcoyo and Palccoyo the same place?
Yes. They refer to the same place; the name is commonly spelled both ways.
Can children visit Palcoyo?
Yes, as long as they are properly acclimatized. Because the hike is short, Palcoyo is one of the more accessible high-altitude excursions for families.
What time do tours leave from Cusco?
Most tours pick up travelers between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. and return to Cusco between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m.
