Cusco and the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Range (3 Days / 2 Nights)
3 days / 2 nights
4,900 m.s.n.m
Moderate
8 to 12 people
Este tour te llevará a descubrir la histórica ciudad de Cusco y sus alrededores, combinando la exploración de sitios arqueológicos con una caminata a la impresionante Cordillera de Colores de Palcoyo, conocida por sus montañas de colores naturales. Es la opción perfecta para quienes buscan una experiencia más tranquila pero igualmente impresionante en comparación con Vinicunca.
ITINERARY
Reception in Cusco
We will welcome you at Cusco airport and transfer you to your hotel. You’ll have time to rest and acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters). Drinking coca tea is recommended to help with acclimatization.
City Tour in Cusco
In the afternoon, we’ll start a City Tour visiting the most important sites in Cusco, blending Inca heritage with colonial architecture:
- Cusco Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, a magnificent example of Spanish colonial art.
- Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the most important temple of the Inca Empire, whose ancient walls were once covered in gold.
- Sacsayhuamán, the impressive Inca fortress with enormous stone blocks overlooking the city.
- Qenqo, a ceremonial center reflecting the Inca worldview.
- Tambomachay, known as the “Inca Bath,” with water channels still flowing today.
Departure from Cusco to Palcoyo
We’ll leave early in the morning for the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Range, located approximately 3 hours from Cusco by private transport. The journey offers stunning Andean landscapes, passing small communities and picturesque valleys.
Hike to the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Range
Unlike the Vinicunca Mountain, the hike to Palcoyo is much gentler and more accessible, with just a 1-hour gradual ascent. As you walk, you’ll witness the incredible natural stripes of color painting the mountains. From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of several colorful mountains and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Stone Forest Viewpoint
Near the summit, we’ll also visit a striking Stone Forest, a natural formation of rocks emerging from the ground, creating a surreal landscape. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Return to Cusco
After enjoying the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Range, we’ll hike back to the starting point and return to Cusco by transport, arriving in the afternoon.
Morning Free in Cusco
You’ll have the morning free to explore Cusco at your own pace. Visit the San Pedro Market, shop for handicrafts, or simply enjoy the city’s atmosphere.
Transfer to the Airport
Depending on your flight schedule, we’ll transfer you to Cusco airport for your departure. If you have extra time, you can explore a few more hidden gems of Cusco before leaving.
INCLUDES
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour.
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites (City Tour in Cusco and Palcoyo).
- Bilingual professional guide (Spanish-English).
- 2 nights of accommodation in Cusco.
- Breakfasts at the hotel.
- Light lunch during the visit to Palcoyo.
NOT INCLUDED
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for guides or drivers (optional).
- Lunches and dinners (except lunch during the visit to Palcoyo).
RECOMMENDATIONS
What to Bring:
- Layered trekking clothing (light clothing for the day and warm clothing for cold mornings and evenings).
- Hat, gloves, and scarf, especially for Palcoyo due to the high altitude.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap to protect yourself from the sun during the Palcoyo hike.
- Small backpack to carry water, snacks, and daily essentials.
Recommended Footwear:
- Comfortable trekking boots with good grip, ideal for hiking in Palcoyo and visiting archaeological sites.
Local Remedies:
- Coca tea: Very useful for preventing altitude sickness, especially in Palcoyo, which is at high altitude.
- Coca or muña candies: Helpful for maintaining energy during the hike.
Pharmaceutical Remedies:
- Pain relievers for potential altitude-related headaches.
- Stomach medications if you are sensitive to altitude or dietary changes.
Possible Issues During the Tour:
- Altitude Sickness:
- Palcoyo is at a high altitude (4,900 meters), so mild symptoms are common. Walk slowly, rest, stay hydrated, and drink coca tea to prevent symptoms.
- Moderate Fatigue:
- While the hike is not strenuous, the altitude may cause fatigue. Walk at your own pace and take breaks when needed.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Yes, it’s recommended to spend at least one day in Cusco to acclimate to the altitude before hiking to Palcoyo.
The hike is moderately easy, with a gentle ascent accessible to most travelers. It is much less demanding than the hike to the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
Yes, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. If you wish to add more visits or make changes, consult the tour operator.
Accommodation is in tourist-class hotels in Cusco. If you prefer a higher category, upgrades can be requested for an additional cost.
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, or fatigue), rest, drink water or coca tea, and walk slowly. If symptoms persist, descending to a lower altitude is recommended.
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