Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Get the facts on altitude, hiking distance, and seasonal weather before your day trip from Cusco.
Getting there
How to reach the trailhead.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tour: Full-day guided tour from Cusco, including hotel pickup, breakfast, lunch, and a licensed guide. | 3 to 3.5 hours each way | $50 - $70 USD | The most popular and hassle-free way to visit, as licensed guides are strictly required. |
| Car: Private taxi or rental car from Cusco to Checacupe, then up the dirt road to the Palccoyo trailhead. | 3 to 3.5 hours each way | 250 - 350 Soles ($70 - $100 USD) for a private taxi round-trip | Provides flexibility, but the dirt road from Checacupe requires a confident driver. |
| Bus: Public bus (colectivo) from Cusco to Combapata or Checacupe, then hire a local taxi to the mountain. | 4.5+ hours each way | 7 Soles for the bus, plus negotiated taxi fare | Cheapest option but logistically challenging, as finding a return taxi from the mountain can be difficult. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The site is open year-round. The dry season from May to October is best for clear views. The rainy season from December to March causes muddy trails.
During the rainy season, mineral runoff turns the nearby Pitumarca valley river red. You can only see the Red River from December to March.
What to bring
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Groups are sometimes capped at 8 people to prevent trail crowding.
Check your group size when booking.
How the day runs
Typical tour schedules from Cusco.
A typical 12-hour guided day trip from Cusco.
- Hotel pickup
Early departure from your accommodation in Cusco.
- Breakfast stop
Most tours stop for breakfast at a local restaurant.
- Checkpoint
Arrive at Palccoyo and pay the 20 Soles entry fee.
- Mountain hike
Walk the 3-4 kilometer trail and view the peaks.
- Lunch
Stop for a traditional Andean lunch on the return drive.
- Return to Cusco
Drop-off near the Cusco city center or your hotel.
Altitude and health
Palccoyo reaches an elevation of 4,900 meters (16,076 feet). You should spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize before attempting this hike. Altitude sickness medication or local coca leaves can help.
What to pack
Bring a daypack with at least 2 liters of drinking water. Wear warm layers, a windproof jacket, and sun protection. Bring small Peruvian Soles for the entrance fee and basic trailside toilets.
Easiest way to do it
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Full Day Tour from Cusco
10 h to 13 h 4.9 (117)
- Pick up from the hotels and other accommodations
- Dropped off near the city center (main square)
- Breakfast and lunch in traditional restaurant
- Walking stick, First aid kit and oxygen cans
From$45per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How difficult is the hike?
The trail is relatively short and flat. It covers 3 to 4 kilometers round trip and takes 45 to 90 minutes. It is much less demanding than Vinicunca.
Can I go without a guide?
No. A licensed tourism guide is required by local regulations. Security personnel check credentials at the gate.
Are there toilets on the trail?
Facilities are very basic. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer. You must carry all trash out.