Hike to Palcoyo, the Other Rainbow Mountain
Get Off the Beaten Track While Still Discovering the Best of Peru
Palcoyo is another one of Peru’s famous Rainbow Mountains. The difference? It’s more of a rainbow valley with a fraction of the tourists seen by Vinicunca, the more famous trip. You can see why we advise against that trip here.
This one-day hike offers a relatively untaxing hike into the spectacular Vilcanota Mountain range. Boasting views of the Ausangate mountain range and its own rock forest alongside the Rainbow Mountains, a day hiking to Palcoyo is one that will never be considered wasted.
Travelers should give themselves 2 to 3 days to acclimatize before going on this 4km hike.
Highlights
- See several incredible rainbow mountains
- Experience these incredible sites without the typical crowds
- Explore the high altitude rock forest that sits above the mountains.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience waiting for you. You will appreciate the views of the mountain valley, discover different Rainbow Mountains, and lose yourself in the herds of alpacas that call this place home.
Our day starts early, as we pick you up from your accommodation and begin the 3.5-hour drive to Palcoyo. Sit back and watch the mountains roll by, or try to catch a little more sleep as you travel.
Once we arrive in Palcoyo we begin the 2km trek to the mountains (4km in total). On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of Ausangate, Mariposa, Nevado del Inca and the diversity of this montainous region. At the highest point of the trail, explore the Bosque de Rocas (Rock Forest) with it’s unique formations.
Included: transport, snacks & water, lunch, Palccoyo entrance fee, English-speaking guide
