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Palcoyo Mountain (also spelled Palccoyo) is Cusco’s other rainbow mountain. It is in the district of Checacupe, province of Canchis, about a 3-hour drive from the city, and its highest viewpoint sits at roughly 16,100 ft (4,900 m). Unlike Vinicunca, the walk is short and gentle: 45 minutes to 1 hour to the viewpoint, with several colorful mountains in view and a stone forest along the way.
That is why Palcoyo is the favorite of travelers who want to see a rainbow mountain without the effort of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, or who simply want fewer crowds. This guide covers how to get there, what the hike is like and which mountain suits your trip.
Where is Palcoyo and how do you get there?
Palcoyo lies south of Cusco, in the district of Checacupe, province of Canchis, not far from Ausangate glacier. The trip has two legs: first the paved highway south to Checacupe, then a dirt road up to the community of Palccoyo, where the trail begins.
- Distance: about 100 to 125 km (62 to 78 miles) from Cusco, depending on the route.
- Travel time: about 2 hours to Checacupe plus 30 minutes to 1 hour to the trailhead; roughly 3 hours in total.
- On a full-day tour: the easiest option, as there is no regular public transport on the last stretch.
Palcoyo altitude and hike difficulty
Palcoyo’s main viewpoint is at roughly 16,100 ft (4,900 m) above sea level. Although it is almost as high as Vinicunca, the trail is gentler and much shorter, so we rate it easy to moderate. Altitude is still the main challenge: walk slowly and arrive acclimatized.
- Walk to the viewpoint: 45 minutes to 1 hour at an easy pace.
- Total time on site: about 2 to 2.5 hours to walk, see the stone forest and take photos.
- Acclimatization: spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco first.
The Palcoyo stone forest
Besides the rainbow mountains, the route passes a stone forest: towers and spires of rock shaped by erosion over millions of years. It is reached by a short but steep climb from the main trail; worth it if you feel good at altitude, as it gives you another angle on the colored stripes.
Guide’s tip: if you travel with kids or older relatives, or have little time to acclimatize, Palcoyo is the friendliest rainbow mountain. Still, check with your doctor if you have heart or breathing conditions.
Palcoyo vs. Vinicunca: which one to choose
| Palcoyo | Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Checacupe, Canchis | Pitumarca, Canchis |
| Max. altitude | ≈ 16,100 ft (4,900 m) | ≈ 17,060 ft (5,200 m) |
| Hike | 45 min–1 h, gentle | 1.5–2 h uphill |
| Crowds | Few | Many |
| Best for | Families, short acclimatization, photos without crowds | First-timers, Peru’s most famous view |
If you are fit and can only do one, Vinicunca has the most spectacular view. If you prefer a short, relaxed walk, choose Palcoyo. Looking for something different? Read our Pallay Punchu guide, a mountain of rocky ridges that look woven.
Best time to visit Palcoyo
The dry season, April to October, brings clear skies and good roads. From December to March rain makes the dirt road harder and snow sometimes covers the mountains and hides their colors. Mornings are cold year-round and the high-altitude sun is strong.
What to bring to Palcoyo
- Warm layers and a windbreaker.
- Warm hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Hiking shoes or comfortable footwear with good grip.
- Water and snacks.
- Cash in soles for the community entrance fee.
Palcoyo FAQ
Is it Palcoyo or Palccoyo?
Both are used. “Palccoyo”, with a double c, is closer to the Quechua spelling used by the community; “Palcoyo” is the simplified form many tour companies use.
How much is the Palcoyo entrance fee?
The Palccoyo community charges an entrance fee to maintain the trail. On a tour, check whether it is included; if you go on your own, bring cash in soles.
Can I visit Palcoyo and Vinicunca on the same trip?
Yes, but on different days: each is a full-day trip from Cusco. If you only have one day, choose based on your fitness and how long you have been acclimatizing.
Visit Palcoyo with a local guide
Want to see it with us? Book the Palcoyo Tour 2027: Rainbow Mountain Day Trip from Cusco: departure from Cusco with transport, meals, entrance fee and guide, from US$50. Book with 40% and pay the rest when you arrive in Peru.
