Palccoyo Mountains Tour- Alternative to the traditional Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour Itinerary:

06:00 - 09:00: Pick up from hotel – Transport to Checacupe 

The adventure starts very early when a representative of Guru Explorers picks you up at the hotel at 6:00 (it is recommended to have breakfast at the accommodation). Begin the transfer to the small Andean town of Checacupe (South of Cusco) where you enjoy the architecture, contrast, beauty and history of three historic bridges: the Inca, the Colonial and the Republican or Modern. In this magical town you can buy some last-minute items such as drinks, sandwiches, sunscreen, rain poncho, among others need items.

09:00 - 11:30: Explore the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

After connecting with the history and architecture of this friendly town, continue the 60-minute drive to base camp. Upon arrival, the short and gradual uphill walk begins (1 hour approx.) To Paso Palcoyo or Palccoyo (4880 m / 16,000 ft).

The gratifying panoramic view of the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the spectacular peaks of Palcoyo will satisfy your senses. You can also see the highest mountain in the Cusco region, the Ausangate; as well as the Stone Forest at the highest point. You will enjoy an hour in the majestic Andean nature to take with you the most pleasant photographic memories and the feeling of recharging your energies from this place.

12:00 - 14:00: Return and Lunch in Cusipata

To return we take the same path to the base camp, for the transfer in our private transport and return to Cusipata, where the exquisite freshly prepared buffet lunch awaits you.

15:00 - 17:00: Cusipata - Return to Cusco

After recharging, we return in our private transport to Cusco, where we say goodbye at your Lodge or Plaza "Regocijo" (One block away from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco) around 5:00 p.m.

A goodbye will be the perfect occasion to invite you to explore a new destination with Guru Explorers, because life is all about discovering new sensations and emotions.

* The private professional chef service is optional and at an additional cost *. The itinerary will be adapted if it is reserved, and the diet preferences of the tourists will be taken into account. Likewise, a camp is set up to enjoy the mountains while feeding and receiving information from our guide.

Price of the Rainbow Mountain Tour includes: 

• Departure from the lodging in the historic center of Cusco.
• Return to Plaza "Regocijo" (One block away from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco) (Historic Center of the city).
• Entrance ticket to the Checacupe and Palcoyo Mountain bridges
• Professional guide in English, Spanish, Portuguese (ask for availability for these or other languages).
• Buffet breakfast and Lunch (vegetarian and vegan options available upon request).
• Trekking or hiking poles (on request).
• First Aid and oxygen.

Price of the Rainbow Mountain Tour excludes:

• Transfer from hotels outside the city of Cusco (for private tours, ask for extra costs to pick up from the Sacred Valley or other places).
• Tips for the guide.
• Beverages.
• Food not specified in the itinerary.

What to bring to the Palccoyo Mountain Hike?
 

• Comfortable and optimal footwear for walks, warm jacket, caps or hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, bottles of water, clothing or rain poncho (especially between November - April).
• Passport or DNI.
• Travel insurance.
• Devices for audiovisual recording (cell phone, camera, camcorders)
• Cash (Local currency / Soles (S/.)

What considerations should you have when taking the Rainbow Mountain Tour:

• The streets of the city are narrow, an aspect that limits vehicular access to certain places; in this case the guide will suggest a nearby point to pass looking for you and enjoy the tour.
• This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years of age.
• It is important that you enjoy at least two days in Cusco before doing the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Treck, only then will your body be adapted to the height of the region.
• Due to environmental, climatic or other factors, beyond our control, the travel itinerary may vary. If so, it will be notified promptly.
• “Guru Explorers” values ​​your time and strives to respect the tour schedule; however, they may vary for reasons beyond our control (weather, natural disasters, field conditions, among other demonstrable reasons). We will do our best to offer efficient options and solutions for your enjoyment.

Not recommended for:

• People with heart disease, back problems, asthma or high blood pressure.
• People in wheelchairs.
• Pregnant women

Cancellation Policies:

• More than 7 days, 90% is refunded.
• Between 4 and 7 days of notification, 70% is refunded.
• Within 3 days or less in advance, there will be no refund.

Date changes:

• Rates applied for change of date in private tours:
  • There will be no extra charge if you notify more than 5 days in advance.
  • If notified between 3 and 5 days in advance, an additional charge of 20% will apply.
  • If you notify within 2 days or less in advance, it will not be possible to make the change and it will not be subject to a refund.
• There will be no refund in case of delayed flights, train delays, bad weather or other external factors.

The experience that makes you witness the beauty of this mountain of colors is inexplicable, it is really a personal encounter between you and nature. We want to be part of the experience that you will have during the tour of the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain.

If you are still wondering why choose us? We would like you to read 7 outstanding characteristics of our service:

QUALITY: 

When you go to a teacher, it is because you want to answer all the questions. In a matter of travel, money, time and enjoyment, you have to choose the best options available and that is what “Guru Explorers” is all about, giving you the perfect balance for the adventure you DESERVE.

EXPERIENCE: 

To become “Guru Explorers”, we are still world travelers, but experts in Cusco, Lima, and the most important destinations in Peru. We lived bad and good experiences, valuing that the main difference lies in the details, so we know what elements are essential for your trip. We are travelers and we strive to enhance your experience!

TRANSPARENCY: 

We are here to provide you with the best and most accurate information and description of our tours. We are not supporters of hidden costs, that is why we provide the necessary information so you can choose the inclusions or upgrades you are looking for.

SECURITY: 

You entrust us with your time, your money and your expectations and that is why we fine-tune every detail to guarantee the trip you dream of.

FLEXIBILITY: 

Although we have pre-established packages; they can be adapted to your needs and to make plans that are suited to you, so that you can visit any place in Peru, with the expertise of “Guru Explorers”. We adapt trips for special occasions such as your corporate trips, honeymoon, birthday, social, cultural or sports event during your visit to Peru, offering you complete advice to achieve and exceed your expectations. 

PASSION: 

Before being tour guides, we are travelers, explorers, adventurers; That makes us passionate about creating the best experiences in the time you invest for yourself and those you love.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: 

We promote Responsible and Sustainable Tourism, not affecting the traveler, nor exploiting the communities that receive it or their environment. We create more human and respectful experiences of Heritage.

Do you want a different trip to the Palccoyo Mountain? We won't keep you waiting!

How difficult is the route to the Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo?

At Guru Explorers we rate it as average. This route is a great alternative for those who do not feel capable of doing the Walk to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca); it is not as challenging as it is less steep.

Take into account that all walks in Cusco can be considered demanding due to the height. It is recommended to be acclimatized a couple of days before taking this tour.

How long is the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike?

The average time for this walk is two to three hours.

What advantages does the tour to the 7 Colors Mountain of Palcoyo have vs the traditional 7 Colors Mountain?

• Number of tourists: the traditional Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca, counts a large number of visitors daily; while Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo, has much smaller groups.The traditional Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) has become a super important and demanding attraction at a regional level and is promoted by many influencers on social networks.
• Length and difficulty of the walk: the route to the Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo is easier and shorter; the classic Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca is steeper and more extensive.

How is the weather in the Rainbow Mountain of Palcoyo?

It should be taken in consideration that the coldest period is between May and October, and the rainiest months are between November and April. However, the weather and altitude can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny, windy, coldy and even rainy from one moment to the next. We suggest you always be prepared with the equipment for all weather conditions. The sun is usually intense during the morning and part of the afternoon and the temperature can rapidly decrease from -5 to 18 ° C.

What luggage should I bring?

As it is a full day trip, you are not allowed to carry large suitcases or bags. However, you can carry a backpack with basic items such as water, camera, cap or hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, among others needed items.

What is the difference between group service and private service?

The main difference between Group and Private service is the type of experience provided. In the first one you share the experience with a small group of passengers, all departing from Cusco and being picked up at their respective lodgings. In the second one the service is personalized and you have the option of leaving earlier, to avoid other groups of tourists. Also, in private, the tour will be done at your own pace and you can customize the experience on special occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, family trips, among others.