All of the beauty of not just one rainbow mountain but THREE and with none of the chaos? I’m not playing. This is the real deal. Palccoyo Mountain is a vibrant alternative to Vinicunca, Peru’s famed rainbow mountain, and is brand new to the tourism industry having only started welcoming tourists in 2018! Skip the lines (it’s an easier hike too!) and embark on an epic adventure to discover stunning, colorful landscapes, unique hiking experiences, and insane views without the crowds.

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Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain at a glance:

Location: Palccoyo is located in the Andes, about 3-3.5 hours from Cusco, Peru, near the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Altitude: It sits at around 4,900 meters (16,076 feet) above sea level.
The cost of the entrance ticket to Palccoyo is S/15. A proximate of $5
Colorful Landscape: Known for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes, Palccoyo features stunning hues of red, orange, pink, and green, similar to Rainbow Mountain.
Less Crowded: Compared to the popular Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo offers a quieter, more serene hiking experience.
Elevation of the beginning of the Palccoyo Trek: 4,700 meters (15,400 feet)
Highest point: 16,076’
Trekking Difficulty: The hike is moderate, taking around 1-2 hours, making it more accessible for travelers with varying fitness levels. It’s a shorter, less-steep hike than Vinicunca.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April to October) offers the best weather for trekking and enjoying the vivid colors.
Unique Features: Apart from its rainbow-colored hills, you can also spot ancient Incan terraces and the impressive pinnacles along the trail.
Alternative to Rainbow Mountain: Often considered a peaceful alternative for those seeking a quieter, equally stunning adventure without the tourist crowds.

Where is Rainbow Mountain and How do I get there?

Palccoyo. Rainbow Mountain is about 3-3.5 hours south of Cusco, Peru. The easiest way to experience this epic landscape is to book a tour!

This is the Palccoyo Mountain Full-Day Tour I booked!

The day started with a 4:30 a.m. pickup from my hotel followed by a 2-hour drive to our breakfast spot. Then it’s another hour up a dirt road to the trailhead. Try to stay awake if you can! The mountains are breathtaking, especially during the second half of the drive.

Tipping your Guides

Don’t forget to tip! The average tip for guides in peru is about $8USD/day (or about 25 soles).

Is Rainbow Mountain really worth it?

My vote is yes!!! It’s a beautiful 45-minute walk up to the top with the opportunity to see THREE rainbow mountains and the red valley in the middle. There’s also a beautiful section of pinnacles you can hike through to make it a loop. I loved every second of it!

How long is the Rainbow Mountain walk?

It’s just about 30-45 minutes to the top or 1-2 hours round-trip depending on how many photos you take ;) It’s only about 2 total miles of hiking and 500’ of gain, but being up at 16,000’ will have you hiking much slower than anything you’re used to! Take your time, breath in the thin mountain air, and enjoy every second of this real life painting.

How High is Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

This rainbow mountain is 16,076’ above sea level.

How was Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain formed?

The Birth of a Rainbow:

Tectonic Tussle: Picture this: giant tectonic plates having an epic clash, pushing and shoving the earth’s crust into the sky. That’s how the mighty Andes were born, and Palccoyo got its first taste of altitude.
Layer Cake of Color: Next, imagine ancient seabeds and lake beds full of minerals getting squashed into colorful rock layers. These layers of sediment (including iron oxide and other minerals) got packed together over millions of years like a geological layer cake.
Erosion’s Artistry: Then, like a slow-motion artist with a chisel, erosion (thanks to wind, rain, and ice) carved away at the rocks, revealing the vibrant colors we see today. The landscape didn’t just appear overnight; it’s been a slow, natural masterpiece in the making.

How Old Is This Rainbow?

Old but Fresh: The Andes are millions of years old, but Palccoyo’s eye-popping colors are only about a few thousand years in the making. So, while this beauty is ancient, it’s been showing off its rainbow glow for a much shorter time.
The Grand Reveal: Thanks to the magic of erosion, these rainbow layers only became fully visible in the last few thousand years, so it’s like nature’s best-kept secret just waiting to be discovered. Not only that, but it only opened up to tourism in 2018! You could be one of the first to experience this natural artist’s palette (and avoid all those crazy lines and the challenging hike at Vinicunca)!

Where are the best views at Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

There are epic views every step of the way, but a few particular areas give you the best vantage points of each rainbow mountain, and two bonus views too!

The trail begins with stairs. Joy, I know. Once you reach the top, look right to feast your eyes on the first of Palccoyo’s three rainbow mountains. In front of you, you’ll find the red valley, and to the left, the trail continues on towards the summit.

Stay right at all the forks as you keep on walking to find two established viewpoints where you can pull off the trail and enjoy epic views of the first rainbow mountain and the red valley below. The trail then cuts across the second rainbow mountain and guides you towards the main viewpoint of the second and most photographed mountain.

Look left to see the third rainbow mountain, and if the skies are clear, you might even get to see Ausengate–Cusco’s highest mountain, the fifth highest in Peru, and one of the highest peaks in all of South America. It also has the world’s largest remaining tropical glacier. Yeah, a tropical glacier is a thing! I had to triple fact check this cuz I was like, whaaaa?

You’ll probably find a couple of llamas and alpacas dressed to the nines hanging out just waiting to get their picture taken. If you have a couple of soles on hand, their owners would appreciate a tip for a pic.

The trail doesn’t end here! Start climbing up the hill for even better views of the last rainbow mountain and Ausengate, eventually making your way up into the pinnacles. If you’re not feeling up for it, there’s a bypass trail that takes you back down tot he parking lot without having to gain this last bit of elevation. However, if you can swing it, it’s really freaking cool up there. It’s another landscape entirely!

Once you’ve had your fill (as if that could ever happen), continue through the Pinnacles and down the other side, slowly making your way back down to the parking lot to complete the loop.

Understanding the Colors of Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a color explosion! Here’s a breakdown of the stunning colors that make up this natural masterpiece:

Red: The vibrant reds come from iron oxide in the soil, creating that fiery, earthy hue.
Pink: A soft, pastel pink comes from the combination of clay minerals and sandstone, giving the landscape a gentle, rosy glow.
Yellow: You’ll spot bright, golden yellows thanks to the sulfur-rich deposits in the area, adding a warm, sun-kissed touch to the slopes.
Green: The lush, green tones are from minerals like chlorite that give the area a cool, mossy feel.
White: Some areas have crisp, white stripes, made from limestone deposits that stand out in contrast to the warmer colors.
Brown: You’ll see deeper, earthy browns in certain sections, created by layers of sandstone and clay, adding texture and richness to the overall palette.

When’s the best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is during Peru’s dry season, which runs from April to October. Here’s why:

Why the Dry Season?

Clear Skies: The dry season offers more sunshine and clear skies, letting you fully appreciate Palccoyo's colorful layers without being blocked by clouds or rain. Those vivid reds, yellows, and greens are at their most striking when the sun shines down on them!
Better Hiking Conditions: During the rainy season (November to March), the trails can get muddy and slippery, making the hike a little more challenging. In contrast, the dry months offer drier paths, so you can focus on the scenery (and not on slipping in the mud!).

Best Months:

June to August: These are peak months for travelers, with the best weather conditions. However, Palccoyo is still much quieter than Rainbow Mountain, so you’ll enjoy the colors without battling big crowds.
April and October: If you prefer fewer tourists and still good weather, the start and end of the dry season are ideal.

Pro Tip:

No matter when you visit, the higher the altitude, the colder it gets — especially in the morning. So, bring layers! Check out my packing list below to see what I brought!

What wildlife can you find at Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is teeming with wildlife that’s as iconic as the landscape itself. Here’s a peek at the critters that call this rugged, high-altitude paradise home:

1. Llamas & Alpacas

Yep, these fluffy, photogenic stars are practically guaranteed to be hanging out on the trails, munching on grass or striking a pose for that perfect Instagram shot. Llamas are the more sassy cousins, while alpacas are the calm, fluffy ones. Don’t be shy, say hi to these adorable highland dwellers!

2. Vicuñas

Spotting a vicuña is like finding the golden ticket in a wildlife lottery. These wild relatives of llamas are smaller, more graceful, and often seen darting across the hillsides in herds. Their soft, fine wool is highly prized — but don’t get too close, they’re wild, and they like their space. They also have huge doe-eyes that make them cute as all get out.

3. Andean Foxes

These sneaky, high-altitude foxes tend to keep to themselves, but if you’re lucky, you might catch one darting across the rocky slopes. They’re as tough as they are cute, surviving in some of the harshest conditions. Think of them as the true adventurers of the mountain world.

4. Condors

These majestic Andean condors are the kings of the skies. With wingspans that can stretch over 3 meters (10 feet!), they soar above the mountains with a grace that’ll stop you dead in your tracks. Keep your eyes peeled — if you see one gliding on the thermals, you’ll know you’ve stumbled upon something truly wild.

5. Pumas

Okay, so you probably won’t spot one (unless you're super lucky), but pumas — the elusive big cats of the Andes — are definitely roaming these hills. They prefer to keep to the shadows, but knowing they’re out there, watching over the mountains like silent guardians, adds an element of wild mystery to the whole experience. It’s one of those things that’d be super sick to see but also relieving if you don’t, ya know?

6. Tiny Creatures, Big Adventure

From guinea pigs scurrying across the rocky paths to little mice darting between rocks, the smaller mammals add a bit of charm to your hike. Don’t forget to look down!

What to Pack for Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain

Alright, adventure seeker, if you’re heading to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, you’re about to experience one of the most breathtaking treks in the Peruvian Andes. But before you lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail, here's your packing list to make sure you’re fully prepped for this high-altitude, rainbow-colored adventure. Let’s get you ready!

1. Comfortable Hiking Shoes

This isn’t a stroll through the park — you’ll be hiking at around 4,900 meters (16,076 feet), so sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes are a must. You’ll be navigating rocky terrain, and those boots better be ready for it. No flip-flops here, friends. You know I’ve always got my Danner Mountain 600s! This would also be a good time to break out the Danner Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes if you want something a little less bulky.

2. Warm Layers

Even if you’re visiting during the dry season, the weather in the Andes is moody. One minute you’ll be baking in the sun, the next you’ll be hit with a chilly gust of wind. Pack layers — think a breathable base layer, a warm fleece, and a windproof jacket. You’ll thank us when you’re at the top, staring at those rainbow hills with the wind howling through your hair. I happened to be there on a sunny, warm-ish day, so I wore my new alpaca sweater I bought at a market in Cusco and brought my REI Xero-Dry raincoat as a windbreaker just in case! I also had my puffy from The North Face if I got super chilly. On the bottom, I had on my leggings and merino wool Darn Tough socks.

3. Sunscreen

You're at high altitudes, which means UV rays are stronger than you’d think. Don’t get caught red-faced (literally). Lather up with high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from that intense Andean sun. I always bring Kinfield along with me!

4. Hat & Sunglasses

Between the sun, wind, and altitude, your face is going to get a workout. Bring a hat and/or a beanie to shield your face from the sun (or cold), and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare bouncing off the mountains. Bonus points if your shades are polarized–those colors will POP.

5. Water Bottle

Stay hydrated! The air at this altitude is dry, and dehydration is a real issue. Pack a reusable water bottle and sip frequently to keep your energy up. A water bladder is also a great option if you don’t want to bother with pulling a bottle in and our of your backpack while you’re hiking. If you’re hiking with a group, make sure you’ve got enough water for the trek. (You don’t want to be the one caught with an empty bottle, trust us.) Peru’s tap water also isn’t safe to drink, so having a filter bottle along with you like the GRAYL comes in clutch on trips like this!

6. Snacks

You’re gonna need some fuel for that climb. Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or chocolate (for moral support). Trust us, a little snack break with those rainbow views is going to feel like the highlight of your day.

7. Camera or Smartphone

You’ll want to capture every angle of this Instagram-worthy landscape. Palccoyo’s colors are next-level, and you'll want to have something to document the magic. If you’re into photography, make sure you’ve got a good camera with a zoom lens for wildlife shots. I brought my Sony a7r III with my Sony G-master 24-70mm f/2.8 and my Tamron 70-300. I also brought my DJI Mini 3 Pro drone to get a birds-eye view of this insane landscape!

8. Cash

While this trek is a bit off the beaten path, you might pass through small towns or villages on your way, where a bit of local cash might come in handy for souvenirs or snacks. Soles are the local currency, so make sure to have some on hand — not everywhere will accept cards.

9. Altitude Pills or Coca Leaves

At nearly 5,000 meters, the altitude can mess with your head. Altitude sickness is no joke. If you're not used to high-altitude treks, bring altitude medicine (talk to your doctor beforehand) or pick up coca leaves from a local shop. Sipping coca tea or chewing on coca leaves is an age-old remedy to help your body adjust. This is the majority of what I used while I was there! And stay hydrated! Electrolytes are life. Skratch Hydration is my go-to.

10. Light Backpack

Keep it light! You’re only out there for a few hours, so a small daypack will do. It should fit your essentials — water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and extra layers — without weighing you down. You'll need the energy for the climb, not carrying a brick on your back. I’m a slave to my cameras and need a backpack that supports that, so I always bring my Shimoda with me!

11. Rain Jacket

While the dry season is your best bet for clear skies, the weather in the Andes is unpredictable. A light rain jacket will protect you in case the clouds decide to get moody and sprinkle a little rain. I brought my REI Xero-Dry just in case. Luckily, I didn’t need it!

12. First Aid + Personal Medications

Don't forget a small first aid kit and personal medications you need, whether it’s for allergies, asthma, or other health conditions. Keep them in an easily accessible spot in your pack just in case.

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