Itinerary

1. Full-Day Itinerary: Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Adventure from Cusco

   04:00 – Hotel Pickup in Cusco

   • Begin your day early with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco by your professional guide and driver.

   • Depart in a comfortable private vehicle towards the southern valley.

   06:00 – Arrival in Checacupe

   • Arrive in the picturesque town of Checacupe, located approximately 100 kilometers from Cusco.

   • Visit the three iconic bridges: the Inca suspension bridge, the colonial bridge, and the republican era bridge.

   • Explore the colonial church and learn about Checacupe’s role in Tupac Amaru II’s resistance against Spanish rule.

   07:30 – Continue Drive to Palccoyo Trailhead

   • Depart Checacupe and enjoy a scenic 90-minute drive through remote Andean landscapes.

   • Pass by small traditional villages, herds of alpacas, and panoramic highland vistas.

   • Arrive at the Palccoyo trailhead, situated at around 4,800 meters above sea level.

   09:00 – Begin the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Hike

   • Start the relatively easy hike to the main viewpoint, taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

   • Walk along a gentle path suitable for most fitness levels.

   • Pass by colorful rock formations, llamas, and locals dressed in traditional attire.

   10:00 – Arrive at Palccoyo Viewpoint

   • Reach the main viewpoint offering sweeping views of the three rainbow-colored mountains.

   • Enjoy unobstructed views of Ausangate, the highest mountain in the Cusco region at 6,372 meters.

   • If weather permits, witness the striking Red Valley and its Blood River, caused by mineral-rich sediments.

   • Take your time for photography and to absorb the peaceful and vibrant surroundings.

   11:00 – Visit to the Stone Forest (Bosque de Piedras)

   • Continue a short distance to explore the fascinating rock forest, formed by centuries of natural erosion.

   • Capture incredible photographs among the stone spires and surreal landscapes.

   12:00 – Picnic Lunch with Mountain Views

   • Enjoy a delicious open-air lunch surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.

   • Taste locally prepared Andean dishes and relax in the crisp mountain air.

   13:00 – Begin Return to Cusco

   • Walk back to the vehicle and begin the drive back to Cusco.

   • Reflect on your adventure through one of the Andes’ most colorful and lesser-visited gems.

   17:00 – Arrive at Your Hotel in Cusco

   • Arrive back in Cusco and get dropped off at your hotel.

   • End your full-day journey enriched with breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage.