Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain of Cusco, has a “little sister.” She’s equally beautiful and dressed in seven colours, but since she’s not an internet influencer with thousands of social media followers, she doesn’t attract the crowds wanting to visit, see, and conquer her.
She’s overlooked for being modest and perhaps a bit shy. People don’t realise that she’s closer and more accessible. They don’t know that you don’t have to trek until you’re exhausted to reach the “heart” of the Rainbow of Palccoyo, or Palcoyo, as we call this “little sister”.
In Cusco, there are two seven-coloured mountains. Vinicunca, the more famous one that you’ve probably seen online and dream of visiting on your Peru holiday; and Palccoyo, the alternative destination, the emerging route, and the hidden gem that’s starting to be uncovered for travellers’ amazement.
You can reach the rainbow. Yes, dare to explore the paths of Palccoyo. If you have questions or need more information, don’t worry. This guide will provide you with everything you need to plan your adventure… An adventure you’ll experience and enjoy in full colour!
Contents
Where is Palccoyo?
This seven-coloured mountain is located within the territory of the Palccoyo farming community (4,100 m a.s.l.), which is part of the Checacupe district in the Canchis province. The distance from Cusco is 125 km.
An interesting fact that highlights the “sibling” relationship between the Rainbow Mountains is that Vinicunca is also situated in Canchis province, though in the Pitumarca district.
The origin of the mountain
Where do those colours come from? It’s a question that inevitably arises when you visit Palccoyo.
The answer is straightforward. The “rainbow” effect on the mountain is the result of the accumulation of sediments and rock materials. Over centuries and millennia, this has created the striking layers of colour that captivate visitors.
But there’s another detail you should know. Each layer of colour represents a different geological period and contains specific minerals that reflect light in unique ways.
Over time, erosion caused by wind, rain, and snow has “sculpted” grooves on the mountain’s surface, further enhancing the diversity of colours.
Another factor to consider is that extreme climatic conditions, such as intense solar radiation and temperature variations, have contributed to the creation of the mountain’s unique geomorphological features.
How to get to Palccoyo?
By road and on foot. This traveller’s combination will take you to the top of the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain (4,900 m a.s.l.) in approximately 5 hours.
The motorised route starts in Cusco and ends in Checacupe, where you need to take a taxi or another form of public transport to the base of Palccoyo Mountain.
This marks the end of the road journey and the beginning of the ascent on foot. Here are more details to help you plan your trip:
- Cusco-Checacupe: Head to the bus terminal on Avenida Huayruropata, where you can catch a public bus to Checacupe. The bus journey takes 3 to 4 hours. You can also hire a taxi, but if saving money is a priority, this option may be costly.
- Checacupe-Palccoyo: To reach the base of Palccoyo Mountain, you’ll need to take a taxi or another form of public transport for a 30-minute ride. If you need to make any last-minute purchases, check out the shops in Checacupe.
- Hiking to the Rainbow: From the base of the mountain, you’ll walk 2 kilometres along a relatively easy and accessible path. The hike takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your physical fitness. We recommend going slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Opening hours and prices
The earlier, the better. This could be your mantra for your excursion to Palccoyo, as climbing the mountain is permitted from 6:00 a.m.
If you’re not a fan of early mornings, don’t worry—you can still enter until 14:00 p.m. As for the cost, you’ll need to pay 15 soles. Make sure to bring the amount in cash to avoid any issues.
Other places of interest on the route
Make the most of your excursion to Palccoyo by exploring other points of interest, such as the Red River, the Checacupe Bridges, and the Temple of the Immaculate Conception. Here’s some information about these attractions that will add even more colour to your rainbow experience.
The Red River
It’s called the Red River due to the high concentration of minerals in Palccoyo, which gives the river’s waters a reddish hue as it flows through a valley near the Rainbow Mountain. Make the most of your trip by walking along the banks of the Red River, listening to the otherworldly murmur of its waters, and capturing stunning photos and videos that will make your social media contacts think you’ve journeyed to Mars.
The Checacupe Bridges
In the urban area of this district in the Canchis province, there are two historic bridges. One is of Inca origin, and the other was built during the colonial era. Despite their differences and similarities, both offer an extraordinary visual experience.
- Inca Bridge: This is a splendid example of pre-Hispanic engineering. Although no longer used for modern traffic, it remains a part of the architectural heritage of the children of the sun and serves as further evidence of their significance in the development of Andean culture.
- Colonial Bridge: Located very close to the Inca bridge, this one was built in the 17th century. Its robust structures over the Pitumayu or Ausangate River withstand both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Given its age and architectural features, it’s worth taking the time to visit and explore it.
The Temple of the Immaculate Virgin
Its typical Andean Baroque facade, with arches, columns, and pediments adorned with carved stone details, makes it a representative example of colonial religious architecture.
Inside the temple—whose construction is thought to have begun in the 16th century—the image of the Immaculate Virgin stands out, revered and celebrated by the people of Checacupe every 8th of December.
The festival is a special opportunity to experience local culture and religious syncretism in the Andes.
Travel recommendations
- Check the weather conditions before your trip. Unexpected rain or a sudden cold snap could dampen or freeze your adventurous spirit.
- Be prepared. Always bring a warm layer and a raincoat, as weather conditions can change drastically at high altitudes.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for your excursion. Solar radiation is very high in the mountains.
- If you’re not used to high-altitude hiking, it’s advisable to have a light dinner, stay well-hydrated, avoid alcohol, and get an early night before your adventure. This will help improve your performance on the mountain.
- Drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Staying well-hydrated is crucial.
- Respect local customs and traditions. If you want to photograph a local person, ask for permission rather than taking pictures secretly.
- Protect the environment. Be careful with your waste.
- For a more comfortable and safe experience, consider hiring a specialised operator for Palccoyo in Cusco. Alternatively, you can walk with a local guide in Checacupe.
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