Description
Experience one of Peru’s most breathtaking high-altitude adventures with our Rainbow Mountain & Palccoyo Hike, a journey that combines natural wonder, culture, and adventure. Guided by experienced local trekking guides, you will traverse landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, with panoramic views of towering Andes peaks, glacial rivers, and expansive valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see.
This trek follows part of the Ausangate circuit, leading you off the beaten path to pristine, remote environments rarely visited by travelers. Along the way, witness glacial peaks glistening in the sunlight, rugged mountain passes, and desert-like terrain sculpted by centuries of natural forces. Each step brings a new perspective of the Andes, from colorful mineral-rich hills to serene highland lakes reflecting the sky.
The highlight of the journey is reaching the Rainbow Mountains of Vinicunca and Palccoyo, where vibrant stripes of red, green, yellow, and purple form nature’s own masterpiece. Here, you can pause to take photos, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and feel a profound connection to the land.
Along the route, you will encounter remote Andean villages, offering a glimpse into traditional lifestyles, local customs, and the warm hospitality of rural communities. Unlike crowded tourist paths, this trek allows you to immerse yourself fully in untouched landscapes, creating an authentic, unforgettable experience.
End your day under a starry Andean sky, reflecting on the adventure, the colors, and the cultural richness that make this journey truly extraordinary.
Itinerary
Día
- 4:00 a.m. – Hotel pick-up in Cusco. Begin your adventure with a scenic 3.5-hour drive to the trailhead.
- Breakfast preparation. While you organize your gear, our chef prepares a hot breakfast to energize you for the day ahead.
- Safety briefing and itinerary overview. Our guide provides instructions and tips to ensure you are fully prepared for the trek.
- Begin trekking through the Vilcanota Valley. Explore rural villages, breathe in the culture, and enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Ausangate Glacier (6,375 m).
- Arrival at the first canyon viewpoint. Witness the raw power of the Earth in Ananiso Canyon, with deep fissures and dramatic landscapes.
- Explore Ananiso Canyon. Hike along a narrow path for approximately 2 hours, observing native flora and fauna, waterfalls, and ancient rock paintings. Spot llamas, alpacas, vizcachas, and eagles along the way.
- Lunch stop. Enjoy a hot, freshly prepared meal in the heart of nature.
- Afternoon hike to the campsite. Trek for about 3 hours, admiring the enormous Ausangate Glacier and panoramic Andean views.
- Set up camp. Relax, watch the sunset, enjoy conversation, play cards, and savor a multi-course Peruvian dinner under the stars.
- Evening. Experience the Andean night sky with constellations, shooting stars, and warm coca tea.
Día
- Early morning wake-up. Enjoy coca tea delivered to your tent and a hearty breakfast.
- 3-hour hike toward Rainbow Mountain. Take in panoramic views of Ausangate Glacier, red valleys, and the Andes while trekking.
- Lunch stop along the trail. Rest and enjoy the scenery before continuing.
- 3-hour hike to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Explore the mountain at your leisure, take photos, and fully absorb the magical surroundings. Enjoy the solitude—this route offers a private experience unlike crowded paths.
- 1-hour descent to meet the bus. Board the vehicle for the 3-hour drive back to Cusco.
- Evening arrival in Cusco. Drop-off at your hotel around 7:30 p.m., concluding a two-day adventure filled with nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery.
Includes
- Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco.
- All meals during the trek prepared by our trekking chef.
- Boiled water and snacks.
- Native bilingual guide (English and Spanish).
- All camping equipment and supplies.
- 4-season expedition tents.
- Large dining tents with tables, stools, cutlery, and kitchen tent.
- Portable toilet tent.
- Canvas bags for personal belongings (up to 8 kg per person).
- Access fees for private lands.
- Pack animals / horses to carry equipment and up to 8 kg of personal belongings per person.
- First aid kit and oxygen tank.
- Sleeping pad (thermal rest).
- Sleeping bag.
- Trekking poles.
Does not Include
- Pick-up from hotels outside Cusco.
- Dinner on the last day.
- Tips for guides, chefs, and porters.
- Travel insurance.
- Additional private land access fees.
What to bring
- Spend a few days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize to the high altitude.
- Bring warm layered clothing, including thermal wear, jacket, and gloves, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- Rain gear: jacket or poncho for unexpected showers.
- Hiking boots with good grip are essential for rocky terrain.
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect from strong high-altitude sun.
- Personal items: small towel, soap, toilet paper, and toiletries.
- Water bottle (minimum 1.5 liters) and extra snacks for energy.
- Camera with extra batteries or memory cards to capture the incredible scenery.
- Trekking poles recommended for steep or uneven terrain.
- Coca tea can help alleviate mild altitude discomfort.
Book Now
Booking in advance is recommended.
Rainbow Mountain & Palccoyo Hike 2D/1N
2D/1N
