Palcoyo Mountain (also known as Palccoyo) is located in the Canchis Province, about three hours southeast of Cusco. While Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain remains the top touristic attraction in that area, Palcoyo also has a lot to offer. First of all, Palcoyo is much less crowded than Vinicunca. Secondly, Palcoyo features not one but three colorful mountains. Amazing red slopes with green and blue stripes are among the most photographed in the Peruvian Andes. In addition to the mountain, the area boasts the stone forest and the amazing Red River, flowing through the green valley.
The best time to hike Palcoyo Mountain is during the dry season from May to October, since at other times, the trek can be muddy, and the skies can be cloudy. However, if you want to see the Red River too, April is the best month for that. Tours to Palcoyo are available from Cusco, with buses leaving at about 7 am.
The Palcoyo landscape is beautiful and surreal. Its red soil, which owes its color to a high iron oxide content, resembles Mars. The hike to the mountain takes about one hour. You can also see locals in their colorful clothes walking with llamas and alpacas along the route.
Practical info
What can you see at Palcoyo Mountain?
Palcoyo Mountain, located in the Canchis Province, features three colorful mountains with red, blue, and green stripes. It is much less popular than Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and offers tourists a less crowded alternative. Other geological features in the area include the beautiful stone forest and the Red River flowing through the valley. Show more
How does Palcoyo Mountain compare to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain?
Unlike Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo Mountain is less crowded and has three colorful mountains with red, green, and blue stripes. The trek is also easier and takes about an hour to complete. If you want to experience the beauty of Palcoyo while avoiding crowds, then it is a great choice. Show more
When is the best time to hike Palcoyo Mountain?
The best time to visit Palcoyo Mountain is during the May-October dry season. It is important to note that the trek can be muddy and the skies cloudy outside this period. If you plan to see the Red River, April is the best month for that. Tourists can book tours from Cusco and buses usually leave at 7 in the morning. Show more
What striking features does the Palcoyo landscape have?
The Palcoyo landscape has a surreal and stunning look with its red soil, which is reminiscent of Mars. The geological feature responsible for this striking red hue is iron oxide. Moreover, the mountains adorned with green and blue stripes provide a fantastic backdrop for photos. Its stone forest and the Red River flowing through its green valley are other impressive sights. Show more
What can you expect on your hike to Palcoyo Mountain?
A hike to Palcoyo Mountain takes you through awe-inspiring natural scenery. The area features 3 striking mountains with a unique combination of red, green, and blue stripes, the beautiful stone forest, and the Red River flowing through the valley. Expect to meet locals walking llamas and alpacas en route, dressed in colorful clothing. It is an easy hike and takes about an hour to complete. Show more
