The amazing Red River forms a unique landscape against the backdrop of rolling green hills. This unusual view has to be seen to be believed. The small river, called Palquella Pucamayu by the locals, maintains a bright red color for about 3 miles (5 km). The unusual color is explained by the fact that the Red River is formed by run-off rainwater from the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, which boasts a unique mineral content. Red color is more visible in the water thanks to a high iron oxide content. Due to the origin of the river, this unusual phenomenon is prevalent during the rainy season.
Even though the dry season (which runs from May to October) is considered the best for trekking near Cusco, there's a chance that the color of the river will be close to brown if you visit during that period. April is the best time to see the Red River in its full glory, bustling with scarlet water.
The Red River joins in with other streams, and eventually, its red color gets dissolved. Downstream it falls into the Vilcamayo River, which flows to Machu Picchu. To visit the Red River, just book a tour with one of the operators in Cusco. The Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour usually includes a visit to the Red River. The attraction is located in the Canchis Province, about three hours southeast of Cusco.
Practical info
When is the best time to see the Red River in Cusco?
April is the optimal month to witness the Red River in its vivid redness. This occurs when rainwater runoff, containing a high concentration of iron oxide from Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, flows into the river. While the dry season (May - September) is suitable for trekking, the Red River may not exhibit its signature reddish hue during that time of the year, as the water volume is relatively low. Show more
Where is the Red River located in Cusco?
Canchis Province, Southeast Cusco, is home to the Red River, commonly known as Palquella Pucamayu. The river's alluring red tone comes from the iron oxide-rich runoff water from Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, which merges with the water sources downstream to chromatically expire before entering Vilcamayo River that flows to Machu Picchu. Show more
What is the origin of the Red River's red color?
The Red River's peculiar red color emerges from Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain's iron oxide-rich runoff water. The mountain's rainwater runs into the river, which spans three miles during rainfall and creates the signature reddish hue. The joined streams downstream dilute the color before the river joins the Vilcamayo River on its way to Machu Picchu. Show more
What other streams does the Red River join with?
Before finally joining the Vilcamayo River en route to Machu Picchu, the Red River meets other streams along its path. These streams result in a slight color dilution, which is most intensified in April. The Red River spans around three miles during the rainy season and is a part of excursions run by tour operators in Cusco, covering the Canchis Province's attractions. Show more
Can I visit the Red River without booking a tour?
While it is possible to visit the Red River independently in the Canchis Province, it is best to opt for an organized tour with a reputable operator from Cusco. Operators arrange for appropriate permits and equipment, taking you to the best spots for viewing the river while ensuring your safety during the trek in the mountainous surroundings. The Red River frequently features on guided tours around the Canchis Province near Cusco. Show more
