When most travelers think of the Rainbow Mountains in Peru, they picture the famous Vinicunca, the vibrant peak that has taken Instagram by storm. But did you know there’s an alternative route offering just as breathtaking views, fewer crowds, and a richer experience? Let me take you on a journey to Palccoyo, the lesser-known but equally stunning Rainbow Mountains near Cuzco.

Starting the Journey: From Cuzco to the Andes

Our adventure began at 7:00 AM, getting picked up from the main square in Cuzco. The destination? Palccoyo, the alternative Rainbow Mountains. Unlike the crowded Vinicunca trek, this route offers a shorter, more accessible hike with multiple viewpoints showcasing nature’s incredible palette.

Our guide, Nilto, prepped us for the altitude—we would be crossing 5,000 meters above sea level. Armed with Agua de Florida (a floral-scented alcohol used for altitude sickness), coca leaves, and altitude pills, we were ready for the challenge.

First Stop: The Historic Bridges of Checacupe

By 9:30 AM, we arrived in Checacupe, a charming Andean town famous for its three historic bridges, each from a different era:

  • An original Inca bridge (1420 AD) – made of rope and wood, swaying dramatically as we crossed.
  • A colonial-era stone bridge (18th century) – built under orders from King Carlos III of Spain.
  • A republican iron bridge (1895) – constructed for heavier transport.

For just 2 soles, we crossed the shaky but thrilling Inca bridge—a true Indiana Jones moment!

btrhdr

The Drive to the Rainbow Mountains

The road to Palccoyo was a spectacle in itself. As we ascended through the Andes, we passed herds of alpacas and llamas, vast cornfields, and even a river turned red by mineral-rich stones. The deeper we went, the red and orange hues of the landscape intensified, setting the stage for the colorful peaks ahead.

At 4,200 meters altitude, we reached the checkpoint, where an entrance fee of 10 soles per person granted us access to this geological wonderland.

oznor

The Stunning Palccoyo Rainbow Mountains

Unlike Vinicunca, which offers a single Rainbow Mountain, Palccoyo boasts three distinct Rainbow Mountains. Even better? The hike was less strenuous, making it ideal for those not fully acclimatized to the high altitude.

First Viewpoint:
🌄 One direction offered a classic rainbow-striped mountain, while another showed snow-capped peaks, and yet another revealed deep red hills. The diversity in scenery was mesmerizing.

Second Viewpoint:
🌈 Here, the vibrant colors of the mountains were at eye level, allowing us to see the unique mineral layers up close. In the distance, Ausangate, Peru’s second-highest mountain, dominated the horizon.

Third & Final Viewpoint:
🏔️ Climbing higher gave us a panoramic view of all three Rainbow Mountains, the majestic Andes, and an untouched, surreal landscape.

  • cof
  • sdr
  • cof
  • oznor
  • oznor
  • cof

Reaching 5,500 Meters: The Ultimate Challenge

Not satisfied yet, we took on an extra challenge—climbing to the highest peak at 5,500 meters. The thin air made every step exhausting, but the 360-degree view at the top was beyond words.

  • cof
  • cof
  • cof

The Journey Back & A Well-Deserved Meal

As we descended, the rain had transformed the landscape into an even richer tapestry of reds, greens, and yellows, with llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully in the distance.

After an incredible morning, we enjoyed a buffet lunch at Geranios Restaurant, finally escaping the usual tourist-trap eateries. The food? Authentic and delicious.

btr

Why Choose Palccoyo Over Vinicunca?

  • Easier Hike – Less steep and more accessible for all fitness levels.
  • Less Crowded – Fewer tourists make for a more intimate experience.
  • More Views – Instead of one Rainbow Mountain, you get three!
  • Shorter Trek – Ideal for those adjusting to high altitude.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru, Palccoyo’s Rainbow Mountains should be on your list!

📍 Have you been to the Rainbow Mountains? Let us know in the comments!

Want to prepare for your trip? We loved the Lonely Planet Peru guide! And what also helped us to do more in Spanish other than ordering beer is looking into some Easy Spanish Phrasebooks!