Cusco hosts not just one colorful mountain but three. The most renowned is Vinicunca, which you’ve likely seen plastered across Instagram, followed by Pallay Poncho & Palccoyo, Vinicunca however has nothing that the other two destinations may not have to offer, let us tell you why in this article.
During your journey in Peru you may not be able to visit the three if you’re short on time. If you’re wondering which merits the effort, this post should help you decide which to visit.
Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain
Globally famous Vinicunca is also the most touristy. And by touristy, we mean a parade of vans packed with sightseers who rise before dawn to glimpse the 7-colored peak each day from Cusco.
Another crucial factor is this mountain sits over 5,000 meters above sea level, so the hike can be strenuous if you’re not acclimated to the altitude.
While agencies peddle daily Vinicunca tours, we’d advise visiting towards the end of your Cusco stay to allow your body time to adjust to the elevation. Otherwise, the ascent will be immensely challenging and you won’t enjoy the experience.
Once at the parking area, expect a 1.5-hour uphill slog on a well-marked trail with no way to get lost.
Vinicunca Overview:
- Altitude: 5,200 m
- Fee: 20 soles for foreigners
- Route: Linear, 3 hours roundtrip
- Difficulty: Strenuous due to altitude
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain
Unlike Vinicunca, at Palcoyo you can drive right up to the parking area, climb some steps, and find yourself amidst stunning valley vistas – a much less demanding hike.
Plus, you don’t retrace your steps, as it’s a circular, well-signed route. Though Palcoyo isn’t as famous, it may exceed all expectations: the landscape is breathtaking and the area is well-maintained.
This place’s beauty isn’t just seeing a colorful mountain, but passing through three viewpoints and a stone forest too.
Palcoyo Overview:
- Max altitude: 4,900m
- Fee: 15 soles for foreigners
- Route: Circle, 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Pallay Poncho
Also dubbed the «third rainbow mountain,» Pallay Poncho was recently uncovered during the pandemic. Perhaps that’s why it’s still relatively unknown with almost no tour agencies offering visits.
Pallay Poncho’s claim is its jagged, vividly colored ridges (though I didn’t count seven hues) offering dizzying views of a lake below.
Located farther south, you’ll need to either go independently and add an overnight in Layo if you have the possibility.
Once at the poorly-marked Pallay Poncho lot, it’s just a half-hour climb to the first ridge viewing a stunning red valley, Lake Layo, and mountain ridges.
The trail is well-delineated with steps and rocks. And as an another plus, there’s no entry fee to let visitors ascend all the mountain’s ridges.
Just be extremely cautious posing for selfies – it’s a sheer drop waiting to happen if you slip.
Pallay Poncho Overview:
- Altitude: 4,791m
- Fee: Free
- Route: Circle or linear, 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy (if driving to lot)
Still Wondering?
Still not sure about which one you should visit? Wether if it’s Pallay Poncho, Palccoyo or Vinicunca, you can’t go wrong while hiking your way to these magnificent natural destinations.
Contact us today and learn more before making your decision and enjoy your time in one these unique destinations in Cusco’s region.
