Rainbow Mountain Range (Palccoyo) & Q’eswachaka

The Rainbow Mountain Range, also known as Palccoyo, offers a stunning and less-crowded alternative to the popular Vinicunca. Showcasing vibrant, multicolored striations, this natural wonder provides breathtaking views of the Andes. Beyond the mountain hike, the tour also includes a visit to the Q’eswachaka bridge, an impressive feat of Inca engineering that’s reconstructed annually using ichu grass. This vital link in the ancient Inca road network reflects the resilience and cultural heritage of the local communities. For those seeking a unique glimpse into Peru’s natural and historical treasures, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• The tour explores the lesser-known Rainbow Mountain (Palccoyo) in Cusco’s southern valley, offering stunning multicolored landscapes and breathtaking views of the Andes.

• The tour includes a visit to the historical Qeswachaka bridge, an Inca engineering marvel constructed from ichu grass and rebuilt annually by local communities.

• The private tour package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an expert guide, lunch, and necessary hiking gear, ensuring a convenient and well-equipped experience.

• Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with certain health conditions or disabilities, such as back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

• The tour is priced starting from $279.60 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible reservation options, including free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The tour, offered by VIPAC Travel, provides the opportunity to explore the lesser-known Rainbow Mountain, also known as Palccoyo, situated in Cusco’s southern valley.

This private tour allows visitors to witness the spectacular views and fascinating historical bridges, including the last Inca bridge, Qeswachaka.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert guide, lunch, and the necessary hiking gear and footwear.

Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Inclusions

This tour package includes several key elements.

First, there’s hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring convenient transportation to and from the experience.

The tour also features an expert guide who’ll provide valuable insights throughout the journey.

Lunch is included, allowing travelers to refuel during the day.

Plus, necessary hiking gear and footwear are provided, eliminating the need for participants to bring their own.

Finally, gratitudes, or tips, are covered, removing any uncertainty about appropriate compensation for the service providers.

With these comprehensive inclusions, the Rainbow Mountain Range and Q’eswachaka tour offers a seamless and worry-free experience for adventurous travelers.

Pickup Information

Roundtrip transfer from your hotel, apartment, or home is provided for this tour. However, some locations may have vehicle access restrictions.

To accommodate these situations, the tour operator will arrange the pickup at a nearby location that’s accessible. Guests should provide their specific pickup details during the reservation process to ensure smooth transportation arrangements.

The tour starts promptly at 6:00 am, so it’s essential to be ready at the designated pickup point.

Please be aware that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy the experience.

Tour Details

The tour kicks off promptly at 6:00 am, ensuring a timely start to the day’s activities.

It’s not wheelchair accessible, so participants need to have a moderate level of physical fitness. Those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions should avoid this tour. The journey isn’t recommended for travelers with these limitations, as the terrain can be challenging.

Hikers will need to bring appropriate gear and footwear to navigate the rugged landscape.

Pricing and Reservation

Pricing for the Rainbow Mountain and Q’eswachaka tour starts from $279.60 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

The tour offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring travelers get the best deal. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in their planning. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert guide, lunch, hiking gear, and gratuities, making it a comprehensive package.

Prospective travelers should keep in mind the tour’s physical requirements and ensure they meet the moderate fitness level needed to fully enjoy the experience.

Exploring Palccoyo

Nestled within Cusco’s southern valley, the lesser-known Rainbow Mountain, also called Palccoyo, offers visitors a stunning and less crowded alternative to the famous Vinicunca.

With its multicolored striations and breathtaking vistas, Palccoyo captivates explorers seeking a more intimate connection with Peru’s natural wonders.

The hike to the summit, while moderate in difficulty, rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding Andes.

Along the way, travelers can marvel at ancient Inca bridges, such as the remarkable Qeswachaka, the last remaining example of its kind.

This private tour by VIPAC Travel provides an immersive experience, led by expert guides and complete with hiking gear, lunch, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

Visiting Qeswachaka

Situated along the ancient Inca road network, the Qeswachaka bridge stands as a remarkable feat of engineering and a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca people. This traditional rope bridge, maintained and rebuilt annually by local communities, spans the Apurímac River, connecting villages and facilitating trade. Visitors can marvel at the intricate weaving techniques and the daring feats of the bridge-builders as they traverse the swinging structure. The Qeswachaka bridge is not only a living cultural heritage site but also a testament to the enduring resilience of the Andean people.

Feature	Description
Construction	Woven from ichu grass, the bridge is rebuilt annually by local communities
History	The Qeswachaka bridge has been in use for centuries, serving as a vital link in the Inca road network
Location	Spanning the Apurímac River, the bridge connects remote villages and facilitates trade

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Rainbow Mountain?

The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions and clear views of the mountain’s vibrant colors.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests on the tour can bring their own food and drinks. However, a full lunch is already included in the tour package, so additional snacks or beverages may not be necessary.

Is There Any Option for a Private Tour Experience?

Yes, the tour overview indicates it’s a private tour by VIPAC Travel. Guests can explore the lesser-known Rainbow Mountain and other historical sites with an expert guide on this personalized experience.

Do I Need a Permit or Pass to Access the Palccoyo Area?

Yes, visitors need to obtain a permit or pass to access the Palccoyo area. The tour includes obtaining the necessary permit, so travelers won’t need to worry about arranging it themselves.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends wearing comfortable, moisture-wicking layers, sturdy hiking boots, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. Dressing for the mountain’s cool temperatures and intense sun exposure is advised.

The Sum Up

The Rainbow Mountain Range and Q’eswachaka bridge offer a captivating and less-crowded alternative to the famous Vinicunca. Hiking through the vibrant, multicolored Palccoyo landscape and witnessing the annual reconstruction of the Inca engineering marvel provide a unique opportunity to take in the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. This private tour provides an unforgettable experience for adventure-seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.