Peru is a land of stunning landscapes and natural wonders that offer visitors the chance to explore its breathtaking mountain ranges and impressive scenery. Among the most famous are Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Palccoyo Range, both located in the Andes near Cusco.
These two destinations promise incredible views and showcase the natural beauty of Peru, but they offer different experiences.
In this complete guide, we will compare the Seven-Color Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Palccoyo Range to help you decide which one to choose for your next adventure.
In recent years, another option has emerged among tourist destinations: Palccoyo, also known as the Alternative Rainbow Mountain.
If you’re trying to decide which of the two is better for you and are wondering about the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each, this article is for you. Here we will explain some of the main differences between both tours and what to expect so you can choose the right one.
Aspect | Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) | Palccoyo (Alternative) |
Altitude | 5,045 meters (16,552 feet) | 4,900 meters (16,076 feet) |
Province | Quispicanchi | Canchis |
District | Cusipata and Pitumarca | Checacupe (Community of Palccoyo) |
Trekking | 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), approx. 3.5 hours | 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), approx. 55 minutes |
Difficulty | Moderately challenging | Easier, suitable for everyone |
Distance from Cusco | Approx. 3 hours by car | Approx. 3 hours by car |
Distance from Machu Picchu | Approx. 6 hours | Approx. 6 hours |
Distance from the Sacred Valley | Approx. 3 hours | Approx. 3 hours |
Climate | Cold, windy, alpine climate | Cold, less windy than Vinicunca |
Snowfall | Yes, especially in winter months | Rarely, more common in winter |
Origin | Geological (minerals) | Geological (minerals) |
Entry cost | 25-30 soles | 10 soles |
Minimum altitude | 4,300 meters | 4,600 meters |
Maximum altitude | 5,045 meters | 4,900 meters |
Health recommendations | Acclimatize to the altitude beforehand, wear warm clothing | Wear warm clothing, less acclimatization needed than for Vinicunca |
Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is a wonder located in Cusco. It has gained a prominent place among tourist destinations thanks to its mineralized soil layers that display a stunning combination of colors.
Vinicunca sits at an altitude of 5,200 meters above sea level and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers willing to make the ascent. The route to this mountain is tough but rewarded with spectacular views and the chance to experience the majesty of the Andes up close.
Vinicunca is located in the Peruvian Andes, in Cusco, specifically in the Pitumarca district of the Canchis province. To reach Vinicunca, you need to take a tour starting from Cusco, traveling to the Pitumarca district, and then completing a hike that takes you directly to the mountain.
With its own charm, beauty, and challenges, here’s a comparison of their pros and cons to help decide which one to explore on your next adventure in Peru.
Vinicunca, also called Rainbow Mountain, is a geological wonder in Cusco, Peru. It has become a famous tourist spot due to its layers of mineral-rich soil displaying a striking mix of colors.
Vinicunca sits at 5,200 meters above sea level and offers hikers a tough but rewarding experience. The hike is challenging, but the views are breathtaking, and you get to witness the grandeur of the Andes up close.
Vinicunca is located in the Peruvian Andes, in the Cusco region, specifically in the Pitumarca district of the Canchis province. To get there, travelers must begin in Cusco, head to the Pitumarca district, and then complete a hike leading directly to the mountain.
Vinicunca is a unique spot with incredible natural colors that are hard to find anywhere else in the world.
• It’s one of the most famous and photographed trekking destinations in Peru, perfect if you want to share its stunning landscapes on social media.
• The hike is quite challenging, ideal for those seeking physical adventures.
• Reaching the summit is a personal achievement, rewarded with unforgettable views.
• Due to its popularity, it’s unlikely you’ll experience the mountain alone, which might lessen the feeling of connecting with nature.
• The altitude (5,200 meters above sea level) and rough terrain require good physical condition and acclimatization to the high elevation.
• The weather can be unpredictable, changing rapidly, adding a level of uncertainty to the hike.
Extra Tip: If you want to be among the first to visit and avoid the crowds, proper trip planning is key.
On the other side, there’s Palccoyo, less known but just as stunning. Palccoyo gives a calmer and easier experience. It stands at 4,900 meters above sea level and is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Andes without too much effort.
This group of colorful mountains includes three different peaks, red valleys, and rock formations that look like something out of a fairy tale. It’s a more relaxed environment, free from the crowds that Vinicunca attracts. Palccoyo is the best option if someone is looking for peace and unmatched beauty.
Palccoyo is another colorful mountain, also located in the Cusco region of Peru. To get there, the journey starts from Cusco, but the route by car is a bit different, heading toward the district of Checacupe. From there, the hike is much shorter and less demanding than the one to Vinicunca.
Vinicunca offers an explosion of natural colors that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world.
Extra Fact | If you want to be one of the first lucky ones to visit the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain and avoid the crowds, you can plan your trip.
The Rainbow Mountain: The main attraction is undoubtedly the mountain itself, with its impressive bands of colors ranging from turquoise and lavender to red and yellow, created by mineralization and erosion over the years.
On the other side, there’s Palccoyo, less known but just as stunning. Palccoyo gives a calmer and easier experience. It stands at 4,900 meters above sea level and is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Andes without too much effort.
This group of colorful mountains includes three different peaks, red valleys, and rock formations that look like something out of a fairy tale. It’s a more relaxed environment, free from the crowds that Vinicunca attracts. Palccoyo is the best option if someone is looking for peace and unmatched beauty.
Palccoyo is another colorful mountain, also located in the Cusco region of Peru. To get there, the journey starts from Cusco, but the route by car is a bit different, heading toward the district of Checacupe. From there, the hike is much shorter and less demanding than the one to Vinicunca.
The best time to visit the colorful mountains in Peru, both Vinicunca and Palccoyo, is during the dry season, from May to September. In these months, the sky is usually clear, offering amazing views of the mountains without rain getting in the way. Also, the paths and trails are easier and safer to walk on.
Visiting outside of this time might mean dealing with occasional or steady rain. So, planning a trip to the Rainbow Mountain during the dry season lets visitors fully enjoy the natural beauty of these Andean wonders.