About this experience
For those looking for a less-crowded rainbow mountain than ever-popular Vinicunca, this day trip from Cusco to Pallay Poncho fits the bill. Depart the city early and head to the charming town of Layo to start your hike to the summit of the mountain. From the top, enjoy stunning views of the mountain’s colorful striations and the Layo Lagoon. Your tour includes breakfast, lunch, round-trip transfers from Cusco, and a private guide.
• Head off the typical tourist trail to visit less-crowded Pallay Poncho
• This hiking tour is great for active and outdoorsy travelers
• A delicious breakfast and traditional lunch are included
• A private tour means a more personalized experience
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
Rainbow Mountain Day Trip From Cusco
Plan a Rainbow Mountain day trip from Cusco with practical guidance on altitude, tour options, costs, access, packing, and the demanding full-day schedule.
Machu Picchu Mountain Guide
Plan Machu Picchu Mountain with the correct Ruta 1-A ticket, clear Circuit 1 comparisons, arrival rules, packing restrictions, and live-status checks.
What is included
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Guide
- Transportation
Not included
- Additional expenses
Itinerary and highlights
Early in the morning, our private transportation will pick you up at the door of your hotel to start a wonderful adventure.
You will travel for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes until we reach the city of Sicuani where you will have a delicious breakfast.
We will start our day exploring the road to Arequipa and, after a detour, we will immerse ourselves in the charming town of Layo, which overlooks the impressive Laguna de Layo. After a few extra minutes in our vehicle, we'll venture out for a brisk hike.
We will get off our transportation to begin an exciting uphill walk, with an estimated duration of between 1 hour and 30 minutes and 2 hours. Upon reaching the top of Pallay Punchu mountain, we will enjoy ample time to capture stunning photographs and relax.
Later, we will begin our return to Cusco. During the journey, we will marvel at panoramic views of the Layo lagoon and make a stop in Sicuani to enjoy an exquisite lunch.
We will conclude our day by returning to the city of Cusco. Our shuttle service will take you directly to your hotel, anticipating your arrival around 8:00 p.m.
Finally, we will go to the city of Cusco, our transport will take you to your hotel.
Meeting and pickup information
- We will pick you up at your hotel in the historic center of Cusco. Please note: This service does not include pick up from private residences, for example; Airbnb or hotels that are outside the historic center. Find the nearest hotel from the list.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Machupicchu Peru Company
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
Please note: This service does not include pick up from private residences, for example; Airbnb or hotels that are outside the historic center. Find the nearest hotel from the list.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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