The Stone Forest of Palccoyo
Palccoyo Stone Forest, located in the province of Canchis, Cusco, is a stunning natural destination that combines unique rock formations with the majestic colorful mountains of the Andes. This site, at an altitude of 4,900 meters above sea level, offers a quieter and more accessible alternative to the famous Rainbow Mountain. With a short and easy hike, visitors can explore three stone forests, panoramic viewpoints and landscapes tinged with reddish, green and yellow hues. Ideal for lovers of nature and Andean culture.
- What will I find in the Palccoyo stone forest?
- Where is the Palccoyo stone forest?
- How to get to the Palccoyo stone forest?
- Characteristics of the Palccoyo stone forest
- What to expect during the visit?
- Visit the Palccoyo Stone Forest next to the Vinicunca Mountain of Seven Colors
- Comparison: Palccoyo Stone Forest and Vinicunca’s Mountain of Seven Colors
- Image gallery: Palccoyo stone forest
- Recommendations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Walking along the path to the Palccoyo stone forest
What will I find in the Palccoyo stone forest?
n the Palccoyo Stone Forest you will discover a surreal Andean landscape with unique rock formations shaped by natural erosion over thousands of years.
This place is famous for its colorful peaks similar to the Mountain of Seven Colors (Vinicunca), three stone forests, panoramic viewpoints and a direct connection with the Andean culture thanks to the local communities.
In addition, the visit includes impressive views of glaciers, the Apurímac River and alpacas in their natural habitat.
Part of the Palccoyo stone forest
Where is the Palccoyo stone forest?
The Palccoyo Stone Forest is located in the district of Checacupe, province of Canchis, department of Cusco, Peru.
It is located at an approximate altitude of 4,900 meters above sea level.
It is located about 100 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco, which is equivalent to a trip of approximately 3 to 4 hours by land transport.
Please note that the best time to visit Palccoyo Stone Forest is during the dry season (April to October), when the weather is more stable and the views are clearer. However, if you plan to travel during the rainy season (November to March), be sure to be prepared for wetter conditions.
How to get to the Palccoyo stone forest?
Access to the Palccoyo Stone Forest (Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: Tours, Prices & More) is relatively easy and less demanding than other trekking routes (hikes) in the Cusco region. Below we will present the most common and accessible options to get there:
Route from Cusco
1. Road trip
- From the city of Cusco, take a ground transportation to the district of Checacupe, in the province of Canchis. This journey covers approximately 100 kilometers and can take between 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Once in Checacupe, continue on an unpaved road for 45 minutes to 1 hour to the starting point of the hike at Palccoyo. It is advisable to hire a private vehicle or an organized tour, as the final stretch lacks frequent public transportation.
2. Trekking and Palccoyo
- From the main parking lot, a short and accessible hike of approximately 1 to 1.5 kilometers begins. The hike, which can last between 30 and 45 minutes, is done on well-marked, gently sloping trails, making it suitable for people of all ages and experience levels.
Characteristics of the Palccoyo stone forest
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 4,900 meters above sea level. |
| Geological formations | It is a stone forest with rock formations shaped by natural erosion. |
| Extension | It covers three stone forests in a short walk. |
| Mountains of colors | Landscapes dyed with reddish, green and yellow colors, similar to the Mountain of Seven Colors. |
| Fauna and Flora |
|
| Difficulty of the hike | Low difficulty, the route is only approximately 1.5 kilometers. |
| Climate | Cold and dry, with temperatures that can range between -5 °C and 15 °C, depending on the season. |
| Panoramic views | You will witness the Nevado de Ausangate, glaciers and Andean valleys |
| Accessibility | More accessible and less known than Vinicunca, ideal for a family tour. |
| Cultural interaction | Presence of local communities offering crafts and sharing their traditions. |
What to expect during the visit?
During your visit, you can expect a peaceful environment, full of natural scenery and much less crowded compared to other tourist destinations such as the Rainbow Mountain (How to avoid altitude sickness on the Rainbow Mountain).
The rock formations, the colorful mountains and the view of the snowy Ausangate mountain form a unique spectacle. The walk to get to the place is easy and suitable for the whole family.
You will also have the opportunity to interact with the local community, with whom you can learn about their traditions, as well as offer their crafts.
We recommend taking advantage of your visit to the Palccoyo Stone Forest to learn about the traditions and customs of the local communities. Many tours include the opportunity to interact with locals, who often perform traditional weaving demonstrations or share stories about their relationship with the environment. This not only enriches your experience, but also helps directly support the families preserving Andean culture.
Observing the mountain of colors from the Palccoyo stone forest
Visit the Palccoyo Stone Forest next to the Vinicunca Mountain of Seven Colors
Exploring both the Palccoyo Stone Forest and the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in a single trip is a unique experience that combines two natural wonders. Although both destinations offer spectacular landscapes, their characteristics and levels of difficulty make them complementary.
1. Route and organization of the tour
- To visit both places, it is recommended to start the tour early from Cusco. It is recommended to book the tour to better enjoy the experience.
- The typical itinerary involves visiting Palccoyo first, given its accessibility, followed by a drive to Vinicunca, which requires more physical effort.
2. Benefits of combining both destinations
- Compare natural formations: While Palccoyo stands out for its unique stone forests and multicoloured landscapes, Vinicunca stands out for its iconic mountain and its connection to the Nevado Ausangate.
- Cultural diversity: In both destinations, you will have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their traditions.
- Unforgettable photography: Both places offer panoramic views and dreamlike landscapes to capture unforgettable images.
Camelids on the route to the Palccoyo stone forest
Comparison: Palccoyo Stone Forest and Vinicunca’s Mountain of Seven Colors
| Aspect | Palccoyo Stone Forest | Mountain of Seven Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 4,900 meters above sea level. | 5,200 meters above sea level. |
| Difficulty | Low difficulty, short walk of approximately 1.5 kilometers with little incline. | Moderate to high difficulty, with a 10-kilometer walk (round trip) with steep inclines. |
| Walking time | From 30 to 45 minutes. | 3 to 4 hours (round trip). |
| Main landscape | It consists of three unique stone forests and colorful mountains on the horizon. | Mountain dyed in bright colours with panoramic views towards the snowy Ausangate. |
| Affluence | Not very crowded, with a calm and relaxed atmosphere. | Very popular and busiest. |
| Accessibility | Ideal for families and people with little hiking experience. | It requires greater physical effort and adequate acclimatization for the route. |
| Weather from Cusco | Approximately 3.5 hours by car to the starting point of the hike. | About 3 hours by car to the starting point of the hike. |
| Climate | Cold and dry with temperatures between 5°C and -5°C, with possible rain in the wet season. | Intense cold with similar temperatures, with greater exposure to wind. |
| Recommendation | Ideal for those looking for unique landscapes without long walks and crowds. | Perfect for adventurers who want an iconic experience. |
| Combined option | Visiting both destinations in the same day allows you to enjoy unique contrasts in dreamlike landscapes, combining the tranquility of Palccoyo with the beauty of the seven-color mountain of Vinicunca. | |
Image gallery: Palccoyo stone forest
Recommendations
Preliminary acclimatization:
Make sure to spend at least two days in Cusco before visiting to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Appropriate clothing:
- Wear layered clothing to accommodate temperature fluctuations.
- Wear a waterproof or windproof jacket to protect yourself from the cold and wind.
- Don’t forget gloves, hat and scarf to keep warm.
Sun protection:
The sun at altitude is intense, even on cloudy days. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or cap.
Hydration and nutrition:
- Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike.
- Pack light, high-energy snacks like cereal bars, nuts, or chocolate.
Appropriate footwear:
Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip to move comfortably over rocky trails and uneven terrain.
Additional equipment:
- Bring a small backpack to carry your essential belongings.
- A raincoat or poncho is useful if you visit during the rainy season (November to March).
- Include a camera or phone with good battery to capture the unique views.
Physical conditions:
It’s an easy hike, but if you experience altitude-related discomfort, take it slow and rest as needed.
Respect for the environment:
- Don’t leave any trash behind; take with you everything you brought.
- Respect the rock formations and do not climb them to avoid their deterioration.
Hire a local guide:
Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the place and the local culture.
Recommended times:
- Start your visit early to enjoy the place with fewer tourists and take advantage of natural light for photos.
- Avoid evenings during the rainy season as the weather is more likely to get worse.
Cash and services:
Bring cash in soles, as you won’t find any ATMs or places that accept cards in the area.
Health and medicines:
If you are prone to altitude sickness, carry coca candy or altitude sickness pills to relieve symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the Palccoyo Stone Forest?
It is a set of rock formations, known for their peculiar shapes and the impressive landscape that surrounds them with views towards the Mountain of Seven Colors.
2) Where is the Palccoyo Stone Forest located?
It is located in southern Peru, in the Cusco region, approximately 3.5 hours by vehicle from the city of Cusco, near the community of Palccoyo.
3) How to get to the Palccoyo Stone Forest?
From Cusco, you can take private transportation or an organized tour to the starting point of the hike, from where there is a short drive to the stone forest.
4) Is it suitable for children or elderly people?
Yes, because the hike is short and of low difficulty, it is suitable for families with children and elderly people, as long as they are acclimatized to the altitude.
5) How long does the walk in the Palccoyo Stone Forest last?
The hike to Palccoyo Stone Forest is relatively short, lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. It is an easy walk with little incline.
6) Can I combine a visit to Palccoyo with the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, it is possible to visit both places in one day. Although the hike to the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is longer and more demanding, you can do both visits if you have the time and energy.
7) What kind of weather can I expect in Palccoyo?
The climate is cold and dry, with daytime temperatures of 5°C to 15°C and nighttime temperatures that can drop to -5°C. Solar radiation is intense and it is advisable to wear clothing suitable for the cold along with sun protection.
8) What should I bring for the visit?
It is advisable to wear layered clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, cameras and a raincoat or poncho in case of rain.
9) What activities can I do in the Palccoyo Stone Forest?
You can enjoy the hike by taking photos of the rock formations and Andean landscapes, as well as learning about the geology and local culture with the help of a guide.
10) Can I buy souvenirs or crafts near Palccoyo?
Yes, in nearby communities it is possible to find traditional crafts such as textiles and local products. It is recommended to bring cash for purchases.
11) How much time should I spend on the visit?
Generally, it takes between 3 and 4 hours to fully enjoy the Palccoyo Stone Forest and its surroundings. If you combine it with Vinicunca, you will need a full day.
12) Are there bathroom facilities near the Palccoyo Stone Forest?
There are no toilets near the stone forest. It is recommended to stop at the nearby rest areas before starting the hike.
13) Is a guide necessary to visit Palccoyo?
Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended to hire a guide to keep you safer, learn about the history of the place and learn about its culture.
Advice from people who have been there
By: Gabriel J.“Walk to Palccoyo“
“I was delighted with the experience. I had the opportunity to take the tour of the Palccoyo Stone Forest along with the 7-color mountain of Vinicunca and I was amazed by the landscapes. In short, it is on my list of places I have visited, highly recommended.“
By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, January 24, 2025