Looking for an unforgettable adventure in the Andes? The Pallay Punchu Trek by Salkantay Trekkers Peru is just what you need! This trek is one of the most stunning and impressive routes in the Andes. Locals call it the “Rainbow Range” because of its vibrant colors that look like a rainbow on Earth.
If you’ve heard about Vinicunca (the Seven Color Mountain) and found it too challenging, the Pallay Punchu Trek is a great alternative. It’s less demanding but still offers breathtaking views of colorful landscapes and unique rock formations.
Discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pallay Punchu quickly became popular after photos went viral on social media. Now, it’s a top spot for millions of tourists and a fantastic addition to Salkantay Trekkers Peru’s tours.
Located in the Cusco region, Canas province, and part of the Layo district, Pallay Punchu stands tall at 4,790 meters (15,715 feet) above sea level. The mountain’s name means “Andean fabric of a poncho”, reflecting its colorful, layered appearance that resembles a traditional poncho protecting from the cold.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:30 AM. After a nearly 4-hour drive in a private van, we reach the trailhead. Enjoy a boxed breakfast to fuel up for the hike ahead.
Start your hike with stunning views of Langui Lake. It takes about 2 hours to reach the top of Pallay Punchu Mountain. Spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring and taking pictures of the beautiful area.
After enjoying the mountain, head back to the trailhead (around 1 hour). Then, drive 2 hours to Cusipata (3,250 meters / 11,000 feet) for a delicious lunch. Finally, we’ll drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 PM.
Here is a structured English version with group & private pricing, upgrades, and discount options for the Pallay Punchu Tour — 1 day. All prices are in USD (as per available research) and illustrative (you should adjust according to your actual costs and margins).
| Service Type | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| Small-group tour | 120.00 |
Description of the group service:
This small-group tour departs daily (March through January) and guarantees operation with as few as two guests. You join a formed group of travelers. The group service includes shared transportation, guide, meals (breakfast & lunch), entrance tickets, and hotel pickup/drop-off. The benefit is lower per-person cost due to shared overhead.
| Number of Persons | Price per Person (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 356.00 |
| 2 | 213.00 |
| 3 | 159.00 |
| 4 | 132.00 |
| 5 | 120.00 |
| 6 | 109.00 |
| 7 | 100.00 |
| 8 | 93.00 |
| 9 | 87.00 |
| 10 | 82.00 |
Advantages of private service:
Importance of buying upgrades:
0Upgrades enhance the guest experience — the horse rental can reduce fatigue at high altitude; priority entry saves time; ceremony adds cultural depth; oxygen helps with altitude discomfort; photography provides memories without you missing the moment; multilingual guide improves understanding for non-English speakers. These options help your tour stand out and can justify premium pricing.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At SALKANTAY TREKKERS, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.