Important Information

Please take a moment to read through this guide as it covers everything you need to know about our services and what to expect on your tour.

How difficult is the hike to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain?

The Palccoyo hike is considered easy compared to other high-altitude treks in Peru. The trail features a smooth, gradual incline requiring only 45 minutes of walking each way, making it accessible for families, beginners, and travelers seeking an easier alternative to Vinicunca.

What is the difference between Palccoyo and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain?

Palccoyo offers an easier 45 minute walk on gentle terrain, showcases three colored mountains, includes a rock forest, and attracts significantly fewer crowds. Vinicunca involves a much steeper, longer 2 hour climb, reaches a single main viewpoint, and sees heavy daily tourist traffic.

Can I book this tour as a private service?

Yes, we offer both small group service (maximum 8 participants) and fully private tours. Private tours allow flexible departure times, personalized pacing during the hike, and custom stops along the South Valley.

What happens in case of bad weather?

High Andean weather can change quickly. During the rainy season (December to March), morning departures often catch clear skies before afternoon rain. Our guides carry safety equipment at all times, and tours operate safely in light rain or snow.

How does the hotel pickup and Cusco arrival transfer work?

We include hotel pickup directly from your accommodation lobby in Cusco between 3:45 AM and 4:00 AM on the morning of your tour. For travelers arriving in Cusco prior to the tour, we also offer a complimentary airport pickup transfer to your hotel (please share your complete flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival so our driver can greet you outside the terminal).

Is an in-person briefing required before the Palccoyo tour?

No. Because Palccoyo is a 1-day excursion, an office briefing the night before is not required.

• Trailhead Orientation: Your guide conducts a quick safety, altitude, and route briefing right at the trailhead before you start walking.
• Digital Briefing (Day Before): We send your pickup time (3:45 AM – 4:00 AM), weather updates, and packing reminders via WhatsApp or email.

Can I store my extra luggage at your office during the tour?

Yes! You can store your main luggage free of charge in our secure Cusco office or directly at your Cusco hotel while you are on the tour. Because day vehicles have limited storage space, we recommend bringing only a small daypack containing your warm layers, water, and personal items.

How do I book the Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour?

Booking requires two simple steps through our website:

• Step 1: Complete the online reservation form by clicking the BOOK NOW button. We require your full legal name (matching your passport exactly), gender, passport number, date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY), and nationality for every traveler.
• Step 2: Pay a deposit of $20 USD per person to confirm your booking so we can secure your official community permits and private transport space.

How and when do I pay my remaining tour balance?

We would greatly appreciate it if you pay your remaining balance in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) at our Cusco office during your pre-tour briefing to avoid credit card processing fees. Multiple ATMs are available near the main plaza in Cusco. Alternatively, online payments via VISA or PayPal incur a 5.5% processing fee. PayPal payments should be sent directly to appletravelperu@gmail.com.

Can I change my departure date after tickets are purchased?

Date changes depend on community permit availability and transport arrangements. Requests made at least 48 hours prior to departure can usually be accommodated without penalty. However, last-minute date changes requested within 24 hours of departure may incur administrative rebooking costs.

Do I need to bring my original physical passport on the tour?

Yes, absolutely. You must bring your original physical passport on the tour. Local community authorities and highway checkpoints check physical passports to verify your identity against official tourist manifests.

• If you renew your passport before the trip: Send us copies of both your old and new passports prior to departure so we can officially update your registration for a $25 USD fee.
• Fee-free alternative: Carry both your old and new physical passports with you on the tour to present at local checkpoints.
• Note: Joining the tour without a matching, valid original passport is strictly prohibited by local regulations.

How should I prepare for altitude sickness in Cusco and Palccoyo?

Palccoyo sits at an elevation of 16,076 ft (4,900 meters) above sea level. Because high altitude causes reduced oxygen levels, we strongly recommend spending at least two full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to your trip to acclimatize. Drinking plenty of water or traditional coca tea, resting upon arrival, and avoiding heavy meals during your first days will help your body adapt smoothly before taking on high-altitude hikes.

What happens if I experience severe altitude sickness or medical issues on the trail?

Safety comes first on the mountain. Our professional guides are trained in first aid and high-altitude emergency care:

• Emergency Equipment: Guides carry pulse oximeters, complete first aid kits, and portable emergency oxygen tanks on all excursions to monitor blood oxygen levels and provide immediate relief.
• Safety Protocols: If severe altitude sickness, dizziness, or exhaustion occurs, your guide will administer oxygen and assist you in making a safe, gradual descent to lower elevation or back to the tour vehicle.

Is tipping expected for guides and drivers?

Overall, tipping is voluntary but greatly appreciated by our local guides, drivers, and support staff. Indeed, if you are pleased with the service provided, leaving a gratuity is a customary way to support local team members and their families.

Why choose Apple Travel Peru for sustainable tourism?

XIndeed, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tour operator. We integrate universal environmental and social standards to safeguard the local ecosystem, practice strict leave-no-trace principles, and support rural Andean communities while respecting local heritage and traditions.x