Pallay Punchu mountain

Discover Pallay Punchu Mountain (also known as «Color-Edged Mountain,» «Pallay Poncho Mountain,» or «Condor Sayana»), one of Cusco’s newest tourist destinations discovered during the pandemic. Located more than 194 kilometers from Cusco city at an impressive elevation of 4,791 meters above sea level, this magnificent mountain formation is tinted with various colors resulting from a complex combination of minerals.

The slopes and summit showcase a spectacular array of colors including red, pink, purple, green, white, and many more. Since 2020, this hidden gem has been welcoming visitors looking to explore beyond the traditional rainbow mountain routes.

Short Itinerary

Short Itinerary:

Pickup in Cusco: 3:30 a.m. hotel pickup.
Breakfast: Stop at Collca restaurant for breakfast.
Journey to Layo: Travel along the lakeside to Layo district.
Hike to Condor Sayana: Approximately 1-hour hike to the highest point (4,850m).
Pallay Punchu Mountain: Visit to Apu Tacllo and the iconic colored mountain.
Return to Cusco: Journey back to Cusco city.

Detailed Itinerary

Early Morning Pickup

3:30 a.m. – Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Begin the journey toward our destination.

Breakfast and Journey to Layo

After 1.5 hours of travel, arrive at Collca restaurant for breakfast and restroom facilities.
Continue the journey for 2 more hours along the lakeshore towards Layo district.
Brief stop for photos and to learn about the importance of trout farming for local communities in Langui-Layo.
Short 15-minute drive to the bus station where the hike begins.

Hike to Condor Sayana

Begin a scenic 1-hour hike to reach the highest point known as Condor Sayana (4,850m above sea level).
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Layo and Langui districts, surrounding communities around the lake, and the Three Canyons of Suykutambo (Espinar) mountain range.

Pallay Punchu Mountain

After taking photos at the highest viewpoint, continue to visit other sacred mountains (Apus).
Visit Apu Tacllo where you’ll take the iconic and most recognized photo of the colorful mountain.
Learn about how this attraction was discovered by chance by a local resident during the pandemic.
Understand the significance of Pallay Punchu as the third colored mountain attraction in the Cusco region, part of geotourism alongside Vinicunka Mountain and Palccoyo Mountain Range.

Return to Cusco

Begin the return journey to Cusco city.

Includes / Not Includes

Inclusions:

Snack breakfast.
Lunch.
Guide (English and Spanish).

Exclusions:

Entrance fees.
Drinks at the restaurant.

Prices

Tour Prices:

Tour Type	Standard Price	Special Rate
Group Service	250.00 PEN	150.00 PEN
Private Tour	100.00 USD	Minimum 3 passengers

Recommendations

What to Bring:

Warm clothing (layered clothing is recommended).
Hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Rain jacket or poncho (especially during rainy season).
Camera.
Small backpack for personal items.
Bottled water and snacks.
Cash for entrance fees and additional expenses.