Palccoyo Mountain Review: Stones & Forest Private Tour

Palccoyo Mountain, it’s almost like a hidden gem tucked away in the Andes Mountains close to Cusco, Peru, has started to draw the attention of folks looking for a less crowded version of the famous Rainbow Mountain, you know? One way folks see Palccoyo is on the “From Cusco Palccoyo Mountainforest Stones Private” tour, and that’s what I thought I’d chat with you all a bit about right now. Did this live up to my expectations, you might ask? Keep reading, that is, if you are interested to hear more.

What’s Palccoyo, Anyway?

If you are even slightly in the know, you’ve likely heard about Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), with its bright, multi-colored slopes; yet, very few talk of Palccoyo, also called the Alternative Rainbow Mountain. You could say Palccoyo’s got multiple rainbow peaks, stone forests, and views that stretch for days. Some find that this spot has fewer people traipsing about and the trek there is a little easier, to be honest, very attractive points when you think about visiting a high-altitude site. So, the appeal isn’t hard to see.

What’s Included in the “Stones & Forest” Part?

So, what exactly does this “Stones & Forest” thing add to the Palccoyo trip? Good question! It isn’t just about seeing the colored mountains, you know; you also get to traipse a bit through regions with rock formations which can only be be called otherworldly; pretty wild, actually. Then, the “forest” part, well, it may be a slight stretch to use the word forest in this context, you might find spots where plant life holds on strongly at these high elevations. Keep in mind this can and does vary based on the season, so I have been told.

My Actual Experience

Here’s my own take based on actually going. Now, as I look back, what stuck with me wasn’t only the fantastic views, because seriously, those were postcard-worthy, it’s more like the quiet and the space to soak everything in. The tour company made sure we had all we needed – they provided the oxygen, a knowledgeable guide, and some warm drinks, that helped, you know, with the altitude adjustment. You sort of get a close peek into countryside life as you go through some tiny villages. The “Stones & Forest” bit made it just a little extra great, really adding unusual natural scenes not always found on other tours.

Something that I have to bring up; while the tour says it is private, that seems, sort of, subject to how busy the tour company is. We expected to be completely alone as a couple. This was not the case. We were accompanied by two other separate parties, which to be fair, we actually enjoyed. The experience as a whole felt like it was missing a bit of its perceived value due to a misunderstanding, or potential miscommunication regarding this. The service that we received otherwise, we felt, was definitely a step in the right direction.

Is it Worth It? Considering the Value

So, should you fork over your cash for this private tour to Palccoyo with the added “Stones & Forest”? In short, it is all dependant on what you are searching for. So, if you care a great deal about steering clear of the big crowds and like the sound of unique natural landscapes without a really hardcore hike, you’ll like this tour. You, similar to your peers, will get some great pictures and breathe in a chunk of that crisp mountain air. The value, like anything, sort of depends on how much that stuff means to you.

Something to mull over is the altitude thing. Cusco sits really high up, and Palccoyo is even higher. Should you spring for the tour, spend a few days in Cusco beforehand to help get your body ready. Also, make sure the tour folks have oxygen and first-aid on hand; it seems, like, just good practice, really.

What Could be a Bit Better, Actually?

No tour is quite completely spot-on, to be honest. Something I felt the tour group could improve might be the clarity around what “private” actually entails on busier dates. Just to let people be a bit better prepared for what they should assume before committing. A heads up on just how physically challenging the hike can prove to be could assist. Although they did give oxygen, some other visitors seemed, a bit, caught off guard by how much they huffed and puffed. It may sound rather trivial, however a bit more information before starting would set you off to a solid experience.

Another place that could make small improvements would potentially involve something small such as offering up extra snacks and options for those who are subject to strict dietary requirements and/or allergies, as not all tour providers are that flexible when you need it most.

What to Bring, Really. Essentials

Here’s what you should have for Palccoyo, in my experience. Layered clothing is basically vital, like an onion, expect to dress/undress several times, in a way, as the weather changes like crazy in the mountains. So, sunscreen, shades, and a hat are musts because that sun at altitude is pretty intense. Comfortable walking shoes that give a great grip can only assist on rocky trails. Carrying water, plus some snacks for an added bit of energy, too it’s almost like, common sense. Of course, a camera will allow for a way of snapping those stunning scenes.

Other Things To Keep in Mind

Here are some pieces of wisdom worth keeping tucked in the back of your brain as you are scheduling or setting out on your trip. Most tour operators will scoop you up at your hotel in Cusco early, really early, think 4 AM-ish to make it for sunrise. Is that so? A great deal of the roads tend to be bumpy, that is if the drivers can get on to them so get ready for a bit of a bouncy ride. You might also see locals selling stuff, and you should totally haggle. It is normal, and you might get a neat souvenir for just a little cheaper.

Final Verdict

Overall, I think the “From Cusco Palccoyo Mountainforest Stones Private” tour, in a way, gives a great experience for exploring what nature can serve up in the Peruvian Andes. Yes, that’s right; the views are killer, and it has some unique extras like the stone forest. Yet, be aware of altitude issues, and perhaps probe a little deeper on exactly what “private” entails before you book. Should you take this trip? Should that make sense for how you roll? Possibly!