Tourist transport Cusco – Palcoyo – Puno

Are you looking for a different experience to discover the colors of the Andes without the challenge of extreme hikes? The Cusco – Palcoyo – Puno service by Ukumari Peru Travel is the perfect choice. This less crowded alternative to the famous Vinicunca offers a display of equally stunning landscapes, with the added benefit of lower difficulty and more tranquility. We take you from Cusco to the magical colored mountains of Palcoyo, and then to the city of Puno, on the shores of the mystical Lake Titicaca. All in one day, with comfort, safety, and personalized service.

History and cultural value of Palcoyo

Palcoyo Mountain, also known as the quiet sister of Vinicunca, is a group of multicolored mountains formed by the sedimentation of minerals over millions of years. Unlike Vinicunca, which involves an intense hike and large crowds of tourists, Palcoyo allows you to enjoy three colorful mountains, a forest of fossil stones, and a more introspective experience at over 4,900 meters above sea level.

For the local communities, Palcoyo and the surrounding mountains are sacred. Here, rituals of payment to the earth are still practiced, and the connection with Pachamama is felt intensely. Visiting Palcoyo is not just about seeing unique landscapes, but also about connecting with the spirituality of the Andes.

Distance and duration of the tour

Cusco to Palcoyo: 120 km / approximately 4 hours by vehicle
Palcoyo to Puno: 390 km / approximately 8 hours of scenic travel
Total duration of the service: 16 hours including stops, hiking, lunch, and full transfer

Itinerary for transport Cusco – Palcoyo – Puno

04:00 am – Pickup from your hotel in Cusco We start the day on time. Our professional driver will pick you up from your accommodation to begin the journey in a comfortable and safe private tourist transport. If you would like a guide for the day, you can request it in advance as an additional service.

07:00 am – Stop in Cusipata (optional) Time to stretch your legs and, if you wish, have breakfast at your own expense in a local restaurant. Meals are not included, but we can recommend good places with Andean products.

08:30 am – Arrival at the community of Palcoyo Entry into the protected natural area. A brief logistical explanation will be provided for those who wish to hike.

09:00 am – Hike to the Colorful Mountains of Palcoyo (optional) Those who wish to hike can take a route of approximately 1 hour (round trip) along easy and marked trails. You can also stay in the resting area and enjoy the landscape from the viewpoints.

10:30 am – Free time to explore and take photos Visitors can enjoy the place at their own pace. The assistance of a guide is optional, as is a more detailed cultural explanation about the geology and mysticism of the site.

11:30 am – Return to the vehicle and lunch break (optional) Free stop for lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the transport price). We can help you find a good place to eat.

02:00 pm – Departure to Puno Start of the road trip to the highland city of Puno. The journey is long but filled with Andean views, crystal-clear lagoons, and wildlife such as vicuñas and alpacas. Photo stops can also be made depending on time availability.

07:00 – 08:00 pm – Arrival in Puno Final drop-off at your hotel, bus terminal, or Juliaca airport as previously coordinated. End of an unforgettable day connecting with nature and Andean culture.

Places to visit

Colorful Mountains of Palcoyo: Unlike Vinicunca, here you will see three mountains dyed with natural multicolored stripes. An impressive visual experience, without crowds or large groups.
Stone Forest: Natural rock formations that resemble sculptures, a product of wind and time erosion. A magical place that seems to be from another planet.
Andean highlands: On the way to Puno, you will cross imposing landscapes, traditional towns, lagoons, and fields where vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas graze.

Included services

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
Private tourist transport to Puno
Assistance on the route
Scheduled photo stops
Drop-off at hotel or terminal in Puno or Juliaca

Optional additional services:

Professional guide (Spanish / English)
Breakfast and lunch
Entry to Palcoyo (if you wish to hike)

Prices for tourist transport Cusco – Palcoyo Mountain – Puno or vice versa

TYPE OF VEHICLE	CAPACITY	PRICE IN SOLES	PRICE IN DOLLARS
Sedan car	1 to 3 pax	1100	314
Pickup or SUV	3 to 4 pax	1200	343
Van	5 to 7 pax	1400	400

Travel with your entire group! We have larger units such as Renault for 15, Sprinter for 19, and buses for 32 passengers. Consult with one of our advisors right now.
Cost for the complete trip, with no individual charges per person.

Frequently asked questions about the Cusco – Palcoyo – Puno tour

1. Can I just do the transport without a guide?

Yes. The service is for tourist transport and the guide is optional. You can choose whether you want cultural accompaniment or just a comfortable trip.