2025 Checacupe Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

August 23, 2024: Did you know there are two Rainbow Mountains near Cusco? Before arriving in Cusco, I was hesitant about visiting Rainbow Mountain. Many bloggers mentioned that hiking Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is quite challenging, requiring hiking boots and even trekking poles, none of which I had or wanted to buy just for this trip. Fortunately, the tour I joined provided trekking poles for free, so I took one. On my first night in Cusco, I met a French friend who recommended another tour to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Although slightly more expensive, it was less strenuous and equally stunning. Unlike Vinicunca, Palccoyo is less famous and thus less crowded. I wasn't particularly concerned about taking Instagram-worthy photos; I just wanted to see beautiful scenery. Despite Palccoyo being a bit pricier, I signed up for it. Vinicunca, being more popular, was relatively cheaper, costing around 80-100 soles, but online bookings were more expensive, ranging from 35-60 USD. My Palccoyo tour cost 100-120 soles, with fewer online booking options, making it pricier. My tour cost 100 soles, but a German couple I traveled with booked online for 45 USD, almost 600 TWD more than me! My friend got an even cheaper deal, around 90 soles. After discussing with my friend, we concluded that booking through a travel agency is best, avoiding those near Plaza de Armas as they tend to be more expensive. I found a reasonably priced tour in a small alley, not the cheapest but quite cost-effective compared to others. There are also recommendations from other travelers online. At 4:30 AM, I boarded the bus for a two-hour ride, arriving at the breakfast spot half-asleep. The breakfast was buffet-style, but I ate lightly to avoid needing the restroom, just some boiled eggs and pancakes. It was freezing, around 5 degrees Celsius. The journey to Rainbow Mountain was bumpy, taking about two hours on rocky and sandy roads, making it hard to sleep, so I enjoyed the scenery instead. Upon arriving at Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, it only took a 1-minute walk to see the first Rainbow Mountain, and another 20 minutes to see the second. The initial path was relatively flat, making it easy for someone like me without hiking gear or experience to enjoy the views. The guide, supposedly bilingual, spoke 99.9% Spanish, only using English for numbers and self-introduction. Initially hopeful for English explanations, I quickly realized it was futile and focused on taking photos, occasionally asking Spanish-speaking tour mates for translations. What surprised me most wasn't the hike's difficulty but seeing a 60-70-year-old German couple and three brave Colombian girls climbing. At nearly 5,000 meters altitude with cold winds, they fearlessly posed for photos in sports bras, truly embodying youthful spirit! I've summarized the information about the two Rainbow Mountains for your reference: Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain and Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain are two famous high-altitude attractions known for their colorful landscapes. Here are their elevations and main differences: - Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: Approximately 4,900 meters (16,076 feet). - Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (also known as 'Rainbow Mountain'): Approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Differences: - Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: Easier option, suitable for those wanting a more relaxed hike. Hiking time is about 1 hour, with gentler slopes. Less famous than Vinicunca, hence fewer crowds, ideal for travelers wanting to avoid large tourist groups. Besides Rainbow Mountain, you can enjoy surrounding natural attractions like the Stone Forest and multiple viewpoints, offering more diverse scenery. - Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: More challenging, with a typical hiking time of 3-4 hours (round trip), steeper slopes, suitable for those in good physical condition. Highly popular, attracting many tourists, especially during peak seasons, making it very crowded. Higher altitude offers expansive views of surrounding mountains, but main attractions are concentrated in one area. Summary: Palccoyo is better for travelers with limited time, preferring a relaxed hike and fewer tourists. Vinicunca is a classic challenge, ideal for those with good stamina, offering more spectacular views due to its higher elevation. I hope this information helps those planning a trip to Cusco! Whichever Rainbow Mountain you choose, the breathtaking scenery won't disappoint!

On the way to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), you'll pass through a small town called Checacupe. Though modest in size, this town boasts surprising historical and cultural landmarks that are worth a brief stop to appreciate. 🏞️ The Three Bridges of Checacupe The highlight of the town is its three bridges standing side by side, a fascinating juxtaposition of different eras: - **Inca Rope Bridge (Q’eswachaka Style)** Made entirely of woven grass ropes, showcasing the Inca people's exceptional weaving and construction skills. Walking on the bridge is thrilling as it sways with each step. - **Colonial Stone Bridge** Built by the Spanish in the 16th century using arched stone structures, it reflects the transportation and architectural styles of the colonial era. - **Modern Suspension Bridge** Capable of supporting vehicles, it starkly contrasts with the other two bridges, symbolizing the continuity of history and the demands of modern transportation. ✨ Visitor Experience Walking on the rope bridge feels like a journey through time: beneath your feet lies the ingenuity of the Incas, ahead are the remnants of the colonial era, and in the distance, modern roads stretch out. Checacupe is not as bustling as big cities, but it offers a serene and authentic atmosphere. The locals maintain their traditional way of life, giving the town a simple and genuine charm. 📍 Travel Tips - **Route**: Typically a stopover on the way to Rainbow Mountain or the Red Valley. - **Duration**: Spend about 20–30 minutes here, enough time to take photos, walk the bridges, and soak in the ambiance. - **Footwear**: The rope bridge sways, so wear sneakers and avoid high heels or flip-flops. - **Best Time to Visit**: Morning or midday, when sunlight enhances the beauty of the stone bridge and the surrounding valley. 📸 Travel Summary Checacupe may not be a major tourist attraction, but it feels like a hidden gem, showcasing the coexistence of Inca, Spanish, and modern civilizations along the same river. If you're planning a trip to Rainbow Mountain, don't miss this town—it will make your journey more complete and storied.

Hiking at high altitude isn’t easy — but the reward is wild. The mountain has natural colors like it was painted. The view from the top is worth every breath. I’ve never seen a place like this before. #Peru #RainbowMountain #AndesAdventure #EpicViews

Peru and the hidden beauty of Rainbow Mountain Flying from afar, we started our search for the first place to visit from Cusco. There is a tourist attraction called Rainbow Mountain, a mountain covered in colorful colors, making it a rainbow pattern. Let me tell you that it is very beautiful. The surrounding mountains are beautiful, alternating in waves as far as the eye can see. There are also many mountains that have turned into rainbow colors (if it weren't for the snow, the colors would be clearer). The journey to Rainbow Mountain is very far. We took a car from Cusco for almost 4-5 hours to see its beauty. Driving up and down the mountains makes us dizzy. The height of this terrain is very high above sea level, making us dizzy. But I must say that it is very worthwhile to come and experience it and see it with your own eyes. South America is an area with many beautiful natural places. I believe that the tourist attractions here are the best in many places. #RainbowMountain #peru #Southamerica #travel #photo #picture #bloggertravel #withmyshutter #tripพาบินเที่ยวจีน

#fallishere Rainbow Mountain in Cusco proved to be a natural wonder that surpassed all expectations, showcasing the mesmerizing artistry of nature. The kaleidoscopic beauty of the mountain, adorned in vibrant hues, left an indelible mark on the senses. Trekking towards Rainbow Mountain was an adventure in itself, with the trail winding through the breathtaking Peruvian highlands. The altitude, while challenging, added an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Every step was a testament to both the physical exertion required and the sheer determination to witness the famed spectacle awaiting at the summit. As the ascent continued, the thinning air served as a constant reminder of the altitude's impact. The climb was undeniably demanding, yet the anticipation of what lay ahead propelled each step forward. The fatigue was momentarily forgotten when, at last, the panoramic vista of Rainbow Mountain unfolded before my eyes. The mountain's vibrant stripes, painted by nature's hand over the centuries, created a surreal and awe-inspiring sight. The myriad colors – from deep reds to brilliant yellows – blended seamlessly, forming a living canvas against the backdrop of the Andean peaks. It was a visual symphony, a testament to the geological forces that shaped this extraordinary phenomenon. The exhaustion from the climb dissipated in an instant as the eyes absorbed the breathtaking scenery. The sheer beauty of Rainbow Mountain was a reward that transcended the physical challenges endured during the trek. It was a reminder of nature's ability to create masterpieces that defy human imagination. The panoramic view from the summit offered a perspective that made the arduous journey worthwhile. The surrounding Andean peaks, often shrouded in mist, added a mystique to the landscape. Standing at that vantage point, it felt as if time stood still, allowing a profound connection with the natural wonders of the Andes. In conclusion, Rainbow Mountain in Cusco is a testament to the Earth's artistic prowess, a living testament to the geological forces that shaped its vibrant façade. While the ascent might be physically taxing, the reward of witnessing such a natural spectacle is an experience that transcends the challenges faced along the way. For those seeking a rendezvous with nature's palette, Rainbow Mountain stands as an iconic destination, inviting intrepid travelers into a realm of unparalleled beauty.