CUSCO : HUMANTAY LAGOON AND RAINBOW MOUNTAIN /2DAYS

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Cusco with a 2-day tour to Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain. On the first day, you’ll hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Andes. Then, prepare for a challenging trek to Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of vibrant, multicolored rock formations. This unforgettable adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an awe-inspiring experience in the heart of Peru.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Cusco provides an opportunity to visit the stunning Humantay Lake and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain.
• The tour includes transportation, guided hikes, and meals, with a group size limited to 15 participants.
• Day 1 features a hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, surrounded by the Salkantay and Humantay peaks.
• On Day 2, the tour takes visitors to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, showcasing its multicolored rock formations and panoramic views.
• The tour offers flexibility with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cusco: Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain tour is a two-day adventure that immerses participants in the breathtaking landscapes of Peru’s Andes mountains.

The tour lasts 2 days and is priced from €50.68 per person, with group sizes limited to 15. Offered in English and Spanish, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment. The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guide, meals, and necessary equipment, providing a hassle-free experience for exploring these natural wonders.

Day 1: Humantay Lake

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their Cusco hotels and embark on a 2-hour journey to Soraypampa.

After a hearty breakfast, they’ll hike the Camino Real trail, gaining 1,200 feet/360 meters over 2 miles.

Along the way, they’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise Humantay Lake, the majestic Salkantay Peak (6,000 m/20,600 ft), and the imposing Humantay Peak (5,900 m/19,412 ft).

The stunning turquoise Humantay Lake, majestic Salkantay Peak, and imposing Humantay Peak await hikers along the Camino Real trail.

After the hike, they’ll return to Soraypampa for lunch before heading back to Cusco in the late afternoon.

Hike to Humantay Lake

Departing from Soraypampa, hikers embark on the Camino Real trail, a picturesque path that steadily gains 1,200 feet (360 meters) over the course of 2 miles.

Along the way, they’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the turquoise Humantay Lake and the majestic Salkantay (6,000 m/20,600 ft) and Humantay (5,900 m/19,412 ft) peaks.

The hike offers a moderate challenge, but the guides provide walking sticks and emergency horses to assist as needed.

At the lakeside, hikers can take in the serene surroundings before returning to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch and the journey back to Cusco.

Viewpoints at Humantay Lake

Breathtaking vistas unfold as hikers reach the shores of Humantay Lake. The turquoise waters reflect the majestic Salkantay (6,000 m/20,600 ft) and Humantay (5,900 m/19,412 ft) peaks that tower overhead.

Three jaw-dropping viewpoints await:

1. The lake itself, a natural wonder framed by snow-capped mountains.

2. Salkantay Peak, the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region.

3. Humantay Peak, an imposing glacier-clad summit that dominates the landscape.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts will delight in the breathtaking scenery and opportunities to capture the sheer beauty of this alpine oasis.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return to Soraypampa and Cusco

After soaking in the breathtaking views at Humantay Lake, hikers begin their descent back to Soraypampa.

The trail winds down, and the group arrives at Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch. Satisfied, they board the transportation for the 2-hour return trip to Cusco.

Along the way, travelers can reflect on the stunning landscapes they’ve witnessed and the sense of accomplishment from hiking to the turquoise lake.

As the bus approaches Cusco, guests are dropped off at their downtown hotels, leaving them with ample time to explore the historic city before the next day’s adventure to Rainbow Mountain.

Day 2: Rainbow Mountain

The second day’s adventure begins with guests being picked up from their Cusco hotels and embarking on the 3-hour drive to Hanchipacha.

There, they enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting the 45-minute uphill hike to an elevation of 5,000 meters.

The trek offers magnificent views of the unique Rainbow Mountain formations and the majestic, snow-capped Ausangate, the second-highest peak in Peru.

After taking ample time for photos, guests return to Cusipata for lunch before the bus takes them back to Cusco in the late afternoon, concluding this captivating two-day exploration.

Hike to Rainbow Mountain

As guests depart from Hanchipacha, they embark on a 45-minute uphill hike that takes them to an elevation of 5,000 meters.

The trail offers stunning views of the unique Rainbow Mountain formations and the snow-capped Ausangate, the second-highest mountain in Peru. Guests should pace themselves, as the high altitude can be challenging.

Once at the top, they’ll have ample time to take photos and soak in the breathtaking scenery.

After the hike, the group returns to Cusipata for lunch before heading back to Cusco in the late afternoon.

Views From Rainbow Mountain

Reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama that stretches across the Andean peaks.

The vibrant, multicolored rock formations create a truly unique landscape, unlike anything else in the region.

Three highlights of the vista include:

1. The towering, snow-capped Ausangate mountain, the second highest peak in Peru at 20,945 feet (6,384 meters).

2. The striking bands of red, yellow, and turquoise minerals that give Rainbow Mountain its distinctive appearance.

3. The sweeping vistas of the Vilcanota mountain range, with its glaciers and alpine lakes.

This unforgettable sight is the reward for the challenging hike to the summit.

Since You Asked

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to suit your preferences. The tour provider may accommodate changes, such as altering hiking routes or adding extra activities, if requested in advance and based on availability.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options for the Meals?

The tour includes breakfast and lunch on both days, but the supplier can accommodate special dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals if requested in advance. Guests should notify the supplier of any dietary restrictions when booking.

How Is the Weather Typically Like During the Tour Dates?

The weather is typically cool and dry during the tour, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. Guests should pack layers and prepare for potential rain or snow, especially at higher elevations.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, but it’s recommended for children aged 12 and up due to the strenuous hiking involved. Younger participants may struggle with the physical demands of the itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Will It Be Provided?

Participants can bring their own hiking gear, but walking sticks and emergency horses are provided. The tour company recommends comfortable shoes and clothes, but the essential equipment is included in the tour package.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day adventure through Cusco’s stunning landscapes. Marvel at the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the vibrant, multicolored rock formations of Rainbow Mountain. This tour offers breathtaking vistas and a challenging hike, perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary experience in the Andes. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the beauty and wonder of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: