Humantay Lagoon and Arcoiris Mountain are two of Peru’s most captivating natural wonders. Visitors can hike to the tranquil turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon, framed by snow-capped peaks, or challenge themselves on the trek to the vibrant, multicolored slopes of Arcoiris Mountain. Both destinations offer breathtaking scenery and unique experiences that celebrate Peru’s high-altitude wilderness. Discovering the enchanting details of these remarkable sites is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Good To Know
- The two-day tour explores Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain, providing an opportunity to witness the turquoise waters and vibrant colors of these natural wonders.
- The Humantay Lagoon hike is a moderate 4-5 km trek, allowing visitors to marvel at the serene turquoise waters and spot local wildlife like Andean geese.
- The Rainbow Mountain hike offers a 2-hour trek to the summit, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain’s vibrant palette.
- The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, meals, transportation, and necessary equipment, ensuring a seamless and well-supported experience.
- Professional bilingual guides provide insights on the geology and indigenous culture throughout the tour, enriching the overall experience.
Tour Overview
This two-day tour offers a chance to explore the stunning Humantay Lagoon and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. Priced from $61 per person, the tour is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco between 4-5 AM on both days. The itinerary includes hikes to each location, with free time to admire the natural beauty.
Guests will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco between 4-5 AM on both days. The itinerary includes hikes to each location, with free time to admire the natural beauty.
Meals, transportation, and necessary equipment are included. Horses are available to assist during the treks.
Advance booking is recommended, especially for last-minute reservations.
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Humantay Lagoon Hike
The hike to Humantay Lagoon starts with a journey from Cusco, where guests are picked up from their hotels between 4-5 AM. After a breakfast stop in Mollepata, they embark on a 2-hour trek to the stunning glacial lake. Once there, they’re free to explore the turquoise waters and the dramatic mountainous landscape. The return trip includes a buffet lunch in Mollepata before drop-off in Cusco around 6 PM.
| Distance | Duration | Difficulty |
| — | — | — |
| 4-5 km | 2 hours | Moderate |
Exploring the Lagoon
Upon reaching the Humantay Lagoon, visitors are captivated by its serene, turquoise waters set against a backdrop of towering, snow-capped peaks.
The lagoon offers an array of experiences:
Gazing at the stunning reflection, hiking around the perimeter, spotting local wildlife, and experiencing the tranquility of the high-altitude environment.
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Gazing at the stunning reflection of the mountain in the still, glassy waters
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Hiking around the lagoon’s perimeter to take in different vantage points
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Spotting local wildlife like Andean geese and various bird species
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Experiencing the tranquility and serenity of the high-altitude environment
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Capturing breathtaking photos to immortalize the natural wonder
Visitors can spend time exploring the lagoon, soaking in its beauty, and creating cherished memories.
Rainbow Mountain Hike
After marveling at the serene Humantay Lagoon, travelers now embark on a captivating journey to explore the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. The 2-hour hike to the mountain’s summit offers breathtaking views of the multi-colored slopes. Along the way, the tour guides provide insightful information about the region’s geology and indigenous culture. Upon reaching the top, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic spectacle of nature’s vibrant palette. The journey concludes with a hearty buffet lunch in Cusipata before returning to Cusco.
| Hike Duration | Elevation Gain | Difficulty |
| — | — | — |
| 2 hours | 1,400 meters | Moderate |
| Breakfast | Lunch | Entrance Fee |
| — | — | — |
| Served in Cusipata | Buffet in Cusipata | S/ 30 |
| Pick-up Time | Drop-off Time | Included Gear |
| — | — | — |
| 4:00 – 5:00 AM | Around 17:00 | Trekking poles, blankets, oxygen |
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the Vibrant Colors
As visitors ascend Rainbow Mountain, they marvel at the vibrant colors that seem to paint the landscape.
The mountain’s unique geological formations and mineral deposits create a stunning visual display, with hues ranging from deep reds and oranges to vibrant greens and purples.
The mountain’s unique geological formations and mineral deposits create a stunning visual display, with hues ranging from deep reds and oranges to vibrant greens and purples.
Visitors can explore:
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Striations of crimson and ochre
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Shimmering patches of turquoise
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Swirls of deep magenta
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Bands of golden yellow
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Pockets of emerald green
This natural wonder offers a truly breathtaking experience, leaving visitors in awe of the earth’s incredible beauty and diversity.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes several amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off services are provided within the Historic Centre. Professional bilingual guides accompany the group throughout the tour. Breakfast and a buffet lunch are included each day.
Trekking poles, polar blankets, and oxygen balloons are available for assistance during the hikes. Entrance fees to both Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain are covered. Horses can be hired for those who need help navigating the trails.
With these inclusions, travelers can focus on enjoying the stunning natural landscapes without worrying about logistics.
Booking and Reservations
How does one reserve their spot for this tour?
To book the Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain tour, travelers have a few options:
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Reserve now and pay later. This allows securing a spot without upfront payment.
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Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Ensure the correct contact information, including a WhatsApp-enabled number, is provided.
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For last-minute reservations, confirm availability with the supplier before booking.
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It’s recommended to provide the supplier with the traveler’s correct contact details to ensure they can be reached for any updates or changes to the tour.
Preparing for the Tour
Travelers should ensure they’re well-prepared for the Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain tour.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses.
Walking sticks are provided, but travelers may want to bring their own. Acclimatize to the high altitude by resting and staying hydrated.
Inform the tour company of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. By preparing properly, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of these Peruvian landmarks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Group Size Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any group size restrictions. Participants can book individually or in groups, and the tour will accommodate them accordingly. The maximum group size is not specified in the provided information.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Needs?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special needs. Customers should contact the supplier to discuss any requirements, such as accessibility needs or dietary restrictions, so the tour can be adapted to their individual needs.
What Types of Snacks or Meals Are Provided During the Hikes?
The tour includes breakfast and a buffet lunch each day. During the hikes, the guides provide snacks like energy bars, fruit, and water to keep hikers fueled. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Visit Additional Sites?
The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration or visit additional sites. However, travelers can inquire with the supplier about customizing the tour to meet their preferences, subject to availability and additional costs.
How Reliable Is the Transportation and What Happens in Case of Delays?
The transportation is reliable, with pick-up and drop-off from hotels. In case of delays, the tour provider will communicate updates and make necessary adjustments to ensure a smooth experience. They prioritize customer satisfaction and aim to minimize disruptions.
The Sum Up
Humantay Lagoon and Arcoiris Mountain offer a unique opportunity to witness Peru’s natural wonders. The serene turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon and the vibrant, multicolored slopes of Arcoiris Mountain create an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful hike or a challenging trek, these stunning destinations celebrate the beauty of Peru’s high-altitude wilderness.
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