Discover the Magic of the Cusco Region in Two Days

Imagine waking up in Cusco, ready for an adventure that takes you to some of the most breathtaking natural sights in Peru. This 2-day tour, offered at around $80 per person, takes you to Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain, both famous for their extraordinary beauty and cultural significance. Led by friendly bilingual guides—Luis and others—this experience combines easy but rewarding walks, spectacular vistas, and a chance to connect with local Andes traditions.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances adventure with comfort. The included meals, guide commentary, and gear like walking poles and oxygen make a big difference, especially at high altitudes. Plus, the small group size keeps things personal and flexible, allowing you to enjoy these natural wonders without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

One thing to consider is the early start time—you’ll need to be ready at 5 a.m., which might be tough for some travelers. It’s a long day with lots of walking and driving, but if you’re eager for iconic landscapes and don’t mind the early hours, this tour will definitely satisfy your wanderlust.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and hikers who want to see some of Peru’s most famous sights with an emphasis on comfort and authenticity. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided tours that include meals and gear, making the trip more hassle-free.

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Key Points

Breathtaking Views: Expect stunning vistas of turquoise Humantay Lagoon and the multicolored layers of Rainbow Mountain.

Well-Organized Itinerary: With breakfast, guided walks, and buffet lunches included, it’s a smoothly run adventure that balances activity with rest.

Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants, the tour feels personal, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Altitude Consideration: The tour involves walking at high elevations, so some physical fitness and acclimatization are helpful.

All-Inclusive Gear: Canes, oxygen, and blankets are provided, making your experience safer and more comfortable.

Early Start: Be prepared for a 5 a.m. pickup, which means an early rise but also a quieter, more peaceful experience at the sites.

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A Complete Look at the 2-Day Cusco Tour

Day 1: Humantay Lagoon

We begin our adventure with a pickup from our Cusco hotel, usually near the historic center—an area full of character and bustling streets. The drive southward takes us through the scenic landscape of the Cusco region, with a first stop in Tintinco for breakfast. Here, you’ll fuel up with a traditional Peruvian breakfast, a comforting start before the day’s hiking.

From Tintinco, it’s a short drive to the parking lot that marks the beginning of our walk. The initial ascent to Humantay Lagoon is around two hours—moderate but steep enough to get your heart pumping. The trail isn’t technical but requires a steady pace, especially given the altitude of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet).

Once we arrive, the view of the turquoise waters framed by snow-capped Salkantay Mountain is nothing short of magical. The water’s vivid hue is caused by mineral deposits, giving it a surreal quality. The lagoon’s status as a sacred site for local communities adds a layer of cultural significance that makes the visit more meaningful.

We spend enough time here to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere before retracing our steps. Back at the parking lot, a buffet lunch awaits, giving us energy for the return drive to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 p.m. The trip includes pickup and drop-off near the Plaza de Armas, making it easy to continue your evening in the city.

Travelers’ feedback highlights the beauty of Humantay Lake, with one noting, “The turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains made the early start worthwhile.” Others appreciated the safety gear and guide’s explanations, which added depth to their experience.

Day 2: Rainbow Mountain

The second day begins again at 5 a.m. with pickup near your Cusco hotel. Today’s journey takes us further south to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Like the first day, we stop in Tintinco for breakfast, then continue to the parking area where our walk begins. The hike to Rainbow Mountain is about two hours, with a focus on a gradual ascent at a high elevation (over 5,000 meters).

Upon reaching the viewpoint, we’re greeted with one of the most spectacular sights in the Andes—a mountainous formation painted in vibrant stripes of red, yellow, green, and purple. The mineral deposits in the soil create the “rainbow” effect, which is truly a photographer’s dream. The brief guided tour provides insight into the geology and local culture, making each viewpoint more meaningful.

The return walk is scenic, and most travelers find the physical challenge manageable with the provided poles and oxygen. Lunch back in Tintinco is a hearty buffet, perfect for replenishing energy after two days of hiking.

Back in Cusco by late afternoon, you’ll find yourself with memorable photos and stories that will last a lifetime.

Reviews note that the views are “absolutely stunning,” with one traveler mentioning the “amazing natural colors of the mountains” that are “even better in person.”

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers great value by including transportation, guide services, meals, gear, and entrance fees (except for the Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain entrances which are paid locally). The inclusion of buffet lunches and breakfasts means less planning for you and more time enjoying the scenery.

However, it’s worth noting that the entrance fees for the lagoons and mountains are not included, and if you want to rent a horse at Humantay Lagoon, it costs about 60 soles. Also, drinks and extra food aren’t part of the package.

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Considerations for Travelers

The early start means you’ll need to wake up early, but this also means beating the crowds and experiencing the sites with fewer visitors. The physical demands are moderate but high altitude can affect some, so acclimatization is recommended. The small group size makes the experience more intimate and manageable, especially for those who prefer a more personal guide.

Practical Tips

Bring your passport, camera, hat, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras. Dress in layers—high altitudes can be chilly in the morning and warmer during the day. Good hiking shoes are essential because the terrain can be uneven.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want to see iconic natural landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail. It suits active travelers comfortable with walking and altitude but doesn’t require technical hiking skills. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and comfort, this two-day experience hits the mark.

It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate guided commentary and small-group camaraderie, making the journey more meaningful and less isolating.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Cusco to Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain offers a solid mix of spectacular scenery, cultural context, and convenience. The early mornings are a small price to pay for the chance to see these awe-inspiring sights with fewer travelers around and better lighting. The inclusion of meals, gear, and guides makes it a value-packed option for travelers who want a hassle-free adventure.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a dedicated photographer, or simply someone eager to tick off two of Peru’s most famous sights, this tour gives you a chance to experience the vibrant colors and tranquil beauty of the Andes in a manageable, well-organized way. Just come prepared for high altitude and early mornings, and you’ll leave with stories and photos that will bring you back in spirit.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my passport? Yes, your passport is required for the tour, especially for entrance fee purposes and identification.

What time does the tour start? Pickup is usually at 5 a.m., so be ready bright and early for these full-day adventures.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast in Tintinco and buffet lunches on both days are provided, making it easier to enjoy the experience without extra planning.

How difficult are the walks? The walks involve about 2 hours each, with some uphill sections. The terrain is manageable but high altitude can make it more challenging for some.

Are the entrance fees included? No, the entrance fees for Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain are paid separately, but guides can assist with that.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tours are generally suitable for those in good health, but the early hours and altitude mean younger children or those with health concerns should consider carefully.

Can I rent a horse? Yes, at Humantay Lagoon, horse rental costs around 60 soles if you prefer not to walk the entire way.

Do I need special equipment? Hiking shoes are recommended, and the tour provides poles, oxygen, and blankets to help at high altitudes.

Is the tour flexible? The small group size allows for some flexibility, but the schedule is quite fixed due to transportation and timing constraints.

Embark on this two-day journey from Cusco, and you’ll come away with unforgettable views and a deeper appreciation for the rugged, colorful beauty of Peru’s Andes.