From Cusco: Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain 2-Day Tour — a journey that combines natural beauty, physical activity, and a taste of local culture. For just $64 per person, you get two full days exploring some of Peru’s most iconic sights, with guided hikes, included meals, and comfortable transportation. The adventure starts early each morning, taking you south from Cusco to Mollepata, then on to the trailheads for Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances the challenge of these high-altitude hikes with the comfort of included breakfasts and hearty buffet lunches. Plus, having a guide with local expertise makes navigating the terrain much easier and more informative. A second highlight is the small group size—limited to 15 participants—ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

One possible consideration is the physical effort required; both hikes are around 2 hours and involve significant altitude, so this adventure suits travelers in good health who are prepared for an active day. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain and the tranquility of Humantay Lake without the hassle of organizing your own transport and meals.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided excursions that include all the essentials—transport, meals, and a knowledgeable guide—allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic experience, with manageable group sizes and a good value for the price.

Key Points

All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers transportation, guided hikes, breakfast, and buffet lunch, making it hassle-free.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants, providing a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.
Altitude Preparedness: Expect hikes at high elevations, so being in good health and acclimatized is advisable.
Authentic Local Flavors: Meals feature typical Peruvian dishes, adding to the cultural experience.
Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
Guided Tours in Both Languages: Guides speak Spanish and English, enhancing understanding and engagement.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Depth

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Day 1: From Cusco to Humantay Lake

The adventure kicks off with an early hotel pickup in Cusco. The transport provided is comfortable, and the scenic drive south takes you toward Mollepata, a small town where the tour begins to feel more rural and authentic. The first highlight awaits after about two hours of trekking: Humantay Lake, a glacial-fed body of water with shimmering blue tones set against snow-capped peaks.

We loved the way the guide, such as Juan or Ana, shared stories about the landscape and local customs, adding depth to the experience. The hike itself is manageable for most, but the altitude—around 4,200 meters (13,800 feet)—can be a challenge. As one reviewer put it, “The views are worth every breathless step,” which is true. There’s plenty of time at the lake for photos and to soak in the tranquility, surrounded by towering mountains and the quiet reflection of the sky.

After retracing the route back to Mollepata, the tour includes a well-earned lunch—a buffet featuring typical Peruvian fare, which is both nourishing and a chance to try local flavors like causa, ceviche, or traditional rice dishes. This meal helps restore energy for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Rainbow Mountain – a Palette of Colors

The second day begins again early with pickup, this time heading toward Cusipata, where breakfast awaits at a local restaurant. The hike to Rainbow Mountain is about two hours, but the real spectacle is the vibrant landscape—a patchwork of reds, oranges, yellows, and greens, all layered like a giant, natural canvas.

What we loved most about Rainbow Mountain is how breathtakingly different every angle makes it seem. Our guide emphasized the geological history, explaining how mineral deposits created the striking coloration. Plenty of time is allotted at the summit for photos, and you’ll want to take advantage of the panoramic views that stretch across the Andes.

The descent is straightforward, and after the hike, a buffet lunch is served, giving you one last opportunity to enjoy Peruvian cuisine before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation: The tour includes comfortable transport from and back to Cusco, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel—saving you from logistical headaches.

Guides: Bilingual guides keep you informed in both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible and educational.

Meals: Included breakfasts and buffet lunches are substantial and feature local ingredients, giving you a taste of Peruvian culinary traditions.

Hiking Gear: Walking sticks are provided, which can be a real help on uneven or steep terrain. We recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes and layered clothing suitable for variable mountain weather.

Altitude and Health: Because of the high elevations (Humantay Lake is over 4,000 meters), drinking coca tea beforehand and staying hydrated can help prevent altitude sickness. The tour explicitly advises against participation for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or heart and health issues, so plan accordingly.

Cost and Value: At $64, the tour offers a lot—transport, guided hikes, meals, and equipment—for a reasonable price. Entrance fees to the sites are paid on-site, which adds flexibility.

Group Size: Small groups mean more personal attention but also require early booking, especially in peak seasons.

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Authentic Experiences and Traveler Tips

You’ll find the guided explanations about the terrain, geology, and local flora enriching, turning a simple hike into an educational experience. Several reviewers appreciated the patience and friendliness of guides, who also help with photos and tips for managing altitude.

Many travelers mention the importance of a good breakfast—both days start early, and the energy boost helps tackle the hikes. Packing essentials include a passport or ID (needed for entry), warm clothes for the mornings, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water.

A common tip is to bring your camera or smartphone with extra batteries or power banks, as the scenery is unforgettable and worth capturing extensively.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for guided convenience and want to see two of the most famous spots near Cusco without the hassle of arranging transport and meals yourself. It suits active travelers comfortable with a 2-hour hike at altitude and curious about both natural beauty and local culture. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer small group settings for a more personalized experience.

Those with mobility issues or health concerns related to altitude should consider their comfort level carefully, as both hikes are strenuous and at high elevations. It’s best for travelers in good physical condition who enjoy adventure and are prepared for a full, active day.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Cusco to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and cultural richness. You’ll see some of the most striking landscapes in Peru, all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals who know how to make the experience memorable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to check off iconic hikes from your travel bucket list, this trip delivers value for money—and some truly unforgettable views.

It’s best suited for travelers who are eager to experience Peru’s natural wonders without the stress of planning every detail. Keep in mind the altitude and physical demands, but if you’re prepared, you’ll come away with incredible photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse beauty of the Peruvian landscape.

FAQ

What is included in the tour? The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, breakfast, buffet lunch, walking sticks, a first aid kit, and an oxygen bottle. Entrance tickets to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are paid on-site.

How long are the hikes? Both hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are approximately 2 hours each, involving some uphill walking at high altitude.

What should I bring? Pack your passport or ID, warm clothes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes suitable for hiking.

Is this suitable for children or elderly? The tour is generally not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, vertigo, recent surgeries, motion sickness, or those over 70, due to the physical demands and altitude.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Do I need to buy entrance tickets separately? Yes, entrance tickets to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are purchased on-site, giving you flexibility and avoiding pre-booking hassle.

What’s the best time to do this tour? The tour runs year-round, but check availability for specific start times. The mornings tend to be clear, but mountain weather can change rapidly.

Is food included? Yes, both days feature breakfast and a buffet lunch, offering hearty and traditional Peruvian dishes.

This guided two-day adventure offers an accessible, well-organized way to witness Peru’s vibrant landscapes and enjoy a bit of active exploration. Perfect for curious travelers eager to see the iconic sights with comfort and expert guidance.