Experience the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s high Andes with this 2-day tour from Cusco, visiting **Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain. For just $48 per person, you’ll enjoy guided hikes through vibrant landscapes, colorful lakes, and towering peaks. Expect early mornings, plenty of walking, and the chance to connect deeply with nature. Two standout features for us are the chance to see turquoise waters at Humantay—a true postcard scene—and the spectacular views at Rainbow Mountain that will leave you breathless. The main challenge? Both days involve early starts and some strenuous trekking, so it’s best suited for active travelers. This tour appeals most to those who love outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and don’t mind a bit of physical effort to reach iconic sights.

Key Points

Amazing Landscapes: Experience the vibrant colors of Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.
Active Adventure: Each day involves around 2 hours of hiking at altitude, perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
Cultural & Natural Beauty: Connect with Peru’s stunning flora, fauna, and mountain scenery.
Value for Money: At $48, the package includes transportation, guides, meals, and some helpful gear.
Early Starts: Be prepared for 4:00-5:00 am pickups, essential for beating crowds and maximizing your experience.
Limited Group Size: Small groups of up to 15 people ensure a more personal experience.

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Introduction: Two Days of Highland Wonder in Cusco

If you’re drawn to outdoor adventures and striking scenery, this 2-day tour from Cusco offers a perfect blend of physical activity and natural beauty. For a modest price of $48, you get guided visits to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, two of the most stunning sights in the Peruvian highlands. The tour is designed for those who love trekking and want a hands-on experience connecting with the landscape—think challenging hikes, fresh mountain air, and views that will stay with you long after you leave.

The tour is well-structured, with early mornings and full days, but the payoff is worth it. Our guides, like José and Marco, are friendly, bilingual, and eager to share their knowledge of the region’s geology, flora, and cultural significance. What we particularly appreciate is the included buffet lunches—a welcome recharge after the morning’s exertions—and the provision of walking sticks and polar blankets, which show thoughtful planning for altitude and weather.

One thing to keep in mind is the early departure times. If you’re not a morning person, this might require some adjustment, but arriving at the sites before the crowds and experiencing the quiet majesty of these landscapes is a bonus. This tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a workout and are eager to see two of the most iconic natural wonders near Cusco.

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Why This Tour Stands Out

The real appeal lies in how accessible and organized this adventure is. For just $48, you’re paying for transport, guiding, meals, and some helpful amenities—a good deal for a full two days of exploration. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention, better photo moments, and lively conversations with guides.

We loved the way the tour balances adventure with comfort—breakfasts and buffet lunches keep you fueled, while the provided oxygen balloons and polar blankets help manage altitude discomfort. The guides are also attentive to safety, reminding us to respect the environment and stay on the marked paths, which is important at these high altitudes.

Another highlight is the sheer variety of scenery. Day 1’s Humantay Lagoon dazzled us with its turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a tranquil, almost surreal atmosphere. Day 2’s Rainbow Mountain offers an earthly palette of reds, oranges, and browns, set against the endless Peruvian sky—an awe-inspiring sight that feels almost unreal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Humantay Lagoon

We start early—around 4:30 am—to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise in the highlands. The journey from Cusco to Mollepata takes about two hours by comfortable tourist van, giving us time to peer out at the changing scenery. Upon arrival in Mollepata, we enjoy a hearty breakfast, a vital boost before the hike.

The short drive to the car park marks the beginning of our 2-hour trek to Humantay Lake. The trail winds gradually upward through lush vegetation, past traditional Andean farms, and offers glimpses of snow-capped peaks. The hike is moderately challenging, especially due to the altitude—most of us felt it in the lungs. Still, the path is well-marked, and our guides make sure everyone stays safe and motivated.

At the lake, we’re rewarded with vivid turquoise waters reflecting the sky and surrounding mountains. We’re encouraged to take photos, breathe in the crisp air, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Some travelers mention that the climb is physically demanding, but the views make every step worth it. After some free time, we retrace our steps back to the van for a buffet lunch in Mollepata—comfort food after a morning of exertion.

The return to Cusco around 6:00 pm allows for some downtime and reflection on the day’s highlights. Many reviewers praise the “amazing scenery” and the “friendly guides” who provided useful tips on coping with altitude.

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Day 2: Rainbow Mountain

The second day begins even earlier—around 4:00 am—as we head toward Cusipata. The drive offers a chance to glimpse rural life and the vast, open landscapes. Breakfast in Cusipata is another chance to fuel up before the trek.

From there, we leave the vehicle at the parking lot, and it’s a 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain. The trail ascends steadily through striking landscapes, with occasional sections that challenge even seasoned hikers. The altitude can cause some to feel breathless, but the guides are prepared with oxygen balloons and tips for managing it.

Once at the summit, the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular. The mountain’s vivid stripes of red, orange, and yellow are a stark contrast against the clear blue sky. The sense of standing amidst such colorful geology is genuinely humbling. Many travelers comment that the photography opportunities are endless and that the experience is “truly unforgettable.”

After exploring and taking photos, we descend and enjoy a buffet lunch in Cusipata, which again provides a welcome break. The return to Cusco around 5:00 pm marks the end of a memorable adventure.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusive package offers hotel pick-up, transport, bilingual guides, breakfast, buffet lunch, and gear like walking sticks and blankets. These amenities significantly enhance comfort and safety, especially considering the early starts and altitude.

However, you’ll need to cover the cost of entrance tickets—S/25 for Humantay Lake and S/30 for Rainbow Mountain—so budget accordingly. The tour does not include horses, which some travelers might consider for the ascent, but the walking sticks and support from guides help make the hikes more manageable.

Extra expenses, such as souvenirs or additional drinks, are not included, so bring some cash for souvenirs or optional purchases.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Altitude is a factor; stay hydrated and take it slow. The provided oxygen balloons are there for safety, but listening to your body is crucial.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip—terrain can be uneven.
Pack sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen; the high altitude means stronger UV rays.
Bring passport or ID to purchase entrance tickets and for identification.
Since early mornings are essential, prepare the night before for a quick departure.
Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can impact your ability to handle the altitude.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventure, and who want to see iconic highland sights in a manageable two-day trip. It’s suitable if you’re comfortable with early mornings and some physical exertion. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those with mobility challenges—the altitude and physical demands can be tough.

Travelers seeking an authentic experience that combines cultural appreciation with incredible natural beauty will find this trip both rewarding and accessible. It’s a great way to tick off two of Cusco’s most famous landmarks with expert guides and a hassle-free setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the hikes difficult?
The hikes are moderately challenging, especially due to the high altitude. They involve around 2 hours of walking at elevation, so some exertion is expected, but the paths are well-marked and guides are attentive.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential. Also, pack sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, passport or ID, and cash for tickets. The tour provides walking sticks, blankets, and oxygen balloons for safety.

What is included in the price?
Transport, hotel pick-up, guides, breakfast, buffet lunch, walking sticks, blankets, and oxygen balloons are included. Tickets to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are extra.

How early do I need to wake up?
Pickup is generally between 4:00 and 5:00 am, so be prepared for early mornings, which allows you to maximize the experience and avoid crowds.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s best suited for active, fit travelers comfortable with hiking and altitude. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart issues, or mobility limitations.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I skip the hikes?
The tour is designed around the hikes, so skipping them isn’t an option. However, guides can sometimes suggest alternative viewing spots if needed.

What if I want to take a horse instead of walking?
Horses are not included in the tour price, and you would need to arrange this separately if available at the site.

When should I book?
To secure your spot, especially during peak seasons, it’s best to book in advance. Last-minute reservations are possible if availability allows, but confirm with the provider first.

This 2-day tour from Cusco offers a meaningful way to experience some of the most photogenic and culturally significant landscapes in Peru. It’s a well-organized, value-packed option for those prepared for a bit of physical effort. With friendly guides and scenic rewards around every corner, it’s a trip that will likely leave you with stories—and photos—that last a lifetime.