Cusco 3-Day Tour: Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain

Experience the Best of Cusco in Three Days: Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain

Planning an adventure in Cusco often feels overwhelming—so many incredible sights, so little time. A well-structured 3-day tour like this one, priced at around $423 per person, offers a fantastic way to tick off the region’s most iconic spots without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Tours are organized by LIBERTY PERU TRAVEL, and they promise a mix of scenic hikes, ancient ruins, and vibrant mountain vistas, all within a manageable schedule. What we love most is the opportunity to explore these highlights with knowledgeable guides and to meet fellow travelers who share your sense of adventure.

Two standout features make this tour particularly appealing. First, the diverse itinerary covers Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain—each offering a unique perspective on Peru’s stunning landscapes and history. Second, the included train tickets and transport streamline logistics, allowing you to focus on soaking in the views rather than worrying about the details. The only potential downside? The days are long, with early starts and tight schedules, but if you’re looking to maximize your time and see the highlights, this is a great option. It suits active travelers eager for a mix of nature, history, and culture, and those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: The tour covers transportation, entrance fees, and guided tours, making it a convenient package.
• Diverse Experiences: From scenic hikes to ancient ruins, there’s a wide variety of sights packed into just three days.
• Group Atmosphere: Meeting new people can add to the fun, especially on shared hikes and tours.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Transfers, train tickets, and guides ensure smooth transitions between sites.
• Early Starts: Be prepared for 4:30 AM wake-ups, which are necessary to maximize your sightseeing.
• Authentic and Scenic: Expect breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to multi-colored mountains.

A Thorough Exploration of Each Day’s Highlights

Day 1: Humantay Lake – A Mountain Mirror

Your adventure begins before dawn — around 5:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. The early start is typical for high-altitude excursions to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon weather changes. The bus ride to Mollepata, about four hours away, is a chance to settle in and enjoy the rugged Peruvian scenery. Mollepata is a quiet town where breakfast is served, giving you an energy boost for the challenging ascent ahead.

Next, you’ll continue to Soraypampa, perched at 3,850 meters. From here, the real fun begins with a 1.5-hour hike to Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of this sacred mountain and the lake—an otherworldly spot with crystal-clear waters reflecting the snow-capped peaks. The views of Salkantay and Humantay mountains are spectacular, especially on clear days. You have time to take photos, soak in the serene surroundings, and maybe offer a small gift to the mountain spirits if you’re feeling spiritual.

For those who prefer to skip the hike, horses are available for rent, which is a practical option for anyone concerned about altitude or fatigue. Afterward, the descent back to Soraypampa is easier and quicker. A well-earned lunch awaits, and you’ll have some time to relax before heading back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 pm. This first day is physically demanding but deeply rewarding, with views that stay with you long after.

Day 2: Machu Picchu – The Iconic Wonder

The second day starts with a hotel pick-up at either 6:00 or 8:00 am, depending on your train ticket. The journey to Machu Picchu involves a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, a 2-hour trip through lush mountains and jungle. The included snacks make this part easy and comfortable, and the spectacular vistas have been praised by travelers who loved the way the train ride set the tone for the day.

Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll transfer to a bus that takes you up a winding road to the Machu Picchu entrance. The guided tour, lasting about 2 hours, is a highlight. Your guide will explain the fascinating history and architecture of the site, taking you through the Main Square, Sacred Solar Clock, and Royal Rooms. We appreciated the knowledgeable guidance, especially when the guide described how the Inca built such a sophisticated and enduring city in such a remote location.

After the tour, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch, with options to visit the local hot springs—an optional but popular activity based on reviews. The return journey includes a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo, with an arrival around 10:30 pm. This day captures the essence of Peru’s ancient past and allows for some downtime in charming Aguas Calientes.

Day 3: Rainbow Mountain – A Kaleidoscope of Colors

The third day kicks off at 4:30 am with a pickup and a 3-hour drive to the start point of Rainbow Mountain, also called Vinincunca. The journey includes a stop in Pitumarca and Cusipata for a hearty breakfast, crucial given the early start and physical exertion ahead.

The trek to Rainbow Mountain lasts about 1.5-2 hours, during which you’ll pass herds of llamas and alpacas, and enjoy views of Ausangate Mountain. The ascent is steep but manageable, especially with the guiding tips provided. We loved the way the mountains bloom into a spectrum of colors—orange, red, yellow, and green—like Mother Nature’s paint palette. The summit at 5,020 meters offers sweeping panoramic views, and the vibrant hues make for unforgettable photos.

After exploring, the descent takes around the same time, and you’ll head back for lunch at Cusipata. The ride back to Cusco ends around 4:00 pm, giving you some time to relax after three packed days.

Why Choose This Tour?

This 3-day package strikes a balance between convenience, value, and authentic adventure. It is ideal for travelers who want to see the top sights in a short period without sacrificing the quality of experience. The inclusion of guided tours and transport reduces stress, especially for those unfamiliar with local logistics. The group size, limited to 15 travelers, ensures you get personal attention and an authentic atmosphere.

The reviews speak volumes—many travelers describe it as a “fantastic tour,” with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. The views are often described as stunning, making it clear that this experience delivers on visual wow-factor.

However, it’s important to note the long days and early mornings—not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a leisurely pace. The physical demands of hikes at high altitude should also be considered, although horses are available for some parts.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to explore Cusco’s most famous natural and archaeological treasures. The combination of scenic hikes, cultural insights, and iconic sights makes it a good fit for adventurous, curious travelers eager to make the most of their time. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate guided experiences that handle logistics and provide expert commentary.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of nature, history, and socializing, this tour ticks all the boxes. The early mornings, long days, and physical activity are part of the package, but the reward—stunning views, memorable experiences, and a deeper connection with Peru’s landscapes—is well worth it.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation for all the main parts of each day—bus rides, train tickets, and transfers—is included, making travel between sites seamless.

Do I need to book my own hotels?
Yes, you’ll need to arrange your own hotel in Cusco, as the tour starts and ends there each day.

What should I pack for the hikes?
Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, water, and a hat are recommended. Horses are available for rent if you prefer not to hike the final stretch.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included on days 1 and 3, and lunches are provided on days 2 and 3. Meals at Machu Picchu are not included, but there will be options in Aguas Calientes.

How long are the guided tours at each site?
Humantay Lake: about 1.5 hours; Machu Picchu: about 2 hours; Rainbow Mountain: from start to finish, approximately 2 hours of hiking and exploring.

What is the group size?
Tour groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It requires moderate physical activity and early mornings. Horses are available, but the altitude and hikes might be challenging for some.

This 3-day Cusco tour offers a fantastic way to combine adventure, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re prepared for early mornings and physical activity, you’ll find it to be a richly rewarding experience that highlights the very best of Peru’s landscape and history.