Cusco: Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake 2-Day Tour + Meals

Exploring the highlands around Cusco isn’t just about ancient ruins — it’s also about breathtaking landscapes that seem almost surreal. This 2-day tour takes you through some of Peru’s most iconic sights: the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and the shimmering Humantay Lake. For just $80 per person, you get a well-rounded experience that includes meals, guides, and transportation, making it a convenient way to see these natural wonders without the fuss.

What we love most is the thoughtful combination of a challenging yet rewarding hike with comfortable logistics — early starts mean you beat the crowds, and the included meals keep you energized for the adventure. Plus, the guides’ knowledge about the ecosystems, geology, and local flora and fauna adds a layer of depth to the experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the high altitude can be tough, especially at Rainbow Mountain (up to 5080 m). If you’re sensitive to altitude or prone to quick fatigue, it’s worth considering your fitness level before booking. This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic hikes and are eager to learn about local landscapes in an authentic way.

If you love stunning mountain scenery, cultural insights, and a manageable group size, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights — perfect for those looking to tick off two of Cusco’s most famous natural spots in a compact trip.

Key Points

• Affordable & comprehensive: At $80, the tour includes transportation, meals, guides, and entry fees.
• Expert guides: Both days feature bilingual guides offering rich insights into the landscapes and ecosystems.
• Early starts: You’ll beat the crowds and enjoy cooler, more comfortable hiking conditions.
• Two distinct experiences: Rainbow Mountain’s striking colors and Humantay Lake’s tranquil reflection provide diverse photo opportunities.
• Physical challenge: Elevated altitudes demand good stamina; prepare accordingly.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Marveling at Rainbow Mountain

Your adventure begins early morning, with a hotel pickup in Cusco around 4:00–4:30 am. The very early start is key — it allows you to arrive before the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for the hike. The drive south to the district of Cusipata takes about two hours, followed by a breakfast stop which is a nice chance to fuel up before hitting the trail.

From Cusipata, it’s another hour of driving to the checkpoint. The walk begins at Llaqto, an easy 1.5-hour trek that offers views of Andean flora and fauna, including the unmistakable llamas and alpacas. The trail is generally gentle but can be steep in parts, leading up to the Vinicunca viewpoint at 5080 meters. Here, our guide (possibly named Alfredo or another local expert) provided excellent explanations of the mountain’s vibrant colors and how geological processes created this natural palette.

The photo opportunities here are spectacular. You’ll want to have your camera ready to capture the spectrum of reds, greens, and yellows streaked across the mountain’s face. The guide also shared details about the orography and ecosystem, turning a simple photo stop into a mini-lesson about the landscape.

After soaking in the views, you’ll retrace your steps back to the starting point, then head to a local restaurant in Cusipata for a well-earned lunch. The meal is typically hearty and filling, fueling your return trip to Cusco by late afternoon.

Day 2: Exploring Humantay Lake

The second day is equally picture-perfect but a different vibe. You’ll be picked up early morning again, between 4:00 and 5:00 am, for a roughly two-and-a-half-hour drive to Mollepata. This scenic ride passes through lush valleys and gives glimpses of Salkantay, the imposing snow-capped peak that looms over the area.

From Mollepata, it’s about an hour and a half of unpaved roads to Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters. Here, you’re just a short walk away from Humantay Lagoon. The 2 km ascent takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views of snow-covered peaks reflected in the lake’s turquoise waters.

The lake’s vibrant color owes itself to minerals at the bottom, and it’s quite a sight — a perfect mirror image of the sky above. Many visitors enjoy a stone-laying ceremony to thank the land, and guides often share stories about local beliefs tied to the place.

The descent back to Soraypampa is a brisk walk, followed by a traditional Andean lunch. Then begins the long trip back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 pm. The day’s highlights include not only the natural beauty but also the sense of achievement after hiking at high altitude.

Guided tours like this are invaluable because they provide context and safety in unfamiliar high-altitude terrain. The bilingual guides (English and Spanish) are typically well-informed and eager to share their knowledge, making the experience more meaningful than just a scenic walk.

The transportation logistics are well-organized, with comfortable vehicles suited for rough roads. Early pickups mean you avoid the midday rush and the crowds at the most popular spots, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

Meals are included, which is a big plus since local food is hearty and offers a taste of Peruvian cuisine. Breakfasts and lunches are designed to give you enough energy for the hikes, though you might want to bring extra snacks just in case.

The small group size (limited to 15 people) makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention. Plus, you’ll be sharing the experience with like-minded travelers, which often leads to lively conversations and shared photos.

The High-Altitude Challenge

One point to consider is the altitude — both Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake sit well above 4,000 meters. Some travelers report feeling tired or short of breath, so it’s wise to acclimatize in Cusco beforehand and stay hydrated. If you’re sensitive to altitude, this might be a tough couple of days, but the rewards are worth it if you’re prepared.

Authenticity and Local Culture

While the tour primarily focuses on natural landscapes, guides often share local stories and cultural insights, enhancing the sense of place. The stops in small towns also allow for a taste of rural life, away from the tourist hustle.

If you’re active and love outdoor adventures, this tour offers two very different but equally impressive natural sights. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with hiking at high elevation and enjoy having a guide to interpret what they’re seeing. The included meals and small group format make it a practical and enjoyable way to see Peru’s iconic scenery without excessive planning.

However, if you’re concerned about altitude sickness or mobility issues, you might want to prepare more or consider alternative options. The early mornings and physical demands are part of the package, but the views and stories make it worthwhile.

This Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake tour strikes a good balance between affordable pricing and quality experience. It’s a well-organized trip that maximizes sightseeing while minimizing hassle — perfect for those who want to see some of Peru’s most famous landscapes without breaking the bank.

The inclusion of meals, guide insights, and transportation adds peace of mind, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area. The small group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere, and the early starts help avoid the crowds and with the weather.

As long as you’re prepared for the altitude and physical activity involved, this tour offers an authentic and memorable way to connect with Peru’s stunning natural beauty. It’s ideal for active travelers, curious explorers, and anyone eager to tick off two of Cusco’s most photographed sights in just two days.

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, guides (English and Spanish), medical kit, oxygen bottle, breakfast, and lunch.

• Are entrance fees included?
  No, you’ll need to pay for entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain and Humantay Lake separately.

• How physically demanding is the tour?
  Expect some walking at high altitude, including a 1.5 to 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain and a 2 km walk to Humantay Lake. Good fitness helps, especially at over 4,000 meters.

• What should I bring?
  Bring layers for changing weather, sturdy shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Extra snacks might be helpful.

• Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
  The high-altitude hikes might be challenging for very young children or those not in good shape; check your personal comfort with physical activity at altitude.

• How long does each day’s activity last?
  Day 1 wraps up around 4-5 pm; Day 2 concludes approximately at 6:30 pm, giving you a full but manageable schedule.

• What is the group size?
  Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

• Do I need a reservation?
  Yes, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

In sum, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to experience two of Cusco’s most stunning natural sites, with the added benefits of cultural insights and included meals. It’s a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking adventure, beautiful scenery, and authentic local experiences without fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby