Humantay Lagoon and Montaña de Colores |Trekking-Adventure|

Experience the natural beauty of Peru with a 2-day trekking adventure that takes you to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon and the vibrant Montaña de Colores (Rainbow Mountain). For $60 per person, this tour offers a mix of scenic hikes, cultural glimpses, and plenty of fresh mountain air.

Starting early each day—around 4:00 or 5:00 a.m.—the experience is designed for those who want to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler, more peaceful mornings in the Andes.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the balanced combination of active trekking and comfortable amenities. The inclusion of buffet lunches on both days means you won’t go hungry after your hikes, and the handmade walking sticks, polar blankets, and oxygen balloons show thoughtful touches for comfort and safety.

A possible drawback? The early start times require some serious motivation—if you’re not a morning person, these might be a stretch.

However, if you’re eager for stunning views and authentic mountain adventures, this trip suits active travelers who appreciate a well-organized, small group experience.

This tour is ideal for those who love trekking in scenic landscapes and aren’t afraid of a 2-hour hike or two per day. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, given the nature of the hikes and early mornings. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see two of the most iconic sights near Cusco, this trek offers decent value, especially considering the included meals and guiding services.

Key Points

• Scenic Treks: Enjoy two 2-hour hikes that showcase impressive Andean landscapes.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit Humantay Lagoon’s turquoise waters and the colorful Montaña de Colores.
• Comfort & Safety: Includes handmade walking sticks, polar blankets, and oxygen balloons.
• Full Day of Adventure: Starts early, with breakfast, hiking, a buffet lunch, and return to Cusco.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 18 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Affordable Price: At $60, with meals and guided service, it offers good value for budget travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Humantay Lagoon

Your adventure begins early with pickup from your hotel near or inside Cusco’s historic center—expect a 4:00 to 5:00 a.m. departure. The early start is crucial because it lets you avoid the full crowds that arrive later in the day, and it provides the chance to enjoy the cool, crisp mountain air before the sun heats the landscape.

The journey first takes you to Mollepata for breakfast—here, you’ll get a taste of local flavors and a moment to gather before hitting the trail. After breakfast, the bus continues to the starting point of your hike, where you’ll leave the vehicle. The two-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon is manageable for most hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

We loved the way the tour guides brief you on what to expect, and how they prepare you with handmade walking sticks and blankets, especially useful given the high altitude and variable weather. The turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon are the highlight—its vivid color results from mineral deposits and glacial meltwater. Many reviewers mention that the view is worth every step: “The lagoon’s color is even more stunning in person,” one traveler wrote.

After some free time at the lagoon to take photos and soak in the scenery, you’ll head back down and continue to Mollepata for a satisfying buffet lunch. The meal provides excellent fuel for the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 p.m.

Day 2: Montaña de Colores (Rainbow Mountain)

After another early pickup, you’ll travel to Cusipata for breakfast, then head to the starting point of your second hike. This is where the famous Montaña de Colores—or Rainbow Mountain—awaits. The ascent takes about two hours, and the trail is well-marked, though it can be steep in parts.

The mountain’s vibrant layers of mineral deposits are mesmerizing, creating a rainbow of colors across the landscape. This is a photo opportunity that truly lives up to the hype. The brief guide provided explains the geology behind the hues, adding an educational twist to the natural spectacle.

As many reviewers note, the tour includes free time at the top, so you can snap photos, enjoy the view, or simply breathe in the mountain air. It’s worth mentioning that the altitude is significant—around 5,200 meters—so some visitors might experience mild altitude effects. The tour’s provision of oxygen balloons is a thoughtful touch, though most manage without it.

After the hike, you’ll return to Cusipata for another hearty buffet lunch, giving you energy for the ride back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off around 5:00 p.m.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included amenities—hotel pick-up, transportation, bilingual guide, breakfast, buffet lunches, handmade walking sticks, polar blankets, and oxygen balloons—are all designed to make your trip comfortable and safe. The $60 fee covers these essentials, but keep in mind that tickets to the Lagoon ($25) and Rainbow Mountain ($30) are an extra expense, payable locally.

While the tour is well-organized, some travelers mention that additional costs like horses or extra expenses aren’t included, so packing cash is wise. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid additional costs or likes to have flexibility, this is good to know.

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The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Feedback from previous participants emphasizes how well-organized and scenic the trip is. One reviewer mentions that the early start allows for peaceful, less crowded views, which is a big plus. Others highlight the friendly guides and the quality of the included meals, saying they’re “more than enough” after the hikes.

Some travelers note the altitude challenge but appreciate the oxygen balloons, especially if experiencing mild symptoms. The small group size—limited to 18 participants—means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring good hiking shoes—the terrain can be uneven and steep.
• Dress in layers—the mornings are cold, but it warms up quickly.
• Pack cash for tickets and extra expenses.
• Prepare for the altitude—hydrate well and maybe take some altitude medicine if you’re sensitive.
• Be ready for an early start—set your alarm and go to bed early the night before!

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who love mountain scenery and are comfortable with moderate hikes. It suits those who want a cost-effective way to visit two iconic sites with guided support. If you’re okay with early mornings and don’t mind the altitude, you’ll find this a rewarding experience. It’s less suitable for people with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone with pre-existing medical conditions, given the physical demands and altitude.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, this tour offers a memorable way to explore two of Peru’s most stunning natural landmarks. The inclusion of meals, safety gear, and guided support makes it a solid choice, especially considering the competitive price. You’ll leave with incredible photos, fresh mountain air, and a sense of accomplishment—plus, a good story to tell.

If your goal is to see the vibrant colors of the Andes without breaking the bank, this trip delivers. It’s a great option for those who enjoy moderate trekking and want to experience the raw beauty of Peru’s highlands with a small, friendly group.

FAQ

How early do we need to wake up?
Expect pickup between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., so be prepared for early mornings. This allows you to beat crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

Are meals included?
Yes, both days include buffet lunches. Breakfast is also provided on both days, typically at the starting point for each day’s hike.

What’s the price of tickets for Humantay Lagoon and Rainbow Mountain?
Tickets are S/25 for the Lagoon and S/30 for Rainbow Mountain, payable locally. These are not included in the $60 tour fee.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with 2-hour hikes and high-altitude conditions. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical issues.

What should I bring?
Pack hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, cash for tickets and extras, and consider sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny weather.

How strenuous are the hikes?
The hikes are about 2 hours each, with some steep sections, especially on Rainbow Mountain. They’re manageable for most with a moderate fitness level.

Can I walk horses instead of hiking?
Horses are available but are not included in the tour price. You may choose to hire one locally if you prefer.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour proceeds in sunny weather or as weather permits. Always check the forecast and be prepared for possible rain or clouds.

How do I book and cancel?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

This tour packs a lot of adventure into two days, showcasing some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. It’s a solid choice for those who want an authentic, outdoor experience with a bit of comfort and guidance along the way.

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