Explore two of Cusco’s most stunning destinations on a single nature adventure tour: Humantay Lagoon, with its turquoise waters at the foot of the Salkantay mountain, and the impressive Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its reddish, ochre, and green hues that paint the Andes mountain range. This 2-day/1-night experience connects you with the magic of the high Andean landscapes and offers unique panoramic views.
ITINERARY
📅 Detailed Itinerary of the Humantay Lagoon & Rainbow Mountain Tour
🗓️ Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lagoon – Soraypampa
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Transfer to Mollepata (approximately 2.5 hours)
- Brief stop for a traditional breakfast in Mollepata (2,900 meters above sea level)
- Continue to Soraypampa (3,900 meters above sea level)
- Start of the hike to Humantay Lagoon
- Hike for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. (moderate climb)
- Arrival at Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m above sea level)
- Free time for photos and connecting with nature
- Return to Soraypampa
- Buffet-style lunch at camp
- Free afternoon to rest or hike to the Salkantay viewpoint
- Dinner and overnight at camp or lodge in Soraypampa
Climate: Dry and cold in the morning and evening, mild during the day.
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m above sea level
Day 2: Soraypampa – Cusipata – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
- Very early departure heading south
- Breakfast in Cusipata or the Phulawasipata area (depending on the season)
- Start of the trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Approximately 1 hour 45 minute hike. (one way) up to 5,036 m above sea level
- Enjoy the Andean landscape and the view of the Ausangate mountain range
- Free time for photos and rest at the summit
- Descent to the starting point
- Local lunch in Cusipata
- Return to Cusco
Approximate arrival between 5:00 and 6:00 PM
Weather: Cold in the morning, moderate wind at the summit.
Maximum altitude: 5,036 m above sea level
INCLUDES
✅ What does the tour include?
- Pickup from hotel in Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- 1 night’s accommodation (camp or rustic lodge)
- All meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
- Admission to Humantay Lagoon
- Admission to Rainbow Mountain
- First aid kit / oxygen
- Walking poles (optional)
NOT INCLUDED
❌ What’s not included?
- Dinner on the second day
- Assistance horse (optional – approx. S/90 each way)
- Additional drinks and snacks
- Tips
RECOMMENDATIONS
🎒 Recommendations
- Bring warm, waterproof clothing
- Hiking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Water and energy snacks
- Altitude sickness pills (soroche)
- Camera with a charged battery
- Personal documents and cash
FAQs
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to acclimatize before the tour?
Yes. It is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before this tour to adjust to the altitude.
How much walking is done each day?
On the first day (Humantay Lagoon), the hike is approximately 3 km round trip. The second day (Rainbow Mountain) is a total of 7 to 8 km.
Can I rent a horse on Rainbow Mountain?
Yes, you can hire support horses from local communities on-site. The cost varies depending on the season.
Does the accommodation have a bathroom?
Yes, the campsites have basic bathrooms and rest areas.
