GENERAL INFORMATION
Duration: 2 days/1 night.
Point of departure: Cusco
Point of Return: Cusco
Size of Group: Small Group (maximum 10 People).
Travel style: Trekking, in addition is an Archaeological and Cultural voyage.
Value of the route: The Salkantay route is considered one of the 25 best walks in the world.
Level of difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.
Minimum Height: 2900 m.s.n.m. (People of Mollepata).
Maximum height: 4630 m.s.n.m. (Abra Salkantay)
Distance from the route: 23 km.
Date of departure: Daily departures throughout the year according to availability
Accommodation 1st Night: 01 Night of accommodation in accommodation: simple or double according to your requirement in own and exclusive hostel “Mama Andrea” in Andean Cabanas in the sector of Soraypampa.
DETALLES DEL TOUR
Information
INTRODUCTION
This 2-day hike combines the Humantay Lake and the Rainbow Mountain in an accessible route for travelers with limited time and a moderate level of fitness.
The first day departs from Soraypampa toward Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l.), a turquoise glacial lake fed by the meltwater of the Humantay snow-capped peak, part of the Vilcabamba mountain range. During the ascent there are direct views of the Salkantay peak (6,271 m.a.s.l.), the highest summit in the area.
The second day covers the route to Rainbow Mountain, known for its multicolored geological formations that vary according to the mineral composition of the terrain.
The excursion departs from Cusco and no prior hiking experience is required.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1 day before the excursion to acclimatize.
- Keep in mind that Cusco is located at 3,400 m.a.s.l.
- Review your personal items in advance to make sure you have everything needed for the hike.
- Visit our office in the historic center of Cusco the day before the hike at 7:00 p.m. to attend the pre-trek briefing with your tour guide.
- Leave any luggage you will not need during the excursion at the free storage facility at our office.
- If you have any questions or wish to have more information about this Tour, please do not hesitate to contact us: Cell: +51 984525006/WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or email us: info@incredibleperutours.com
HIGHLIGHTS
- A 2-day route combining Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain in a single circuit.
- Visit Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l.), a glacial lake with turquoise waters at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak.
- Explore Rainbow Mountain and observe its multicolored geological formations produced by the mineral composition of the terrain.
- Hike through high-altitude landscapes with views of lakes, canyons, and snow-capped peaks.
- Travel with the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide.
- Entry tickets included.
- Hotel pickup included from accommodations in Cusco.
- Suitable for couples, groups of friends, families, and nature travelers.
ITINERARY
DAY 1:
- 4:30 a.m. Hotel pickup.
- 4:45 a.m. Departure by tourist transport from Cusco.
- 7:00 a.m. Arrival in the town of Mollepata.
- 7:20 a.m. Breakfast at a local restaurant.
- 8:00 a.m. Departure by tourist transport from Mollepata.
- 9:00 a.m. Arrival at the Soraypampa area.
- 9:20 a.m. Start of the hike.
- 11:00 a.m. Arrival and visit to Humantay Lake.
- 12:00 p.m. Departure from Humantay Lake.
- 1:00 p.m. Arrival at Eco Lodge Mamá Andrea Soraypampa.
DAY 2:
- 5:00 a.m. Wake up.
- 5:30 a.m. Breakfast.
- 6:00 a.m. Transfer to Cusipata (approximately 5 hours).
- 11:00 a.m. Arrival in Cusipata and lunch.
- 1:00 p.m. Start of the hike to the Rainbow Mountain summit (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes).
- 3:30 p.m. Descent to the transport meeting point (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutos).
- 5:00 p.m. Departure by transport to Cusco.
- 7:30 p.m. Arrival in Cusco.
ITINERARY
DAY 01: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE – MAMA ANDREA ECO LODGE IN SORAYPAMPA.
Pickup is at 5:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco by private transport. We travel approximately 2 hours to the town of Mollepata, where we stop for breakfast at a local restaurant.
We continue by transport for 1 more hour to the Soraypampa area (3,900 m.a.s.l. / 12,795 ft), arriving at approximately 9:00 a.m. Soraypampa is the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lake, located at 4,300 m.a.s.l. / 14,107 ft at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak, part of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
The ascent takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes along a steady uphill trail. Upon reaching the lake, its turquoise waters fed by glacial meltwater can be seen, with direct views of the Humantay peak and the Salkantay peak (6,271 m.a.s.l. / 20,574 ft), the highest summit in the area. After the visit we begin the descent of approximately 1 hour back to Soraypampa.
Arrival at the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge at around 1:00 p.m. for lunch and afternoon rest. Dinner is included in the evening. If weather conditions allow, the lodge offers views of the night sky with minimal light pollution.
DAY 02: SORAYPAMPA – CUSIPATA – PHULAWASIPATA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN – CUSCO.
We wake up at 5:00 a.m. After breakfast we board the transport at around 6:00 a.m. and travel approximately 5 hours to Cusipata, where we stop for lunch at a local restaurant. We continue for 1 more hour to the Phulawasipata area (end of the road and start of the hike), arriving at approximately 1:00 p.m.
Upon arriving at the starting point the guide gives a brief informational talk about the route. At around 1:30 p.m. we begin the hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to Rainbow Mountain.
Rainbow Mountain is a geological formation whose characteristic coloration is due to the mineral composition of the terrain: clays, sulfides, and iron oxides that produce bands of color ranging from red to green and yellow. From the summit there are views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak. In the area it is possible to spot llamas, alpacas, and bird species native to the high-altitude ecosystem.
After the visit we begin the descent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes along the same trail to the rural community of Quesiuno, where the transport is waiting to take us to the town of Pitumarca, where lunch is included.
After lunch we board the transport back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at 6:30 p.m.
Included Services
THIS TOUR INCLUDES
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before the hike at our office in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and tourist transport to the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge in Soraypampa.
- Professional tour guide. Cook for the preparation of all meals.
- Entry tickets to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide.
- Tourist transport from Soraypampa to Phulawasipata (starting point of the Rainbow Mountain hike).
- All meals during the tour: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 afternoon tea, and 1 dinner.
- Vegetarian and special diets available at no additional cost.
- Tourist transport back from Soraypampa to Cusco.
- Final transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
- 1 night accommodation in a cabin at the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge, Soraypampa.
- Luggage storage available at our office in Cusco during the hike.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
The following services can be added up to one day before your trip by contacting us or visiting our office in the historic center of Cusco:
- Trekking pole rental: USD 10 for the full excursion.
- Horse riding service for the hike: USD 60 (includes a muleteer).
NOT INCLUDED:
- Personal items.
- Entrance ticket to the Humantay Lake.
NOTE: No sleeping bag is needed.
What to bring?
LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS TO BE CARRIED
Weather at high altitude can change throughout the day, with low temperatures especially at night. Below you will find the list of recommended items for this hike. If you do not have any of them, you can purchase or rent what you need in Cusco before departure, as the city has a good selection of stores specializing in trekking gear.
Documents
- Original passport
- Student card, if you are a student
- Travel insurance (some copies)
Essential
- Pack of day.
- I get out of sleep.
- Water bottle.
- Purification or filter tablets
- Some snacks like cookies, candy, chocolates, energy bars.
- Belt money and some money, if you want to buy some memories of your visit.
Clothing and Calzado
- Shoes and sandals.
- Hot clothes: especially nights like Thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, wool socks, wool cap for cold nights.
- Waterproof clothing (jacket and poncho)
- Synthetic or cotton clothing (pants, socks, pants, shorts, 4 hiking shirts)
- Bathing suit
- Hat for the sun
Pharmaceutical products
- Personal kit with anti-inflammatory bandages and tablets
- Insect repellent.
- Solar blocker
- Lip bar
Personal hygiene articles
- Small towel.
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Washed body soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush
- Body spray deodorant
- Toilet paper
Other articles
- Lantern (recommended head lamp)
- Sunglasses
- Photo camera with memory cards and extra batteries.
- Batons with rubber tip (optional).
- Pocket knife
- Some plastic bags.
- A prior acclimation is recommended in the city of Cusco, for at least 2 days and a good general health.
* If you have any questions about the items you should bring for the tour, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at +51 984 525 006 / +51 984 683 047, or send us an email at info@incredibleperutours.com.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here, you will find the Frequently Asked Questions from our customers. Before reaching out with any inquiries, we encourage you to carefully read through these questions and answers, as well as explore all the links related to this tour. This will help you find the information you need in a simple, quick, and practical way.
1. DOES THE TOUR INCLUDE MEALS?
Yes, the tour normally includes breakfasts and lunches during the excursion days. We recommend confirming the exact details at the time of booking.
2. DOES THE TOUR INCLUDE A HOTEL OR ACCOMMODATION?
Yes, the tour includes accommodation at Eco Lodge Mamá Andrea, as well as lunch, dinner, and time to rest. Weather permitting, you may also enjoy the night sky from the lodge.
3. WHAT MEALS WILL I HAVE DURING THE TOUR?
We understand your interest in the quality of the meals you will have during your trip. For your peace of mind, we include all meals and snacks throughout the trek. Feedback and comments from our clients show that our meals are excellent.
We can also accommodate vegetarian meals and any type of food allergy at no additional cost, so you will be well fed throughout the journey.
4. WHAT IS THE DIFFICULTY LEVEL OF THE TOUR?
The difficulty level is moderate to challenging, as both hikes take place at high altitude. A reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.
5. IS IT NECESSARY TO BRING TREKKING POLES?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended, as trekking poles are very helpful during ascents and descents.
6. HOW SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE, COOK AND CARRIER?
The tips are not required, there is no exact amount. Only if you wish, at the end of the tour you can give tips for tourist days, cooks and porters. As you can see, this is something extra and totally voluntary, really what you consider will be very good for your Attention Staff.
7. WHAT IF I FELL ILL WITH ALTIUD?
Don’t worry! All our Guides are trained in case you get sick with this evil. All our Guides carry a bottle of oxygen and a First Aid Botiquin, this ensures you are very well evaluated and cared for, allowing you to continue your walk. In addition, all our staff are prepared in emergency cases. After being treated, there is the case that you still feel very bad and you cannot continue with the walk, the Guide will make the best decision for you if you continue or return. For us their Safety and Health are first.
8. HOW DO I RESERVE THIS TOUR?
Booking this Tour with Us will really be very safe, easy and practical, plus you will enjoy Payment Facilities like Pay your Excursion up to 1 day before your Tour and in 2 Quota:
- The First Share, you can pay online from the comfort of your home by making a Pre-Payment with any Credit or Debit Card of any Bank, using our secure and reliable money transfer system. The Pre-Payment will be made by a deposit of USD 200 per person. (Give Click on the Reserve link)
- The Second Share, will pay you when you arrive in the City of Cusco, personally in our Main Office located in the Historic Center of the City until 1 day before your Tour.
To book your TOUR, just follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Fill out the Booking Form: You are on the Reserve link.
2. Pay the First Fee (Pre-Payment): We accept all the cards. You can use a Credit or Debit Card from any Bank and any denomination: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, ETC.
3. Print your Travel Coupon (Voucher): We will send it to you immediately after you have made the Pre-Payment.
Article OTHER MEANS OF PAYMENT: If you want to do the Pre-Payment by another means such as: PayPal , Western Union, Bank Deposit, Bank Transfer or some other means of payment, let us know to send you all the information you need to make your Pre-Payment.
9. IF I HAVE ALREADY PAID MY FIRST INSTALLMENT AND DECIDE TO CANCEL, WILL I GET A REFUND?
Unfortunately, no. We are unable to offer any type of refund or date changes for tours paid in installments. All prepayments are non-refundable and non-transferable, as this money is immediately invested in all the necessary procedures and reservations required for your tour, as well as in the purchase of permits and entrance tickets.
We understand that unexpected situations beyond your control may happen, but we are unable to make exceptions. You can read more about our Change and Cancellation Policies on our website.
10. WHY SHOULD I BOOK MY TOUR WITH AMAZING TOURS OF PERU?
There are very good reasons to reserve your Excursion with Us, let’s look at some:
- Strategic location: Our office is located in the Historic Center of Cusco, just one block from the Main Square, allowing us to provide better service and coordination.
- Authorized Peruvian agency: We are a Peruvian travel agency with 100% local staff and more than 15 years of experience organizing tours in the region.
- Safety and support: We have all our documentation up to date and are authorized operators of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, providing confidence and security to our travelers.
- Best price with no hidden fees: We are direct tour operators, which allows us to offer competitive prices with no intermediaries and no unexpected additional costs.
- Expert team: We have highly trained tour guides, cooks, and porters ready to assist groups, families, couples, and adventurous travelers.
- High-quality equipment: We use comfortable and safe trekking equipment, regularly renewed to ensure a better travel experience.
- Excellent meals included: We include meals prepared with fresh ingredients, as well as vegetarian options or special diets at no additional cost.
- Safe and guaranteed departures: We operate our treks with small groups and guarantee our scheduled departures.
- Social commitment: We treat our staff with respect and support social projects in local communities, especially in health and education for children.
- Sustainable and responsible tourism: We are committed to protecting the environment and participate in initiatives such as clean-up campaigns and the use of biodegradable products.
- Personalized service: We provide support before and during your trip, answering questions and helping you organize a safe and memorable experience.
Prices and Availability
IMPORTANT:
- This tour operates daily to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain.
- Departures run in shared groups.
- Private group service is also available upon request.
- You can book up to one day before your departure date.
- Contact us for full details about the tour and to confirm your spot.
Note that this is a group excursion.
If you wish to book PRIVATE TOUR , ask for your quote by emailing info@incredibleperutours.com or via whatsaap at +51 984525006
PRICES
| Category | Price | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | USD 250 | Per person |
| Student / Child | USD 240 | Ages 4 to 17 |
| Infant | Free | Ages 0 to 3, traveling with a parent |
TO CONSIDER:
- Our passion is family travel! If you’re traveling with children, feel free to contact us to learn about our special promotions.
- We also offer discounts and promotions for student groups and groups of friends. Get in touch with us to receive our exclusive offers!
- Incredible Peru Tours – IPT guarantees your peace of mind by having no hidden charges or fees.
- Prices are listed in U.S. dollars (USD) and are per person.
- If you are interested in this route and would like to book or need more information, contact us at:
- 📞 Cell: +51 984 525 006
- 📱 WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047
- ✉️ Email: info@incredibleperutours.com
AVAILABILITY:
JANUARY 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
FEBRUARY 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
MARCH 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
APRIL 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
MAY 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
JUNE 2026: NOT AVAILABLE
JULY 2026: AVAILABLE
AUGUST 2026: AVAILABLE
SEPTEMBER 2026: AVAILABLE
OCTOBER 2026: AVAILABLE
NOVEMBER 2026: AVAILABLE
DECEMBER 2026: AVAILABLE
