Itinerary Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain ATV Tour with Meals

Hotel Pickup in Cusco
Pick-up from your hotel in the historic center, or nearby areas like San Pedro, San Blas, Wanchaq, or Santa Ana.

Drive to Cusipata (2 hours)
Scenic journey by bus.

Breakfast Stop (40 minutes)
At a local restaurant in Cusipata.

Continue to Qayrahuiri (1 hr 40 min)
Another bus ride to the ATV starting point.

Safety Instructions & Practice Ride
Brief orientation on operating the quad bikes.

ATV Ride (15 minutes)
Ride from Qayrahuiri to a trail near Rainbow Mountain.

Short Hike (5 minutes)
Easy walk to the main viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain.

Free Time at the Summit (Approx. 50 minutes)
Take photos, enjoy the colorful scenery, and relax.

ATV Return Ride (15 minutes)
Back to Qayrahuiri.

Lunch Stop (50 minutes)
Return to Cusipata for a buffet lunch.

Return to Cusco (2 hours)
Drop-off at Plaza Regocijo or Plaza Kusipata.

What is included?

• Hotel pick-up (depending on the option chosen)
• Round trip tourist transportation (SOAT “Compulsory Traffic Accident Insurance”)
• Professional bilingual and first aid trained guide
• Breakfast and lunch
• single machine according to reservation
• Double machine according to reservation
• Head protection helmet
• First aid kit
• Oxygen balloon for energy
• health clinic with professional medical and nursing staff.

NOT INCLUDED

• ATV travel insurance
• Ticket to Rainbow Mountain (25 Soles)
• Transfer to the hotel

Not suitable for::

• Children under 2 years
• Pregnant travelers
• People with heart problems, recent surgeries, or back issues

What to bring:

• Passport or ID
• Warm clothes and gloves
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Camera
• Cash in Peruvian soles

 Note: Book at least 24 hours in advance. The 8:30 a.m., tour option does not include hotel pickup or breakfast.

Full Itinerary Tour Pallay Punchu Trek Full 1 Day

Rainbow Mountain (also called Pallay Punchu of Apu Tacllo or Montaña filuda de colores) is one of the new and best attractions in Cusco which was discovered in Quarantine(COVID-19). Located more than 194 kilometers from the city of Cusco, on an elevation summit located at 4,791 masl / 15,7181 fasl, it’s a mountainous formation tinged with various shades as a result of the complex combination of minerals. The slopes and summit are highlighted in various colors including red, purple, green, pink, and others. Since 2020, this place has welcomed visitors.

We have 3 Rainbow Mountains in Cusco Region: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), which is close to Ausangate trek, Rainbow Mountain(Palccoyo) and the Rainbow Mountain(Pallay Poncho Apu Tacllo). Below you will find all the information about the Pallay Punchu Mountain of Apu Tacllo.

Day 1 : Cusco – Cusipata – Sicuani – Layo – Pallay Punchu

We will pick you up from your hotel around 03:30 am. We drive nearly 4 hours in a private van to the trailhead where we will provide you box breakfast upon arrival to fuel up for the hike ahead of you. After enjoying our breakfast we start hiking up looking down to the Langui Lake. We are going to hike around 2 hours roughly until the top of the Pallay Punchu Mountain, we will have time to explore the area and take pictures. you will spend approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour (depend on your hiking speed and weather conditions).

After enjoying the Pallay Punchu for about one hour, we get back to the trailhead (1 hour roughly), where we catch our van, then we drive for 2 hours to our Lunch spot Cusipata(3,250m/11,000feet) where you will be given delicious food and them drive back to Cusco arriving at your hotel around 05:00 pm roughly.

What is included?

• English speaking guide.
• First aid kit, including oxygen.
• Breakfast and lunch
• Private tourist transportation
• Entrance fees to Pallay Punchu Mountain.
• pick up and drop off from the hotel.

NOT INCLUDED

• Gratitudes for guides.
• Personal riding horse. Additional horses may be rented according to the needs of the individual and group.

Recommendations to bring :

• 1 Liter and half of the water (per person- at least!).
• Water-resistant trekking shoes.
• Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, and socks).
• Waterproof clothing (poncho).
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, trousers, shorts, t-shirts).
• Sunhat and sunglasses.
• Sun cream.
• Water bottles such as Nalgene.
• Basic medications.
• Walking sticks.
• Personal items.

Faq’s Pallay Punchu Full 1 Day Tour

What is Pallay Punchu Mountain Tour?

This is the ultimate day tour in Cusco. Pallay Punchu Mountains is the third Rainbow Mountain in Cusco, discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic, and nowadays is adventurers with its awe-inspiring landscapes and one of the top destinations for many visitors. It offers incredible views of the high mountains surrounding imposing lakes and abundant wild fauna.

What is Pallay Poncho by Apu T’akllo Apacheta?

It is the new tourist attraction of Cusco, known as the third mountain of seven colors.

What is Pallay Punchu Trek del Apu T’acllo and where is it located?

Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca is located in Peru, in the Cusco region, province of Sicuani in the village of Layo. This mountain is a natural formation that shows the whim of nature through kilometers of land that are changing their coloring by the richness in minerals and it is from the viewpoint of Pallay Punchu, from where you will have a spectacular view of the entire Cordillera of the Andes with its whimsical colors that resemble the Rainbow Mountains.

How much height you have Pallay Punchu?

The point of maximum height is 4790 meters above sea level; however the tour part of the city of Cusco, passing through towns like Layo and Sicuani until you get to the start point of the walk called more lakes to 4500 meters above sea level, from where we will ascend to the observation deck at a height of 5000 meters above sea level.

What do distance and travel time from Cusco Pallay Punchu Mountain?

The Mountain Rainbow is located 162 km from the city of Cusco and takes about 10 hours to get to this place between the trip by car and on foot without counting the stops to feed and rest.

Who can be done? Are there horses Pallay Punchu?

The degree of difficulty of this route is intermediate – easy, so it is recommended for people with an optimal physical state, as the advancement could be a little tiring for people who are not accustomed to these walks in height. However you can rent a horse in the same locality of Layo with the Communards who offer this service just for people who cannot walk or not willing to walk for three hours.

You must bear in mind that the horse is guided by a horseman and will leave about 15 minutes from the viewpoint of Pallay Punchu so if you or if you will have to walk this stretch.

What months of the year and time are best for a visit Pallay Punchu Trek?

The tour departs every day of the year, being the dry season the most recommended between the months of April to November however the rest of months even with the presence of rain and hail (sometimes) offers us a view that can only be seen with this climate that you can cope with a rain poncho and good trekking shoes.

Pallay Punchu vs Vinicunca

Pallay Poncho is new, its main attraction is that it is surrounded by impressive mountains and one of the largest lakes in Cusco, however Vinicunca is very popular, it is surrounded by the mountain Ausangate

Sacred Valley Tour – Full Day

This Sacred Valley Tour One Day tour is one full day and encompasses the Pisac Marketplace (and/or Pisac ruins), a buffett lunch in Urubamba, Ollantaytambo ruins (the last stand of the Incas), and the Chincheros archaeological site.

The Sacred Valley Tour in Peru 1 Day offers an amazing full-day journey through some of Peruvian Andes’ most stunning and sacred sites. The Sacred Valley tour from Cusco starts with an early pick up from your hotel in Cusco, visit the Alpaca Farm, Mirador Taray, Pisac Inca site, Pisac Market, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant in Urubamaba. 

The second part of the day, you will explore the unique viallge of Ollantaytambo where there remains of an Inca fortress can be seen, and also walk the ancient Inca streeets. Finally, you will visit Chinchero Village, where you will interact with traditional weavers at work as well as visiting a Local market.

The Sacred Valley in Peru is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Peru offers in a full day tour. So don’t wait any longer; book your spot on the Sacred Valley Tour today!.

Intinerary Sacred Valley Tour Full Day

The tour start in Cusco at 7:30 AM, your guide will pick  you up from your hotel lobby in Cusco, then we will travel by our private car to the sacred valley of the inkas for around 45 minutes, on the way we will stop in strategical view points, we will be able to see the Sacred Valley and get  into the Inca history, once we arrive to Pisaq we will visit the famous typical  craft market then, we will drive towards the ruins of Pisac, where we will see impressive agriculture terraces on the mountain and beautifull inka temples, after exploring we head to the town of Urubamba (one hour drive) we will meet for lunch at a local Andean restaurant. This meal is not included in the tour,  they usually offer buffet lunch.
After lunch, will drive next to the Urubamba River towards to Ollantaytambo. Once we reach this village we will visit the Inka City, and the important area of Incan construction, built during the Inca’s heydays, Ollantaytambo Fortress that constituted a strategic military, agricultural and religious center to administer and control the Sacred Valley of the Incas; this is deduced by the constructions that presumably were for agricultural deposits and for military use like walls and watchtowers (probably to protect themselves from the jungle ethnic groups). This archaeological site comprises a series of overlapping terraces, showing the impressive and large stone blocks finely carved and located on the upper terrace, where descendants of the Incas are still living in the inkas houses.
On the way back to Cusco, we’ll visit the picturesque village of Chinchero where there are the remains of the “Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui”. You will admire its well preserved Inca Wall in the Main Square and visit the beautiful colonial temple with interesting frescoes on the portico, this temple was built on the foundations of an Inca building.Here we can also visit its artisan market and enjoy the demonstration of the natural dyeing of wool and tissues.
The tour of the Sacred Valley ends in Cusco 6:00 PM approximately.

PISAC : Pisac is located at 33 km from Cusco by paved road. It has an ancient village, an archaeological site considered one of the most important of Cusco, and a modern town of colonial origin. This place also has a Sunday market which attracts thousands of visitors and people from remote villages, using colourful traditional clothes. Here it is recommended to buy all crafts, since these are cheaper than in the city of Cusco.

OLLANTAYTAMBO : Typical Inca village located at 21 Km from Urubamba (2,800 masl). It was named in honour of the Chief Ollanta, famous for his affair with an Inca princess, daughter of Pachacutec. One of the best preserved areas lies in the north of the Hanan Huacaypata Square, a total of 15 blocks of houses built of carved stone walls. In the vast archaeological site, located on the hill which call the people, structures such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana and the Baths of the Princess. The area available for restaurants, hotels and rental of horses and mountain bikes.  Ollantaytambo part of a confirmed way, amounting to “Abra Malaga” (4,200 masl) and inner eyebrow toward the mountain, passing through villages such us the picturesque Huilloc, home of renowned Huairuros.

CHINCHERO : This town is located at 28 km. From Cusco on the paved road to Urubamba where are the remains of what was the “Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui”, it is like a beautiful colonial temple built on Inca foundations, its greatest asset. However, it is its Sunday market, originally dedicated to the exchange of agricultural products between the villagers of the valley and the high end. Currently, the market is a spectacle of colour and movement that causes the fascination of tourists with its range of handicrafts and textiles made of pure pre-Columbian style. Here also tourists can be part of the wonderful demonstration of the natural dyeing of wool, which are dyed naturally with plants, seeds and minerals.

Why Peru Adventure Trek?

Peru Adventure Trek is a fully locally owned tour operating company. On any tour with us, safety is of the utmost importance. We have an excellent team of guides who are locals, born and raised in the region. They have an excellent knowledge about the culture and history and are fluent in Spanish and English.

We operate the Cusco Sacred Valley Tour both in small groups and as a private tour. If you want to visit Maras Salt Terraces and Moray along with Sacred Valley, do take a look at our Super Sacred Valley Tour.

Also, take a look at our reviews on Trip Advisor

What is included Sacred Valley Tour ?

• Pick-up from the hotel.
• Tourist transport.
• Official Tour Guide Service in English and Spanish.
• Buffet lunch
• Entrance tickets to all places to visit
• Transfer to the hotel at the end of the tour.

No está included

• Extra drinks.
• Tips

What to bring?

• Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
• Wear sneakers or light/tennis shoes.
• Bottle of water “canteen”.
• Drink plenty of fluids during your excursions.
• Carry a raincoat (long poncho) during the rainy season.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts.
• Wear long pants.
• Carry sunscreen, brimmed hat for sunny days.
• Carry binoculars.
• Carry sunglasses and plastic bags.
• Carry medicine and / or personal items (liquid for contact lenses).
• Carry a backpack or lightweight suitcase (no weight limit between 5-6 kilos maximum).
• Carry a camera or camcorder.
• Have on hand checks in small denominations and coins in soles or dollars.

What does it include?

• Transportation.
• Bilingual guide in shared service (English and Spanish).
• Entrance tickets to the salt mines of Maras.
•  First aid kit.
• Strict application of biosecurity protocols to prevent covid-19 infection.

Not included

• Tourist ticket to enter Moray.
• Tips
•  Travel insurance and expenses for inconveniences.

What should you bring?

• Comfortable clothing.
• Raincoat from December to March.

Rainbow Mountain Peru Full Day Tour

Our staff will come to pick you up at 4:30 am to your respective hotel, we will board our private transportation and then head to the town of CUSIPATA, during the trip we will pass through different villages and enjoy the incredible views of the Peruvian Andes, the trip is approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival we will make a stop to enjoy a delicious breakfast and stock up on some things necessary to start the tour. After this short stop, we will continue our trip where we will observe the landscapes, the mysterious mountains and the deep valleys. We will arrive at the town of CHIHUANI at 4800 meters above sea level. From here we will start hiking uphill for 1 hour and a half until we reach the Rainbow Mountain. Upon reaching the top of the mountain at 5100 m.a.s.l., you will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and the Andean fauna, all the mountains surrounding this area are red in color and there are impressive views of the valleys and the mysterious 7 colored mountain (Rainbow Mountain), where we will have enough time to take pictures and videos. After the great experience we will start the return hike, in a duration of 50 minutes, then we will enjoy a delicious lunch. Later we will return to Cusco, we will be arriving to the city at 4:30 PM approximately, thus culminating the tour to the mountain of 7 colors.

What is included?

• Tourist transportation
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch,
• Entrance to the mountain
• Professional guide
• Biosecurity protocols

NOT INCLUDED

• Extras
• Horses are not included (you can rent them directly)

Recommendations to bring :

• Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
• Wear sneakers or light shoes or tennis shoes.
• Water bottle canteen.
• Drink plenty of fluids on your excursions.
• Raincoat (long poncho) in the rainy season.
• Long sleeve shirts.
• Long pants.
• Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat for sunny days.
• Medicine and / or personal items (liquid for contact lenses).
• Camera or camcorder.
• Have on hand checks and coins in small denominations soles or dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions Rainbow Mountain Full Day

What is the Rainbow Mountain

It is the second most visited touristic place in Cusco, after Machu Picchu and as the name shows is  mountain covered by colored stripes which nobody could ever expect to see in a mountain. This visit will allow you to enjoy a breathtaking sight, take a walk in a beautiful environment, meet local people and learn a little about fauna and flora of this place.   The Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca as is known, should be a must see during your visit to the Imperial City.

Where and at what height is located the Rainbow Mountain?

Vinicunca is known by the local communities as Cerro Colorado or Red Mountain, but the rest of the world knows the place as Rainbow Mountain or Seven Colors Mountain. This natural jewel is placed at 100 Kilometers or 62 miles from Cusco at a height of 5200 meters above sea level, which is why it becomes an adventure that requires great physical endurance for the visitors. Vinicunca is located between Cusipata and Pitumarca districts in the provinces of Quispicanchis and Canchis respectively, in the department of Cusco.

How to start the adventure?

We recommend you to start very early because it is a long trek up to the Rainbow Mountain, it takes several hours and is a very physically demanding route due the height at which it is placed.

If you start from Cusco city, you must go to the south valley for about a couple of hours until you arrive in Cusipata. From there you must go to Phulawasipata community from where you may start trekking on foot. This community is placed over 4000 meters above sea level, the reason why you should take it easy at a soft and sustained pace, remember that you are going up to a little over 5000 meters above sea level in order to arrive at your destination.

The trek takes between one and a half and two hours, and during the walk  you may see some local animals such as Llamas, Alpacas and Vicuñas, and enjoy the view of the fields covered by ichu everywhere. You may share experiences with local people and learn about their customs and traditions.

Finally you will arrive to your destination and all efforts will be rewarded with the spectacular view and at the end of the day you will return charged with the rainbow energy.

Live the Vincunca adventure with us, come into Hiking to Rainbow Mountain and reserve your place to live this incredible experience at the date more convenient for you.

Important data to remember

The Rainbow Mountain is a tourist destination of great beauty and without doubt you will be very satisfied with the experience, but this tour will require great effort, that is why you must be prepared and know what will require from you, so, you must keep in mind:

• Total walking distance is about 8 Km. or 5 miles
• Walking time is about three and a half hours
• Height al starting point is 4652 meters above sea level
• Height at arriving point is 5200 meters above sea level
• Difficulty grade of this tour is 4 of 5 due the height

Fauna and Flora

An important part of the tour to the Rainbow Mountain is the Fauna and Flora that you can see. Among them are some animals such as the Llama, Vicuña and Alpaca, even when they are related, they are very different among them. You may also see along the way a kind of grass which groves in the andean puna called Ichu.

Andean Cat: This majestic animal is considered historically by the local people as a protector spirit for the Apus  or mountains. Lives in the andean heights, extreme cold and is not common to see one of them. If you are lucky and are attentive to the surroundings maybe you can get a glimpse of the Andean Cat in your way.

Llama: Is the tallest of the american camelids, has long ears which look like leaves. Its hair is thinner but less uniform than their camelid cousins which means that their hair in spite of being the most commonly used in peruvian textile is not the finest or the most appreciated. Llamas are used as help for transportation and can carry up to a quarter of their weight. In the Inca times, they were the main means of transport.

Alpaca: Smaller than the Llamas, approximately half of their size,they have very symmetrical ears, pear like, covered by fine hair and with a more uniform color. Mostly they can be found in herds in almost all andean places. Its hair is very appreciated worldwide since it is  of great quality and softness, used for quality scarfs, sweaters and blankets.

Vicuña: Unlike from Llamas and Alpacas which are more domestic, Vicuñas are mainly wild. This is why you can only see them from afar, feeding on a mountain or a plain in the middle of nature. Vicuñas are shy, not easy to be captured in a photo and they are an endangered species, for this reason the government protects them against illegal hunting.

Its hair can be cut only every three years, that is why clothes made with this hair can be extremely expensive. It has been said that during the Inca´s time this hair was reserved for royalty.

Ichu: Is the andean highlands grass, used as foodstuff for the cattle, specially southamerican camelids and sheep. Sizes between 40 and 80 cm, and is abundant along the andean puna. Local communities use this plant also for making roofs for their houses, cords and during Inca´s time also bridges.

The Hidden Mountain

Even when the Rainbow Mountain was always in the route to the great Ausangate mountain, it never was a tour destination by itself, and was known only for the local people and for the trekkers which were looking for the Ausangate who knew the Rainbow Mountain before it was a tour destination.

But, how is that only recently it has become a so visited destination tour being so special and being so close to Cusco? As it happens, the mountain was covered by ice and snow for a long time, but due to climate change a few decades ago it became a marvel. In the year 2016 the rainbow mountain became officially a tour destination which you can not avoid visiting.

What gives their colors to the mountain?

The origin of the mountain colors is the unusual combination of minerals in the soil. There are different sediments layered down along the eons where even marine fossils can be found. Those minerals have been transformed by oxidation, and wind, rain and solar light along the time have given to the mountain its rainbow view.

Even when it looks like magic, the Rainbow Mountain has a scientific explanation, where each color has a formula. For instance, the pink is made from a mix of red clay, fangolites and sand, the beige from quartz sands rich in calcium carbonate, red from arcilitas rich in iron ore, green from filitas and arcilitas with magnesium content, yellow from  calcareous sandstones rich in sulfur. No doubt a science class for the interested in visiting the  Rainbow Mountain

Which is the best time for visiting Vinicunca?

In fact any time is the best time for visiting Cusco and experiencing the Rainbow Mountain. But of course, weather has its whims and if you are to make this kind of expedition with a long trek at high altitude, you may need all the help you can get. That is why  the dry season which goes between April and October should be the most recommended, but if you decide to travel during the rainy season you will enjoy a green and lush view and you will only need a good poncho for the rain.

Remember take with you

When you depart for an adventure like this one, you must be prepared for everything, so, remember to take with you

• A photo camera or a telephone with good memory space
• Water
• Solar protection
• Lemon or coca candy
• Hat
• Rain Poncho
• Warm clothing
• Spare mask
• Personal alcohol dispenser

Curious Data

The Rainbow Mountain used to be visited by around 200 people daily, but in 20016 the visitors number reached 2000 daily

In August 2017 the web page Business Insider, experts in travel worldwide, placed the 7 Color mountain in the list of places you have to visit before die

In 2015 one mineral exploitation company requested and got in 2018 from the Instituto Geologico Minero y Metalurgico an exploitation permit for an area of 400 Hectares which included the Rainbow mountain and also the communities of Cusipata and Pitumarca. Protests against this action made possible that the company resigned few months later such permit

The word auquenid, now in disuse, comes from Auchenia ,created by Carl Peter Thumberg for classification of the southamerican camelids such as Llama, Vicuña, Alpaca and Guanaco which had been classified as Camelus as the camelids of the old world

The national seal of Peru has among its symbols one Vicuña which represents the animal riches of this country

Now that you know a little more about this incredible destination, prepare yourself physically so nothing can deterre you once you start the adventure. When you arrive at the Mountain summit you will be ready to explore all of Cusco. Come into The Full Experience  and choose all the experiences you may wish to live during your Cusco visit. We will take care of making your visit a safe, exciting and memorable experience.

Travel with no hassle, travel safe with Peru Adventure Trek

Full Itinerary of Humantay Lake tour from Cusco

Humantay Lake Tour form Cusco is the perfect way to see one of Peru’s most beautiful places. This tour takes you to the stunning Humantay Lake in the Salkantay Mountain region in a full day trip from Cusco. The lake is nestled in the Andes Mountains, making it a truly unique and breathtaking sight.

Come and explore one of the most beautiful lakes in Peru on our full-day Humantay Lake tour from Cusco! This stunning lake is located in the heart of the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 4,200 meters. It is a truly magical place, with crystal clear waters and amazing views. Our experienced guides will take you on a hike to the lake, where you can explore the area, relax and enjoy the incredible scenery. 

Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

Your tour guide will come to pick you up at your hotel at 5:00 a.m. we will board our private van to travel northwest of the city of Cusco, to the town of Mollepata, in this small and picturesque town we will have a well-deserved breakfast to fill us with energy, then we will continue our trip to the starting point of the walk to Soraypampa our hike at an elevation of 3800 meters/12,460 feet. After a short break, we will start our journey towards Humantay Lake surrounded by majestic mountains and valleys, after the ascent for 1½ to 2 hours approximately we will be able to appreciate Lagoon, otherwise known as Laguna Humantay, which is an incredible and unforgettable shade of deep turquoise with the snow-capped Humantay glacial mountains in the background!  after the explanation of our tour guide and take the souvenir photos we will have a time to enjoy the place and return to  Soraypampa and drive for one hour to Mollepata to have our lunch with beautiful panoramic views of the snow and then be transferred to the city of Cusco, arriving at 5:00 p.m. approximately.

What is included?

• Private transportation to the start of the trail
• Pick up from your hotel in Cusco (no matter in which hotel)
• 01 Breakfast at the beginning of the trail
• Entrance Ticket to the Park
• Professional tour guide during the entire trip (English and Spanish)
• 01 Lunch
• Trekking poles.
• Emergency horse to ride
• First aid kit and oxygen.

NOT INCLUDED

• Extra drinks.
• Tips

Recommendations to bring :

• Carry a small backpack
• Carry a photocopy of your Passport
• Wear clothing coat.
• Carry a rain wear
• Carry sunglasses.
• Wear trekking pants
• Wear trekking boots mountain
• Carry a camera and battery spare
• Carry snacks
• Carry a water bottle.

Where is Humantay Lake located?

This beautiful lake is placed at the foot of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain (which in Quechua means Savage Mountain) and the Humantay snow-capped mountain. This last one rises up to 17880 feet asl (5450 m) and from their snow melting the Humantay Lake Tour is formed, where, fortunately only the purity of the mountains is breathed.

The lake is located right in the middle of the Andes mountain range, at Norwest from Cusco city in Soraypampa, which belongs to Mollepata district, province of Anta in Cusco Department, 80 miles (128 km) from the Imperial City. The sights are breathtaking because of its beauty and the contrast between the white caps of the mountains and the intense color of the lake.

How to get there?

In order to experience this adventure, you must book your place by clicking here: Hiking to HumantayLake

The experience starts early in the morning, you will be picked up and transported in a private bus up to the Soraypampa community, from where the trek starts  The walk takes approximately 4 hours between ascending and descending.

After this unforgettable tour, taking lots of pictures and feeling that you are the most experienced trekker ever, we will go back to Cusco city for rest and recover your strength. We recommend taking at least two days prior taking this route while you adapt to the height, because this is a stressful exercise for your body.

How high is the lake placed and how is the ascension?

The Humantay Lake is 13780 feet altitude (4200 masl). To get there you must walk a long way; it is a beautiful trek but a difficult one. For this reason, you must be physically prepared.

The distance of the trekking route is about 3 miles (5 km), but it is up the mountain so it is not an easy one. The walk takes more or less 4 hours going forth and back. You must know that the difficulty of this trail is 3 over 5 as the maximum difficulty.

How is the weather and what is the temperature of the water?

The lake is at the foot of an impressive snow-capped mountain so, as you can imagine, this is a quite and very cold place; temperature goes between 50°F   (10°C) and 32°F (0°C).

The water in the lake can be below that temperature since it comes directly from the snow melting in the glacier, which makes this water pure and crystal clear.

How come the lake has that beautiful color?

White Light contains all colors of the rainbow, when the light falls on a surface or object; those retain some colors and reflect others. The wonderful turquoise color of the Humantay Lake depends on a selective absorption of the light. When the light passes through the water, due its mineral content, it absorbs the reddish tones and only reflects the blue ones, and turquoise.

The light combined with the soil minerals of the lake and the flora inside, gives that effect, but it is because of its water purity that this spectacle is possible.

What does Humantay mean?

Every place in Cusco has a special name, which keeps a special meaning.  Usually they are related to legends or local stories which explain their origins or the meaning for the local people. It is said that Humantay means head of the gods due to the legend of two brothers.

The Humantay Lake Tour Legend

According to the legend, the lake is made by the tears of the Salcantay snowy mountain.

Long time ago, during a drought that was killing the Andean people, the brothers Ausangate and Salkantay decided to travel looking for water and food for their people. They parted ways and each one took a different route: Ausangate went to the south and Salkantay took to the north. Both found food and water for their dying people but Salkantay also found love during his jurney.

Sadly, Salkantay had to leave his loved one because he had to go back with his people because he was expected and trusted by them. After arriving, both brothers were transformed into imposing snowy mountains but the tears from Salkantay´s broken heart filled the land and formed the Humantay Lake, one of the most beautiful lagoons of the region.

It is being said that the color of the lake is caused by the deep and true feelings of the Apu (the Sacred Mountain).

Sacred Lake

For the local people, the Humantay Lake Tour, besides being beautiful, is considered a gift from the Pachamama or Mother Earth, because the streams that flow from it, feed the land and nearby fields, ensuring a good harvest for the community. This is why people paid their respects to this beautiful lake.

You can also see along the way some small stone mounds made by locals and visitors called Apachetas. The Apachetas are small mounds made in conical shape, putting stones one over the other as a manner of tribute. Those tributes are an ancient custom among the Andean people to showing gratitude to the Pachamama and other gods.

When you visit Humantay Lake, make one yourself in order to show your gratitude to the Pachamama and the universe for being present every day.

Is it allowed to swim in Humantay Lake?

Even when the lake looks calm and perfect for swimming and you may be wishing to take a dip into its freezing waters, swimming is not allowed since it sources water to nearby communities.

What do you need when visiting Humantay Lake?

As in any place of the Peruvian sierra, the sun is very strong, but when it hides behind clouds or when the night comes, the temperature drops significantly and if you don’t carry proper clothes you are not safe. Take precautions and carry with you whatever you may need to fully enjoy the experience.

• An outdoor jacket
• Comfortable clothes for trekking
• Headcover
• Sunscreen lotion
• Sunglasses
• Walking sticks
• Trekking boots
• Water
• Lemon or Coca candy
• Raincoat

Which is the best time to visit the lake?

You may visit Humantay Lake at any time of the year.

Are you a camping enthusiast?

At about 1.2 miles (2 km) from the lake, at Soraypampa, you may find a special camping zone if you wish to stay there and sleep overnight. It is not allowed to camp near the water since the night cold is unbearable. If you decide to camp in Soraypampa, be sure to have adequate equipment and all necessary items required by an experienced camper.

May I visit the lake without making the trek?

There is only one route for reaching Humantay Lake and is a path good only for walking. Nevertheless there is the chance to rent a horse at the beginning of the path or at any time during the walk so you can enjoy the sights without the physical effort required for this experience.

Traveling with family?

If you travel with children, the safer and recommendable way is to go up using horses since the effort could be too much for them. Due to the altitude and extreme temperatures, it is not recommended to make the route with babies or little kids, but of course, that is a family decision.

Important data about the altitude

The route starts at 12713 feet height (3875 masl) at Soraypampa

The height at the resting place in the middle of the ascension is at 13533 feet (4125 masl).

The lake is at 13780 feet (4200 masl).

Now that you have all the information about the lake, where it is, how to make the route and what to expect from the visit, you only need to chose the date for your trip to Cusco, to immerse yourself in its history, go deep in its sights and enjoy its food, music and the kindness of its people. If you think that the color of the lake and its surroundings in the pictures are unique, wait to make the trail and arrive at Humantay, you will see that it’s even better than you imagine.

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Super Sacred Valley tour With Maras Moray (1 Day)

Your Sacred Valley of the Incas tour  (Vip) begins at 7:00 a.m. when your guide will pick you up from your hotel lobby.
We will start visiting the picturesque town of Chinchero, known as the city of the rainbow, to know the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat built in 1607 On the palace of Tupac Yupanqui, we will also see inka terraces and its artisan market. We will continue our tour visiting the town of Maras and the agricultural experimentation platforms of Moray. It is believed that in this fascinating area, the Incas created their own micro-climate to adapt plants, flowers, and many other products from different parts of the Inca empire. After this we will make a visit to the salt mines “salineras” located just below Maras. These mines continue to work and the peasants work in them during the day, Upon completion and back to our private transport, Then go to the town of Urubamba where we will enjoy the buffet lunch that will allow you to enjoy the delicious Peruvian cuisine, In the afternoon we will visit the Ollantaytambo Fortress that constituted a strategic military, agricultural and religious center to administer and control the Sacred Valley of the Incas; This is deduced by the constructions that are presumed to be for agricultural deposits and for military use such as walls and watchtowers (probably to protect themselves from jungle ethnicities). This archaeological site comprises a series of superimposed terraces, showing the impressive and large blocks of stone finely carved and located on the upper terrace and as a last point we will visit the city of Pisac, This impressive place will give you an idea of ​​the advanced knowledge they achieved the Incas in architecture. As in other Inca constructions, some studies reveal that it was not a fortress, but a kind of “royal hacienda”, property of the Inca Pachacutec, composed of platforms, domestic structures, ceremonial and aqueducts that provided water for the agrobusiness operation. Another good reason to visit Pisac is its artisan market, where you can find some unique and authentic souvenirs.

CHINCHERO: This town is located 28 km from Cusco on the paved road to Urubamba. Where the remains of what used to be the royal hacienda of Túpac Inca Yupanqui are located ”, it is like a beautiful colonial temple built on Inca foundations, its greatest attraction. However, it is its artisan market, originally dedicated to the exchange of agricultural products between the villagers of the valley and those of the upper parts. Currently, the market is a true spectacle of color and movement that causes the tourist’s fascination with its offer of handicrafts and textile garments made in the purest pre-Columbian style.

MORAY: It is located 7 km. from Maras, at 1 hour from the city of Cusco on the Chinchero route, it is one of the most spectacular visits where there are circular platforms of different sizes. They are terraces of agricultural experimentation and places of concentration of feminine energy, for which it is considered as a magnetic center of the Pachamama.

MARAS – SALT MINES: Located northwest of the town of Maras Known by some as “salt mines” are constituted by about 3000 small wells. Salt is obtained from pre-Hispanic times by means of a sun drying system of salt water that comes from an underground stream. Once the water has evaporated, the salt is ready for sale.

URUBAMBA: A great place with Inca productions, most importantly corn, and today a beautiful countryside, with great fruit production. An excellent place to enjoy our typical buffet lunch in the area.

OLLANTAYTAMBO: Typical Inca village located 21 km from Urubamba (2800 masl). it was named in honor of Chief Ollantay, famous for his romance with an Inca princess, daughter of Pachacutec, important area of Incan construction, built during the Inca’s heydays, Ollantaytambo Fortress that constituted a strategic military, agricultural and religious center to administer and control the Sacred Valley of the Incas; this is deduced by the constructions that presumably were for agricultural deposits and for military use like walls and watchtowers (probably to protect themselves from the jungle ethnic groups). This archaeological site comprises a series of overlapping terraces, showing the impressive and large stone blocks finely carved and located on the upper terrace, where descendants of the Incas are still living in the inkas houses.

PISAC: Pisaq is located 33 km from Cusco by paved road (from the Sacred Valley of the Incas). It has an ancient town, an archeological site considered among the most important in Cusco, and a modern town, of colonial origin. This place also has a very famous Pisac handicraft market that attracts thousands of visitors and villagers from remote villages, using the colorful traditional clothing. Here it is recommended to buy all handicrafts, since these are cheaper than in the city of Cusco.

What is included?

• Pick up from the hotel.
• Tourist transport.
• Professional guide service in English and Spanish.
• Buffet lunch in urubamba.
• Entrance tickets to inca sites
• Transfer to the hotel at the end of the tour.

NOT INCLUDED

• Extra drinks.

Recommendations to bring :

• Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
• Wear sneakers or light shoes or tennis shoes.
• Water bottle canteen.
• Drink plenty of fluids on your excursions.
• Raincoat (long poncho) in the rainy season.
• Long sleeve shirts.
• Long pants.
• Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat for sunny days.
• Sunglasses
• Medicine and / or personal items (liquid for contact lenses).
• Camera or camcorder.
• Have on hand checks and coins in small denominations soles or dollars.

The tour start in Cusco at 7:30 AM, your guide will pick  you up from your hotel lobby in Cusco, then we will travel by our private car to the sacred valley of the inkas for around 45 minutes, on the way we will stop in strategical view points, we will be able to see the Sacred Valley and get  into the Inca history, once we arrive to Pisaq we will visit the famous typical  craft market then, we will drive towards the ruins of Pisac, where we will see impressive agriculture terraces on the mountain and beautifull inka temples, after exploring we head to the town of Urubamba (one hour drive) we will meet for lunch at a local Andean restaurant. This meal is not included in the tour,  they usually offer buffet lunch.
After lunch, will drive next to the Urubamba River towards to Ollantaytambo. Once we reach this village we will visit the Inka City, and the important area of Incan construction, built during the Inca’s heydays, Ollantaytambo Fortress that constituted a strategic military, agricultural and religious center to administer and control the Sacred Valley of the Incas; this is deduced by the constructions that presumably were for agricultural deposits and for military use like walls and watchtowers (probably to protect themselves from the jungle ethnic groups). This archaeological site comprises a series of overlapping terraces, showing the impressive and large stone blocks finely carved and located on the upper terrace, where descendants of the Incas are still living in the inkas houses.
On the way back to Cusco, we’ll visit the picturesque village of Chinchero where there are the remains of the “Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui”. You will admire its well preserved Inca Wall in the Main Square and visit the beautiful colonial temple with interesting frescoes on the portico, this temple was built on the foundations of an Inca building.Here we can also visit its artisan market and enjoy the demonstration of the natural dyeing of wool and tissues.
The tour of the Sacred Valley ends in Cusco 6:00 PM approximately.

PISAC : Pisac is located at 33 km from Cusco by paved road. It has an ancient village, an archaeological site considered one of the most important of Cusco, and a modern town of colonial origin. This place also has a Sunday market which attracts thousands of visitors and people from remote villages, using colourful traditional clothes. Here it is recommended to buy all crafts, since these are cheaper than in the city of Cusco.

OLLANTAYTAMBO : Typical Inca village located at 21 Km from Urubamba (2,800 masl). It was named in honour of the Chief Ollanta, famous for his affair with an Inca princess, daughter of Pachacutec. One of the best preserved areas lies in the north of the Hanan Huacaypata Square, a total of 15 blocks of houses built of carved stone walls. In the vast archaeological site, located on the hill which call the people, structures such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana and the Baths of the Princess. The area available for restaurants, hotels and rental of horses and mountain bikes.  Ollantaytambo part of a confirmed way, amounting to “Abra Malaga” (4,200 masl) and inner eyebrow toward the mountain, passing through villages such us the picturesque Huilloc, home of renowned Huairuros.

CHINCHERO : This town is located at 28 km. From Cusco on the paved road to Urubamba where are the remains of what was the “Royal Hacienda of Tupac Inca Yupanqui”, it is like a beautiful colonial temple built on Inca foundations, its greatest asset. However, it is its Sunday market, originally dedicated to the exchange of agricultural products between the villagers of the valley and the high end. Currently, the market is a spectacle of colour and movement that causes the fascination of tourists with its range of handicrafts and textiles made of pure pre-Columbian style. Here also tourists can be part of the wonderful demonstration of the natural dyeing of wool, which are dyed naturally with plants, seeds and minerals.

What is included?

• Pick-up from the hotel.
• Tourist transport.
• Official Tour Guide Service in English and Spanish.
• Buffet lunch
• Entrance tickets to all places to visit
• Transfer to the hotel at the end of the tour.

No está included

• Extra drinks.
• Tips

What to bring?

• Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
• Wear sneakers or light/tennis shoes.
• Bottle of water “canteen”.
• Drink plenty of fluids during your excursions.
• Carry a raincoat (long poncho) during the rainy season.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts.
• Wear long pants.
• Carry sunscreen, brimmed hat for sunny days.
• Carry binoculars.
• Carry sunglasses and plastic bags.
• Carry medicine and / or personal items (liquid for contact lenses).
• Carry a backpack or lightweight suitcase (no weight limit between 5-6 kilos maximum).
• Carry a camera or camcorder.
• Have on hand checks in small denominations and coins in soles or dollars.

City Tour Cusco Half Day

It Included

• Pick-up from the hotel.
• Tourist transport.
• Official Guide Service in English and Spanish.
• Entrance fees.

Does not Include:

• Food and drinks.

Things we recommend

• Bring original passport “With expiration date not less than 7 months”.
• Use sneakers or light/tennis shoes.
• Bottle of water “canteen”.
• Drink plenty of fluids during your excursions.
• Raincoat (long poncho) in the rainy season.
• Long-sleeved shirts.
• Long pants.
• Sunscreen, brimmed hat for sunny days.
• Binoculars.
• Sunglasses, plastic bags.
• Medicine and / or personal items (liquid for contact lenses).

What is the Cusco Tourist Ticket?

The Cusco Tourist Ticket, officially known as the “Boleto Turístico del Cusco,” is a ticket that grants you access to multiple attractions in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and its surroundings. The complete ticket is the most popular option, but there are also several partial tickets available for sale. In 2014, the Ministry of Culture of Peru changed the rules for the tickets, so make sure to carefully read about the available ticket types and what they include, as well as their costs!

The Partial Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTCPI) / Circuit I – Saqsayhuaman

This partial Cusco Tourist Ticket includes only 4 entries. The attractions are the 4 main points of interest located outside of Cusco, not within the city itself. Please note that this ticket is valid for only 1 day! Validity: 1 day Price (2019): S/. 70 (US $22) Includes: Saqsayhuaman, Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay.

Where to Buy the Tourist Ticket for the City Tour?

The Partial City Tour Ticket provides access to the following places included in this tour (Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Tambomachay, and Puca Pucara). The cost of the ticket is S/70.00 soles per person and can be purchased during the City Tour (They only accept cash in Soles).