If you're planning to visit Cusco and can’t decide between two destinations, here’s a guide: the Rainbow Mountain, known for its colorful palette and high-Andean location surrounded by camelids like alpacas and vicuñas. The hike to Rainbow Mountain usually starts from the towns of Cusipata or Pitumarca, lasting 3 to 4 hours depending on the starting point and the tourist’s physical condition. The Humantay Lake, on the other hand, stands out for its turquoise color, a result of the minerals from the melting Humantay glacier. The hike to the lake takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on pace and fitness level. Both destinations are unique and highly attractive to travelers.
It is recommended to spend at least one or two full days in Cusco before visiting these destinations. This acclimatization period helps your body adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness or “soroche,” whose symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
To visit Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain, it’s important to be well-prepared, as these are demanding hikes at high altitudes. Bring a waterproof or windbreaker jacket that is also warm, as it can be cold, especially in the morning. It’s advisable to wear trekking pants, a sun hat, trekking shoes, and thick or thermal socks to protect yourself from the cold. Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, UV-protection lip balm, and mosquito repellent (optional).
To stay hydrated and energized, bring water and snacks like energy bars, dried fruits, or chocolate. Carry your belongings in a small or medium-sized backpack, preferably comfortable and lightweight.
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Humantay Lake is located in the Cusco region, within Manu National Park, in the Vilcabamba mountain range. It sits at around 4,200 meters above sea level, approximately 3 hours by vehicle from the city of Cusco to the starting point of the trek in the towns of Mollepata or Soraypampa.
The hike to the lake takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on pace and physical condition. Along the way, you’ll see diverse landscapes and local flora and fauna, with spectacular views of Mount Humantay.
The lake is known for its intense turquoise color, caused by the minerals from the melting glacier. The crystal-clear, cold water reflects the sky and surrounding mountains, creating a stunning visual landscape.
For local communities, the lake holds spiritual value and is considered a manifestation of Pachamama (Mother Earth). Visitors often participate in Andean rituals or offerings to honor and thank nature.
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, is located in the Cusco region, in the province of Canchis, at approximately 5,200 meters above sea level. It lies within the Ausangate National Park, one of the most important and protected ecosystems in the Peruvian Andes.
The mountain’s stunning array of colors is due to the presence and oxidation of various minerals in its geological layers, such as:
The hike to Rainbow Mountain typically starts from the towns of Cusipata or Pitumarca, and takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the starting point and the tourist’s physical condition. Due to the high altitude, prior acclimatization is highly recommended to avoid altitude sickness.
The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is during the dry season, from May to September.
During this season, you’ll find clear skies and a greater chance of seeing the mountain’s colors without clouds or fog. There is also less rain, which makes the trail firmer and safer for hiking.
If you love landscapes and nature, you’ll get spectacular photos, as the dry climate enhances the mountain’s red, yellow, green, and blue tones. This season is also ideal for trekking: although it’s cold, there’s less mud and fewer landslides. It’s not advisable to travel during the rainy season, from January to March, due to higher risks of bad weather, slippery paths, and poor visibility.
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is also during the dry season, from May to September.
During this time, the sky is usually clear and the lake shines in all its glory with its characteristic bright turquoise color. Likewise, there is less rain, the trekking path is firmer, safer, and less slippery. If you're looking to take amazing photos, the natural light highlights the water and landscape colors. Also, the weather is more stable and predictable—though cold, the views are usually clear.
In contrast, from December to March is the rainy season. Rainfall can make access more difficult; during this time, the landscape is often cloudy and the trail becomes more slippery, so it is recommended to wear proper trekking shoes.
To visit Humantay Lake, it’s important to be well-prepared, as it is a demanding high-altitude hike.
Bring a waterproof or windbreaker jacket that is also warm, as it gets cold in the mountains, especially in the morning. It's recommended to wear trekking pants, a sun hat, trekking shoes with good grip, and thick or thermal socks for warmth.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, UV-protection lip balm, and mosquito repellent (optional).
To stay hydrated and energized, bring water and snacks like energy bars, dried fruits, or chocolate. Carry your belongings in a small or medium-sized backpack, preferably comfortable and lightweight.
It’s also advisable to bring trekking poles, toilet paper, cash (in soles), altitude sickness pills (consult a doctor beforehand), and of course, your fully charged phone or camera to capture the lake’s breathtaking scenery.
If you plan to visit Rainbow Mountain, it’s essential to be well-prepared, as it is at high altitude and the weather can change quickly.
Bring waterproof or windbreaker clothing, as weather conditions vary throughout the day. If you go in the morning, wear warm clothes, as it tends to be very cold. Trekking pants, a cold-weather hat, and a sun hat or cap are recommended—especially around mid-morning when temperatures rise.
Don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and a rain poncho if you’re traveling during the rainy season (January to March). Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike.
It’s also a good idea to bring cash (in soles) for small expenses along the way, like using restrooms or buying a hot drink. Pack your fully charged phone or camera.
Both Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), located at around 5,200 m.a.s.l., and Humantay Lake, at about 4,200 m.a.s.l., require proper acclimatization before hiking.
It is recommended to spend at least one or two full days in Cusco before visiting these destinations. This adjustment period helps your body adapt to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness or “soroche,” with symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
During this acclimatization time, it is advisable to avoid intense physical activity, stay well hydrated, eat light, get enough rest, and avoid alcoholic beverages. Drinking coca tea, using coca candies, or even taking doctor-recommended medications can help relieve or prevent symptoms.
You can use this time for lighter activities such as a Cusco city tour or a visit to the Sacred Valley before heading to higher altitudes.
