Humantay Lake Vs Rainbow Mountain – Which is Best and Why

The famous Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Sacred Valley of the Incas are not the only places in Peru that you can visit. Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are also not to be missed, mostly because these two hikes are extremely rewarding!

So let us look into a comparison of Humantay Lake Vs Rainbow Mountain so that you can know which is the best option for you.

What is the Humantay Lake Hike?

A picture-perfect lake with an emerald hue, Humantay Lake is surrounded by luscious greenery and snow-capped mountains in a setting that is both beautiful and mystical.

The roundtrip hiking distance to Humantay Lake, which is 4200 meters above sea level, is approximately 4 kilometres. It will take roughly 1-1.5 hours to get there from the starting point. However, the path is steep and can be slippery when it rains, making it more challenging.

What is Rainbow Mountain?

The Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain is the most well-known of Peru’s Rainbow Mountains. It is, as the term suggests, a mountain with many colours such as red, yellow, pink, green, and purple! It is a great site to be especially in the morning hours, where you can also glimpse the nearby Red Valley.

The hiking distance to Rainbow Mountain, is around 8 kilometres roundtrip, and it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to get there from the starting point. It nestles at which is 5200 meters above sea level. Since the path is mainly flat, the hike is not difficult, but the weather can change suddenly as you ascend.

Humantay Lake Vs Rainbow Mountain?

If you’re wondering whether Humantay Lake or Rainbow Mountain is the better hike for you. Then it depends on how long you plan to spend in Peru, how fit you are, and even how much the trip will cost.

If you have a limited amount of time to hike in Peru, Humantay Lake is a better option. This is because, if you are physically fit, it just takes one hour to get there. Humantay Lake is not very crowded and you will instantly feel peaceful when you get there. It is also less expensive than the Rainbow Mountain hike.

Rainbow Mountain is more suitable for people who spend 4-5 days in Peru. This is because the hike alone will take 3 hours. However, if you’re looking for exceptional photo opportunities. This is the place to go because the Rainbow-coloured mountain is quite stunning!

When compared to the Lake Humantay Hike, it can be more expensive. Particularly if you think about riding a horse to Rainbow Mountain. There will be large crowds due to its increased popularity. Rainbow Mountain is also a bit difficult because you must go to greater altitudes.

So, regardless of the hike, you select—Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake— it’s important to acclimate to the environment by staying in the Cusco region for at least a couple of days. Don’t forget to bring everything you’ll need, including lots of snacks and water, warm, comfortable clothing, hiking boots, hiking poles, raincoats, and sunglasses and hats.