From Cusco: 2-Day Chocolate Lake & Rainbow Mountain Adventure
Experience the tranquility of Chocolate Lake and the colors of Rainbow Mountain in a compact two-day exploration.
From Cusco: 2-Day Chocolate Lake & Rainbow Mountain Adventure
Embark on a captivating two-day adventure that guides you through some of Peru’s most extraordinary landscapes. The Chocolate Lake and Rainbow Mountain tour is a journey of contrasts, from the serene, cocoa-hued waters of a hidden Andean gem to the vibrant striations of one of the world’s most unique geological formations. This tour is not just a hike; it’s a vibrant tapestry of natural wonders, cultural insights, and breathtaking vistas, carefully woven to create an unforgettable experience.
Explore landscapes that seem to defy reality, where each step unveils a new marvel. On the first day, the tranquil shores of Chocolate Lake await, a rare spectacle that’s as serene as it is picturesque. The journey then escalates to the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain, a natural palette of colors that illuminates at sunrise, offering a moment of pure wonder. As you traverse these contrasting landscapes, each view is a reminder of nature’s incredible artistry, ensuring that every moment of this two-day adventure is etched in your memory as a vivid and unique experience.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 3:30 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Chocolate Lake, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley, Ausangate Mountain, Andean wildlife, Stargazing opportunities |
Discovering the Magic of Chocolate Lake
Your adventure kicks off with an early morning pickup from your Cusco hotel, whisking you away on a picturesque 3.5-hour drive to the serene village of Huchuy Phynaya. Here, a hearty breakfast prepared by our talented chef awaits, fueling you for the day’s hike. As you set off on the trail, the initial uphill trek offers a delightful encounter with local wildlife, including herds of llamas and alpacas, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andean landscape.
The day’s highlight is the awe-inspiring Chocolate Lake. This unique body of water, famous for its cocoa-colored hue, is a wonder to behold and a photographer’s dream. Our guide will share intriguing insights about the lake’s distinct color and the surrounding mountain’s cultural significance.
After a session of exploration and photography, a downhill trek leads you back to the trailhead, where a delicious lunch awaits. The journey then continues to the Hanchipacha community, a short 40-minute drive. Here, we set up camp for a cozy night under the stars. Enjoy an evening tea followed by dinner, all while marveling at the magnificent Milky Way above.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 9 km
Hanchipacha to Rainbow Mountain – A Colorful Conclusion
The second day starts with an early rise and a brief 30-minute drive to Rainbow Mountain, ensuring you’re among the first to arrive at this breathtaking site. After a nutritious breakfast, the trek to Qayrahuiri begins, marking the start of your journey to Rainbow Mountain. The trail gently ascends for about an hour, leading to the vibrant and surreal landscapes of this famous mountain.
You’ll have ample time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Rainbow Mountain, capturing stunning photographs in a tranquil setting. The journey extends for another 30 minutes to the Red Valley, an area renowned for its natural reddish hues due to the rich mineral content. This remarkable landscape has quickly become a must-see highlight in the Cusco region.
Wrapping up your visit to the Red Valley, hike back to Qayrahuiri where transportation awaits to take you to lunch. The adventure concludes with a relaxing 3.5-hour drive back to your hotel in Cusco, bringing an end to an unforgettable two-day exploration.
Accommodation: Return to Cusco
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 5 km
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Join a diverse group of travelers for an economical shared experience.
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Curate your journey with exclusivity tailored to your group’s preferences.
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Indulge in luxury, enhancing every aspect of your tour for a memorable experience.
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Embrace the freedom of a solo adventure, with options to mingle or stay independent.
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Special Discounts
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 30% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 70% of the tour cost is due no later than 48 hours before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible Cancellation Options for Clients
We understand that circumstances can change, sometimes unexpectedly. If you find the need to cancel your booking, you have the flexibility to do so up to 30 days before the tour start date. In this case, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% administration fee, acknowledging the efforts and resources already invested in planning your tour. Any additional balance paid will also be refunded, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Understanding Cancellations Within 30 Days
We wish to draw your attention to our policy for cancellations made within 30 days of the tour departure. Given the advanced stage of preparations and commitments made at this juncture, we are unable to offer refunds. This policy is in place to balance the significant logistical arrangements and reservations made on your behalf.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Strong Advocacy for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
We cannot overstate the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. Such insurance plays a critical role in safeguarding your investment against unforeseen cancellations, emergencies, and other unexpected scenarios. It is a proactive measure to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey. Peru Tripper is not responsible for any expenses arising from incidents not covered by your insurance policy.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
Packing Tips
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