From Cusco: Full-day excursion to Humantay Lake

From Cusco: Full-day Excursion to Humantay Lake
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Price: $29 per person
Duration: 12 hours
Supplier: TRIP TOUR

This full-day adventure takes you from the bustling city of Cusco into the heart of Peru’s natural splendor. For just $29, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring the spectacular Humantay Lagoon, surrounded by snow-capped peaks like Salkantay and Humantay. The tour offers a combination of scenic drives, light hiking, and authentic Peruvian meals, making it an excellent value for nature lovers eager to see some of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What we particularly appreciated is how accessible the journey is, considering the remote beauty you’ll encounter. The early pickup ensures you beat the crowds, and the opportunity to enjoy delicious breakfast and buffet lunch provides a satisfying boost for the day. Plus, the guided hikes mean you’re supported at every step, with bilingual guides who make sure no detail is missed.

One thing to keep in mind is that the hike involves some steep sections—about 3 kilometers to the lagoon—that can be challenging if you’re not used to altitude or uphill walking. The overall day is packed, so travelers should be prepared for a long, active day. This tour is ideal for those who love landscape photography, enjoy hiking, and want a manageable, guided trip into the Andes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Stunning Mountain Views: See the snowy peaks of Salkantay and Humantay up close.
• Scenic Hike: A walk through valleys and uphill sections leads to the lagoon’s breathtaking vistas.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a hearty breakfast and a buffet lunch, both featuring local flavors.
• Bilingual Guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible and informative.
• All-Inclusive Price: For $29, the price covers transportation, meals, and guided hikes—great value for such a comprehensive day.
• Early Start: Pickup from your hotel means you’re out and about before most travelers arrive, enhancing the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Itinerary and Route

This excursion begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco, a thoughtful start to avoid the midday crowds. The two-hour drive takes you from the city into the verdant valleys of the Cusco Region, with your first stop in Mollepata. Here, a delicious breakfast buffet awaits—think hearty, local-style fare that provides energy for the day ahead. It’s a simple but important detail that sets the tone for a satisfying adventure.

From Mollepata, the journey continues to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike. This spot offers a stunning view of the imposing Salkantay and Humantay mountains, both snow-capped giants that dominate the landscape. Many reviewers comment on how spectacular the scenery looks even before the hike begins, with one noting, “The view of those mountains from Soraypampa is worth the trip alone.”

The Hike to Humantay Lagoon

The walk to the lagoon covers about 3 kilometers and takes roughly an hour and a half, depending on your pace. The trail is steep in sections, making it a moderately challenging hike—especially at high altitude (around 4,200 meters or 13,779 feet). We loved how the guides emphasize safety and pacing, allowing everybody to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Once at Humantay Lagoon, you’ll be rewarded with views of crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks. Many visitors describe it as “one of the most beautiful and sacred lagoons in Cusco,” emphasizing its importance both natural and spiritual. You’ll have time to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and marvel at the landscape.

Options Around the Lagoon

After the initial awe, the tour offers a chance to walk along the side of the lagoon for panoramic views—either to the left or right—giving you different vantage points. Some reviewers mention that the walk to the left side offers a particularly stunning perspective, with one traveler noting, “You can see the entire valley from there, it’s worth the extra steps.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Return and Lunch

Descending back to Soraypampa takes about an hour, giving your legs a chance to catch their breath. The trip then continues to Mollepata for a well-earned buffet lunch, featuring local dishes that showcase the flavors of the Andes. Many describe the meal as “simple but satisfying,” and a great way to refuel before heading back to Cusco.

The Return and Drop-off

The final leg is a relaxed drive back into Cusco, where your guide will drop you off near the city center, just a couple of blocks from the Plaza de Armas. The comfort of having transportation included means you can unwind and reflect on the day without worrying about navigating public transport.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $29 price covers hotel pickup, breakfast and lunch buffets, touristic transport, guides speaking both English and Spanish, and a first aid kit—an impressive package for such an accessible price. However, extras like entrance fee (20 soles), cold drinks, and horseback riding (80 soles) are paid separately. If you’re looking to maximize value, bringing a bit of cash for extras is wise.

Considerations for Travelers

While most loved the experience, some mention that altitude can be challenging—so acclimatization in Cusco beforehand is advisable. Also, be prepared for a long day with early starts and active segments, suitable mainly for those in good health and prepared for some physical effort.

Authenticity and Experience

Many reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the overall organization. One visitor appreciated, “Our guide was bilingual and very knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and fun.” The scenic landscapes, combined with the chance to connect with local cuisine and culture, make this more than just a hike—it’s a small window into the natural and spiritual heart of the Andes.

The stunning views of snow-capped mountains and the sacred Humantay Lagoon truly make this tour stand out among Cusco day trips. Plus, the affordability and included meals make it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic, active day in Peru.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and nature, and who are comfortable with some altitude and physical activity. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a spectacular mountain landscape without the complications of independent planning. A basic level of fitness will help you enjoy the hike more comfortably, but the guides are attentive to safety and pacing.

It’s also a good fit for those interested in cultural experiences—the landscape’s spiritual significance adds a layer of meaning to the visit. If you’re after photo opportunities and love scenic drives, this tour offers plenty of those moments.

The Sum Up

The full-day Humantay Lake tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, accessible hiking, and local flavors. For just $29, you get a well-organized, guided trip that takes you into some of the most stunning scenery in the Cusco region. The views of the mountains, the vibrant landscapes, and the sacred lagoon make it a memorable experience—you can almost feel the spiritual energy of the place.

This tour is especially great for adventure travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes and want the convenience of a guided trip. If you’re seeking a manageable yet immersive way to experience the Andes’ natural splendor, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transport from Cusco hotels, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

How early do we start?
Pickup occurs early in the morning, but exact times depend on your hotel. The goal is to beat the crowds and maximize daylight.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, water, cash for extras, and comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep terrain.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and insights throughout the day.

How long is the hike?
The hike to Humantay Lagoon is about 3 km and takes around an hour and a half, with some steep sections.

What’s the main highlight?
The stunning view of Humantay Lagoon and the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay are the highlights.

Can I walk around the lagoon?
Yes, there are options to walk to different viewpoints for varied panoramic shots.

Are meals included?
Yes, a breakfast buffet in Mollepata and a buffet lunch are included in the price.

What’s the cost of entrance fees?
The entrance fee costs 20 soles, payable on the day of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for non-hikers?
While the walk is moderate, some sections are steep. Travelers should be prepared for physical activity, but guides will support your pace.

In summary, the Humantay Lake tour from Cusco delivers stunning scenery, a taste of local cuisine, and accessible hiking—an ideal day trip for those eager to see the Andes’ majestic peaks and sacred lakes without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby