1 Day – Humantay Lake

1 Day – Humantay Lake

Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 3.7 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $37 per person
Duration: Approx. 12 hours
Supplier: RESERVAS MACHUPICCHU PERU E.I.R.L.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Quick Overview

If you’re craving a day filled with natural beauty and light adventure, the Humantay Lake tour offers just that. For around $37, you get transport from Cusco, a guided walk to the mesmerizing lagoon, and a chance to enjoy some local food. The highlight, of course, is the vivid turquoise water of Humantay Lake, which sits at the foot of a snow-capped peak—an image you’ll carry home forever.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it makes one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. The full-day itinerary covers transportation, guided hikes, breakfast, and lunch, providing a seamless experience. We also love that the guides are bilingual, aiding travelers with different language backgrounds.

That said, this trip isn’t perfect for everyone. The trek reaches elevations of approximately 4250 meters (13,944 feet), so if you’re sensitive to altitude, you’ll want to prepare accordingly. Plus, the long bus rides—three hours each way—may feel a bit tiresome after a while, but the stunning views make up for it.

This experience suits nature lovers, amateur hikers, and those seeking a memorable day outside Cusco. If you’re prepared for the journey and altitude, Humantay Lake offers an authentic taste of Peru’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: The vibrant turquoise water of Humantay Lake is truly a sight to behold.
• Well-organized, full-day experience: From pickup to return, everything is arranged to maximize your comfort and enjoyment.
• Includes meals: A buffet breakfast and lunch are included, adding good value for the price.
• Altitude considerations: The trek reaches high elevations, so some physical preparation or acclimatization is recommended.
• Authentic guided experience: Bilingual guides enhance the journey with local insights and support.
• Mixed reviews: While most praise the scenery and food, some travelers report logistical issues like missed pickups.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

How the Day Looks

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco, usually about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. From there, you’ll spend roughly three hours in a comfortable van that takes you through the Peruvian highlands. Along the way, expect stunning mountain vistas and perhaps a glimpse of local villages—these rides give you a taste of the diverse landscape.

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The Humantay Lake Arrival

Once reaching the base, you’ll have about an hour for breakfast, typically a buffet-style meal. This is a good time to hydrate, gear up with sun protection, and get ready for the hike. The actual walk to the lake involves about 1.5 hours of hiking up, covering roughly 3.5 kilometers at high altitude. The trail is moderate but steep in parts, and the thin mountain air can make it more challenging than it looks.

What You Can Expect at the Lake

Arriving at Humantay Lake, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking view of vivid turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks. The serenity of the lagoon, combined with its striking color, makes it a perfect photo stop, but you’ll also have time for a guided tour, free exploration, and photography.

Many travelers, including one who said, “We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the place,” find the guides helpful in understanding the cultural importance of the site. You’ll also have the opportunity to walk around or simply sit and soak in the scenery.

The Return Trek and Lunch

After some leisurely time, you’ll hike back down, enjoying different perspectives of the landscape. The descent typically takes about an hour, after which a delicious lunch awaits. The included buffet is often praised for its quality, adding a satisfying end to the outdoor adventure.

The Long Ride Back

Post-lunch, you’ll board the van for the nearly three-hour return trip to Cusco, giving you plenty of time to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights. Some reviews mention that the long bus rides can be tiring, but most agree the journey is worth it for the views and experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $37 covers transportation, bilingual guides, breakfast, lunch, a first aid kit, and an oxygen tank—a considerate touch considering the high altitude. However, travelers must purchase an entrance fee to Humantay Lake (~USD $7) separately, which is a small additional expense but worth noting.

Not included are some unmentioned services and personal expenses like souvenirs or extra snacks. It’s wise to carry some cash as well as your personal essentials—sun protection, sturdy shoes, rain gear, and water.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Concerns

Many travelers love the stunning vistas and well-organized logistics. One reviewer praised the guides Raúl and Michael, highlighting their friendliness and knowledge. They also appreciated the good quality of food and supportive guidance.

However, there are some downsides. One traveler shared a disappointing experience: “They didn’t pick me up for the excursion, and they don’t respond to messages or emails. It’s a scam.” While such reviews are rare, they serve as a reminder to confirm your booking and stay in contact with the tour provider.

Altitude and Physical Demand

Since the tour involves hiking from roughly 3700 to 4250 meters, expect some breathlessness. Travelers with health issues, pregnant women, and those over 287 lbs are advised to reconsider. Horses are available if the trek feels too strenuous, providing a more relaxed way to reach the lake.

Final Thoughts

In the end, a trip to Humantay Lake offers a beautiful mix of scenic grandeur and manageable adventure. The tour’s price is reasonable considering the included meals, transportation, and guided experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable with long bus rides and high-altitude trekking, and who want a taste of Peru’s stunning natural landscapes without the complexity of multi-day hikes.

If your goal is to see an iconic mountain lake, capture memorable photos, and enjoy authentic local cuisine in a day, this tour provides solid value. Be sure to prepare well for altitude and bring your camera!

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers seeking a day trip from Cusco. It appeals especially to travelers eager to combine scenic beauty with light trekking and cultural insights. If you’re looking for a guided tour with support and good food, but don’t mind the bus ride, Humantay Lake is a choice that promises memorable views and authentic moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the van ride from Cusco to Humantay Lake?
Expect about three hours each way, with scenic mountain views along the route.

What is the best time to visit?
While not explicitly stated, tours generally run year-round, but clear weather and good visibility are typical in the dry season (May to October).

Is the hike difficult?
The hike involves about 1.5 hours of walking at high altitude, crossing approximately 3.5 km. It’s moderate but can be challenging due to elevation—be prepared for some exertion.

Do I need to pay for entry?
Yes, the entrance fee (~USD $7) to Humantay Lake is paid separately and is not included in the tour price.

Is the food included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast and lunch, appreciated by many travelers for its quality.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, cash, and your medical statement.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years, pregnant women, or people with certain health conditions.

What if I don’t speak Spanish?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

Final Words

This full-day Humantay Lake tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and outdoor fun at a fair price. The logistics are well-arranged for most travelers, and the scenery makes every effort worthwhile. Just remember to go prepared for high altitude and long rides, and you’ll find yourself rewarded with some of Peru’s most striking views. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a curious traveler, Humantay Lake can be a highlight of your Cusco adventure.

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