Experience the majesty of the Andes with the Cusco: Humantay Lake All-inclusive Full-day Tour. For just $34 per person, you’ll spend about 11 to 12 hours exploring one of the most striking natural sights in Peru — the dazzling turquoise Humantay Lake, set against snow-capped peaks and surrounded by sacred landscapes. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you on a journey from the bustling streets of Cusco into the high-altitude wilderness, blending physical activity, culture, and fantastic local cuisine.

What we love most? First, the spectacular views of the lake’s vibrant color contrasted with glaciers and peaks — it’s stunning enough to take your breath away. Second, the well-organized meals, which include a hearty breakfast and a buffet lunch with vegetarian options, keep you energized for the day’s hiking. That said, a potential snag is the early start — you’ll be picked up between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. — so it’s best suited for early risers and those prepared for a full day outdoors. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity, especially if you enjoy manageable group sizes and guided experiences.

Key Points

Breathtaking Scenery: The turquoise waters of Humantay Lake against snow-capped peaks offer unforgettable photo opportunities.
Accessible Altitude: The hike reaches 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), so some acclimatization is recommended.
All-inclusive Comfort: Includes hotel pickup, guided hike, meals, and entrance tickets.
Early Start: Expect an early morning pickup around 4 am, ideal for early risers but long for others.
Authentic Food: Buffet breakfast and lunch with vegetarian options, emphasizing local flavors.
Small Group Option: Available for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Cusco: Humantay Lake Tour in Detail

The adventure begins with hotel pickup early in the morning, typically between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. This might seem brutal at first glance, but it’s essential for maximizing your time at Humantay and avoiding the midday crowds. The transport is comfortable and included in the price, which makes it easier for travelers to relax and focus on the scenery.

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The Journey to Mollepata and Soraypampa

Your first stop is in Mollepata, a lush valley bustling with local life. Here, a buffet breakfast awaits — a welcome break and energy boost before the high-altitude hike. Many reviews, including a recent one from a traveler who called the experience “excelente,” emphasize the quality of these meals. It’s a good opportunity to try some local ingredients and prepare yourself for the rugged trek ahead.

After breakfast, the journey continues by bus for about an hour to Soraypampa at 3,900 meters. From here, the real adventure begins: a challenging but rewarding hike up to Humantay Lake. The trail is rugged, and the altitude can be a factor, so sturdy shoes and some acclimatization are advisable. You’ll gain approximately 300 meters in elevation during this segment, with spectacular views along the way.

The Hike to Humantay Lake

The hike itself takes about two hours, and it’s less about distance and more about altitude and terrain. You traverse a rocky, uneven trail, which can be strenuous, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile. The highlight is reaching the lake — a shimmering, bright blue body of water at the foot of the Humantay Glacier.

We loved the way the guides explain the significance of this landscape — it’s a place sacred to the Incas, and standing there, you’re surrounded by history and natural beauty. The clarity of the water, framed by snow-capped mountains, creates perfect photo opportunities. You’ll have roughly two hours to explore, take pictures, and soak in the views.

Lunch and Return Journey

After descending back to Mollepata, a buffet lunch provides a delicious break — many travelers mention the generous portions and tasty options, including vegetarian dishes. It’s a chance to refuel before the long bus ride back to Cusco.

The return journey takes about four hours, giving you time to rest and reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes at Plaza Kusipata, a central location in Cusco, around 6:00 p.m., making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

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What Makes this Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those who want a full day of adventure without the hassle of planning logistics. The all-inclusive nature — hotel pickup, transportation, guided hike, meals, and entrance tickets — provides excellent value, especially considering the stunning scenery you’ll witness.

The guided aspect is crucial. Having an English/Spanish guide means you’ll receive context about the landscape and local traditions, enriching your understanding of this sacred land. The guides also help manage the pace of the hike and provide reassurance at high altitude, which can be daunting for some.

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The Real Value of the Experience

At $34, this tour offers incredible value. The combination of transportation, meals, entrance fees, and expert guiding greatly reduces the stress of doing it independently, especially at such a high altitude. Many travelers, including those who described the trip as “excelente,” appreciated how smoothly everything ran and how welcoming the guide was.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

The early start might be tough, especially if you’re not a morning person or have a late-night arrival in Cusco. Also, since the tour involves a significant amount of walking and altitude, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with altitude sickness, or travelers over 95 years old.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler eager to see stunning natural scenery without overextending yourself, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided outings, appreciate authentic cultural landscapes, and want a hassle-free way to access high-altitude lakes. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value good food, comfortable transport, and small-group experiences.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup: Your day begins with hotel or designated meeting point pickup around 4:00 a.m. This early start ensures you beat some of the crowds and enjoy the serenity of the high Andes before the day warms up.

Travel to Mollepata: About a four-hour journey, passing through scenic valleys and small towns. The bus ride itself is a chance to relax and observe the changing landscape.

Breakfast in Mollepata: A buffet breakfast provides local flavors and a solid start. The emphasis on fresh, hearty food sets a positive tone for the day.

Transfer to Soraypampa: A one-hour bus ride brings you to the trailhead at 3,900 meters.

Hiking to Humantay Lake: Approximately two hours of trekking, mostly uphill, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and glaciers along the way.

Time at the Lake: About two hours to explore, take photos, and appreciate the scenery. The lake’s vivid blue hue against the backdrop of glaciers makes for unforgettable images.

Return to Mollepata: Descend for lunch, enjoying a buffet with vegetarian options.

Long Journey Back: The bus ride back to Cusco takes around four hours, giving you time to unwind and review your photos.

Drop-off in Cusco: Usually around 6:00 p.m., at Plaza Kusipata, conveniently located for further exploration.

The Food and Comfort Aspects

The tour’s inclusion of buffet breakfast and lunch is a major plus. Many reviews praise the tasty, plentiful meals, especially given the remote locations. Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary needs, which is appreciated. The meals help you stay energized through the rugged hike and high-altitude exertion.

Transportation is comfortable and includes hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics and ensures your day starts smoothly. The small-group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from guides.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour to Humantay Lake is a fantastic way to experience one of Peru’s most beautiful natural sights without the stress of independent planning. It offers a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and comfort, all at an accessible price.

The early start and altitude are considerations, but for many travelers, the breathtaking scenery and well-organized logistics make it worthwhile. It’s ideal for those who want to see stunning landscapes, enjoy good food, and benefit from guided support in a manageable group.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a memorable day out, this tour delivers a rewarding experience that combines natural wonder with cultural reverence. Prepare your camera, wear sturdy shoes, and get ready for a day that’s likely to stay vivid in your memory long after you leave Cusco.

FAQs

How early will I be picked up?
You’ll be collected from your hotel or designated meeting point between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., giving you plenty of time for the full day ahead.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a hat or head covering, biodegradable sunscreen, rain gear just in case, cash, a small daypack, and closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking.

Is this tour suitable for people with altitude sickness?
Since the elevation reaches 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), it’s not recommended for those prone to altitude sickness or pregnant women.

Can vegetarians enjoy the meals?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian options, and many travelers find the food tasty and satisfying.

How long is the hike?
The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake takes around two hours and involves rugged terrain, so be prepared for a physical challenge.

What’s the duration of the entire tour?
Expect a full 11 to 12 hours, with the return to Cusco around 6:00 p.m.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable tourist transport with hotel pickup and drop-off at the Plaza Kusipata in Cusco.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, the Cusco: Humantay Lake All-inclusive Full-day Tour offers a superb mix of scenery, culture, and convenience. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see Peru’s iconic high-altitude lakes without the hassle of organizing transport and meals themselves. If you’re prepared for an early start and some physical exertion, this trip promises unforgettable views and memorable experiences in the heart of the Andes.