Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch

Experience the Majesty of Humantay Lake: A Full-Day Adventure from Cusco

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving a day away from the bustling city streets to enjoy Peru’s stunning natural beauty, a trip to Humantay Lake offers just that. This full-day excursion, priced at around $30 per person, takes you through lush valleys, scenic mountain vistas, and the sacred waters of a glacier-fed lake, all within a manageable 10-hour itinerary. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy a mix of gentle walks, spectacular scenery, and good food—making it a well-rounded experience for those wanting a deeper connection with Peru’s landscape.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the early start, which means fewer crowds at the lake, and the combination of a hearty breakfast and a filling buffet lunch—a real treat after a morning of hiking. The guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible and informative. One potential drawback? The high altitude, at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), means some travelers might find the trek more challenging than expected, especially if they’re not used to such elevations.

This tour suits adventurers who enjoy moderate hikes, nature lovers eager to see Inca sacred sites, and those looking for a full-day outdoor experience with a touch of local culture. It’s also ideal for travelers who want to beat the crowds by arriving early at the lake, ensuring a more peaceful moment to soak in the views.

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Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Breathtaking views of turquoise waters and glaciers.
• Cultural connection: The lake and surrounding area are sacred to the Incas.
• Well-planned itinerary: Includes transportation, meals, and guided hikes.
• High-altitude awareness: Expect some breathing difficulty due to elevation.
• Food included: Breakfast in Mollepata and buffet lunch with vegetarian options.
• Early access advantage: Arriving early helps avoid crowds at Humantay Lake.

A Detailed Look at the Humantay Lake Day Trip

From Cusco to the Wilderness: The Journey Begins

Your day kicks off with a pick-up between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, a very early start but essential for making the most of this day trip. The bus ride to Mollepata takes about two hours, offering a chance to settle in and enjoy the changing scenery. The lush valleys of the Apurimac River are quite the contrast to Cusco’s urban charm, and the landscape hints at the adventure ahead.

In Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast—a simple yet appreciated meal to energize your body for the trek. The breakfast is included, and the tour operator is careful to cater to vegetarian preferences, which is a thoughtful touch.

Climbing to Soraypampa: The Base of the Trek

From Mollepata, it’s about an hour’s drive to Soraypampa, perched at 3,900 meters above sea level. This is where the real hiking begins. The guides often emphasize the importance of taking it slow and staying hydrated to adjust to the altitude. As you prepare for the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to rent a horse if the hike up the steep trail seems daunting—or if you just want a more relaxed way to approach the lake.

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The Trek to Humantay Lake: Scenic and Challenging

The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake takes roughly 1.5 hours. The trail is steep in parts, and the air is noticeably thinner at this altitude. But what awaits you at the top is worth every breathless moment: a small, glistening lake with startlingly turquoise waters set against a backdrop of the Humantay Glacier. As many reviewers note, arriving early allows you to enjoy the lake without the crowds, making your photos more tranquil and the experience more intimate.

We loved the way the guides shared insights into the significance of the lake to the Incas, deepening the experience beyond just sightseeing. You get plenty of time to explore, take photos, and simply marvel at the natural beauty.

Exploring and Photographing the Lake

Once at the lake, you can wander around, snap pictures of the vivid colors, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The glacier’s proximity adds a dramatic touch to the scenery. For those feeling adventurous, there’s an option to rent a horse to ride closer to the lake—handy if the ascent has left you a bit tired.

The guides often suggest taking advantage of the early hours for photography, as the light is softer and the place less crowded—something many travelers find invaluable.

Return Trek and a Hearty Lunch

After soaking up the surroundings, you’ll hike back down to Soraypampa—another two-hour walk. The descent offers a different perspective of the landscape and a chance to reflect on the morning’s adventure.

In Mollepata, a buffet lunch awaits, with options accommodating vegetarians. Reviewers mention the lunch as “delicious” and “filling,” a much-needed reward after the morning’s exertion. The meal is a simple but tasty way to refuel before heading back to Cusco.

The ride back takes about two hours, giving you time to relax and perhaps share stories with fellow travelers. Expect to arrive back in Cusco around 5 PM, tired but fulfilled.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $30 covers hotel pickup and drop-off at Plaza San Francisco or Recojijo Square, transportation, meals, and a guided experience in both English and Spanish. The inclusion of a first aid kit and a walking stick shows attention to safety and comfort.

However, drinks are not included, and travelers should bring extra snacks and water for the trek—something many reviewers echo as wise advice. Also, note that hotel drop-off is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back from the meeting point if not staying nearby.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail can be steep and slippery.
• Bring warm clothing and rain gear, since mountain weather can change quickly.
• Don’t forget a sun hat and sunscreen—altitude exposure and UV rays can be intense.
• Pack a camera, but also some snacks and plenty of water.
• Be aware that high altitude may cause breathing difficulties; take it slow and listen to your body.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives

Many who have done this tour praise the stunning views and the peaceful mornings at the lake. One reviewer mentions, “Getting there early was a game-changer; I had the whole lake to myself for a few precious moments.” Others appreciate the delicious buffet lunch, noting it’s a satisfying way to end the day.

Some mention the moderate hike as both challenging and rewarding, especially given the altitude. Several travelers point out that wearing waterproof shoes helped in slippery spots and that the guides’ friendly explanations enriched their understanding of the Inca connection to the area.

A word of caution from reviews: the altitude can be tough, especially for those unaccustomed to high elevations. A few mention feeling the effects, so acclimatization or medication might be worth considering if you’re particularly sensitive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers comfortable with moderate hikes and at high altitudes. It’s a great choice if you want a full-day outdoor adventure with scenic payoff, decent food, and cultural insights. If you’re short on time but want to see a spectacular mountain lake away from crowds, arriving early makes a big difference.

It’s not ideal for people with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those prone to altitude sickness, given the elevation and physical demands.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake Day Trip from Cusco offers a wonderful blend of nature, culture, and adventure. It’s an excellent way to experience the rugged beauty of the Andes, especially if you enjoy a good walk and unforgettable vistas. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch makes it a practical choice, reducing the stress of planning meals while on the move.

While the trek can be physically demanding, especially at high altitude, most travelers find the effort worthwhile. The early morning start may feel challenging but pays off as you beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquil lake setting. The guides’ insights and friendly demeanor help deepen the experience, making it not just a hike but an authentic encounter with Peru’s spiritual landscape.

This tour offers great value for its price, especially considering the included meals and transportation, and it’s ideal for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure close to Cusco. If you’re ready for a day of mountain air, stunning scenery, and a sense of connection to Inca traditions, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups are between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, so you should prepare the night before and be ready on time to maximize your day.

Is the trip suitable for children or older travelers?
It depends on their comfort with high-altitude hiking. The trek is moderate but involves steep and sometimes slippery paths, so younger children or older adults should consider their physical readiness.

What should I wear for the hike?
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential, and layers are recommended—warm clothing for the early morning and rain gear in case of weather changes.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast in Mollepata and a buffet lunch are included, with vegetarian options available. Drinks are not included, so bring some water and snacks.

How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike from Soraypampa to the lake takes about 1.5 hours and involves a steep ascent. The return hike is similar in length.

Can I rent a horse to get closer to the lake?
Yes, there is an option to rent a horse if you prefer not to hike the entire way or need a break.

What is the best time of day to visit the lake?
Arriving early helps avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience, especially for photography.

Is this tour suitable for people with respiratory issues?
Given the high altitude and physical activity involved, it’s not recommended for those with respiratory problems.

In summary, this Humantay Lake day trip is a fantastic choice for active travelers wanting to see one of Peru’s most spectacular natural sights, enjoy good meals, and connect with the land’s spiritual roots—all within a well-organized, budget-friendly package.

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