Excursion to the Humantay Lagoon with breakfast and lunch.

Discover the Beauty of Humantay Lagoon: A Full-Day Adventure

If you’re after a mix of jaw-dropping scenery, cultural insights, and a bit of outdoor challenge, the Excursion to Humantay Lagoon offers all that and more. For $36 per person, this 1-day trip, organized by Todo Turismo, whisks you away from Cusco into the heart of the Peruvian Andes. You’ll visit one of the region’s most sacred lakes, enjoy a hearty breakfast and lunch, and experience the wild, untouched beauty of the mountain landscape. It’s a great choice if you want to see a stunning turquoise lagoon perched high above the valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

What really makes this tour special? First, the views along the drive are truly spectacular—passing through small villages and vibrant landscapes that showcase the traditional Andean life. Second, the color of the lagoon itself—a shimmering, vivid turquoise—looks like it belongs on a postcard. However, a minor thing to consider is the early start, with pickups between 4:30 and 5:00 am, which might feel a bit daunting after a late night or during a busy travel schedule. That said, this tour suits anyone eager to combine natural beauty with accessible outdoor activity, especially those with a reasonable level of fitness who don’t mind some uphill walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking mountain vistas and the vivid colors of Humantay Lagoon.
• Cultural Journey: Pass through traditional villages that give a glimpse of Andean life.
• Flexible Hiking Options: A 2 km uphill hike to the lagoon, with the option of horseback riding for those who prefer not to walk.
• Delicious Meals Included: Enjoy an American breakfast at Mollepata and a buffet lunch after the hike.
• Small Groups: Limited to 15 participants, making for a more personalized experience.
• Practical Equipment: Trekking poles and an oxygen balloon are provided to help with altitude.

An In-Depth Look at the Humantay Lagoon Tour

Starting Early for a Scenic Drive

Your day begins between 4:30 and 5:00 am with a hotel pickup—an early start, but necessary given the 2.5-hour drive to Mollepata. We loved this part because it allowed us to witness the quiet beauty of the morning Andes, with the crisp air and small villages waking up. The coach is comfortable, and the journey itself is an adventure, passing through fields of crops and traditional stone houses.

Breakfast in Mollepata: Fuel for the Day

Once we arrive in Mollepata, a small town known for its lively market and welcoming atmosphere, it’s time for a well-earned American breakfast. This is a good chance to stretch, refuel, and do some last-minute souvenir shopping from local vendors. The breakfast buffet offers enough variety to satisfy most tastes, setting you up for the morning hike.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Trail to Soraypampa: Altitude and Expectation

Next, we head to Soraypampa, situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 ft). Here, the scenery begins to get more dramatic: snow-topped peaks, rugged trails, and the crisp mountain air. The guide, Claudia (if you’re lucky), provides helpful tips about altitude acclimatization and safety. From this point, the main activity begins—a hike of about 1 hour and 40 minutes to Humantay Lagoon.

For those who want to skip the walk, horseback riding is available for 80 soles, which can make the ascent more comfortable—especially for travelers sensitive to high-altitude walking. We appreciated the trekking poles included in the tour, as they add stability and reduce strain on the knees during the ascent.

The Moment of Arrival: Humantay Lagoon

Reaching the lagoon is the highlight. Sitting at 4,200 meters (13,779 ft), this sacred body of water is a spectacular sight—its surface reflecting the surrounding glaciers and mountains. The water’s vivid turquoise hue is a photographer’s dream, and the snowy backdrop makes for some unforgettable photos.

Our guide shared some local legends about the lagoon’s significance, adding cultural depth to the breathtaking scene. We also loved that there was plenty of time here to soak in the views, take photos, and listen to the guide’s explanations.

Returning to Mollepata and Lunch

After soaking in the beauty, we retraced our steps back to Soraypampa, where the waiting transport shuttled us to Mollepata for a buffet lunch. The meal was satisfying and included fresh, local ingredients, making it a nice reward after the hike.

The Journey Back to Cusco

Post-lunch, the trip back to Cusco begins. The return journey takes around 2.5 hours, giving you a chance to rest or chat about the day’s highlights. The early start means you’ll be back in Cusco by late afternoon or early evening, ready to explore more of the city.

What to Expect From the Tour

This tour offers a good balance of natural wonder, cultural exposure, and outdoor activity. The transportation is comfortable, and the small group size (max 15) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The guides are professional, fluent in both English and Spanish, and knowledgeable about the sites and local traditions.

The altitude can be challenging if you’re not used to high elevations. The inclusion of an oxygen balloon and trekking poles helps, but it’s wise to listen to your body and stay hydrated. The early start might seem tough, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and catch the best light in the mountains.

While the ticket cost of 20 soles (for foreigners) or 10 soles (locals) isn’t included, it’s a small fee for access to the protected lagoon area. Horse riding is optional but costs 80 soles, offering a more relaxed way to reach the lagoon if you prefer not to hike.

Authentic and Accessible Experience

Many travelers appreciate that this tour combines adventure with comfort. The meals are good quality, and the scenery is genuinely stunning. Reviewers mention that the views of the snowy mountains and the bright lagoon are truly memorable, making the early wake-up worth every minute.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start and the altitude. If you’re a late riser or sensitive to high altitudes, this might not be ideal. Also, the walk uphill can be strenuous for some, although the horseback option helps. Some travelers noted that the weather can be unpredictable, so bringing layers and rain gear is smart.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a full-day outdoor adventure with picturesque scenery and cultural insights. It’s perfect for those with a moderate level of fitness who are prepared for the early start and altitude. If you’re curious about local legends or want to see one of the most beautiful lakes in Peru, this tour offers a memorable experience.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

For $36, this tour delivers an impressive mix of natural beauty, cultural exposure, and good food, making it excellent value. The breathtaking views of Humantay Lagoon, combined with the chance to learn about Andean traditions, make it a rewarding day in the Cusco region.

While the early start and altitude might be hurdles for some, the overall experience—marked by stunning landscapes and friendly guides—is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager to see a unique, iconic Peruvian site without the need for extensive hiking or complex logistics.

If you’re looking for a well-organized trip that balances scenery with comfort, this tour from Todo Turismo should be high on your list.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pick-up begins between 4:30 and 5:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize daylight and avoid crowds.

Is there an option to skip the hike?
Yes, horseback riding is available for 80 soles, which can help those who prefer a less strenuous way to reach the lagoon.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, breakfast, lunch, a guide, trekking poles, and an oxygen balloon for altitude adjustment.

Are tickets to the lagoon area included?
No, the entrance fee of 20 soles for foreigners (10 soles for locals) is paid separately at the site.

How long is the hike to the lagoon?
The hike lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes, with some choosing to ride horses instead.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It depends on individual fitness levels and altitude tolerance. The hike is uphill, and the altitude is high, so consider these factors before booking.

This tour packs some of the most striking scenery in the Cusco region into one memorable day, blending adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a keen hiker or simply eager to see a spectacular lake, it’s a trip that offers valuable experiences and plenty of photo opportunities—an authentic taste of the Andean highlands.

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