Explore the magic of Humantay Lake

Explore the magic of Humantay Lake

If you’re eyeing a day of awe-inspiring scenery and a real taste of the Peruvian Andes, this Humantay Lake tour from Cusco offers a compelling option. Priced at around $43 per person, it covers a full 12 hours of travel, trekking, and scenic wonder. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and, of course, the jewel—Humantay Lake, famous for its vivid turquoise waters.

What we love about this trip is the early start—a 3:30 to 4:00 am pickup—that ensures you beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over the mountains. The well-organized itinerary includes a hearty buffet breakfast in Mollepata, a scenic drive through the Andes, and a moderate trek—about 3 to 4 hours round trip—that’s doable for most reasonably fit travelers. Plus, the small group size (limited to 10) makes for a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos without the throng of larger tours.

A consideration to keep in mind is the physical effort needed; the trek involves some elevation gain and uneven paths. Also, the tour’s focus on natural beauty means you’ll need to bring your own snacks and cash for extras like souvenirs or horse rentals, as these aren’t included. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable with some physical activity, and want a value-packed day exploring one of Peru’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The turquoise waters of Humantay Lake are an unforgettable highlight.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the landscape and local culture.
• Full-day adventure: Expect an early start, scenic drives, and a moderate hike.
• Value for money: At $43, it includes transportation, meals, guide, and equipment.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Physical readiness: Some effort required; good shoes and preparation are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Humantay Lake Tour

Starting the Day: Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off between 3:30 and 4:00 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco or a designated meeting point like Plaza de Armas. The early start is deliberate — it allows you to avoid the tourist crush and maybe even catch a glimpse of the sunrise over the mountains.

From Cusco, you’ll journey for about 2 hours by comfortable van, traveling through striking Andean landscapes. The drive alone is worth the price of admission, offering sweeping views of terraced fields, rugged hills, and distant snow-capped peaks. Along the way, your guide—likely a local expert—will share insights about the region’s geography, flora, and local customs, enriching your understanding of this high-altitude environment.

Mollepata: Fuel Up and Prepare

Arriving in Mollepata, around two hours from Cusco, you’ll stop for a basic buffet breakfast. This meal is simple but satisfying, providing the energy needed for the trek ahead. We liked the no-frills approach here; it’s enough to fuel your hike without weighing you down. After breakfast, your group will continue to the trailhead, which is often about 1.5 hours away, driving through even more stunning vistas.

The Trek: Trails Through the Andes

The walk to Humantay Lake is described as moderate, lasting about 3 hours round-trip, though this can extend depending on your pace and physical condition. The trail rises gradually, surrounded by lush vegetation and sometimes snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Our guide, a local with deep knowledge of the terrain, shared stories about the region’s natural history and answered questions along the way. We loved the way they encouraged us to take our time and enjoy the journey, rather than rushing to the destination.

The trail can be uneven and steep in places, so sturdy shoes are essential. If you’re worried about altitude, know that the lake sits at roughly 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), so some shortness of breath is normal. The tour includes walking sticks and oxygen balloons—a thoughtful touch for those feeling the altitude.

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Reaching Humantay Lake: The Showstopper

Finally, after the climb, you’ll arrive at Humantay Lake. The sight is breathtaking: crystal-clear turquoise waters nestled beneath towering peaks. It’s a perfect spot to pause, take photos, and soak in the tranquility of the high Andes. Many reviews highlight the stunning beauty of the lake, saying it’s truly “like a postcard come to life.”

You’ll have ample time to explore, capture images from different angles, and simply breathe in the fresh mountain air. The serenity here is palpable, making it a highlight worth the effort.

Returning: Lunch and the Ride Back

After soaking in the views, your group will descend back to Mollepata for a buffet lunch, featuring local dishes. We appreciated the chance to replenish after the hike, enjoying hearty and authentic flavors.

The return journey to Cusco takes about 2 hours, arriving back at your hotel or the designated drop-off point around 6 pm. It’s an all-day affair, but the memories of this natural spectacle will stay with you long after.

What’s Included and What You Should Bring

The tour covers transportation, breakfast, lunch, guide, first aid kit, walking sticks, oxygen balloons, and polar blankets—a well-rounded package for a fair price. However, extras like horse rentals, souvenirs, or drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want to buy anything on site.

To make the most of your day, pack a passport, comfortable shoes, warm clothes (it can be chilly at altitude), water, and cash. The weather can vary, so layers are wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and stunning landscapes. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those eager to see one of Peru’s most photogenic spots. Keep in mind, the altitude and physical effort mean it may not suit everyone, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or mobility issues.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-for-money day with knowledgeable guides and spectacular scenery, this trip hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Humantay Lake tour offers a great blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local flavor. The early start and scenic drive set the tone for a memorable day, and the moderate hike makes it accessible for most reasonably fit travelers. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights into the region’s geography and culture, making the experience more meaningful.

The stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake are often described as a “bucket-list” sight, and for good reason. The combination of breathtaking mountain vistas, tranquil waters, and the sense of achievement after the trek makes this a standout outdoor day trip from Cusco.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the value—including meals, transportation, and guided expertise—justifies the price. And because it’s a small group tour, you’ll enjoy a more personal atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures with an authentic local guide and doesn’t mind a bit of physical activity at altitude, this tour is a solid choice. It’s also perfect if you’re looking to escape busy city sights for a day of natural wonder.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins between 3:30 and 4:00 am, with pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point in Cusco.

What kind of transportation is used?
A comfortable van takes you from Cusco to the trailhead, with scenic drives lasting about 2 hours and 1.5 hours respectively.

Do I need to be in good shape?
The walk is moderate and lasts around 3 hours, but it involves some elevation gain. Good shoes and physical readiness will enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the early start and altitude, it’s best suited for older children and teenagers who can handle the physical demands.

What should I bring?
Bring passport, comfortable shoes, warm clothes, drinks, cash, and any personal items needed for the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, there is a basic buffet breakfast at Mollepata and a buffet lunch after the hike.

What is not included?
Extras like horse rentals, cold drinks, and entrance fees for the lagoon are not included.

Can I hire a horse?
Yes, horse hire options are available on site if you prefer to save your energy for the views.

Is the tour suitable for people with medical conditions or pregnant women?
Not recommended for those with pre-existing health issues, high blood pressure, or pregnant women due to the altitude and physical exertion.

In the end, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. It’s a worthwhile outing for anyone eager to see one of the most iconic sights in the Cusco region — Humantay Lake. The views alone make it worth every effort, and with a small group and expert guide, you’ll feel more like a friend exploring than a tourist being herded.

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