From Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch

From Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $35 per person
Supplier Name: Aremika Travel
Similar Experiences: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley, Rainbow Mountain Tour, Sacred Valley & Salt Mines

Meta Description: Discover Humantay Lake on a day trip from Cusco, complete with breakfast, lunch, and breathtaking mountain views. Ideal for outdoor adventurers.

A Day Among the Andes—What to Expect

This full-day tour from Cusco offers a chance to escape the city’s hustle and reconnect with nature in a big way. For $35, you get a well-rounded experience that includes transportation, meals, and an energizing hike. Your guide, typically speaking English and Spanish, will lead you through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the Vilcabamba range, culminating at the striking Humantay Lake.

What we really love about this trip? First, the stunning vantage points of Humantay Mountain and the lake itself. Second, the delicious breakfast and lunch—a welcome break that keeps everyone fueled for the altitude and the hike. The only thing to consider? The hike is physically demanding and not suited for travelers with limitations. If you’re fit and love outdoor adventures, this tour is a perfect fit.

This experience suits nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see wild landscapes that feel untouched by time. It’s especially appealing if you want a full-day outing but prefer to travel comfortably with everything organized for you.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The trip offers spectacular mountain vistas, especially of Humantay Mountain and the lake.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: From early pickup to return, the schedule balances travel, hiking, and rest effectively.
• Culinary Highlights: Breakfast at Mollepata and a hearty lunch at Soraypampa add flavor and energy to the day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, providing insights about the area’s history and culture.
• Physical Challenge: The hike to Humantay Lake is about an hour of climb, making it best for physically capable participants.
• Cost-Effective: At $35, the price covers transportation, meals, and guiding—offering good value for a full-day outdoor adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Humantay Lake Day Trip

Starting the Day: From Cusco to Mollepata

The adventure kicks off early with a hotel pickup within the historic center of Cusco. If you’re staying nearby, you’ll appreciate the convenience; no need to hunt down a meeting point. The bus ride begins with a scenic drive through the Andes, connecting Cusco to the rolling landscapes of the Vilcabamba range. The journey takes roughly three hours in total, including a pause in Limatambo and a detour to Mollepata for breakfast.

This breakfast stop is more than just a quick bite. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy local flavors, and prepare for the next leg of the trip. Many reviewers mention the “delicious breakfast” that provides a welcome energy boost before the significant ascent ahead.

The Ascent to Soraypampa

After breakfast, the bus continues for about another hour to Soraypampa, the starting point for your hike. At this altitude—around 3,900 meters—every step might feel a little tougher, especially for those not acclimatized. However, the fresh mountain air and awe-inspiring scenery make it worthwhile.

The hike itself takes about an hour of steady ascent. It’s steep but manageable with good footwear and a steady pace. The trail offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks and the Vilcabamba range. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the landscape opened up and revealed these rugged, magnificent mountains.”

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Reaching Humantay Lake

Once at the lake, you’re rewarded with a shimmering body of water, set against the backdrop of Humantay Mountain. The turquoise hue of the lake, caused by mineral deposits, makes for unforgettable photos. Here, the guide shares information about the region’s geology, flora, and cultural significance.

Expect around 45 minutes at the lake for sightseeing, photos, and simply soaking in the scenery. Some travelers have commented that “the view is even more stunning than the pictures,” and that the cool breeze and mountain silence create a truly special atmosphere.

Returning to Soraypampa and Lunch

Descending back to Soraypampa is quicker—about an hour—and provides a chance to catch your breath. The bus then takes you to the lunch spot, where a hearty meal awaits. Many reviewers mention the “delicious and filling” lunch, including local dishes that give you energy for the journey home.

The Return Journey

The return leg is about three hours. Expect to arrive back in Cusco between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM, giving you enough time to unwind after a full day or enjoy a relaxed dinner downtown.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $35, the tour offers round-trip transportation, breakfast and lunch, and a professional guide. These are significant savings considering the full-day outdoor experience. You’ll need to cover your own entrance ticket—which is not included—and drinks, which you’re encouraged to bring.

Note that hotel drop-off isn’t included, so you may need to arrange your transport back to your accommodation if you’re not staying near the starting point. Also, the tour is not suited for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart problems due to the physical exertion involved.

Practical Tips for Participants

Bring comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain, and dress in layers because mountain weather can change rapidly. A hat, sunscreen, and water are must-haves. The weather can be unpredictable, and altitude sickness is a possibility, so pace yourself accordingly.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many travelers comment on the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. One reviewer appreciated how the guide “shared interesting facts about the landscape and culture,” making the experience more meaningful.

Others loved the delicious meals, especially the breakfast—described as “a hearty start that kept us energized”—and the lunch, which was “more than just a sandwich; it was a proper Peruvian meal.” The overall value was praised by those who felt the trip offered a lot for what they paid.

However, some found the hike challenging, emphasizing that it’s best for those in good shape and prepared for altitude. “If you’re not used to hiking or high elevations, this might be tough,” one reviewer cautioned.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Humantay Lake trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see one of the most stunning high-altitude lakes in Peru. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities, spectacular mountain vistas, and cultural insights delivered by friendly guides. The inclusion of meals adds convenience, making it a solid value.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or anyone unprepared for the physical demands of the hike. If you’re traveling with children under 8, pregnant, or have health concerns related to altitude or strenuous activity, this might not be the best choice.

For anyone looking to combine accessible logistics, authentic scenery, and a taste of local cuisine, this tour strikes a good balance, especially when you want to see something truly memorable without overextending your budget.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
No, the hike to Humantay Lake is physically demanding and not recommended for those with mobility issues or health problems affecting stamina.

What is included in the price?
Round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a professional guide are included. Entrance tickets and drinks are not.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are essential. Prepare for changing weather and high altitude.

How long is the drive from Cusco to the starting point?
The total drive is about three hours, including stops for breakfast and transfers to Soraypampa.

What time does the tour start and end?
Start times vary based on availability, but expect to be back in Cusco between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for travelers 8 and older, given the physical demands.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides typically speak both English and Spanish.

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

Do I need to buy my entrance ticket separately?
Yes, the entrance fee is not included in the tour price, so plan to purchase that yourself.

Is there a chance to customize the experience?
This is a guided group tour with a set itinerary, so customization isn’t available. But the guide provides plenty of interesting info along the way.

To sum it up, this Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco offers a generous taste of high-altitude adventure, stunning scenery, and tasty local cuisine—all at a very accessible price. It’s best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness who want a full day of outdoor exploration. If you’re prepared for a challenging hike and eager to see one of Peru’s most striking mountain lakes, this is a trip you’ll remember—photo opportunities, fresh mountain air, and a sense of achievement included.

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