Full Day Activity from Cusco to Laguna Humantay

Discover the Wonders of Laguna Humantay: A Full-Day Adventure from Cusco

Imagine waking up early in Cusco, gearing up for a day filled with jaw-dropping scenery, hiking, and authentic Peruvian cuisine. For $37, you can spend around 12 hours exploring the spectacular Laguna Humantay, situated amid the towering Salkantay and Humantay Mountains. Led by friendly guides like Felix or Lizbeth, this tour offers a chance to stand at the edge of a shimmering turquoise lagoon, surrounded by glaciers and colorful mountain landscapes. The trip includes a pick-up from your hotel, a hearty breakfast, a scenic drive, a moderate hike, and a delicious buffet lunch, making it a well-rounded experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What we particularly love about this tour is the attention to detail—the opportunity to observe llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas along the way—and the stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Salkantay. Plus, the value for money is impressive, given the included meals, equipment like trekking poles, and the insight from bilingual guides. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a moderately difficult hike, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended if you want to fully enjoy the trek.

This full-day trip is best suited for active travelers who love outdoor adventures and want a genuine experience away from overly commercialized tours. If you’re prepared for some uphill walking and altitude, you’ll find it well worth the effort. Families with older children and hikers who appreciate scenic, less-crowded spots will particularly enjoy this journey.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Witness spectacular mountain views, glaciers, and the vibrant turquoise lagoon.
• Well-Organized: Includes transportation, meals, trekking poles, and bilingual guides, offering solid value.
• Moderate Hike: Expect a 1.5-hour ascent to the lagoon, suitable for those with reasonable fitness.
• Authentic Experience: Observe local wildlife like llamas and vicuñas and enjoy traditional meals amid nature.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 10 travelers, allowing for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Highly Praised Guides: Several reviews highlight friendly, attentive guides who make the experience memorable.

A Detailed Look at the Laguna Humantay Full Day Tour

Starting Early from Cusco

The adventure kicks off bright and early, with pickup from your lodging between 4:00 and 4:30 am. This might seem ungodly early, but it’s the price you pay for reaching the mountains before the crowds and catching the morning light on the landscape. The drive from Cusco to Mollepata takes around two hours, during which you’ll pass through lush valleys, terraced fields, and small villages. This scenic ride sets the tone for the day, giving you a taste of the Andean landscape before your hiking begins.

First Stop: Mollepata and Breakfast

Arriving in Mollepata around 8:30 am, you’ll enjoy a hearty American breakfast—a welcome pause after the early start. The small town itself is a cozy spot, perfect for gathering energy for the climbs ahead. Several travelers note that the breakfast is satisfying enough to fuel the rest of the day, making it a smart inclusion.

The Ascent to Soraypampa and Humantay Lagoon

Post-breakfast, the journey continues to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike to Humantay. At 3,800 meters, you’ll be at a key altitude, so some travelers might notice the thinner air. From here, the hike begins—a moderately difficult 1.5-hour climb to the lagoon at 4,200 meters. This part of the trip is where the magic happens.

On the way up, you’ll likely spot llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing in the colorful mountains, just as some reviewers mention. The contrast of glaciers, local crops, and the turquoise water of Humantay Lagoon creates a picture-perfect backdrop. With clear weather, you’ll get sweeping views of snow-capped peaks like Salkantay and Humantay, which are revered as mountain spirits (Apus). Several travelers have commented on how breathtaking the scenery is—”the views are unlike anything I’ve seen before,” one said.

Exploring Humantay Lagoon

Once at the lagoon, you have time to soak in the scenery and take photos. The melting ice and clean mountain air combine to create a truly serene environment. Many reviewers express how memorable this moment is, with a sense of accomplishment after the moderate hike. The lagoon’s vivid turquoise hues make it a photographer’s paradise, and the surrounding peaks offer excellent vantage points.

Return to Soraypampa and Lunch

After spending some time at the lagoon, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa. The tour includes a buffet lunch, often praised for being delicious and filling. It’s a chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s adventure while enjoying typical Peruvian food in a rustic setting. The reviews are clear: many find the meal worthwhile and well-prepared, although some suggest that overall meal quality could improve.

Heading Back to Cusco

The final leg involves a private transfer back to Mollepata, arriving around 5:00 pm. This full-circle journey concludes the day’s exploration, leaving you with plenty of stories and photos to share.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Know

The tour offers a lot of value for $37. Included are air-conditioned transportation, trekking poles, breakfast, buffet lunch, a bilingual guide, first aid kit, and oxygen—all essentials for a safe and comfortable experience. The small group size, capped at 10 travelers, means you’ll get more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions.

Note that entrance to Humantay Lagoon is not included, so you’ll need to pay an additional fee if you want to get closer or spend extra time there. Also, this is a moderately difficult hike, so travelers should be in good physical shape and prepared for altitude.

Reviews Highlight the Service

Multiple travelers mention guides like Lizbeth, Felix, or Grimaldo as attentive and friendly, often praising their helpfulness and good English skills. The logistics run smoothly, and the guides are skilled at balancing safety with providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

Timing and Group Size

Starting at 4:00 am and returning by 5:00 pm, the day is long but well-structured. Small groups foster a more intimate atmosphere, which many find enhances the experience, making it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers.

Considerations and Tips

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the walk can be strenuous, especially if you’re not accustomed to high-altitude hiking. If you have health concerns or limited mobility, consider renting a horse for the ascent (note: horseback riding is not included in the price). Also, as the hike involves some steep sections, good walking shoes and sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses) are a must.

Another point worth noting is that meals could be improved slightly, according to some reviews, but overall, they provide ample fuel to keep you going. And, since the tour is limited to 10 participants, you’ll enjoy a less crowded and more personalized experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the busier tourist spots and find tranquility among the mountains. Families with older children, solo hikers, or nature lovers will find this tour rewarding. If you’re eager to experience authentic Andean landscapes, observe local wildlife, and enjoy traditional meals, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

For just $37, we think this tour offers exceptional value. You’re not only getting a well-organized trip with excellent guides but also a genuine chance to experience the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. The views are unforgettable, the meals are satisfying, and the sense of achievement after climbing to Humantay Lagoon makes it all worthwhile.

While the hike is challenging, it’s manageable for most with reasonable fitness and a love of outdoor adventure. If you’re after authentic scenery, friendly guides, and a small-group experience, this trip to Laguna Humantay is a standout choice in Cusco.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, from pickup in Cusco to return.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
The schedule is fixed, starting early at 4:00 am. Clear weather is preferable for views, but the tour is operated rain or shine, with cancellations possible only due to poor weather.

Do I need special gear?
Trekking poles are provided, but good hiking shoes, sun protection, and layers for changing weather are recommended.

How strenuous is the hike?
The hike involves a 1.5-hour climb to 4200 meters, classified as moderately difficult. Travelers should have decent physical fitness and be prepared for altitude.

Is the entrance fee to Humantay Lagoon included?
No, it’s not included in the tour price. You’ll need to pay this separately if you wish to access the lagoon itself.

Can I rent a horse?
Horseback riding is not included but might be a consideration for those who find the ascent challenging.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
From pickup at 4:00 am to return around 5:00 pm, making it a full-day adventure.

In the end, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and physical activity. If you’re eager to see one of the most striking mountain lakes in the Andes and don’t mind an early start, this is a memorable way to spend a day in Cusco.