Tour Humantay lake in Cusco

Traveling to Cusco and craving an adventure that combines stunning scenery, a challenging hike, and a touch of serenity? The Humantay Lake tour might just be your perfect day. For $35 per person, this full-day experience takes you from the early morning buzz of Cusco’s streets to the tranquil, turquoise waters of one of Peru’s most awe-inspiring natural sights. The tour spans roughly 13 to 14 hours, beginning with a pre-dawn pickup and ending back in the city around early evening.

What we love about this tour is the well-organized itinerary—it balances physical challenge with plenty of time to soak in the views—and the knowledgeable guides, who are praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm. The second highlight is the quality of food included; a hearty breakfast to start your day and a buffet lunch after the hike make this experience much more than just a sightseeing trip. However, a key consideration is the altitude—the hike reaches over 4,200 meters above sea level, so travelers need to be prepared for potential altitude effects. This tour suits those with moderate physical fitness who are eager to see authentic landscapes away from the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed at a 5-star rating based on 7 reviews
• Includes transportation, breakfast, and buffet lunch for excellent value
• Guided by professionals who speak both English and Spanish
• A physically moderate hike suitable for most travelers with some fitness
• Stunning scenery that’s perfect for photography and reflection
• Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Mollepata Breakfast

The adventure kicks off between 4:00 to 4:30 am with a hotel pickup in Cusco. Don’t worry about the early wake-up—it’s a small price to pay for the reward of beating the crowds and catching the sunrise over the Andes. The first stop is Mollepata, where a delicious breakfast awaits, giving you energy for the day ahead. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the included food, making this early stop feel like a thoughtful touch rather than just a logistical necessity.

Journey to Soraypampa and the Hike to Humantay Lagoon

From Mollepata, you’ll travel to Soraypampa at 3,900 meters above sea level, the starting point of your trek. The walk to Humantay Lake, which sits at 4,200 meters, takes about an hour and a half. The trail is natural and unpaved, winding through lush alpine scenery. Expect panoramic mountain views—highlighted by the towering peaks that surround the lake.

Travelers often mention the altitude as a challenge, but it’s part of the experience—there’s a certain thrill in reaching such heights. Guides are always attentive to your needs and will share information about the landscape and its significance. The trail isn’t overly strenuous, but a moderate fitness level is recommended.

The Magic of Humantay Lake

Arriving at the lake, you’ll be greeted with crystal-clear waters that shimmer with shades of turquoise—an Instagram favorite, but also a peaceful spot for quiet reflection. The lake’s beauty is more than just skin deep; the surrounding mountains and the serenity of the water create a landscape that’s hard to forget.

According to reviews, guides are excellent at explaining the significance of the site, helping you appreciate its natural and cultural importance. You’ll have time to take photos, soak in the scenery, or simply sit quietly and enjoy the moment. This is the highlight—a place that leaves a mark on every traveler.

Return Journey and Buffet Lunch in Mollepata

Descending back to Soraypampa, you’ll board the transport to Mollepata for a buffet lunch. The reviews praise the quality and variety of the food, which helps refuel you after the morning’s exertion. The restaurant offers a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and admire the Peruvian countryside.

Back to Cusco and the City Center

Post-lunch, it’s a short drive back to Cusco, with the tour concluding around 6:00 pm in the bustling Plaza de Armas. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s adventure and plan your next exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Breakfast: a hearty start to energize your hike
• Buffet lunch: ample and well-reviewed, providing good value
• Tourist transport: comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Guides: bilingual professionals who enhance your understanding and safety
• Oxygen and first aid kit: reassuring for high-altitude travel
• Trekking poles: provided for extra stability on uneven terrain

Not Included

• Entrance to Humantay Lagoon: an additional cost, so remember to bring cash

Practical Details to Consider

The tour begins early at 4:00 am from Plaza Mayor de Cusco, making it essential to plan your accommodations accordingly. The maximum group size of 18 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, and the tour’s popularity—booked on average 64 days in advance—indicates it’s a favorite among visitors.

For those with moderate physical fitness, this is manageable, but be prepared for the altitude and some uphill walking. The tour’s cost of $35 offers excellent value considering the included transportation, meals, guide, and gear. Its reviews are glowing, with many travelers praising the professionalism of the guides and the stunning scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives

Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of guides—many mention “very committed” or “professional,” making the hike not just about reaching the lake but also about learning and safety. One reviewer even called it an “excellent experience,” noting everything from the planning to the execution as impeccable.

The inclusion of breakfast and buffet lunch is another perk, as travelers consistently mention the delicious food and the opportunity to recharge. The scenery at Humantay Lake itself is described as “too beautiful,” with some reviewers expressing their hope to return, demonstrating how memorable the landscape is.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers with a moderate fitness level who want to see one of Cusco’s most stunning natural sites. It suits those who appreciate authentic landscapes, enjoy photography, or just want a meaningful outdoor activity outside the typical ruins and city sights. If you’re prepared for an early start and the altitude, this trip offers a rewarding day full of remarkable views and genuine Peru.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake tour from Cusco offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight—all wrapped in a cost-effective package. You’ll start your day with a scenic drive, conquer a manageable climb, and end at a lake so beautiful it feels almost surreal. The inclusion of food, transport, and gear makes it a hassle-free experience, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you’re safe and well-informed throughout.

If you’re someone who loves to combine physical activity with awe-inspiring views, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful outdoor experience that’s accessible yet memorable—especially if you’re eager to see the beauty of the Peruvian Andes up close.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with a pickup between 4:00 and 4:30 am from your hotel in Cusco, allowing you to maximize daylight and beat the crowds.

What’s the total duration of the tour?
Expect a full day, roughly 13 to 14 hours, including transportation, walking, meals, and time at the lake.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most travelers with moderate fitness can manage the hike, it is at high altitude (over 4,200 meters), so some may experience mild altitude effects.

What is included in the price?
The $35 fee covers breakfast, buffet lunch, transport, guides (English and Spanish), oxygen, first aid kit, and trekking poles.

Do I need to pay for the entrance?
Yes, the entrance fee to Humantay Lagoon is not included in the tour price, so plan to bring cash for this.

Can I book this tour well in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book approximately 64 days ahead, due to its popularity and limited group size.

What are the guides like?
Reviews consistently praise the guides for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and knowledge, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The lake’s vivid colors and mountain backdrop provide perfect photo opportunities, especially in the early morning light.

This comprehensive look at the Humantay Lake tour reveals an experience that’s not just about reaching a destination but truly about appreciating Peru’s natural wonders. Whether you’re snapping photos, enjoying a good meal, or simply soaking in the views, it’s a day that promises memories to last a lifetime.