One Day Tour to Humantay Lagoon

A Complete Look at the One Day Tour to Humantay Lagoon

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with mountain vistas, crystal-clear waters, and the magic of the Andes, this Humantay Lagoon tour might just be your perfect escape. For just $25 per person, we get a roughly 12-hour adventure from Cusco, with early morning pickups, tasty meals, and some of the most Instagram-worthy scenery in southern Peru. Led by knowledgeable guides like Gorki and Freddie, the tour offers more than just a visit — it delivers a slice of high-altitude adventure wrapped up in comfort and authenticity.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning views of Humantay, especially as you approach the lagoon after your hike. Second, the personalized attention from guides who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels safe, comfortable, and informed. A key highlight is the opportunity to see the mountain glacier up close, along with panoramic vistas around Soraypampa. The only thing to consider is the early start at 4:30am, which can be a challenge if you’re not a morning person or if you’re adjusting to altitude.

This tour fits best for travelers with moderate physical fitness who want to see one of Cusco’s most photogenic spots without climbing Everest. If you’re craving authentic scenery, friendly guides, and excellent value, this day trip is well suited for your Peruvian adventure.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day tour full of breathtaking scenery.
• Expert guides like Gorki and Freddie make the experience informative and personal.
• Stunning mountain views and the vibrant turquoise lagoon are the main attractions.
• Comfortable transportation and included meals enhance the trip’s value.
• Early start at 4:30am means an early morning but allows for fewer crowds.
• Limited group size (max 18 travelers) for a more personal experience.

Exploring the Humantay Lagoon Tour in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30am. Yes, it’s a very early start, but that’s part of the magic — arriving at Humantay before the crowds and the midday heat. The journey by air-conditioned vehicle takes about 2 hours to reach Mollepata, a small town where breakfast is served. This first stop is crucial for energizing yourself before the altitude and the hike ahead.

In Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast, a solid start to a day that will test your stamina but reward you with unforgettable views. After breakfast, the trip continues to Soraypampa, where the real adventure begins. Here, you get a chance to see the imposing Humantay mountain covered in snow, creating a striking backdrop to the turquoise lagoon.

From Soraypampa, it’s roughly a 1.5-hour, 3 km walk to the lagoon itself. The trail is manageable for most with moderate physical fitness, but it’s important to remember that you’re hiking at an altitude of 5,473 meters, so pacing yourself is key. During the ascent, you’ll encounter different viewpoints, with options to walk to the left or right of the lagoon for panoramic shots. The views here are jaw-dropping — vibrant blue waters set against rugged peaks and glaciers.

What You’ll See and Feel

Once at the lagoon, you’ll be amazed by the vivid colors and pristine environment. Many reviews mention how “beautiful” and “amazing” the scenery is, with some travelers noting that arriving early allowed them to beat the crowds. The water’s clarity and the mountain backdrop create perfect photo opportunities, which guides like Gorki and Freddie help you capture.

Beyond photos, some hikers choose to walk around the lagoon or to the nearby viewpoints. After soaking in the scenery, you’ll trek back to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch buffet. The return journey follows the same route, descending through the mountains with plenty of time to appreciate the changing light and shadows.

Transport and Comfort

The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long ride comfortable, and group sizes are kept under 18, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere. The tour includes coffee and tea, plus a first aid kit for safety, so you can relax knowing you’re in capable hands.

Food and Refreshments

Meals are buffet style, with breakfast in Mollepata and lunch after returning from the hike. These meals are important, as they provide energy for the ascent and help you recover afterward. Be aware, the lunch does not include cold drinks like bottled water or soda, so consider bringing your own if you’re thirsty.

Cost and What It Gets You

At just $25, this tour offers tremendous value. For that price, you’re getting transportation, meals, guiding, and access to one of the most photogenic locations near Cusco. The only additional cost is the entrance fee (20 soles), which you pay separately and is worth every penny for the privilege of visiting such an extraordinary spot.

Authentic Experiences: What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially Gorki, for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. One reviewer mentioned how Gorki explained everything about the hike, helping those with a slower pace. Another loved how Freddie allowed everyone to go at their own speed, which made the experience more enjoyable.

Several reviews highlight the stunning views as the main draw, with comments like “excursion sensacional,” noting the early arrival meant fewer people and better photos. The guides’ attentiveness and care make a difference, especially at high altitude where sickness or fatigue can be issues.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Guides who genuinely care about safety and providing local insight
• Early start for fewer crowds and better scenery
• Cost-effective package including meals and comfortable transport
• Customizable viewpoints at the lagoon for photos

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early departure time, which might be tough for some travelers. Also, since the entrance fee isn’t included, it’s an extra expense to plan for. The altitude might also affect some visitors, so preparation (like hydration and acclimatization) is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for great value and don’t mind an early start. It’s perfect for moderately fit travelers who want to see one of the most beautiful mountain lakes without the strenuous effort of a multi-day trek. If stunning mountain scenery, friendly guides, and authentic experiences appeal to you, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Humantay Lagoon day tour from Cusco offers an accessible way to witness some of the Andes’ most breathtaking scenery. For just $25, you get more than a simple sightseeing trip — you get an opportunity to stand before a sparkling turquoise lagoon framed by snow-capped peaks, guided by friendly experts who care about your experience.

While the early start may test your patience, the payoff is worth it — fewer travelers, cooler temperatures, and the chance to enjoy the landscape in a peaceful, unspoiled state. The included meals and comfortable transportation make the day manageable for most travelers, and the guides’ genuine enthusiasm enhances the journey.

If authentic scenery, expert guidance, and great value are what you seek, this Humantay Lagoon tour will be a highlight of your Cusco trip.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up at 4:30am, so be prepared for a very early start. This helps avoid crowds and catch the best light at the lagoon.

Is the tour suitable for people with moderate fitness?
Yes, but keep in mind the hike involves walking 3 km at altitude. A moderate fitness level will help you enjoy it comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, buffet breakfast and lunch, coffee/tea, and a first aid kit. You need to pay the entrance fee (20 soles) separately.

Can I go at my own pace during the hike?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention guides like Freddie, who allow everyone to go at their own speed to ensure a comfortable experience.

What about the weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate safely. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the whole tour?
The total duration is approximately 12 hours, including travel time, meals, and the hike itself.

This detailed overview should give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide whether this Humantay Lagoon tour fits your travel plans. It’s a chance to see one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders in a well-organized, affordable package.