Humantay Lagoon Day Trip

An Authentic Adventure to Humantay Lagoon from Cusco

This Humantay Lagoon Day Trip offers a full day of adventure, nature, and culture for those eager to see some of Peru’s most spectacular sights. For $35 per person, you’re picked up early in Cusco and taken on a roughly 12.5-hour journey that combines a vigorous hike, stunning vistas, and fascinating wildlife sightings. Expect to visit Humantay Lake, enjoy traditional breakfast and lunch, and learn about the area’s Inca history along the way.

What we love most about this experience are two things: first, the expert guidance from knowledgeable guides who keep the group informed and safe, and second, the breathtaking views of the Andes, Rainbow Mountains, and the lake’s vibrant colors. The logistics are well managed, with transport, meals, and equipment taken care of, so you can focus on the scenery and experience.

One potential consideration is the long and physically demanding hike—roughly 4.3 miles (7 kilometers)—which may be taxing for some travelers, especially given the high altitude. It’s important to be prepared with suitable gear and a moderate level of fitness.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with a certain level of physical exertion. It’s also a fantastic choice for those interested in Peruvian landscapes, Inca culture, and wildlife spotting.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience the vivid colors of the Humantay Lake and the surrounding mountains, including the famous Rainbow Mountains.
• Expert Guides: Guides share insights about local geology, flora, fauna, and Inca history, making the hike educational as well as scenic.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, transportation, and safety equipment are included, providing great value for such a full-day tour.
• Physical Challenge: The 4.3-mile trek involves high altitude hiking, so moderate fitness and preparation are recommended.
• Wildlife & Culture: Keep an eye out for condors, pumas, and camelids, and enjoy local drinks like chicha after the hike.
• Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better guide interaction.

Exploring the Humantay Lagoon Day Trip in Detail

Starting in Cusco: Convenience and Comfort

The journey begins with hotel pickup within Cusco’s historical center at 4:30am, a very early start but necessary to maximize daylight hours and avoid afternoon weather changes. The van ride takes you through scenic highland routes, giving a glimpse of Peruvian countryside as you ascend into the Andes. This early start means you’ll beat most day-trippers, giving you a quieter, more personal connection with the landscape.

The Hike to Humantay Lake

The main event is a vigorous 7-kilometer hike through the Andean terrain, a worthwhile challenge for active travelers. As you trek, expect stunning vistas of Mount Ausangate, a sacred peak, and views over the Apurimac River. Your guide, often praised as multilingual and knowledgeable, points out interesting geological features, native wildlife, and local flora.

The hike’s highlights include spotting condors—the largest flying bird in the world—so keep your camera ready. There’s also a chance to see pumas and various camelids, which add to the sense of adventure. Many reviews mention how the guides enrich the experience with their storytelling and insights into Inca culture and local ecology.

Reaching Humantay Lake

After about four hours of hiking, you arrive at the turquoise, glacier-fed Humantay Lake, which sits at roughly 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) above sea level. The vibrant blue color of the water, framed by snow-capped peaks, makes every step worthwhile. Although some travelers found the hike challenging—one review describes it as “extremely tiring”—most agree the beauty of the lake justifies the effort.

Refreshments and Cultural Touches

On completing the hike, you get to unwind with a cold chicha drink, a traditional maize-based beverage, which can be fermented or unfermented. Reviewers appreciate the chance to relax and soak in the scenery after the strenuous climb.

Meals and Logistics

Included are a breakfast at the start and a buffet lunch, with vegetarian options available. The quality of the food receives praise, especially considering the remote location. The overall organization, from pickup to return, is smooth, with safety equipment such as a first aid kit and emergency oxygen available on-site, providing peace of mind on this physically demanding tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see iconic Peruvian landscapes, love active outdoor pursuits, and value expert guidance, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to combine adventure, culture, and stunning scenery without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Practical Considerations

• The start time of 4:30am means an early wake-up, but this helps avoid crowds and afternoon weather.
• The high altitude (over 4,000 meters) can cause altitude sickness; travelers should be mindful and prepared.
• The tour size is capped at 18 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and your guide attentive.
• The non-inclusion of the admission fee for Humantay Lake means you’ll need to pay an entrance ticket separately.
• Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots, layers for changing weather, and bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks.

Summary

This Humantay Lagoon Day Trip offers a thorough, rewarding exploration of Peru’s stunning highland scenery. The combination of beautiful landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural insights makes it a top choice for active travelers and those interested in authentic experiences. The well-organized logistics, including meals and transport, provide good value for the price, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the tour.

While the hike is demanding, the spectacular views and sense of achievement more than compensate. The guides’ expert storytelling, the chance to see native condors, and the chance to enjoy traditional drinks afterwards round out a memorable day.

If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and want a genuine taste of Peru’s mountain scenery, this trip is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who want to combine adventure with cultural learning in a beautifully remote setting.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup within Cusco’s historic center is included, starting at 4:30am.

How long is the hike?
The hike is about 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) in total, taking approximately four hours to complete.

What should I wear?
Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection, and water are recommended, given the variable weather and altitude.

Is food provided?
Yes, breakfast at the start and a buffet lunch with vegetarian options are included, and reviewers praise the quality of both.

What wildlife might I see?
Look out for condors, pumas, and camelids, which are native to the area and frequently spotted by travelers.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The tour price does not include the Humantay Lake admission fee, which you will need to pay separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands suggest a moderate fitness level is required, so it may be best for older children and teens.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a true taste of Peru’s majestic highlands—perfect for those eager for adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of local culture. Prepare well, and you’ll come away with stories and images to cherish long after you return home.