Tour Hike to Humantay Lake with Buffet Lunch

Exploring the Humantay Lake Hike from Cusco: A Balance of Adventure and Comfort

If you’re traveling in Cusco and craving a taste of the Andean highlands, the Hike to Humantay Lake with Buffet Lunch offers a compelling day trip. For $38 per person, this approximately 8-hour tour transports you from the bustling city to the tranquil, snow-dusted peaks of the Andes. Your journey begins early, with pickup between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m., making it clear that this is a full-day adventure designed for those eager to experience Peru’s stunning natural beauty without a strenuous climb.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances minimal but meaningful hiking with enough scenic reward to make the early start worthwhile. You’ll enjoy watching iconic peaks like Salkantay dominate the skyline, and the chance to make offerings to mountain spirits at the lake adds an authentic cultural touch. Plus, the option to rent a horse for the ascent provides flexibility—great for those who prefer a less taxing way to reach the lake. One potential downside? The early departure and winding dirt roads might not suit everyone, especially travelers sensitive to long drives or early mornings. Still, this tour is ideal for those seeking a manageable, rewarding high-altitude experience in a small-group setting.

If you enjoy small-group tours, scenic mountain views, and a taste of local tradition, this trip will likely suit you perfectly. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to see a breathtaking lake with minimal hiking effort and a comfortable, authentic meal afterward.

Key Points

• Accessible hike: Minimal walking required, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Authentic experience: Making offerings at the lake connects you to local traditions.
• Stunning vistas: Expect spectacular views of the Andes, including peaks like Salkantay.
• Flexible options: Rent a horse for the climb if the altitude or terrain is challenging.
• Good value: Includes transport, breakfast, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.
• Early start: Be prepared for a very early morning pickup and long drive.

A Deep Dive into the Humantay Lake Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Before Dawn

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Cusco hotel between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m., a time that might seem brutal but is typical for high-altitude day trips. The early start ensures you beat some of the crowds and reach the mountains while the day is still cool and peaceful. The group travels by private transport, which offers comfort and flexibility, heading first to Mollepata, a lush valley along the Apurímac River.

During the drive, you’ll pass winding rural roads that can be a bit nerve-wracking—according to one reviewer, the drive “could be considered scary,” but it’s also part of the adventure. The journey itself offers a taste of the Andean landscape, with mountain vistas gradually unfolding as you ascend.

Breakfast in Mollepata: Fuel for the Day

Once in Mollepata, a well-deserved breakfast break allows you to refuel and soak in the mountain air. While the menu varies, most tours include some form of coffee or tea to prepare you for the day ahead. It’s a simple but welcome pause before heading to Soraypampa, situated at about 3900 meters (around 12,800 feet).

Trek to Humantay Lake: Moderate, Rewarding, Scenic

After a short rest at Soraypampa, the guided hike begins. The ascent to Humantay Lake, situated at 4200 meters (around 13,779 feet), takes about an hour and a half. The hike is described as moderate, which means most people with a basic level of fitness can manage it, especially with the option to rent a horse for the steepest parts—something several reviewers appreciated.

We loved the way the trail offers a gradual climb, with frequent chances to catch your breath and enjoy the panoramic views of snowy peaks in every direction. The highlight at the top is the turquoise-blue lake set against towering mountain backdrops. It’s a view that makes the early wake-up call worth every minute, especially as you see the iconic Salkantay peak looming nearby.

Making Offerings and Taking a Dip

At the lake, many travelers take part in a cultural tradition of making offerings to the mountain spirits, which involves small symbolic gestures like placing stones or burning incense. The lake’s high altitude (4200 meters) makes it a chilly spot; some brave souls might decide to swim, though most visitors probably just take photos and soak in the scenery.

Lunch with a View and Return to Cusco

After the trek, you’ll head back to the camp for a buffet lunch, often with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. This is a thoughtful touch—most tours include lunch, which adds great value considering the early start and full day of activity. Following lunch, the return journey begins, and your group will be transferred back to Cusco, arriving late afternoon or early evening.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, transport to and from Soraypampa, a professional bilingual guide, a first aid kit, and coffee or tea. The entrance fee to Humantay Lake is not included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. Gratuities for guides are optional but appreciated.

While the tour offers great value, some travelers mention that long drives on winding dirt roads can feel tiring, and there was a mix-up with pick-up times reported by one guest. However, most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, making the long day more enjoyable.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

One standout aspect of this tour is the opportunity to connect with local cultural traditions at Humantay Lake—an experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. Making offerings to mountain spirits is a common practice, and participating in this ritual offers a glimpse of the Andean worldview rooted in respect for nature.

From a practical standpoint, packing the right gear makes all the difference. We recommend warm clothes, a poncho or raincoat, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Since the tour involves high-altitude exposure, staying hydrated and dressed appropriately helps prevent altitude sickness.

The Accessibility Factor

This tour is designed for most travelers, with most reviews indicating that the moderate hike is manageable, especially with the option to rent a horse. The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, with guides able to give attentive care and answer questions.

The Value Proposition

At $38, the tour provides a full day of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and convenience—especially considering the included transportation, meals, and guide. Compared to other high-altitude excursions, this is a very reasonable price for the stunning views and authentic experiences offered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an accessible way to see an iconic Andean lake without strenuous hiking, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for those with a moderate fitness level, travelers interested in local customs, and anyone who appreciates spectacular mountain scenery. It’s also quite suitable if you prefer small-group tours that maximize personal interaction with guides.

However, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or dislike long drives on rough roads, you may want to weigh those factors. The tour’s flexibility with horse rentals and the focus on cultural experience make it an excellent pick for those seeking a balanced combination of adventure and comfort.

The Sum Up

The Hike to Humantay Lake with Buffet Lunch offers a memorable taste of the Andes’s beauty and culture, all wrapped into one manageable day trip. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a scenic, authentic experience without the intense physical challenge of a full mountain climb. The included meals and knowledgeable guides make it a great value for your money, while the chance to enjoy stunning views and participate in local traditions adds depth to the journey.

This tour will suit anyone eager to see one of Peru’s most beautiful lakes in a relaxed, small-group setting, especially those who want to avoid overly strenuous hikes but still enjoy mountain vistas and high-altitude culture. With a little preparation, you’ll find it’s an experience that leaves you with lasting memories of the Peruvian Andes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers with a moderate fitness level should manage the hike comfortably, especially with the option to rent a horse for the ascent.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, transportation to and from Soraypampa, a professional bilingual guide, a first aid kit, and coffee or tea. The entrance fee to Humantay Lake is not included.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm clothes, a poncho or raincoat, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a camera. Packing layers helps adapt to changing weather and altitude.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Cusco to Mollepata and Soraypampa involves winding dirt roads that some might find a bit bumpy. It’s a long journey, but it’s part of the adventure.

Can I swim in Humantay Lake?
You can attempt to swim if you dare—though most visitors just enjoy the views and take photos because of the cold temperature at high altitude.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most tours run year-round, but mornings tend to be cooler and clearer. Check local weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Are tips included?
Tips for guides are not included and are at your discretion, but appreciated for good service.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers consider it suitable for older children or teenagers, especially those comfortable with short hikes and early mornings.

Will I have enough time at the lake?
Yes, the tour allows ample time for photos, making offerings, and soaking in the scenery before returning.

What happens if there’s bad weather?
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are dangerous, but guides will inform you in advance and prioritize safety.

By choosing this tour, you’re embracing not just a scenic hike but an authentic glimpse into Andean life, culture, and natural splendor. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who want a taste of high-altitude adventure without overexerting, all while enjoying the company of knowledgeable guides and the comfort of included meals.