Humantay Lake Full Day Hike

Discover Humantay Lake: A Full-Day Hiking Adventure from Cusco

Imagine waking up well before dawn, packing a small bag, and heading out for an adventure that takes you deep into the Peruvian Andes. For around $89, you’ll spend approximately 12 hours exploring one of the most striking natural sights near Cusco—Humantay Lake, a high-altitude, glacier-fed lagoon famed for its vivid turquoise hue. Guided by friendly professionals, you’ll traverse scenic landscapes, pass ancient glaciers, and breathe in pure mountain air.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide, which is a big plus when tackling a mountain hike. Second, the included meals and round-trip transport make the day smooth and hassle-free, letting you focus on the views and the experience itself.

The main consideration? The altitude and physical effort required. While the tour is designed for travelers with moderate fitness, you should be prepared for a challenging ascent. If you’re comfortable with walking and altitude, this trek offers some of the most photogenic landscapes you’ll encounter in Peru. It’s a perfect fit for those eager to combine a bit of adventure with authentic scenery—especially if you love nature and don’t mind an early start.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits active travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re excited by mountain scenery, enjoy hiking, and are happy to get a little sweaty, you’ll find this rewarding. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate guided tours with small groups, as it allows more interaction and support, as highlighted in reviews praising guides like Luz.

Key Points

• Scenic Beauty: Expect stunning views of a vivid turquoise lagoon, glaciers, and the Salkantay Mountain in the distance.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour offers personalized guidance and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Comprehensive Support: Included meals, private transport, first aid kit, and oxygen tank add safety and convenience.
• Early Start: Pickup around 4:30 am ensures you’ll beat most crowds and catch the best lighting for photos.
• Physical Challenge: Moderate fitness needed for the hike’s ascent to 3900 meters (around 17,960 feet).
• Authentic Experience: Focus on local landscapes and natural beauty, away from heavily commercialized sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Humantay Lake Full Day Hike

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Journey to Mollepata

The adventure begins bright and early—typically between 4:30 am and 5:00 am—when your guide picks you up from your Cusco hotel. Though early, this timing is strategic, helping you avoid crowds and giving you the best chances for clear photos and crisp mountain air. From Cusco, you’ll travel in private transportation towards Mollepata, a charming town famous for avocado farming.

This part of the trip is all about setting the scene—scenery rolling past your window, the anticipation building. The drive itself is comfortable, and you’ll appreciate the private transport, which adds a touch of convenience and privacy.

Breakfast in Mollepata: Fuel for the Trek

Once in Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast, an important boost before the hike. This is a good time to hydrate and get energized for the ascent ahead. The breakfast options are not specified, but most tours aim to provide hearty, nourishing meals to prepare you for the physical exertion.

The Hike Begins: From Soraypampa to Humantay Lake

Post-breakfast, you’ll board your vehicle again, heading towards Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters (around 17,960 feet) above sea level. Here, you’ll start the trail on foot, walking for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes through stunning scenery—think snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine flora.

The trail gradually ascends, so you’ll want to take your time, enjoy the natural beauty, and stay hydrated. Guides often point out local plants and wildlife, adding an educational touch to the journey. The ascent is challenging but manageable for those with moderate physical fitness, and your guide will support you along the way, as noted in reviews praising Luz for her encouragement.

Reaching Humantay Lake: A Moment of Wow

When you arrive at the lake, you’ll be greeted by a vivid turquoise lagoon, surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. It’s a photographer’s paradise, with perfect lighting in the morning or late afternoon. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the serenity of this high-altitude wonder.

One reviewer, Roland, praised the guide Luz for her support, especially during the climb: “At the beginning of the climb I was struggling. Thank you Luz and I hope we meet again on some other tour.” This personal touch is common in small-group guided tours and can make or break the experience.

Descent and Lunch: Rest and Recharge

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa for lunch. The tour includes a meal, which helps restore energy after the exertion. Typical options often feature local flavors—perhaps quinoa, potatoes, or meats—though specifics aren’t detailed.

Return to Cusco: A Relaxed Journey Home

The day wraps up with private transportation back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. This relaxed pace means you can reflect on your day, review your photos, and enjoy a well-earned rest.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The included features make this trip excellent value: pickup from your hotel, a private vehicle, guided support, entrance tickets, meals, a first aid kit, and an oxygen tank. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) allows for personal attention, which is particularly helpful on a strenuous hike like this.

However, additional costs such as travel insurance, snacks, and water are not included. Given the altitude and physical effort, bringing your own water and snacks is advisable, even if not specified.

The Logistics and Practicalities

• Timing: An early start means you’ll need to be ready at your hotel by 3:30 am for pickup. While this might seem early, it ensures cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended. The altitude can be tough, and the hike involves a steady ascent.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather can lead to cancellations, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.
• Booking: The tour is popular, with bookings typically made about 21 days in advance, so plan ahead.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

One traveler, Roland, specifically appreciated the guide’s support: “Luz was above and beyond, she was perfect. She answered all questions and helped us get all the way to the top.” This reinforces how important knowledgeable guides are, especially at high altitudes.

Many reviews emphasize the stunning views—the lake’s striking color and the backdrop of glaciers and mountains are a highlight. The early start helps travelers beat the crowds, allowing for more intimate moments with nature.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day hike suits adventurous travelers ready for a physical challenge and eager to see some of Peru’s most beautiful mountain scenery. If you’re comfortable with moderate hikes and altitude, you’ll find this a rewarding experience. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, small-group trip with support and plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs.

This tour is less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer leisurely sightseeing—altitude and walking difficulty are key factors.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake Full Day Hike offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, adventure, and guided support—all at an accessible price. The mesmerizing turquoise lagoon, set against the dramatic Andes landscape, is truly one of the most memorable sights near Cusco. With a small group, attentive guides, and included meals, it balances challenge and comfort for active travelers.

If you’re seeking an authentic, scenic experience that combines outdoor activity with cultural appreciation, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for those who want to see a stunning high-altitude lake with dedicated support and a focus on natural beauty.

FAQ

What is the starting time of this tour?
Pickup is typically between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, so you’ll need to be ready early in the morning.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transport is included for both the journey from Cusco to Mollepata and Soraypampa, and back.

What meals are included?
The tour includes one breakfast and one lunch, providing energy for the day’s activity. Specific menu details aren’t provided but are generally hearty and local.

Are there any additional costs I should consider?
Snacks and water are not included, so bring your own supplies. Travel insurance is also not included but recommended.

How difficult is the hike?
It requires moderate physical fitness and comfort with altitude, as you’ll ascend roughly 1,000 meters from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled due to poor weather with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and warm layers for variable mountain weather. Sensible walking shoes are essential.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

This carefully balanced hike offers a rewarding glimpse of Peru’s stunning natural wonders. With scenic views, thoughtful support, and a manageable challenge, it’s a trip that can genuinely leave a lasting impression.