Humantay Lake Full Day Tour With Guide

Experience the majesty of Humantay Lake—an emerald jewel high in the Andes. For just $32, this full-day tour takes you from Cusco to one of Peru’s most awe-inspiring natural sights, combining scenic drives, a moderate hike, and plenty of memorable moments. The tour, offered by Machu Picchu Expeditions, lasts around 12 hours and includes transportation, breakfast, and lunch, making it a well-rounded, value-packed day out.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the expert guiding and the thoughtful itinerary. The guides are not only knowledgeable about the landscape but also attentive to visitors’ needs, helping those who might find the altitude challenging. Plus, the stops for food and photos are perfectly timed to give you a taste of local hospitality and scenery.

One aspect to consider is the early start—with pickups between 4:30 and 5:00 am, you’ll need to be prepared for a very early morning. Though this means a long day, it’s also what allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of Humantay Lake. This tour suits travelers who are physically capable of moderate activity and eager to see one of Peru’s most stunning natural sites with a knowledgeable guide and a small group.

Key Points

• Early morning pickup ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
• Includes transportation, breakfast, and lunch, providing excellent value for a full-day adventure.
• Moderate hike (around 2 hours uphill) to reach Humantay Lake, suitable for those with decent fitness.
• Expert guides offer helpful info, support with altitude, and great photo opportunities.
• Stunning scenery with views of the glacier, surrounding peaks, and the emerald lake itself.
• Small group size (max 19 travelers) allows for a more personal experience.

Exploring the Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour begins before dawn, with hotel pickups between 4:30 and 5:00 am. Yes, it’s early, but that’s part of the charm—you’re on the road before most of Cusco’s sights start buzzing. The drive to Mollepata takes about two hours, and it’s a scenic journey that sets the tone for the day ahead.

Once in Mollepata, there’s a chance to enjoy a buffet breakfast at a local restaurant. This is an important moment to fuel up before the hike and get a feel for local flavors. After breakfast, the group continues for an hour by vehicle to Soraypampa, the starting point at 3,900 meters. Here, the actual hiking begins—a 2-hour uphill trek (about 3 km) that is moderately challenging but rewarding.

The hike offers a chance to see the landscape change as you ascend, with plenty of photo stops and moments to catch your breath. Expect a steady climb, so good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are advised. The guides are attentive and will help those who struggle with altitude, which is often appreciated—especially since some hikers find the thinner air at this elevation demanding.

The Highlight: Humantay Lake

Arriving at Humantay Lake, you’ll be struck by its vibrant, emerald hue, which contrasts beautifully with the surrounding white glacier and dark peaks. The lake sits at over 4,200 meters—high enough to make breathing a bit labored but worth every step.

You’ll have around 45 minutes to soak in the views, take photos, and listen to the guide’s explanations. Many reviewers mention how helpful their guides are—offering tips for capturing the perfect shot and sharing insights about the landscape. It’s a great spot to enjoy a peaceful moment away from crowds, thanks to the early start.

Return Journey and Meal Breaks

After your time at the lake, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa, then by vehicle to Mollepata for another hearty buffet lunch. The food is praised in reviews—”good food” and “great transportation” make the day feel comfortable and well-organized. The return drive to Cusco takes about two hours, and the tour concludes at your hotel, usually in the early to mid-afternoon.

Authenticity, Guides, and Food

Many travelers commend the guides for their local knowledge, helpfulness, and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was not only well-informed but also took time to help with photos and to share some local history—adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. The small group size ensures a more intimate journey, often leading to better interactions and a less rushed atmosphere.

The included meals, breakfast, and lunch, are a bonus—allowing you to enjoy authentic Peruvian cuisine without the hassle of finding a place on your own. The buffet style ensures you’re well-fueled for the activity, and many reviewers appreciated the quality of both the food and the service.

The Practicalities

The $32 price covers transportation, the guided tour, breakfast, and lunch—arguably an excellent value for such a full-day experience. Entrance fees are not included (PEN 20), but that’s a small addition, payable at the site. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness; the 2-hour uphill hike is the main physical challenge, but the guides are prepared to assist.

The maximum group size of 19 travelers keeps things manageable and personal, avoiding the busyness of larger tours. The pickup from your hotel is straightforward, and the roundtrip transportation means you don’t have to worry about logistical details.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Peru’s natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy authentic food along the way. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and early mornings. If you’re looking for a peaceful, awe-inspiring day away from the crowds—especially during the early hours—this trip offers a fantastic balance of adventure, scenery, and comfort.

Final Thoughts

The Humantay Lake Full Day Tour offers an authentic, value-packed way to see one of the region’s most stunning sights. The combination of scenic drives, a manageable hike, and expert guiding makes it an excellent choice for those eager to experience the raw beauty of high-altitude Peru.

The early start and physical effort are balanced by the beauty of the landscape, the delicious food, and the personalized attention from guides. Whether you’re a nature lover or a photographer chasing that perfect shot, Humantay Lake promises a memorable, soul-refreshing experience.

For travelers seeking an accessible way to enjoy Peru’s natural wonders, this tour delivers on all fronts—beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good value.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves a 2-hour uphill hike at a high altitude, so it’s best for those with moderate fitness. Guides are helpful with altitude issues, but some physical exertion is expected.

What time does the tour start?
Pickups are between 4:30 and 5:00 am, ensuring you reach Humantay Lake early and avoid crowds. Be prepared for an early morning.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a hearty breakfast after pickup and a buffet lunch at Mollepata, offering good value and local flavors.

What is not included in the price?
The entrance fee of PEN 20 is not included and must be paid at the site.

How many people are in each group?
The tour has a maximum of 19 travelers, making it a more intimate experience than larger group trips.

Is roundtrip transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, from hotel pickup in Cusco to Mollepata, Soraypampa, and back to your hotel.

Whether you’re after stunning photos, a peaceful escape into nature, or just an unforgettable adventure, this Humantay Lake tour strikes a great balance between effort and reward. It’s a fantastic way to tick off a bucket list destination with the guidance and comfort that make the journey smooth and memorable.