Laguna Humantay

Laguna Humantay: A Journey to One of Peru’s Most Beautiful High-Altitude Lakes

If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, breathtaking scenery, and culture, a tour to Humantay Lake just outside Cusco is hard to beat. For $49 per person, this 14-hour tour offers a chance to explore the dramatic Peruvian Andes, with a focus on the secluded turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Led by a bilingual guide, the small-group size (maximum 15 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing you to really savor the sights and sounds of this stunning landscape.

What we particularly love about this tour is how well it balances physical challenge with comfort. The included breakfast and lunch help keep your energy up as you traverse rugged trails, and the hotel pickup and drop-off mean you won’t need to worry about logistics — just focus on soaking in the views and making memories. The only thing to consider? The tour involves a moderate physical fitness level due to the uphill hike, so it’s ideal for those who are comfortably active.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see one of Peru’s most iconic spots without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you’re ready to walk some trails, enjoy authentic Andean ceremonies, and revel in a landscape that photographs don’t quite do justice, this trip should be on your list.

Key Points

• Early start ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience at Humantay Lake
• Small group size offers a more personal and flexible adventure
• All-inclusive amenities with breakfast, lunch, and hotel pickup make for a hassle-free day
• Moderate physical effort required, mainly during the uphill hike to the lake
• Scenic landscapes surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vibrant waters
• Authentic cultural experience with the option to participate in a traditional Andean ceremony

An In-Depth Look at the Humantay Lake Tour

What Is the Experience Like and Why Does It Matter?

This tour begins at 4:00 am, a time that might seem early but is crucial for beating the crowds and catching the stunning morning light over the mountains. The first leg involves a 2-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata, where a hearty breakfast fuels you for the day ahead. From there, you’ll travel to Soraypampa, the starting point of your trek, and begin the 1.5-hour uphill hike toward Humantay Lake.

The ascent is challenging but manageable for those with moderate fitness. Once at the lake, you’ll be rewarded with a view of turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks, a spectacle that’s truly worth the effort. The cool mountain air, the vivid color of the water, and the peaceful surroundings create an atmosphere perfect for reflection and photos.

What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to participate in a traditional Andean ceremony at the lake. This adds a cultural dimension often missed by larger, more commercial tours, giving travelers a chance to connect with local customs and spiritual traditions. After some time at the lake, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa for a satisfying lunch, then head back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 pm.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

Stop 1: Mollepata and Breakfast
The day begins early with hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive through the Peruvian countryside to Mollepata. Expect a filling breakfast to prepare you for the physical part of the day. The drive also offers views of the Andes, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Stop 2: Soraypampa and the Hike to Humantay Lake
Your starting point, Soraypampa, is at a comfortable altitude to prepare you for the hike. The trail ascends gradually, with some sections more demanding than others. Along the way, you’ll notice the landscape shifting from grassy plains to rocky terrain, with occasional glimpses of glaciers and towering peaks.

Stop 3: The Lake and Cultural Activities
Once at Humantay Lake, you’ll have ample time to admire the scenery, take photos, and perhaps participate in a traditional ceremony. The lake’s vivid turquoise color, contrasted against the white snow, makes it one of the most photographable spots on your trip.

Stop 4: Descent and Lunch
Descending is usually quicker, and after returning to Soraypampa, a well-earned lunch awaits. The meal helps restore your energy after a morning of physical exertion.

Stop 5: Return to Cusco
Post-lunch, the drive back offers a chance to relax and reflect on your day. Expect to arrive in Cusco by early evening, with hotel drop-off included.

What Travelers Are Saying

Several reviewers highlight the stunning views as the main highlight. One noted that “it’s an incredible place, and worth every bit of the effort,” even describing the hike as “incredibly tiring but totally worth it.” A different traveler pointed out that the early start is essential to “enjoy a quieter, more peaceful experience,” which we agree with.

However, not all experiences are perfect. One review mentioned having a less-than-ideal guide, which emphasizes the importance of choosing a reputable provider. The tour’s overall positive ratings (4.7 out of 5 from 27 reviews) suggest most travelers find it well worth the effort.

Value and Practicalities

At $49, the tour offers excellent value. The price covers transportation, meals, an experienced guide, and the entrance fee for the lake (which costs 25 Peruvian Soles). The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off saves you the hassle of arranging local transport, especially given the early start.

The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. This smaller group setting means you’ll likely get more attention from your guide and have a more flexible, relaxed day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers comfortable with moderate hiking and eager to see a breathtaking high-altitude lake. It appeals especially to those who appreciate authentic cultural experiences like participating in local ceremonies. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore the Andes with good value, this tour fits the bill.

It’s also ideal if you want to beat the crowds by starting early and prefer guided excursions that include meals and transportation. However, those with serious mobility issues or concerns about altitude sickness should consider their fitness level before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Laguna Humantay tour from Cusco offers a memorable blend of stunning scenery, cultural depth, and logistical ease. While it involves some physical effort, the rewards—crystal-clear waters framed by snow-dusted peaks—are well worth it. The early start and included meals make it a practical choice for travelers seeking a full, hassle-free day in the Andes.

If you’re craving a dose of authentic Peruvian mountain beauty and don’t mind a bit of a hike, this tour could be one of the most rewarding experiences of your trip. Just be prepared for the altitude and pack your camera — the views are genuinely unforgettable.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up from your Cusco hotel at 4:00 am, making it a very early start but necessary to beat the crowds and catch the best light at the lake.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness due to the uphill hike. If you’re comfortable walking and accustomed to some physical activity, you should be fine.

What’s included in the tour?
Transport, breakfast, lunch, a bi-lingual guide, hotel pickup, and the lake entrance fee (25 Soles) are included. The tour is designed to be all-inclusive for a hassle-free experience.

How long does the entire day last?
From pickup at 4:00 am to hotel drop-off around 5:00 pm, expect approximately 14 hours of adventure and scenic exploration.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins for a full refund.

Are there any cultural activities involved?
Yes, at the lake, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a traditional Andean ceremony, adding a meaningful cultural touch to your visit.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is popular, often booked 310 days in advance, so securing your spot early is recommended.

In summary, the Laguna Humantay tour offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure into the Peruvian highlands. You’ll experience some of the most stunning mountain scenery, enjoy the comforts of guided logistics, and learn about local traditions — making it a worthwhile addition to any Cusco itinerary.