Humantay Lake – Cusco

Humantay Lake – Cusco

Rating: 5.0
Review Count: 10
Location: Cusco, Peru
Price: $35.00 per person
Supplier: Yeah Cusco Travel
Contact: +51963276657 | [email protected]

Quick Overview: A High-Altitude Adventure with Authentic Charm

This full-day tour to Humantay Lake from Cusco is a favorite among travelers seeking a mix of breathtaking scenery and a taste of local culture. For about $35, you’ll be picked up early at 5:00-5:30 am and spend roughly 12 hours exploring one of the most photogenic spots near Cusco. The day includes a scenic drive through small towns like Izcuchaca and Limatambo, a hearty buffet breakfast, and a moderate hike to the turquoise waters at the foot of Humantay, with panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.

What we really love about this tour is how smoothly it’s organized — from comfortable transport to the attentive guide (we hear the guides are quite professional). And the stunning views along the route, especially the vibrant colors of the landscape and the pristine lake, make every moment worth it. Plus, the included lunch buffet at Soraypampa lets you refuel before heading for the ascent.

That said, the tour involves high-altitude hiking, so it’s best for travelers with moderate fitness levels. If you have respiratory issues, high blood pressure, or are not comfortable with physical exertion at altitude, consider this carefully. This trip suits those who love nature, photography, and don’t mind a early start.

Key Points

• Vivid Scenery: The turquoise Humantay Lake and snow-capped peaks make this a visual highlight.
• Well-Organized: From pickup to return, the logistics run smoothly, with professional guides and included meals.
• Physical Demands: The hike involves high-altitude walking; good physical health is recommended.
• Authentic Experience: The route follows a path with historical significance, the original Inca trail.
• Value for Money: The tour’s price covers transportation, guides, meals, and safety equipment, making it a cost-effective option.
• Traveler Satisfaction: All reviews praise the organization and stunning views, making this a reliable choice.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect From This Tour

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day begins bright and early, with pickups from your Cusco accommodation around 5:00-5:30 am. This is a smart move — avoiding the crowds and catching the best light for your mountain and lake photos. The ride takes you through small towns like Izcuchaca, Limatambo, and Mollepata, offering glimpses into local life and rugged Peruvian landscapes. The journey itself is part of the charm — expect to see lush green valleys, traditional houses, and the occasional llama grazing alongside the road.

A break for breakfast provides a moment to stretch and fuel up before the next leg. The drive continues towards Soraypampa, nestled at the base of the mountains, along what’s considered the original Inca trail connecting the coast and the ancient cities of the Incas. The landscape here is nothing short of spectacular, with colorful valleys and towering peaks framing your journey.

The Hike to Humantay Lake

Once at Soraypampa, you’ll have some time to acclimate and enjoy the views before heading out on the hike. The trail to Humantay Lake is moderate but involves a significant ascent at high altitude, so you’ll want to pace yourself. The walk is about 30-40 minutes each way, but it’s more than just a walk — it’s a chance to witness dramatic scenery and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Travelers have told us that the view at the top is absolutely worth the effort. From the lake, you’ll see turquoise waters contrasting with the white snow of Salkantay and the surrounding craggy peaks. The lake is a perfect spot for photos, with some reviews mentioning they took over 100 shots just to capture the colors and the scale of the mountains.

Lunch and Return

After soaking in the views and snapping countless photos, you’ll return to Soraypampa for a well-earned lunch buffet, included in the tour price. The meal fuels you for the journey back and offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers about the highlights of the day.

The return trip is just as scenic, with time to relax in the vehicle and reflect on the day’s adventure. The tour concludes back at your Cusco hotel, typically by early evening.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

From reviews, many travelers highlight the professionalism of guides and the high-quality organization as key benefits. One reviewer from March 2020 shared, “It was an extremely well-organized trip from start to finish. The guys at the Point Hostel in Cusco are very professional. Highly recommend.” The careful planning ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience, especially when dealing with high-altitude conditions and early start times.

The views of Humantay Lake are consistently described as “impressive” and “beautiful,” with travelers expressing amazement at the vivid turquoise color of the water, which is often compared to postcards. One person noted, “Nothing beats the chance to see the view of the lake in real time,” emphasizing how stunning the scenery truly is.

Travelers also appreciate the value for money, with the price covering transportation, meals, guide, and safety equipment like emergency oxygen and canes. Many reviews mention the attention to detail and the overall care for passenger comfort, which makes this more than just a hike — it’s an organized, memorable adventure.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the early start; waking up before dawn isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and experience the lake in the best light. Also, because the hike involves high-altitude walking, it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure. The tour does not include horses, so be prepared for some physical exertion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who are moderately fit and eager to experience Peru’s natural beauty without excessive complexity. If you’re comfortable with long drives and walking at altitude, you’ll find this to be a rewarding day. Nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in Inca routes will particularly enjoy the combination of scenery and history.

Families with older children who can handle the climb might also find this a memorable outing, especially given the professional guidance and safety measures. However, if you have health concerns related to altitude or mobility issues, it’s worth consulting with a doctor beforehand.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle transports you from Cusco to Soraypampa and back, making the long day more comfortable.

What is the tour duration?
The entire trip lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Cusco in the evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour features a breakfast buffet at the start and a lunch buffet at Soraypampa, ensuring you stay energized for the hike.

What about guide services?
A professional guide will accompany you throughout the day, providing insights and assistance, including canes for support.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness and resilience to high-altitude walking. Children should be able to handle walking at altitude comfortably.

Are there additional costs?
Entrance to the Mollepata community costs about 20 soles (USD 5) and is not included. Horses are not included, so if you want one for the ascent, it costs extra.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after an authentic and well-organized day in the Peruvian mountains, this Humantay Lake tour is a smart choice. For about $35, you get a full, seamless experience with beautiful scenery, good meals, and knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited for photo enthusiasts and adventure seekers who are comfortable with early mornings and moderate hiking at high altitude.

Travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes and want a taste of Inca geography will find this tour rewarding. It’s a fantastic introduction to Peru’s mountain splendor, balancing value with the chance to witness one of the country’s most stunning natural sights.

In essence, this tour offers a taste of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a comfortable, well-organized day out. It’s a prime choice for those wanting to tick off a remarkable highlight on their Cusco itinerary while enjoying the company of fellow travelers in a safe, scenic environment.