Cusco: 1-Day Tour to Humantay Lagoon — A Detailed Look

Imagine waking before dawn, stepping out into the cool air of Cusco, and setting off on a journey that takes you deep into the Peruvian Andes. For just $25 per person, this full-day guided tour offers a chance to see the spectacular Humantay Lagoon, a jewel of turquoise nestled among towering mountains. The tour, offered by Uyuni Experience, lasts roughly 15 hours and includes transportation, guided commentary, breakfast, and lunch.

What we particularly love about this trip is how smoothly it balances adventure and comfort — with a well-organized itinerary that minimizes hassle while maximizing authentic encounters with the natural world. The inclusion of a continental breakfast and buffet lunch provides energy for the day’s walk, and the guidance throughout ensures you won’t get lost in this vast landscape.

That said, one consideration is that this is a very long day — starting early and ending late — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and full-day outings. If you’re after a straightforward yet immersive way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning natural sites, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience most suits travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day trip, appreciate small group sizes or personalized attention, and are eager to see a less-visited, breathtaking lagoon away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Spectacular scenery: Humantay Lagoon’s turquoise waters and mountain backdrop provide picture-perfect moments.
All-inclusive: Round-trip transportation, guide, breakfast, and lunch included make it easy and convenient.
Sustainable focus: The tour emphasizes responsible access and conservation efforts.
Early start: The day begins very early, so be prepared for a long but rewarding trip.
Guided access: Expert guides help you navigate the walk and ensure you see the best views.
Limited costs: For just $25, this tour offers strong value considering all included amenities.

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The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Experience

The day kicks off at 4:30 AM with a hotel pickup. We found the early start to be a small price to pay for the breathtaking sights ahead — it’s a quiet, cool time to head out, and the anticipation builds during the drive. Your transport is comfortable, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

By 6:30 AM, you arrive in Mollepata, a small town where breakfast is served. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, enjoy some local flavors, and prepare for the ascent. After breakfast, the journey continues, with scenic views driving toward Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike.

At 8:30 AM, you reach Soraypampa — a small community and a popular starting point for hikes in the area. From here, you’ll start your walk around 9:00 AM. The trail is well-trodden, and your guide will coordinate with you for the pace, ensuring everyone is comfortable. The walk to Humantay Lagoon is about 2.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.

We loved the way the guide explained the local flora and fauna along the trail, making the walk as educational as it was scenic. The path winds through native vegetation, with views of snow-capped peaks framing the route. The walk is moderately challenging, but most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness will find it manageable.

Around 11:35 AM, you arrive at the stunning Humantay Lagoon. The vivid turquoise color, fed by glacial melt, creates a striking contrast against the surrounding dark mountains. This is the perfect moment for photos, selfies, or simply soaking in the tranquility. You’ll have some time here to absorb the vistas and take in the fresh mountain air.

At 12:05 PM, you begin the return journey, heading back to Soraypampa for a well-earned buffet lunch in Mollepata. The lunch spot offers hearty meals, giving you the fuel needed for the return trip. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, which surpasses expectations for a tour at this price point.

Post-lunch, the bus takes you back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM and dropping you off near the main square. The long day ends with a sense of satisfaction, having witnessed a rare natural wonder and experienced the Andean landscapes up close.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Natural Beauty and Authentic Experience

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the breathtaking scenery at Humantay Lagoon. The vibrant blue waters set among mountain peaks create an image that sticks with you long after the trip. The guided nature of the tour means you won’t miss any of the best vantage points, and you’ll learn about the local environment from knowledgeable guides.

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Sustainability and Responsible Access

The tour’s emphasis on sustainable practices lends an extra layer of value. Visiting protected natural sites responsibly ensures that future travelers can also enjoy these pristine landscapes. The tour may include efforts such as limiting group size or respecting environmental guidelines, which can make a meaningful difference.

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Convenience and Value

For only $25, the tour covers transport, guide, meals, and equipment (like canes and oxygen). The inclusion of these amenities reduces the hassle and extra costs, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The round-trip transportation from Cusco removes the need to arrange your own travel, saving time and stress.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

The primary drawback is the long day — with an early start and late return. This could be taxing for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or are not accustomed to such early mornings. Also, the hike involves walking at higher altitudes, so some might find the altitude a challenge, especially if unacclimated.

While the entrance fee to Humantay Lagoon is not included, the guided access ensures you see the lagoon without the hassle of navigating entry logistics yourself. Drinks are not included, so bringing water and snacks might be wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love nature and want a cost-effective, guided day trip with minimal planning. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with early mornings and a moderate hike, and want to experience a spectacular, less-visited natural site. It also suits those who value organized logistics, guided insights, and sustainability in their travel experiences.

The Sum Up

For just $25, this guided tour to Humantay Lagoon offers an excellent way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The combination of breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, and included meals creates a well-rounded, memorable day. While it’s a long day, the reward is witnessing one of the most beautiful turquoise lagoons set against towering mountains.

Travelers who appreciate guided tours, want to avoid logistical headaches, and are eager to see a less crowded natural site will find this trip worth the early wake-up call. The focus on sustainability and authentic experiences adds extra value for those conscious about responsible travel.

This tour strikes a good balance between affordability, comfort, and adventure, making it a highly recommended option for your Cusco itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco, making the day seamless and convenient.

What’s the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins very early, with hotel pickups around 4:30 AM. Check availability to confirm the exact start time for your date.

Is the hike challenging?
The walk to Humantay Lagoon is about 2.5 hours and involves some moderate elevation gain. Most people with a reasonable fitness level can manage it, but altitude may cause discomfort.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour offers a continental breakfast at Mollepata and a buffet lunch after the hike, both included in the price.

What isn’t included in the price?
Entrance fees to Humantay Lagoon are not included, and drinks are extra.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts roughly 15 hours, from hotel pickup to return to Cusco.

Is there guided commentary during the tour?
Yes, a guide is with you throughout, providing insights into the landscape, flora, fauna, and local culture.

What equipment is provided?
Canes, oxygen, and a first aid kit are available, which can be helpful at higher altitudes.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Adventurous travelers comfortable with early mornings, interested in natural sights, and looking for a guided, affordable day trip.

Embark on this journey if you’re ready for a day of stunning views, fresh mountain air, and a memorable experience that combines natural beauty with responsible tourism.