Cusco: Humantay Lagoon with Breakfast and Buffet Lunch

Cusco: Humantay Lagoon with Breakfast and Buffet Lunch
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $29 per person
Supplier: Inka Trek Travel Agency

Planning a day trip from Cusco that combines spectacular scenery, authentic local flavors, and a manageable adventure? This tour to Humantay Lagoon checks all those boxes for just $29. It’s a well-organized, full-day outing that takes you up to one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks—and offers plenty of opportunities to pause, take photos, and soak in the views.

What we love about this experience are two key aspects: First, the small group size and personalized guidance make the steep hike more approachable and safe. Second, the inclusion of breakfast and buffet lunch with vegetarian options means you’re well nourished for the journey.

One thing to consider is the early start—be prepared to be picked up between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m. If you’re not a morning person or don’t handle altitude well, that might be a challenge. Still, this tour suits active travelers who enjoy scenic hikes and want a taste of Peru’s incredible mountain landscapes without committing to an overnight trek.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Humantay Lake and Salkantay Mountain
• Inclusive meals with vegetarian options, making it convenient and tasty
• Hiking experience at high altitude, requiring some fitness but manageable with small groups and flexible pacing
• Professional guides providing insights and safety equipment like first aid kits and oxygen
• Early start means long day but maximizes daylight for sightseeing
• Affordable price for such an iconic Peruvian adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Humantay Lagoon Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Cusco around 3:30 to 4:00 a.m. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and make the most of daylight. From your hotel, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable bus, and after about a 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive in Mollepata for breakfast. This stop is a good chance to stretch your legs, fuel up, and purchase water or snacks for the hike ahead.

The transport continues for another hour to Soraypampa, where the real adventure begins. The scenery on the way is part of the charm—mountains looming in the background, small villages dotting the landscape, and the anticipation building.

The Hike to Humantay Lagoon

Once you arrive at Soraypampa, at roughly 4,200 meters above sea level, you’ll have a quick briefing from your guide, who will help you prepare your day pack. The hike to Humantay Lake takes about 2 hours, with a trail that’s steep and challenging—so good shoes and a steady pace are important.

We appreciated that the guides emphasize taking your time; the group’s small size means no one gets left behind or pushed too hard. During the ascent, you’ll be rewarded with views of Apu Salkantay, a towering snow-capped mountain, and the vibrant turquoise of Humantay Lake itself.

The Lake and Surroundings

Once at the lake, you’ll have around 30 minutes to explore, take photos, and enjoy the stunning scenery. The lake’s vivid blue-green hue is striking, especially against the white snow and dark mountain backdrop. The optional climb to the right or left of the lake offers a panoramic vantage point that’s well worth the effort if you’re feeling energetic.

Authentic travelers have commented on the peaceful atmosphere and the incredible photo opportunities. One reviewer noted, “The views are truly breathtaking, and it’s so rewarding to reach this high-altitude gem.”

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Descending and Lunch

The return hike to Soraypampa takes about an hour downhill, which most find easier but still invigorating. Afterward, you’ll hop back into your bus for the drive to Mollepata, where a local buffet lunch awaits. The meal includes vegetarian options, and the variety of flavors helps replenish your energy for the drive back to Cusco.

The return journey is about two hours, and most travelers report feeling the satisfying fatigue of an active day, but also the joy of having seen something special. You’ll arrive back near the Plaza de Armas between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., ready to swap stories about your adventure.

The Experience in Context

This tour offers a balanced mix of hiking, sightseeing, and culture. For just $29, you’re getting transportation, guides, meals, and a chance to stand at the foot of Salkantay, one of Peru’s most revered mountains. The included breakfast and buffet lunch are noteworthy; they’re not just on-the-go snacks but hearty meals that cater to vegetarians and omnivores alike.

The small group size (not explicitly specified, but implied) makes a difference—there’s more room to breathe, take photos, and listen to your guide’s explanations. Guides are bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish, which enhances the learning aspect of the experience.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views as the highlight. One remarked, “The landscape was so incredible I had to pinch myself,” while another appreciated the personalized attention from the guide, saying, “Our guide was patient and helpful, making the steep climb manageable.”

Some mention the early start as a plus, saying it “means fewer crowds and better photos.” However, a few note that the altitude can be tough, especially for those not acclimatized. So, hydration and pace are essential.

Practical Considerations

This tour is best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with high-altitude hiking. It’s also a good choice for those wanting an affordable, all-inclusive day trip that packs in some of Peru’s most stunning scenery without the need for an overnight commitment.

If you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or are concerned about mobility or vertigo, you might find the hike steep and challenging. But if you’re fit, prepared, and eager to see the mountain landscape up close, this trip is hard to beat for value and authenticity.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Humantay Lagoon from Cusco offers a remarkable combination of natural beauty and practical convenience. For just $29, you get transport, guided hikes, meals, and unforgettable views of snow-capped peaks and a vivid mountain lake. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a full-day outdoor adventure that’s both manageable and enriching.

While the early start and altitude might be demanding, the rewards—stunning scenery, fewer crowds, and the thrill of reaching a high-altitude lake—make it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for active, curious travelers eager to step outside the city and witness some of Peru’s most iconic mountain vistas.

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized outing with authentic experiences and plenty of photo opportunities, this Humantay Lagoon tour will deliver more than enough to justify the early alarm clock.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickups are generally between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., depending on your hotel location.

How long is the drive?
The total transportation time is about 3 hours—2 hours to Mollepata and 1 hour to Soraypampa.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian options, suitable for different dietary preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, snacks, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and a small backpack are recommended.

How difficult is the hike?
The hike is steep and reaches 4,200 meters altitude, so some fitness and acclimatization are helpful. The guide emphasizes taking your time.

Can I rent a horse?
Yes, horses can be rented for 80 PEN per ride if you prefer not to walk the entire way.

Is this suitable for children?
The physical effort involved means it’s best for travelers who are comfortable with high-altitude hiking and have a reasonable fitness level.

What is the price?
The cost is $29 per person, including all transportation, meals, and guides, making it a very good value for such an iconic experience.

In summary, this Humantay Lagoon tour from Cusco offers an affordable, well-organized way to see one of Peru’s most striking natural sights. It’s perfect for those who enjoy active outdoor days, beautiful mountain scenery, and authentic local touches. While early mornings and altitude require some preparation, the rewarding views and fulfilling experience make it a trip worth planning around.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby