From Cusco: Hike to Humantay Lake one day With Meals

Exploring Humantay Lake: A Guided Day Trip from Cusco

Starting with the basics, this tour takes you from Cusco to the stunning Humantay Lake, a pristine turquoise body of water set against towering, snow-capped peaks. For $28 per person, you’ll enjoy a full day packed with scenic views, guided hikes, and delicious meals—all wrapped up in roughly 14 hours with transportation included. The trip begins early, with hotel pickups around 4:30 to 5:00 am, and takes you through a series of scenic stops, culminating at the lake with plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking landscape.

One of the best parts of this experience is the opportunity to witness mountain vistas and local community life along the way. We particularly appreciated the smooth logistics, from hotel pickup to the return journey, which makes the day manageable even for those new to high-altitude trekking. The inclusion of meals—a hearty breakfast before the hike and a buffet lunch afterward—adds value, ensuring you’re energized for the climb and relaxed afterward.

A consideration worth noting is the altitude. Starting at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) at Soraypampa, the hike is quite uphill and can be challenging, especially if you’re sensitive to altitude. It’s wise to come prepared with warm clothing, snacks, and plenty of water. This tour suits active travelers, those eager to see iconic Andean landscapes, and anyone looking for an authentic experience beyond just taking pictures.

You’ll love the combination of guided expertise, scenic beauty, and good food, making for a well-rounded day. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to explore one of the region’s most stunning natural sites without the need for complicated planning or strenuous solo hikes.

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Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Experience the turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop of Humantay Lake.
• All-inclusive value: Meals, transportation, guide, and trekking poles are included, making it easier to enjoy the day.
• Early start: Pickup between 4:30-5:00 am means a long day but maximizes sightseeing and avoids crowds.
• Moderate hike: About 2 hours uphill—suitable for active travelers comfortable with altitude.
• Flexible time at the lake: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on weather and personal pace.
• Authentic experience: Guided explanations and local stops add cultural and scenic depth.

In-Depth Review: The Experience of Hiking to Humantay Lake

The Logistics and Transportation

The day begins early, with pickups from your hotel near Plaza de Armas in Cusco. The ride to Mollepata, about two hours away, is part of the adventure. We appreciated the comfortable coach, which allowed us to relax and take in the changing scenery—mountain valleys, small villages, and terraced fields. The tour operator’s efficiency was evident; no delays or glitches in pickups, which can sometimes be a concern on busy tourist routes.

Once in Mollepata, a delicious breakfast awaits at a local restaurant. The reviews highlight the quality of the food, with one saying, “Very good breakfast and lunch,” which is important after an early start. This stop also offers a chance to stretch and buy souvenirs or snacks, though the real highlight begins after we continue toward Soraypampa.

The Hike: A Climb with a View

From Soraypampa at 3,900 meters, the trail begins with a quick entry fee payment (around PEN 20 for foreigners). The ascent to Humantay Lake takes roughly 2 hours, covering about 3 kilometers of uphill terrain. The path is well-marked, but the altitude can be tough—some reviews note the importance of rest breaks and paying attention to your body.

Once at the lake, the spectacular views are immediate. The turquoise waters sit against jagged snow-capped peaks, offering what many describe as “breathtaking scenery.” You’ll have about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours here, enough time to snap photos, listen to your guide’s explanations, and soak in the landscape. Weather can vary—cloudy, foggy, or rainy conditions might shorten your stay, but sunny weather makes it all the more magical, as one reviewer noted: “The scenery makes it worth while.”

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The Return Journey and Meals

After enjoying Humantay Lake, the group descends back to Soraypampa and then proceeds to Mollepata. The buffet lunch here is praised for its quality, with one reviewer calling it “awesome,” and it offers a chance to refuel before the long drive back to Cusco. The return trip takes around two hours, giving you a relaxed ride to reflect on the day.

What Travelers Say

Feedback is quite positive, especially regarding guides and food. One reviewer mentioned, “Very attentive guide, showed knowledge and treated us very well,” underscoring the importance of a knowledgeable guide in such high-altitude environments. Another shared, “Buy the coca candy… it helps with altitude sickness,” highlighting practical tips learned on the trip.

Some travelers appreciated the value for money—including transportation, meals, guide, and trekking poles—making this a budget-friendly way to experience high-altitude hiking. The tour’s organized nature and inclusion of transportation relieve the stress of planning, especially for first-timers.

Final Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
• Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.
• Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen—the altitude and sun can be harsh.
• Prepare for a moderate to strenuous hike; rest breaks are essential.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip fits travelers who enjoy outdoor activity and want a guided, all-included experience. It’s perfect for those who don’t want to worry about logistics, as transportation, meals, and guiding are handled for you. The hike is challenging due to altitude, so it’s better suited for those reasonably fit and prepared. The inclusion of meals and trekking poles adds convenience, especially if you’re new to high-altitude hikes.

If you’re a traveler looking for picture-perfect landscapes, authentic local flavor, and a well-organized day out, this tour delivers. However, those prone to altitude sickness or preferring a more leisurely experience might want to consider acclimatization or alternative activities.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager to tick off Humantay Lake from their Peruvian adventure, this guided day trip offers excellent value. The combination of scenic hikes, local cuisine, and expert guidance makes it a practical choice for those who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience. The early start might be long, but it pays off with fewer crowds and the chance to experience the lake’s serenity.

The inclusion of meals, trekking poles, and transportation simplifies logistics and helps keep the focus on enjoying the landscape. The reviews reinforce that the scenery truly is stunning and that the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, which elevates the entire experience.

This tour suits active travelers eager for an authentic adventure and those who prioritize convenience without sacrificing scenic beauty. It’s a rewarding day that leaves you with lasting memories of one of the Andes’ most striking natural wonders.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups are between 4:30 and 5:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in a coach, which allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery during the drive.

How difficult is the hike?
The hike is around 2 hours uphill to the lake, covering about 3 km. It’s suitable for active travelers but can be challenging due to high altitude.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water are recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast before the hike and a buffet lunch after are included, which adds significant value.

Can I stay longer at the lake?
The time at Humantay Lake varies from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on weather and personal preference.

Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, an entrance fee of PEN 20 for foreigners (PEN 10 for locals) is paid at the control point before the hike.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes. If it’s cloudy or rainy, your time at the lake might be shorter, but you’ll still enjoy the hike and scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility in your travel plans.

This guided hike to Humantay Lake offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty—an ideal way to experience a highlight of the Cusco region without the fuss. Prepare well, stay safe, and enjoy one of Peru’s most memorable natural spectacles.

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