From Cusco: Humantay Lagoon Hiking Tour with Meals

Perched high in the Andean mountains, the Humantay Lagoon hiking tour offers an unforgettable glimpse of Peru’s natural beauty. For just $38 per person, you get a full day of adventure, scenic views, cultural insights, and some surprisingly tasty food — all wrapped into one well-organized trip. Led by guides who speak both Spanish and English, this tour is perfect for travelers eager to see one of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it makes the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake — a sight often reserved for hardy trekkers — available to those with limited time or less mountain experience. The second highlight is the delicious buffet lunch in Mollepata, offering a chance to refuel with hearty Peruvian flavors after the hike. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the early start — you’ll need to be ready for a 4:30 am pickup, which can be a challenge for some. But if you’re someone who appreciates a full day of adventure and breathtaking scenery, this trip is a winner. It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic, well-supported experience without the complexity of a multiday trek.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure: A manageable 2-hour uphill hike to the extraordinary Humantay Lagoon, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Cultural and natural beauty: Combines scenic landscapes with a small entrance fee to support local communities.
• All-inclusive value: Includes transportation, breakfast, buffet lunch, professional guide, and safety gear.
• Early start: Prepare for a very early departure, but it pays off with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
• Authentic experience: Guided by local experts who share insights and ensure safety.
• Ideal for: Travelers wanting a taste of high-altitude trekking, stunning scenery, and Peruvian cuisine in a day.

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A Deep Dive Into the Humantay Lagoon Hiking Experience

Starting the Day: Early Rise for a Big Adventure

Your day begins between 4:30 and 5:00 am, which might seem brutal, but it’s typical for high-altitude excursions in Peru. The early start enables you to beat most crowds and enjoy a cooler, more comfortable hike. The ride from Cusco to Mollepata takes about 2 hours, passing through the rugged Peruvian landscape, which already hints at the adventure ahead.

During the drive, the landscape morphs from the urban sprawl of Cusco into rolling hills and mountain vistas. Many travelers find this part of the journey relaxing, as it allows for some anticipation and photos of the changing scenery.

Breakfast at Mollepata: A Hearty Welcome

Once in Mollepata, you’ll stop for a breakfast at a local restaurant. Expect a hearty, traditional meal — think fresh bread, eggs, or Peruvian-style coffee — to give you energy for the climb. One reviewer mentioned the breakfast as “delicious,” setting a positive tone for the day.

The Hike to Humantay Lake: Challenging but Rewarding

Next, it’s into a vehicle again for about an hour toward Soraypampa, at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). This point marks the official start of the hike, which covers about 3 km uphill over 2 hours. The terrain is steep but manageable for most fit travelers, and the guides are there to offer patience and tips.

The emphasis here is on the power of the landscape; as we ascend, the air thins, and the views become more dramatic. You’ll pass through scenic spots where the weather can shift rapidly — sometimes foggy, sometimes sunny. Weather can influence how long you want to linger at the lagoon, which is a good thing to keep in mind. If it’s cloudy or cold, you might stay shorter, but on clear days, you’ll want to soak in the views for as long as possible.

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Reaching Humantay Lagoon: An Iconic Photo Spot

The highlight is, of course, the turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Photographers, be prepared for some stunning shots — and don’t forget to bring your camera or phone. Many reviewers comment on how impressive the lake’s color is, and how it looks even more striking in person than in photos.

Expect about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours at the lagoon, depending on weather. Some visitors mention that the weather can be “foggy or rainy,” which makes for mysterious but less vibrant photos. Conversely, clear days are ideal for capturing the full glory of the landscape.

Returning and Refueling: Mollepata Lunch

After the descent, you’ll head back to Mollepata for a buffet lunch. This is often praised for its hearty, satisfying offerings — a perfect way to recover after the exertion. One traveler noted the “delicious food and tapas,” which shows the quality and care put into the meal.

The final leg of the journey is a two-hour ride back to Cusco, offering a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value with included transportation, breakfast, guided support, first aid, and trekking poles. The entrance fee (PEN 20 for foreigners, PEN 10 for Peruvians) is not included but is a small price for supporting local communities and conservation.

You’ll want to bring layers, especially a warm jacket, and perhaps a raincoat — weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes. The tour provides a professional guide to ensure you’re safe, informed, and comfortable throughout.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

Many reviewers appreciated the organized nature of the trip, noting that the pickup was punctual and the guides helpful. The small group size means more personalized attention, which can make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

The early start might be tough for some, but it’s worth it to experience the serenity of the mountains before the crowds arrive. Also, the timing at the lagoon is flexible depending on the weather, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Climbing to 4,200 meters (13,750 feet)

It’s important to recognize that altitude can be challenging. The hike involves significant elevation gain, so travelers should be aware of their own fitness and acclimatization levels. Some reviews mentioned the cold and the altitude but praised the guides for helping everyone pace themselves.

The Food: Surprising Quality and Taste

One standout aspect is the quality of the meals. The breakfast fuels you for the climb, and the buffet lunch is described as delicious — a rare treat on such active day trips. Many travelers found the food to be a highlight, especially after the exertion of the hike.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hike is perfect for active travelers who want a full-day adventure with manageable hiking distances and a focus on spectacular scenery. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate cultural touches like local food and community support. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed trip that combines physical activity, natural beauty, and authentic flavors, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re not comfortable with early mornings or high-altitude hikes, you might consider whether you’re prepared for the physical demands and weather variability.

The Sum Up: The Value and Authenticity of the Humantay Lagoon Tour

For just $38, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of some of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. It’s a chance to see the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by glaciers and peaks that seem almost surreal. The inclusion of transport, meals, and a knowledgeable guide makes it an excellent value, especially considering the effort and logistics saved for you.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a taste of high-altitude trekking without the multi-day commitment or extreme difficulty. The organized nature and small group size ensure a comfortable and intimate experience. The delicious food, combined with unforgettable scenery, makes this a memorable day out in the mountains.

If you’re eager for a stunning, culturally immersive adventure that’s manageable yet exhilarating, this tour from Cusco is a strong choice. Just remember to pack warm layers, prepare for early mornings, and bring an appetite for both the landscape and the local cuisine.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You should be ready for pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 am. It’s early, but it allows you to enjoy the best weather and fewer crowds.

What’s included in the price?
Your package includes pick-up, round-trip transportation, breakfast, buffet lunch, a professional guide, a first aid kit, oxygen, and trekking poles.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The entrance fee to the community is PEN 20 for foreign visitors and PEN 10 for Peruvians. This fee is paid at the checkpoint.

How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The uphill hike to the lake is about 3 km, taking approximately 2 hours. It involves a significant elevation gain, so some fitness is required.

What’s the weather usually like?
Weather can vary — sometimes foggy, rainy, or cloudy, which can affect visibility and photos. On clear days, the scenery is especially stunning.

How long can I stay at the lake?
Depending on the weather, you can expect to spend between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours at the lagoon.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Most reasonably fit travelers can handle the hike, but those with health issues or difficulty at high altitude should consider their comfort level.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also allows for flexible booking with a “reserve now, pay later” option.

In sum, this guided tour offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, cultural support, and convenience, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to experience a true Peruvian highland gem — Humantay Lagoon.

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