Discovering Humantay Lake from Cusco: A Detailed Look at the $30 Tour

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines breathtaking scenery, a challenging but rewarding hike, and a taste of local flavors, the Humantay Lake tour from Cusco might be just what you need. For around $30 per person, you’ll get a full-day adventure that takes you behind the snow-capped peaks of the Salkantay Range to a glacial lagoon that’s as striking as it sounds.

We love how this tour kicks off early, around 4:00 am, which means we’re hitting the road just as the city is waking up and the landscape is quiet. The real highlights are the spectacular mountain vistas — especially Apu Salkantay and Humantay — and the opportunity to walk in high-altitude terrain that’s both challenging and exhilarating. The inclusion of local breakfast and buffet lunch is a nice touch, giving you a chance to sample Peruvian cuisine amidst nature’s grandeur.

One potential drawback? The early start and high-altitude trekking aren’t suited for everyone. The trek reaches up to 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), so if altitude sickness is a concern, be prepared and consider whether you’re comfortable with some physical exertion in thin air.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy adventure, scenic hikes, and authentic cultural moments. If you’re eager to see stunning landscapes and don’t mind a long day, this trip offers great value for the memories and views you’ll bring back.

Early pick-up and long day: Starting around 4 am ensures you’ll make the most of daylight and avoid crowds.
High-altitude trekking: The hike reaches 4,200 meters, so physical readiness and altitude awareness matter.
Cultural and scenic immersion: Enjoy local breakfast, panoramic mountain views, and the chance to explore Humantay Lagoon.
Small group experience: Guided hikes are paced to suit your group, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
Value for money: For just $30, you get transportation, guides, meals, and the experience of a lifetime.
Limited optional extras: Extras like horseback riding or entrance fees are separate, so budget accordingly.

The Day Itself: From Cusco to Humantay Lake

The adventure begins early, with your guide arranging pickup from your hotel or hostel in Cusco around 4:00 to 4:30 am. We appreciated the punctuality and the comfortable transport that took us out of the city and into the countryside. The 2-hour drive to Mollepata is a good chance to catch some rest or chat with fellow travelers.

Once in Mollepata, breakfast is served. The tour includes a buffet breakfast, featuring local products, which is a thoughtful way to fuel up before the trek. We found this especially helpful given the early start and the strenuous activity to come. During breakfast, you can also purchase water and snacks for the hike, ensuring you stay hydrated and energized.

After breakfast, a further hour takes you through scenic mountain roads to Soraypampa, a high-altitude plateau at about 3,950 meters. Here, you get your first real look at Apu Salkantay (6,230 meters) and Humantay (5,250 meters). The grandeur of these peaks makes a lasting impression — you’ll be forgiven for pulling out your camera repeatedly.

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The Hike: Challenging Yet Rewarding

The most physically demanding part of the day is the 2-hour hike to Humantay Lake. The trail is steep in parts, but the small group size means your guide can pace the ascent to suit everyone. We loved the way our guide was attentive, making sure everyone kept a comfortable pace and took breaks when needed.

Expect to reach the lake at around 4,200 meters. The view of the turquoise, glacier-fed lagoon surrounded by rugged mountains is absolutely worth every step. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a short optional climb above the lake, giving you a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and the lake itself. It’s a little effort for a big payoff.

For those concerned about altitude, one reviewer mentions how the challenge was real but ultimately rewarding: “It was a challenge to overcome the altitude but it was worth it!” That’s a reminder that this trek isn’t for everyone, but those who are prepared will find it manageable and immensely satisfying.

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The Descent and Return

After soaking in the views and possibly taking some photos, the group begins the easy descent back to Soraypampa. The downhill walk takes about an hour, and it’s a good opportunity to chat with fellow travelers or just enjoy the scenery.

From Soraypampa, private transportation takes you back to Mollepata for a local buffet lunch. The lunch is included in the tour price and offers a variety of local dishes, with vegetarian options available. We appreciated the chance to refuel with authentic Peruvian cuisine after the hike.

The journey concludes with a return trip to Cusco, arriving between 5:00 and 6:00 pm. The comfortable ride back offers a chance to relax and reflect on a day packed with adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $30 per person covers quite a lot: hotel pick-up, transportation, bilingual guides, breakfast and lunch buffet, and safety equipment like a first aid kit and oxygen bottle. You also get an optional wooden walking stick to help with the steep parts of the trail.

Extras include the entry fee (25 PEN, payable in cash), the option to rent a horse for 80 PEN if the hike feels too tough, and tips for guides and drivers. These add-on costs are typical, but it’s worth considering them when budgeting.

Authenticity and Experience

Reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with one reviewer calling the guide “great” and expressing satisfaction with the overall experience. The small group size and personalized attention seem to make a real difference, especially on the challenging sections of the hike.

Travelers also appreciate the stunning scenery—the mix of mountain panoramas, the color of Humantay Lagoon, and the sense of achievement after the trek. While some mention the challenge of the altitude, others found the effort rewarding enough to recommend the trip wholeheartedly.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

The Humantay Lake tour offers great value for travelers eager to combine physical activity with awe-inspiring scenery. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy adventure hikes, are in good health, and don’t mind an early start. The inclusion of meals and transport makes it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

If you’re looking for a small-group, guided day trip that balances cultural moments with natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a meaningful connection with the Peruvian landscape without the complexity of multi-day treks.

Just keep in mind the altitude and physical demands—prepare accordingly, especially if you’re sensitive to high elevations. The views and sense of accomplishment are well worth the effort, making this a memorable day that will stay with you long after you leave Cusco.

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FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The pickup occurs between 4:00 and 4:30 am, so be prepared for an early morning to maximize your day.

How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike lasts about 2 hours, reaching an altitude of 4,200 meters, with plenty of opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation, bilingual guides, breakfast and lunch buffet, a first aid kit, and an oxygen bottle for emergencies.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entry fee (25 PEN) must be paid in cash, and horseback rental is available for 80 PEN if you prefer not to hike the entire way.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour is great for active travelers, the high altitude and steep sections may not be suitable for very young children or those with certain health issues. Always assess your comfort with high-altitude hiking.

What should I bring?
Bring layers suitable for mountain weather, water, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and possibly a small backpack for your belongings during the hike.

To sum it up, the Humantay Lake tour from Cusco offers a well-rounded adventure: impressive scenery, authentic local meals, and a manageable physical challenge. It’s perfect for travelers craving a taste of the high Andes without committing to a multi-day trek. Whether you’re an active explorer or simply want to see some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes, this trip provides a memorable, value-packed experience.