Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour

An In-Depth Look at the Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour

If you’re in Cusco and craving a day escape that combines breathtaking scenery with a bit of adventure, the Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour offers an excellent choice. For around $43 per person, you get to experience one of Peru’s most iconic natural sights—Humantay Lagoon—set against the backdrop of the majestic Salkantay Snowy. The tour runs about 10 hours, starting early in the morning, and is designed for travelers who want an intimate, guided experience rather than a large-group bus ordeal.

What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized touch—it’s a private experience, meaning your group gets undivided attention, and the guide (notably a friendly and knowledgeable one) can tailor the experience a bit. We also appreciate the blend of scenic walking and comfort with included meals—breakfast and lunch—making it a well-rounded day. That said, the early start (pick-up at 4:00 a.m.) and long car ride (almost 4 hours to the trailhead) might be a challenge for some travelers, so stamina and preparation are key.

This tour suits travelers with a fair level of physical fitness who are eager to see spectacular landscapes and don’t mind a bit of a trek. If you’re someone who values authentic natural beauty over luxury, this experience offers a genuine chance to connect with Peru’s highland environment.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Personalized attention and a flexible experience.
• Early start: Perfect for maximizing your day but requires stamina.
• Stunning scenery: Views of Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Snowy are unforgettable.
• Inclusive meals: Breakfast and lunch help keep energy levels high.
• Moderate hiking: About 1 hour and 20 minutes ascent from Soraypampa.
• Cost and value: Affordable price for a full-day guided experience.

The Complete Experience of the Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour

The Journey Begins Early

Your day kicks off at 4:00 a.m. with a hotel pickup—an early start, but one that pays off by giving you maximum daylight for your adventure. The ride to the trailhead takes nearly four hours, so bring snacks and patience. The long car ride might be a downside for some, as Alyssa noted in her review: “the car ride is very long, it was almost 4 hours,” but the upside is that you get to see some of the highland scenery en route.

Breakfast at Soraypampa and the Scenic Walk

Once you arrive around 6:30 a.m., you’ll be served breakfast—an essential meal before the hike begins. After fueling up, you’ll walk approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes (around 5 kilometers) from Soraypampa to the starting point of the trek. The walk offers sweeping views of the snowy peaks, with the Imposing Snowy of Salkantay visible across the landscape—an incredible sight that makes the effort worthwhile.

Climbing to Humantay Lagoon

The ascent is moderate and scenic, with some walking sticks provided, which can be a real help on uneven terrain. As we loved in the reviews, the walk is about 1 hour and 20 minutes—not a strenuous climb but enough to get your heart rate up, especially at high altitude. The trail is well-marked, and the air is crisp. Once you arrive at the lagoon, you’re greeted with the turquoise waters of Humantay, a vivid contrast to the snowy peaks. The photos you’ll take here will be stunning, capturing the mirror-like surface reflecting the surrounding mountains.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

The main highlight—and rightly so—is the view of Humantay Lagoon paired with the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay. The lagoon’s serenity and vibrant color make it a photographer’s dream. Many reviews highlight how magical this moment is; Alyssa called it “an experience” and praised the guide. The vantage point offers a sense of being on top of the world, especially with the Salkantay Snowy looming nearby.

Return and Lunch

After soaking in the scenery and taking plenty of photos, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa. The return hike is typically quicker, and you’ll head back for a delicious lunch—a welcome break after the morning’s exertion. Lunch is included, and it’s a good chance to relax and swap stories with fellow travelers.

Return to Cusco

Following lunch, you’ll hop into your private vehicle for the drive back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The tour ends at the main Plaza de Armas or close to your hotel—convenient and hassle-free.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The personalized experience with a private guide ensures you get tailored attention and flexibility. For instance, guides often share insights about the local flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area—adding educational value beyond just sightseeing. The inclusion of walking sticks and meals adds comfort and convenience, especially critical when you’re dealing with altitude and a long day.

Another strength is the spectacular scenery. The view of Humantay Lagoon with the Salkantay Snowy as a backdrop is truly breathtaking. Many reviewers mention how special this sight is—it’s a scene you won’t forget.

Considerations Before Booking

The main consideration is the early start and the long car ride. If you’re not an early riser or prefer relaxed mornings, this might be a challenge. Plus, the hike requires good physical fitness; while not overly strenuous, it does involve altitude and some walking on uneven ground. Alyssa’s review highlights that the tour might require some prep: “I think there needs to be serious disclaimers because I was not prepared for what I experienced.” Being ready for the altitude and long day is advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who want an authentic experience and don’t mind early mornings and some exertion. Nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to see one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes will find this tour highly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour offers a cost-effective and authentic way to witness one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. With a private guide, included meals, and breathtaking views, it strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort. While the early start and length of travel may not suit everyone, those prepared for a full day of scenic hiking and high-altitude sightseeing will leave with unforgettable memories.

If you’re looking for a meaningful outdoor experience outside of Cusco’s city limits—one that combines natural beauty with cultural richness—this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited physical fitness?
Probably not. The tour involves a 1 hour and 20-minute walk uphill at high altitude, so good physical fitness and acclimatization are recommended.

What is the main attraction of this tour?
The highlight is the view of Humantay Lagoon with the Salkantay Snowy as a stunning backdrop, along with the opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Peru.

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
No, the entrance fee (20 soles or about $5 USD) is not included and must be paid separately.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothes, sun protection, water, and possibly some snacks. The tour provides walking sticks and meals.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 10 hours, starting early with a pickup at 4:00 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for more flexibility and personalized attention.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Embarking on this tour guarantees a day filled with natural beauty, a bit of physical effort, and unforgettable mountain vistas—perfect for those eager to see a true jewel of the Peruvian highlands.