Humantay Lake day tour (6 Small Group)

Exploring Humantay Lake: A Detailed Review of the Small-Group Day Tour

If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Cusco and learn about Peru’s spectacular natural landscape, the Humantay Lake day tour offers an excellent way to do so. Priced at $135 per person, this full-day adventure takes roughly 11 to 13 hours, covering a scenic drive, a rewarding hike, and some truly unforgettable vistas. What makes this tour stand out is its small-group size—limited to just six people—which ensures a more personal, relaxed experience. Plus, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, you won’t have to worry about navigating busy transportation hubs or fitting into large tour buses.

Two features we really appreciate are the personalized guide service—with bilingual guides explaining the landscape and local stories—and the attention to health and safety, such as providing oxygen tanks for altitude adjustment. The latter can make or break your experience, especially given the high elevations involved. The only potential drawback? The early start time of around 3:30 am might be tough for some, but it’s well worth it to beat the crowds and catch sunrise views. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who value intimate small-group settings and want to experience one of Peru’s most iconic lakes at their own pace.

Key Points

• Small group size (max six participants) for a more intimate experience
• Flexible pace and personalized guidance, including oxygen support
• Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience and hassle-free logistics
• Stunning scenery and high-altitude trekking, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels
• All-inclusive amenities such as breakfast, lunch, snacks, and entrance tickets
• Early start to maximize sightseeing and avoid crowds

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day begins at around 3:30 am when your guide, along with your driver, will come to collect you from your hotel. This early start is crucial because it allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy the lake in peaceful solitude, a sentiment echoed by travelers who found arriving early “priceless” for its serenity. The drive to Mollepata, where a light breakfast awaits, is part of the charm—you’ll get a glimpse of the rural Peruvian countryside while fueling up for the day ahead.

Breakfast at Mollepata and Ascent to Soraypampa

After breakfast, the journey continues to Soraypampa at 3920 meters above sea level, right in front of the spectacular Salkantay snow-capped peaks. Here, you’ll have time to appreciate the scenery and get comfortable before starting your trek. The guides often point out the Sky Camp nearby, which offers stunning views of the mountains and glaciers—ideal for photo ops or just soaking in the landscape.

The Hike to Humantay Lake

The highlight is the approximately 3.5-kilometer hike (round-trip) to Humantay Lake, which takes about 3 hours. The trail is rated as moderate but should be manageable for anyone with decent fitness and a love of walking. As you ascend, you’ll cross breathtaking landscapes—rugged terrain, wildflowers, and sweeping mountain views. The altitude (starting at 3920m and reaching around 4200m) can be challenging, but guides provide oxygen tanks and support to help you adjust.

Reaching the Lake and Relaxing

Once at the lake, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the turquoise waters of Humantay, framed by towering peaks and glaciers. Many reviews rave about the peaceful atmosphere—some arriving early to enjoy it in solitude, as one traveler put it, “the lake was almost deserted when we arrived.” You can choose to take photos, soak in the scenery, or simply breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Return Journey with Lunch and Descent

After spending time at the lake, you’ll retrace your steps back to Soraypampa, then continue the scenic drive to Mollepata for a well-earned lunch. The tour wraps up with a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer back to your Cusco hotel, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Additional Details and Highlights

Included in the tour are a first aid kit, oxygen tank, snacks, breakfast and lunch, entrance tickets, and a bilingual guide. These amenities not only add convenience but also demonstrate the tour’s emphasis on safety and comfort—especially crucial at higher altitudes.

The private transportation ensures a smooth ride, avoiding the chaos of public buses and allowing the guide to tailor the pace to your needs. The small group size fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, where questions and conversation flow easily.

What Travelers Love

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights about the landscape, as well as the stunning views that unfold at every turn. As one reviewer noted, “The view and landscape is spectacular. It’s worth living.” Travelers also appreciated the warm blankets and attentive service—small touches that go a long way during early mornings and chilly mountain weather.

Considerations for Travelers

The main consideration is the early start time, which can be tough for some but is essential for experiencing the lake before crowds arrive. Also, the moderate physical fitness requirement is worth noting—altitude and terrain demand some stamina, though guides are supportive and provide oxygen for altitude relief.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who cherishes off-the-beaten-path natural beauty and prefers a small, intimate group to explore with, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for adventurous travelers comfortable with moderate hikes at high elevations. The personalized guidance, combined with stunning views and all-inclusive logistics, make it a fantastic choice for those seeking an authentic and seamless experience.

Final Words

This Humantay Lake day tour from Cusco offers a rare chance to see one of Peru’s most breathtaking lakes without the hassle of large groups or complicated planning. The combination of small-group intimacy, expert guides, and spectacular scenery creates a memorable adventure that’s both accessible and deeply rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a curious traveler eager to see natural wonders, this tour balances adventure with comfort, making every step worth the effort.

To sum it up: you’ll love the personalized service, the stunning landscape, and the authentic experience of visiting Humantay Lake. It’s a day designed to leave you with unforgettable memories—and some fantastic photos, too.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with moderate fitness levels?
Yes, the hike is classified as moderate, and guides provide oxygen tanks to help manage altitude. Some walking experience is helpful, but it’s manageable for most travelers with decent fitness.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup is around 3:30 am, giving you a head start on the day. It’s early, but it ensures you beat the crowds and see the lake in peaceful quiet.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transportation is included for the entire day, from hotel pickup to return.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast at Mollepata and a full lunch after the hike as part of the tour.

What should I bring?
Warm clothes (gloves, hat, extra socks), sunglasses, sunscreen, a buff-mask, waterproof clothing (weather can change fast), and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour private or small-group?
It’s limited to just six people, offering a more personalized experience compared to large group tours.

Can I ride horses instead of hiking?
The tour price does not include horse rentals, but some reviews mention that guides suggested taking horses for a more relaxed ascent—worth asking your guide if interested.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this small-group Humantay Lake tour combines convenience, intimacy, and spectacular scenery in one memorable day. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to experience Peru’s natural beauty with expert guidance, comfortable logistics, and a touch of adventure.