Humantay Lake Tour from cusco

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Humantay Lake from Cusco

This full-day tour to Humantay Lagoon offers a fantastic escape from the bustling streets of Cusco into the quiet grandeur of the Peruvian Andes. For $49 per person, you’ll be picked up early morning—around 4:30 to 5:00 am—and whisked away on a roughly 13-hour round-trip adventure. The journey takes you through Mollepata and Soraypampa, culminating at a stunning lagoon at 4,250 meters.

What we love most? First, the impressive mountain scenery that surrounds Humantay and the up-close experience with high-altitude landscapes. Second, the well-organized logistics, including transportation, breakfast, lunch, and essential safety gear like first aid and oxygen—adding peace of mind on this demanding trek.

A potential consideration? The early start and high altitude might be challenging for some travelers, so good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are advised. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy moderate hikes and want a full-day immersive experience in genuine natural beauty.

If you’re after a memorable day out, love stunning mountain views, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, this tour offers genuine value and authenticity for your Cusco trip.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: You’ll witness some of the most striking landscapes in Cusco, with panoramic mountain vistas and the shimmering Humantay Lagoon.
• All-Inclusive Value: The price covers transportation, breakfast, lunch, guides, and safety gear, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Early Departure: The tour starts very early, around 4:30 am, to beat the crowds and enjoy the best light and weather.
• Moderate Hike: Expect a hike of about 1.5 hours to reach the lagoon at high altitude, suitable for those with moderate fitness.
• Authentic Experience: The guide provides explanations about the lagoon’s origin and local significance, adding educational value.
• Authentic Landscapes: This isn’t a touristy spectacle, but a chance to stand in awe of untouched natural beauty.

In-Depth Review of the Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco

Starting Out: Early Morning Pickup and Transportation

The journey begins with an early pickup from your Cusco hotel, between 4:30 am and 5:00 am. While the time may seem brutal, it’s designed to maximize your day, allowing you to arrive at Mollepata in time for breakfast. The transport is comfortable, and the small group size—a maximum of 15 travelers—means you won’t be lost in a crowd.

The drive takes you through the scenic countryside of Peru’s Vilcabamba mountain range, which is a treat in itself. Expect crisp morning air, and if you’re lucky, glimpses of local villages waking up as you ascend.

Breakfast and the Drive to Soraypampa

After about two hours, you’ll stop at Mollepata for breakfast—an essential fueling station before the hike. The small town offers a chance to stretch your legs, use clean facilities, and enjoy some local flavor. Many find this moment a pleasant break from the early hours and a good prep for the more demanding part ahead.

Then, it’s onward to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike. The terrain begins to change here, opening into beautiful landscape views with sweeping mountains and valleys. This part of the trip is a visual highlight, setting the scene for the hike to Humantay.

The Hike: Climbing to Humantay Lagoon

From Soraypampa, the trek to Humantay Lagoon takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. The path ascends through impressive natural scenery, with mountains towering around you and glimpses of snow-capped peaks, including Apu Salkantay.

The altitude—4,250 meters (13,944 feet)—is a significant factor. Expect to encounter signs of high elevation, such as shortness of breath or fatigue, especially if you haven’t acclimated. This is why the guides recommend moderate physical fitness, and why the tour supplies oxygen if needed.

Reaching the lagoon is a moment of pure awe. The turquoise waters contrasted with the rugged mountain backdrop create a postcard-perfect scene. The guide will share insights into the lagoon’s origin and cultural significance, enriching your appreciation.

Time at Humantay Lagoon

Once at the lagoon, you’ll have time for photographs—the scenery is truly spectacular and worth capturing from multiple angles. If you’re feeling adventurous, there might even be an opportunity for a short dip or bath, though the water is cold and high-altitude swimming isn’t for everyone.

The guide offers explanations about the local ecosystem and the spiritual importance of the site, which many travelers find enhances the experience.

Returning Journey and Lunch

After soaking in the views and snapping photos, it’s time to head back down to Soraypampa and then to Mollepata. The descent offers a different perspective, with the landscape unfolding beneath you.

A hearty lunch is included, giving you energy for the rest of the day. Expect local dishes—simple, filling, and reflective of Andean culinary traditions.

End of the Tour

The return trip concludes back at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco in the evening, around 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Given the long day, most travelers find it a rewarding, if physically demanding, adventure, with ample time to reflect on the stunning scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour is designed for those who appreciate authentic natural beauty and are comfortable with moderate hikes at high altitude. The guides are experienced and provide insightful explanations that deepen your understanding of the landscape and local culture. The included safety gear, such as first aid kits and oxygen, ensures that travelers are well cared for in this challenging environment.

The price of $49 seems reasonable given everything included—transport, meals, guiding, and safety equipment. Considering the stunning views and the intimate group size, it offers excellent value for travelers wanting to see something truly special in Cusco’s surroundings.

What We Think Works Well

• The early start maximizes daylight and helps avoid crowds.
• The small group size enhances the personal experience.
• The all-inclusive approach simplifies logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery.
• The expert guide provides context that enriches the visit, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Potential Drawbacks

• The early departure might be tough if you’re not a morning person.
• The high altitude hike could be challenging for some, so proper acclimatization is recommended.
• It’s a long day, so travelers should be prepared for a full day of activity.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see the hidden gems of Cusco’s natural landscape. If you love stunning mountain vistas, authentic cultural insights, and are comfortable with moderate physical activity, you’ll find this experience both rewarding and memorable.

It’s also ideal for those looking for a full-day guided adventure that balances effort and reward—the spectacular views at Humantay Lagoon make the early start and physical effort worthwhile. Families with moderate fitness levels, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a genuine connection with nature will find this tour a highlight of their Cusco visit.

FAQ

What is the departure time for the tour?
The tour starts between 4:30 am and 5:00 am, ensuring you arrive early at the lagoon for the best views and fewer crowds.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
While it’s designed for those with moderate fitness, the high altitude (4,250 meters) can be challenging. Travelers should be prepared for a moderate hike and consider their acclimatization status.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, breakfast, lunch, a professional guide, first aid kit, oxygen, and hiking canes. Entrance fee of 25 soles is not included.

How long is the hike to Humantay Lagoon?
The hike from Soraypampa to the lagoon takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes at a moderate pace.

Can I take a bath in the lagoon?
While there might be an opportunity, the water is very cold at that high altitude, so swimming or bathing is optional and depends on your comfort.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Plaza de Armas in Cusco and concludes back at the same location in the evening.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is popular and typically booked about 36 days in advance. Booking early assures your spot on this memorable adventure.

To sum it up, the Humantay Lake tour from Cusco offers an excellent mix of stunning scenery, well-organized logistics, and authentic cultural insights. It’s a fantastic day for those eager to experience Peru’s natural beauty without over-complicating travel arrangements. Whether you’re looking for a photo-worthy highlight or a genuinely immersive outdoor experience, this trip makes every effort worthwhile—just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of hiking shoes.