Discover the Beauty of Humantay Lagoon: A Full-Day Adventure from Cusco

If you’re looking for a day filled with spectacular scenery and authentic Peruvian charm, the Lagoon Humantay tour is a great choice. Priced at just $26 per person, this full-day experience takes you from Cusco into the heart of the Andes, to marvel at a turquoise lake framed by snow-capped Salkantay. With a manageable walk that takes about an hour and a half to two hours, it’s accessible even for those who aren’t seasoned hikers.

What we love about this tour is the combination of comfortable transportation, which takes you through lush valleys and vibrant villages, and the delicious meals included—breakfast in Mollepata and a buffet lunch after the hike. Plus, the presence of an experienced guide—who can speak both English and Spanish—means you’ll get insightful commentary along the way.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early start—pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. might be tough for some. Also, the entrance fee (around 8 USD) isn’t included, so be sure to bring cash.

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, authentic experience with stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, especially those who appreciate good food and don’t mind an early start. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a moderate walk and are eager to see one of the most beautiful lakes in the region.

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Key Points

Affordable price for a full-day adventure including meals.
Stunning scenery with turquoise waters and snow-covered peaks.
Easy hike suitable for most fitness levels with excellent views.
Expert guides provide insights into local culture and geography.
Includes meals—breakfast in Mollepata and a buffet lunch.
Early start means an early wake-up but allows for a full day of exploration.

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Exploring the Humantay Lagoon Experience

What’s the Itinerary Like?

This tour kicks off with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel around 4:30 or 5:00 a.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day. The bus ride, which lasts about 2.5 hours, takes you through the verdant valley of the Apurímac River to Mollepata, a lively town where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast. This early meal sets you up for the day and offers a taste of local flavors—something we find particularly charming.

From Mollepata, your journey continues as the bus climbs into the mountains toward Soraypampa, the starting point for your hike. The walk to Humantay Lagoon is manageable—around one and a half to two hours—and the trail is generally easy, but be prepared for some slight inclines. You’ll love the way the landscape unfolds with vivid turquoise waters contrasted against the white snow of Salkantay, creating picture-perfect moments.

The Highlight: Humantay Lagoon

Once you arrive, the real star reveals itself. The turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon are truly breathtaking—an Instagram-worthy scene, but even better in person. The serene environment is perfect for taking photos, soaking in the scenery, and simply appreciating the peacefulness of the Andes. According to reviews, many find this spot to be a “beautiful lake” that fills you with a sense of awe and tranquility.

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What Comes Next?

After spending time at the lagoon, you’ll descend back to Mollepata for a buffet lunch—a chance to enjoy some local dishes and recharge. Then it’s time to head back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 p.m., with your last stop near the Plaza de Armas. The day wraps up with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, allowing you to reflect on an experience that’s as scenic as it is enriching.

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What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s value is boosted by several thoughtful inclusions:

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to the starting points
Breakfast in Mollepata—fuel for the hike
Guided tour with a bilingual guide who provides cultural and geographic insights
First aid kit, including emergency oxygen—important for altitude awareness
Buffet lunch after the hike, featuring local flavors

However, keep in mind that the entrance fee to Humantay Lake, approximately 25 Soles (8 USD), isn’t included. You may also choose to rent a horse if you’d rather skip part of the walk—an option some find helpful. Drinks, extra expenses, and souvenirs are also on your tab.

Meeting and Ending Points

Start your adventure with hotel pickup if you’re within the center of Cusco. If you’re staying outside the historic center, you can contact the tour operator to coordinate a meeting point. The tour concludes near the Plaza de Armas, making it easy to continue exploring Cusco afterward.

What to Bring and What to Know

What to bring: Sunglasses, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, a daypack for your essentials, cash for entrance fees, and drinks to stay hydrated.

What’s not allowed: Hats, sunglasses, cameras, and headphones during the hike—probably to keep everyone safe and focused.

Additional notes: The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, people with respiratory issues, or those over 95 years old. The early start can be challenging, but it allows you to make the most of the daylight.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. Rafael mentions, “The tour guide was really nice, with a huge knowledge about Peruvian culture…The lagoon is amazing, with a lot of peace.” Estefania highlights the comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and stunning scenery, calling it an unforgettable experience.

Many appreciate the value for money, noting that for just $26, they received a full day of adventure, good food, and beautiful views. The early start is often seen as a small price to pay for such a memorable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to see a stunning natural wonder without overexerting themselves. It suits those who value good food, authentic local experiences, and appreciate guided insight into their surroundings. Perfect for travelers who enjoy moderate hikes and want memorable photos without an overly strenuous trek.

However, if you’re not comfortable early mornings or have mobility limitations, you might want to consider other options or inquire about accommodations for your needs.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $26, you get a full day of adventure in some of the most scenic parts of the Cusco region. The combination of comfortable transportation, delicious meals, and the breathtaking views of Humantay Lagoon makes this tour a strong value. It delivers a genuine sense of Peru’s natural beauty, far from the crowds and commercialism.

This experience is particularly suited for first-time visitors wanting to see a highlight of the Andes or seasoned travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. The knowledgeable guides and authentic environment help you connect with the landscape and local culture in a meaningful way.

If you’re willing to wake up early and enjoy moderate trekking in a stunning setting, this tour offers a memorable slice of Peru’s natural splendor without breaking the bank.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up?
Pickup is between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., so expect an early start—perfect for making the most of the day but might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person.

Is the hike difficult?
The walk to Humantay Lagoon is considered easy to moderate, lasting about an hour and a half to two hours. It’s manageable for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, a daypack, cash for entrance fees, and drinks. Avoid cameras, hats, and headphones during the hike for safety reasons.

Is there an option to skip the walk?
The tour includes a walk, but some might choose to rent a horse for part of the trail—an additional cost.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast in Mollepata and a buffet lunch after the hike. Drinks are not included.

How long is the transportation?
The bus ride from Cusco to Mollepata takes about 2.5 hours, with additional time to reach Soraypampa and return.

What is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee to Humantay Lake is approximately 25 Soles (8 USD) and is payable on the spot.

Can I book this tour if I’m staying outside the historic center?
Yes, the pickup can be arranged with prior contact if your hotel is outside the central area.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best for those who can handle a moderate walk. The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. The tour can sometimes be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe, so check with the operator beforehand.

In summary, the Humantay Lagoon full-day tour offers a fantastic value for travelers eager to experience one of Peru’s most beautiful natural sights with ease and comfort. It’s a well-rounded option for those who want good food, stunning views, and insight into local landscapes—all for a very reasonable price.