From Cusco: Humantay Lake Tour

Situated at an impressive elevation, the Humantay Lake Tour promises an unforgettable adventure near Cusco, offering breathtaking landscapes and a chance to immerse oneself in the region's natural beauty.

For those seeking an unforgettable adventure near Cusco, the Humantay Lake Tour offers an unparalleled experience. This 12-hour tour, starting at just CZK 622 per person, promises breathtaking landscapes, a challenging hike, and a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty and rich culture. With a professional bilingual guide, complimentary meals, and transportation covered, this tour presents an opportunity to discover the hidden gem that is Humantay Lake. But what makes this excursion truly remarkable?

Key Points

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  • The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco is a approximately 12-hour tour that includes transportation, bilingual guide, meals, and entrance fees.
  • The tour begins with a scenic 2-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata for breakfast, followed by a 1.5-hour hike to Humantay Lake.
  • Guests have 40 minutes of free time to explore Humantay Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by the Andes mountains.
  • The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or those over 70 years old.
  • With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 34 reviews, the tour is praised for its attentive guides, great transportation, and stunning landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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The Humantay Lake Tour is a popular excursion from Cusco, Peru, offering visitors a chance to witness the stunning natural beauty of the Andes mountains.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours and costs from CZK 622 per person. Guests can reserve with a pay-later option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours and costs from CZK 622 per person. Guests can reserve with a pay-later option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, and entrance fees. Highlights include a scenic drive, a 1.5-hour hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, and 40 minutes of free time to explore.

Certain physical restrictions apply, and travelers should come prepared for the high altitude.

Itinerary

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The tour begins with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s city center, starting around 4:00 am (pickup time varies by location).

Guests then embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Mollepata for breakfast. The journey continues on dirt roads through stunning landscapes, canyons, and cloud forests, offering views of the Salkantay Glacier.

  • The hike to Humantay Lake takes approximately 1.5 hours, with breaks recommended due to the altitude.

  • Explorers will have 40 minutes of free time at the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

  • The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, breakfast, lunch, and entrance tickets.

  • Trekking poles, a first aid kit, and oxygen are available if needed.

  • Restrictions include no pets, large luggage, or drones.

Inclusions

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This tour includes a professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English) to lead the way.

Breakfast and lunch are also provided, ensuring you stay fueled throughout the day.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, ensuring you stay fueled throughout the day.

The transportation is handled by a professional driver, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive.

For the hike, you’ll have access to optional trekking poles, a first aid kit, and oxygen tanks if needed.

Entrance tickets to Humantay Lake are covered, allowing you to focus on exploring this stunning natural wonder.

All you need to bring are comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and some cash for any additional expenses.

Important Information

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While packing for this tour, it’s important to bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing to ensure a pleasant experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or those over 70 years old. No pets, large luggage, or drones are allowed.

In case of emergencies, guests can contact the tour operators at +51 979300796 or +51 983784029.

The tour’s high-altitude location means breaks are recommended during the hike to Humantay Lake. Proper preparation will help make this an unforgettable adventure.

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Warm clothing

  • Cash for snacks/restroom fees

  • No pets, large luggage, or drones

  • Emergency contacts available

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Customer Reviews

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Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Humantay Lake Tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 34 reviews. Travelers highlight the attentive guides, great transportation, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. One reviewer noted the "perfect timing" and "incredible care" from the tour team. Another praised the "informative guides" who provided valuable insights throughout the journey. The table below offers a deeper look at the customer feedback:

| Reviewer | Rating | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Jane D. | 5/5 | Breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides |

| Michael S. | 4.5/5 | Well-organized itinerary, comfortable transportation |

| Sarah T. | 5/5 | Delicious meals, excellent value for money |

| Tom R. | 5/5 | Smooth logistics, friendly staff |

Getting to Mollepata

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The tour starts with a scenic drive for about 2 hours from Cusco to the town of Mollepata.

Along the way, travelers will:

  • Admire the breathtaking Andean landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

  • Stop for a delicious breakfast to fuel up for the hike ahead.

  • Marvel at the winding mountain roads and hairpin turns that lead deeper into the highlands.

  • Spot local wildlife, such as llamas and alpacas, grazing in the fields.

  • Prepare for the challenging but rewarding trek to Humantay Lake by acclimatizing to the high altitude.

Hiking to Humantay Lake

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After reaching Mollepata, the tour group continues the journey toward Humantay Lake via dirt roads that wind through stunning landscapes, canyons, and cloud forests.

Along the way, they’re treated to views of the Salkantay Glacier.

The 1.5-hour hike to the lake is moderate in difficulty but challenging due to the high altitude. Guides recommend taking breaks to acclimate.

Once at the vibrant turquoise lake, nestled against a backdrop of towering peaks, hikers have 40 minutes to explore before heading back.

The tour includes trekking poles, first aid, and oxygen to support the ascent.

The Return Journey

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Having spent time exploring the serene Humantay Lake, it’s now time for the group to head back.

The trek down follows the same route, with the guide leading the way and keeping a watchful eye on the group. The descent is generally easier, yet participants must still exercise caution on the uneven terrain.

The return journey offers opportunities to:

  • Take in the stunning views one last time

  • Spot wildlife such as Andean condors or vicuñas

  • Appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the cloud forests

  • Reflect on the accomplishment of reaching the lakeside

  • Prepare for the final leg of the journey back to Cusco.

Things To Know

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What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Humantay Lake?

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season from May to October, when skies are clear and temperatures are mild, allowing for optimal hiking conditions and picturesque views of the striking turquoise lake.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the Humantay Lake Tour. The tour itinerary includes stops for breakfast and lunch, but additional personal provisions are allowed as long as they don’t disrupt the group.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on This Tour?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old. The high altitude hike and physical demands make it inappropriate for young kids. Participants must be at least 12 years old to join this Humantay Lake excursion.

How Challenging Is the Hike to Humantay Lake?

The hike to Humantay Lake is moderately challenging, lasting around 1.5 hours. It’s recommended to take breaks due to the high altitude. The tour provides trekking poles and support to assist hikers on the trek.

Can I Extend My Stay at Humantay Lake for More Exploration?

The tour allows 40 minutes of free time at Humantay Lake, but you can’t extend your stay for more exploration. The hike back is required to rejoin the group and continue the tour’s schedule.

Sum Up

The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the natural beauty and rich culture of the region. With a professional guide, meals, and transportation provided, participants can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a scenic getaway, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: