Exploring the breathtaking Humantay Lake from Cusco is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts. This full-day tour whisks you away to the stunning turquoise waters nestled in the Andes at an impressive 4,200 meters. Along the way, you’ll savor a delicious breakfast and lunch buffet, as well as gain valuable insights from bilingual guides. While the hike may challenge, the reward of witnessing this natural wonder is truly unforgettable. What makes this experience truly unique, however, is…
Key Points
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A 12-hour tour from Cusco to Humantay Lake, featuring a hike to an altitude of 4,200 meters with stunning views of turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks.
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Complimentary breakfast and lunch buffets, including vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary needs.
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Bilingual guides fluent in English and Spanish, providing insightful information and ensuring a rewarding experience.
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Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now & pay later option offered.
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Proper hiking gear, including warm, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy boots, recommended for the high-altitude outdoor conditions.
Overview and Pricing
The tour from Cusco to Humantay Lake is priced from $30.00 per person and lasts 12 hours.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off near Plaza de Armas, transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, emergency equipment, and an optional walking stick.
The entrance fee of 25 PEN per person must be paid in cash. Horse rental is available for an additional 80 PEN per trip.
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Itinerary and Activities
The tour begins with pickup from your homestay, hostel, or hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM.
You’ll travel 2 hours to Mollepata for breakfast and to stock up on water and snacks.
Then, it’s a 1-hour drive to Soraypampa, where you’ll admire the majestic Apu Salkantay (6,230 meters) and Humantay (5,250 meters) mountains.
The highlight is a 2-hour hike to Humantay Lake at an altitude of 4,200 meters. An optional short climb offers panoramic views of the turquoise lake.
The hike to Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters offers panoramic views of the stunning turquoise lake with an optional short climb.
You’ll descend to Soraypampa and take private transportation back to Mollepata for lunch.
Included Services
This tour includes a variety of services to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience. Hotel pickup and drop-off near Plaza de Armas, as well as transportation, are provided. Guests will enjoy the expertise of a bilingual tour guide, fluent in both English and Spanish. Breakfast and lunch buffets, including a vegetarian option, are included. For emergencies, a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are available. Optionally, a wooden walking stick can be used during the hike. Entrance fees are also covered, though tips are not included in the package.
| Service | Details |
| — | — |
| Guides | Bilingual (English, Spanish) |
| Meals | Breakfast and lunch buffets, vegetarian option |
| Safety | First aid kit, oxygen bottle |
| Gear | Wooden walking stick (optional) |
| Fees | Entrance fee covered |
Customer Feedback
Although the overall rating for this tour is 3.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, the positive comments highlight the great tour guide and the challenging yet rewarding experience due to the high altitude.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and engaging guide who provides insightful information throughout the excursion.
Despite the rigorous hike to Humantay Lake, guests find the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks well worth the effort.
The tour’s inclusion of breakfast and lunch also receives favorable remarks, catering to diverse dietary needs.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Checking availability for starting times is recommended, as the tour has limited slots per day.
The meeting point is easily accessible via Google Maps, making it convenient for travelers to find.
While the package includes hotel pickup and drop-off near the Plaza de Armas, tips for the guide and driver aren’t included in the price.
Guests should come prepared with appropriate hiking gear and be mindful of the high altitude, which can pose challenges.
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Exploring the Humantay Lake
After the early morning pickup from Cusco, travelers embark on the journey to Humantay Lake, located at an impressive altitude of 4,200 meters. The 2-hour hike offers stunning views of the towering Apu Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Upon reaching the lake, guests can choose to climb a short distance for panoramic vistas of the turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, the group descends back to Soraypampa and returns to Mollepata for a well-deserved lunch buffet.
| Highlights | Duration | Difficulty | Altitude |
| — | — | — | — |
| Admire Apu Salkantay & Humantay | 2 hours | Moderate | 4,200 m |
| Hike to Humantay Lake | 2 hours | Moderate | 4,200 m |
| Optional panoramic viewpoint | 30 mins | Moderate | 4,200 m |
| Descend to Soraypampa | 2 hours | Moderate | 4,200 m |
Preparation and Packing
Preparing for the Humantay Lake excursion requires some thoughtful packing. The high altitude and outdoor conditions demand proper gear.
Layer up with warm, moisture-wicking clothing. Bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots and trekking poles for stability on uneven terrain. Pack plenty of water and snacks to refuel during the hike.
Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A camera is a must to capture the stunning scenery.
Lastly, be prepared for potential altitude sickness symptoms by packing any necessary medications. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle the Humantay Lake adventure.
Getting to the Meeting Point
Travelers can easily find the meeting point for the Humantay Lake tour, as it’s accessible via Google Maps. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off near Plaza de Armas, so getting to the starting location is convenient.
Key details about the meeting point include:
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Located near Plaza de Armas in Cusco
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Pickup time between 4:00 and 4:30 AM
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Bring comfortable clothing and gear for the hike
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Wear proper footwear for the high-altitude terrain
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Use Google Maps or ask your hotel staff for directions
With the logistics handled, travelers can focus on the stunning scenery and challenging trek that await at Humantay Lake.
Things To Know
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
There is no specific minimum age requirement mentioned for this tour. However, it involves a 2-hour hike at high altitude, so it may not be suitable for young children. Participants should be reasonably fit and accustomed to hiking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the hike. The tour includes a breakfast and lunch buffet, but hikers are welcome to supplement this with their own snacks and beverages for the trek to Humantay Lake.
Is the Trail Well-Marked and Easy to Follow?
The trail to Humantay Lake is well-marked and easy to follow. Hikers can expect clear signage and a defined path, making the trek accessible even for those without prior experience. The guide also provides helpful navigation along the way.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Hike?
There are no dedicated restroom facilities along the hike to Humantay Lake. Hikers will need to rely on natural areas for breaks. The remote location means limited infrastructure, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can leave their luggage at the hotel during the Humantay Lake tour. The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, so there’s no need to bring extra luggage on the excursion.
Sum Up
The Humantay Lake tour from Cusco promises an unforgettable adventure in the stunning Peruvian Andes. With a two-hour hike to the turquoise waters at an altitude of 4,200 meters, the tour offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this tour is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
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