Setting out on a captivating day trip from Cusco, explorers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and cultural insights of Humantay Lake. Priced at $35 per person, this tour provides round-trip transportation, a delicious breakfast and lunch, as well as the guidance of an expert. Enjoy a scenic drive to Soraypampa, followed by a challenging yet rewarding hike to the stunning turquoise lake. What awaits at the end of this journey just might surprise you.

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Key Points

A day trip from Cusco to the scenic Humantay Lake, including round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a professional guide.
The tour takes approximately 8-9 hours, with a 2-hour hike to reach the turquoise Humantay Lake.
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
The tour is not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with back or heart problems due to the challenging hike.
Recommended attire includes comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, and a camera to capture the panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Humantay Lake day trip is a popular excursion from Cusco, offering visitors the chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.

Enjoy the stunning natural splendor of the Andes with a day trip to the captivating Humantay Lake from Cusco.

Priced from $35 per person, the 15-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a professional guide.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no need to pay upfront as a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.

Pickup is provided from hotels or Airbnbs in historic Cusco, making the day trip convenient for visitors.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with pickup from Cusco, followed by a 30-minute transfer to the Mollepata District.

Travelers then stop for a 1-hour breakfast before embarking on a 2-hour drive to Soraypampa.

From there, they’ll hike for 2 hours to reach the stunning Humantay Lake, where they’ll spend 45 minutes taking in the breathtaking views.

The return hike to Soraypampa takes 1 hour, followed by a 1-hour transfer back to Mollepata District.

The final 2-hour transfer brings travelers back to Cusco’s Plaza Mayor between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM.

Highlights and Experience

Scenic drives whisk travelers to the Humantay Lake, where they’re greeted by the towering Humantay Mountain in the Vilcabamba range.

An insightful guide shares the history and culture of the region, enhancing the experience. The hike to the lake is rewarding, offering breathtaking vistas. Delicious breakfast and lunch are included, fueling the adventure.

The highlights of this day trip include:

Stunning views of the turquoise Humantay Lake
Exploration of the Vilcabamba mountain range
Insights into the local history and traditions
A rewarding hike with breathtaking panoramas

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day trip to Humantay Lake includes round-trip transportation, a delicious breakfast and lunch, an expert guide to share the history and culture, entrance fees, hotel drop-off, and complimentary drinks and tips.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old, pregnant women, or individuals with back or heart problems.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water.

Smoking and alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed on the vehicle.

The hike is challenging and not recommended for those with physical limitations, as the weather can be unpredictable.

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Important Information

Participants should come prepared for the hike to Humantay Lake. The trail can be challenging, so appropriate attire and gear are essential.

Be sure to bring:

Comfortable, sturdy shoes to navigate the uneven terrain
Warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes
Sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Plenty of water to stay hydrated during the hike

Smoking and alcoholic drinks aren’t permitted on the vehicle.

While the views are breathtaking, the hike isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations. Checking the weather forecast and dressing in layers is highly advised.

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Pickup and Transportation

The day trip to Humantay Lake begins with convenient pickup from your hotel or Airbnb within historic Cusco.

A comfortable vehicle will transport you for a 30-minute drive to the Mollepata District. After a 1-hour breakfast stop, you’ll continue the 2-hour transfer to Soraypampa, the starting point of your hike.

The return journey follows the same route, with a 1-hour transfer back to Mollepata and a final 2-hour drive to arrive at Plaza Mayor de Cusco between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM.

Throughout the transportation, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

Hiking and Sightseeing

After the transfer to Soraypampa, you will embark on a challenging 2-hour hike to the stunning Humantay Lake.

The trail winds through alpine meadows and past glacial moraines, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Vilcabamba range. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the region’s history and culture.

Upon arrival at the lake, visitors can:

Marvel at the serene turquoise waters mirroring the majestic Humantay Mountain
Explore the shoreline and take in the serene ambiance of this natural wonder
Capture awe-inspiring photographs to commemorate the experience
Savor a well-deserved lunch while admiring the panoramic landscape

Meals and Dining

During the excursion, participants enjoy a delicious breakfast stop en route to the trailhead. The breakfast includes a variety of local and traditional Peruvian dishes, providing a hearty start to the day’s adventure.

After the hike to Humantay Lake, a satisfying lunch is served, featuring regional cuisine and fresh ingredients. Both meals are included in the tour package, ensuring travelers can refuel and recharge throughout the day’s activities.

The meals cater to various dietary needs, making the day trip accessible to a wide range of participants.

Things To Know

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, but there are no other age restrictions. Pregnant women and individuals with back or heart problems are also advised against participating in the challenging hike.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes breakfast and lunch, travelers are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks. This is to ensure a smooth and organized group experience. Any special dietary needs should be communicated to the tour operator in advance.

Is the Hike Suitable for People With Mild Health Conditions?

The hike may not be suitable for those with mild health conditions, as it’s considered challenging. However, individuals with reasonable fitness levels and no major physical limitations may be able to complete the trek with proper preparation and caution.

Can I Rent Any Equipment for the Hike?

No rental equipment is provided, but hikers can rent trekking poles, hiking boots, and warm layers from outfitters in Cusco. It’s recommended to come prepared with the proper gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Is It Possible to Extend My Stay at Humantay Lake?

No, it’s not possible to extend one’s stay at Humantay Lake. The tour is a day trip, and the itinerary includes only 45 minutes to visit and explore the lake before returning to Cusco. Extending the stay isn’t an option.

Sum Up

The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco is a must-do excursion for nature enthusiasts. The stunning turquoise lake, surrounded by towering peaks, offers an unforgettable experience. With round-trip transportation, delicious meals, and an expert guide, this affordable tour makes it easy to take in the region’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. Prepare for a challenging but rewarding hike, and return to Cusco with cherished memories of this captivating day trip.