Tucked away in the Andes, Cusco offers a stunning day trip to Humantay Lake. Set out on a scenic drive, then hike to the breathtaking turquoise lagoon. Fuel up with breakfast and lunch, surrounded by the majestic mountain views. This adventure combines natural beauty and culinary delights, promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of Peru. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a new challenge, the Humantay Lake hike has something to captivate every explorer.

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Key Points

This day trip from Cusco offers a scenic hike to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lagoon, with early pickup, breakfast, and a buffet lunch included.
The 2-hour hike to the lagoon, at an altitude of 4,200 meters, rewards trekkers with panoramic views of the surrounding Andes peaks.
Flexible booking and free cancellation options are available, allowing for hassle-free planning.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and all necessary hiking equipment, ensuring a seamless experience.
Optional horse rental is available for the hike, and entry fees to the Humantay Lagoon are covered in the package price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Hiking Day Trip

The hiking day trip to Humantay Lake offers an exhilarating adventure that showcases the natural beauty of the Cusco region.

Departing from Cusco in the early morning, guests embark on a scenic drive to the trailhead at Challacancha. The 2-hour hike to the turquoise-colored Humantay Lagoon rewards trekkers with stunning vistas of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

An early morning departure from Cusco leads to a 2-hour hike rewarded with stunning vistas of the turquoise Humantay Lagoon and snow-capped peaks.

After spending time to explore and capture photos, the group returns along the same trail. A buffet lunch in Mollepata refuels hikers before the journey back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Flexible booking and free cancellation make this a convenient day trip option.

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Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with an early 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. pickup from accommodations in Cusco’s historic center.

After a breakfast stop in Mollepata, the group travels to Challacancha, the starting point for the 2-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon.

At an altitude of 4,200 meters, hikers can take in the spectacular turquoise waters and scenic mountain views.

Following the exploration, the group returns to Challacancha and enjoys a buffet lunch in Mollepata before the journey back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 p.m.

Throughout the day, the bilingual guide provides support, and hiking equipment and entrance fees are included.

Highlights of the Hike

Scenic mountain vistas and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lake make this hike a truly remarkable experience.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding Andes peaks. The highlight, of course, is reaching the stunning Humantay Lagoon, whose vibrant color is simply mesmerizing.

Take your time to explore the area, snap some unforgettable photos, and soak in the serene beauty of this natural wonder.

The hike back offers equally impressive scenery, ensuring an unforgettable day.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This day trip to Humantay Lake includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

It provides hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a bilingual guide. Breakfast and a buffet lunch are included, along with walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen.

The entry fee to Humantay Lagoon is covered, though optional horse rental is available for an additional cost. Travel insurance is also provided.

This comprehensive package allows hikers to focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the lake without having to worry about logistics.

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Location and Meeting Point

Humantay Lagoon is situated 25 kilometers from Mollepata, a town in the province of Anta, Cusco. The meeting point for the tour is available on Google Maps, making it easy for travelers to find.

The location offers:

Scenic views of the surrounding mountains
Easy access to the trailhead
Convenient transportation options
Opportunities for exploration and photography

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip transportation, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

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Pricing and Booking Details

The tour to Humantay Lake is priced from $37.00 per person, with flexible booking options allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later. The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This day trip lasts approximately 14 hours, with hotel pickup in Cusco and return around 6:00 p.m.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Round-trip from Cusco |

| Guide | Bilingual (Spanish, English) |

| Meals | Breakfast and buffet lunch |

| Equipment | Walking sticks, first aid, oxygen |

| Entry Fee | Humantay Lagoon (10 soles for nationals, 20 soles for foreigners) |

Horse rental is available for 60 soles. Travel insurance is also included in the price.

Preparing for the Hike

Preparing for the hike to Humantay Lake requires some advance planning. Wear comfortable hiking boots, layers of clothing, and sun protection.

Bring plenty of snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated. Consider bringing trekking poles to ease the strain on your knees during the descent.

While horses can be rented, the hike is still challenging, so ensure you’re in good physical condition.

Wear proper hiking gear
Pack ample food and water
Use trekking poles if needed
Ensure you’re physically prepared

Exploring the Humantay Lagoon

Upon reaching the parking lot at Challacancha, hikers embark on a 2-hour trek to the mesmerizing Humantay Lagoon.

At an altitude of 4,200 meters, the breathtakingly vivid turquoise waters of the lagoon come into view. Hikers can explore the area, snap photos, and soak in the stunning mountain scenery.

At an altitude of 4,200 meters, the lagoon’s breathtakingly vivid turquoise waters come into view. Hikers can explore and capture the stunning scenery.

The lagoon’s tranquil surface reflects the towering Humantay Peak, creating a mirror-like effect. Visitors may spot local wildlife like Andean geese or chinchillas.

After spending time at the lagoon, hikers retrace their steps back to the starting point, marveling at the natural beauty they’ve witnessed.

Since You Asked

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Hike?

There is no minimum group size required for the hike. The trip is available for individual travelers as well as groups of any size, providing flexibility to join the excursion at your convenience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the hike. The tour includes breakfast and a buffet lunch, but you’re free to pack additional snacks or beverages to enjoy during the trek.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Hiking Day Trip?

The trip has no age restrictions, but it’s recommended for children 6 and older due to the strenuous 2-hour hike to the lake at high altitude. Participants should be in good physical condition.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Day of the Hike?

If the weather is poor, the hike may be cancelled for safety reasons. The tour provider offers a full refund or the option to reschedule for another day with better conditions.

Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Hike Is Completed?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco after the hike. The tour operator provides flexibility, allowing participants to make their own arrangements for accommodations and activities beyond the scheduled hiking trip to Humantay Lake.

The Sum Up

This day trip to Humantay Lake from Cusco offers an unforgettable experience blending natural beauty and regional cuisine. The scenic drive, rewarding hike, and ample time to explore the stunning turquoise lagoon make this an adventure not to be missed. With all the essentials included, travelers can fully enjoy the captivating landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.