The Cusco: Humantay Lake and Salkantay Day Trip is an adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the Peruvian Andes. At just $29.90 per person, this 14-hour excursion promises stunning natural scenery, cultural insights, and a challenging yet rewarding hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Along the way, participants can savor delicious meals and bask in the presence of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, making this an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the region.

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Key Points

A 14-hour tour from Cusco that takes you to the sacred Incan site of Humantay Lake and the majestic Salkantay Mountain.
Includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, and professional guidance, with the option for an easy booking process and flexible cancellation.
Offers an immersive cultural experience in the Andes, with opportunities to explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.
Highlights a scenic 2-hour drive to Mollepata, a 1.5-hour steep climb to Humantay Lake, and lunch in Mollepata after the visit.
Provides comfort with tourist transport, permanent assistance, and the entry fee to Humantay Lake covered in the tour price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cusco: Humantay Lake and Salkantay Day Trip is a popular tour that takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Cusco region.

Priced from $29.90 per person, this 14-hour tour is offered in English and Spanish. Featuring free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund, the tour includes hotel pickups, transportation, meals, professional guidance, and assistance throughout the trip.

Highlights include trekking to the sacred Humantay Lake and visiting the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

With an easy booking process and flexible scheduling, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience in the heart of the Andes.

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Booking Information

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Cusco: Humantay Lake and Salkantay Day Trip and pay nothing today.

The "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option allows them to secure their place and pay when they’re ready. Customers can also check the tour’s availability, confirming start times and participant numbers, before booking.

This tour includes convenient hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center, with an alternative meeting point for hotels further away.

With a 24-hour free cancellation policy, travelers have flexibility in planning their Peruvian adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

A 2-hour scenic drive takes travelers from Cusco to the village of Mollepata, where they enjoy a breakfast before embarking on the trek.

The hike to Humantay Lake is a steep 1.5-hour climb, though an optional horseback ride is available. Along the way, trekkers may encounter:

Lush, verdant landscapes
Towering, snow-capped mountains
Serene alpine lakes
Local wildlife like alpacas and condors

After reaching the sacred Humantay Lake, guests savor a delightful lunch in Mollepata before the return journey to Cusco, with the majestic Salkantay mountain as a constant companion.

Included in the Tour

This tour includes transportation via tourist transport, providing a comfortable and convenient way to travel.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, allowing you to refuel during the outing.

A professional guide accompanies the group, sharing insights and expertise throughout the experience.

Permanent assistance is available to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Nature sticks are furnished for the trek, aiding in the ascent.

The approximate 25 soles entry fee to Humantay Lake is also covered.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a worry-free way to discover the stunning Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Mountain.

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Experience and Significance

The Humantay Lagoon, nestled in the Andes, is a sacred Incan site that captivates visitors with its stunning turquoise waters and the majestic Salkantay Mountain in the backdrop.

The Humantay Lagoon, a sacred Incan site, captivates visitors with its turquoise waters and the majestic Salkantay Mountain.

Trekkers can witness the lake’s ethereal beauty and feel a profound connection to the region’s rich cultural heritage. The tour offers an immersive experience:

Gazing upon the serene, mirror-like surface of the lagoon
Marveling at the towering, snow-capped peaks of Salkantay
Exploring the significance of this sacred site to the Inca civilization
Connecting with the natural splendor of the Andes mountain range

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Exploring Humantay Lagoon

Towering above the lush, verdant landscape, the Humantay Lagoon captivates visitors with its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Nestled at the base of the majestic Salkantay mountain, this sacred Incan site offers a breathtaking panorama.

Trekkers ascend the steep, winding path, marveling at the stunning vistas that unfold before them. The lagoon’s crystal-clear surface reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Explorers can bask in the tranquility of this remote, high-altitude lake, reconnecting with nature and the spiritual significance that has drawn pilgrims to this enchanting location for centuries.

Encountering Salkantay Mountain

During the trek, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the majestic presence of Salkantay Mountain. Standing at an impressive 20,574 feet (6,271 meters), this snow-capped peak dominates the landscape. The mountain’s rugged grandeur inspires awe and reverence, a testament to the power of nature.

As trekkers make their way through the pristine wilderness, they may encounter:

Towering glaciers that glisten in the sunlight
Rushing streams and cascading waterfalls
Diverse alpine flora and fauna
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes

Salkantay Mountain’s sheer magnitude and beauty leave a lasting impression, making it a must-see highlight of the Cusco day trip.

Getting to the Destination

After departing from Cusco’s historic center, visitors embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to the village of Mollepata.

Along the way, they take in the stunning Andean landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. The journey provides a taste of the natural beauty that awaits.

Upon arrival in Mollepata, travelers enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning the trek to Humantay Lake.

The 1.5-hour ascent to the sacred lake is steep, though an optional horseback ride is available for those who prefer a more leisurely approach.

The trek offers a glimpse of the revered Salkantay Mountain in the distance.

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The booking information does not specify a minimum group size. The tour is available for individuals or groups, with availability to be confirmed at the time of booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Customers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, so it’s not necessary to bring any additional snacks or beverages. The tour provider handles all the meals.

Is There Any Option for Vegetarian or Dietary Meals?

The tour includes a lunch, but visitors can request vegetarian or other dietary meals in advance. The guide will accommodate any special dietary needs to ensure everyone enjoys a comfortable and satisfying experience.

Can I Extend the Tour or Customize the Itinerary?

The tour operator offers some flexibility. Travelers can extend the trip or customize the itinerary, though additional costs may apply. It’s best to discuss any special requests or changes directly with the tour provider.

What Should I Wear and Bring for the Trek?

For the trek, wear comfortable hiking boots, layers of moisture-wicking clothing, and a warm jacket. Bring sunscreen, a hat, snacks, plenty of water, and trekking poles if desired. The tour company provides nature sticks to assist during the hike.

Sum Up

The Cusco: Humantay Lake and Salkantay Day Trip offers an unparalleled adventure into the heart of the Andes. With breathtaking views, a challenging hike, and immersion in the region’s rich cultural heritage, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for just $29.90 per person. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning Humantay Lagoon and encounter the majestic Salkantay Mountain on this 14-hour journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: