Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Humantay Lake from Cusco, where turquoise waters nestle at the base of the majestic Humantay Glacier. This 10-hour adventure includes a convenient hotel pickup, a continental breakfast, and a moderate hike through stunning Andean landscapes. Enjoy a buffet lunch after exploring the lake, with professional guides ensuring a memorable experience. With free cancellation, learn about Peru’s natural beauty with comfort and ease. Discover what makes this day trip truly captivating.
Key Points
- The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco includes hotel pickup, transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a guided hike to the turquoise glacier-fed lake.
- The tour duration is 10 hours, with an early morning pickup between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM, and a 2-hour hike to Humantay Lake.
- The tour is available in English and Spanish, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or individuals over 70 years old.
- Comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended for the best experience at Humantay Lake.
Tour Overview
The "Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch" is a comprehensive tour that offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the stunning Humantay Lake, located at the base of the Humantay Glacier.
Priced from $30.00 per person, the tour lasts 10 hours and is available in English and Spanish.
Pickup locations include Plaza Kusipata and Plaza de Armas, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, allowing visitors to book their spot and pay later.
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Detailed Itinerary
The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup, with guests being collected from either Plaza Kusipata or Plaza de Armas between 04:30 AM and 05:00 AM.
The journey begins with a 2-hour van ride to the Mollepata District, where a continental breakfast is served. From there, the group travels for 1 hour to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lake.
The moderate but steep 2-hour hike leads to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, nestled at the base of the Humantay Glacier. After 45 minutes of scenic exploration, the group returns to Soraypampa and travels back to Mollepata for a buffet lunch before heading back to Cusco.
Highlights of the Experience
Nestled at the base of the Humantay Glacier, the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake offer a nature experience unlike any other.
This day trip lets you witness the stunning natural beauty of the Andes as you hike to the lake. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast and a buffet lunch, providing fuel for the moderate yet steep trek.
The early arrival avoids crowds, allowing ample time to explore the area and capture breathtaking photos of the glacier-fed lake and the surrounding peaks.
The early arrival avoids crowds, allowing ample time to explore the area and capture breathtaking photos of the glacier-fed lake and the surrounding peaks.
This is an unforgettable opportunity to learn about the Andean landscape.
What’s Included and Not Included
This day trip includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, buffet breakfast and lunch, professional guides, a first-aid kit, and an entrance ticket are all included. A walking stick and drinks are also provided.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or over 70 years old.
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera, but luggage and drones aren’t allowed. Snacks and extra water are recommended for the trek.
More Great Tours NearbyRecommendations for Preparation
Before embarking on the Humantay Lake day trip, visitors should prepare accordingly. Comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes are a must, as the trek is moderate but steep and slippery.
Warm clothing, a sun hat, and rain gear are also recommended to combat the changeable mountain weather. Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscape, and don’t forget to pack extra snacks and water for the hike.
Luggage and large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light. With the right preparations, travelers can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Humantay Lake.
The hike to Humantay Lake begins with a steady ascent through the lush Andean landscape.
As the path steepens, hikers must navigate rocky terrain and slippery slopes. Trekking poles prove invaluable, providing stability and reducing strain on the knees.
The breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers offer ample motivation to push forward. Reaching the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake is a rewarding moment, allowing visitors to bask in the serene natural beauty.
The descent can be equally challenging, requiring hikers to descend carefully and maintain a steady pace. Proper footwear and preparation are key to conquering this exhilarating hike.
Dining and Refreshments
After the physically demanding trek, hikers can look forward to enjoying a well-deserved meal and refreshment.
The tour includes a continental breakfast at Mollepata, which provides an energizing start to the day.
Later, a buffet lunch is served at the same location, featuring a variety of local Peruvian dishes. Vegetarian options are available for those with dietary preferences.
Beverages, such as water and soft drinks, are provided throughout the day to keep hikers hydrated.
The meals are simple but satisfying, replenishing the energy spent on the hike to Humantay Lake.
Getting to Cusco and the Pickup Locations
Travelers can conveniently get to Cusco, the starting point of the Humantay Lake day trip, through various transportation options.
Cusco, the starting point of the Humantay Lake day trip, is accessible through various transportation options.
The city’s Plaza Kusipata and Plaza de Armas serve as the pickup locations for the tour. Visitors can reach Cusco by plane, bus, or taxi. The closest airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, located just a few kilometers from the city center.
Buses and shared vans also connect Cusco to other major Peruvian destinations. Once in the city, travelers can easily access the pickup points using local transportation like taxis or walking.
The tour operator provides clear instructions for meeting the group.
Things To Know
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing any animals due to safety and environmental concerns during the hike to Humantay Lake.
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The group size for this tour isn’t specified, but it’s likely a small group experience to maintain an intimate atmosphere and allow for personalized attention from the guide. Specific group sizes may vary.
Is There an Option to Do a Shorter Hike?
The tour doesn’t offer a shorter hike option. The full hike to Humantay Lake takes around 4 hours roundtrip. However, travelers can explore the area near the van drop-off point if they don’t want to hike the full trail.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?
Unfortunately, the tour does not offer luggage storage. Large bags and luggage are not allowed on the excursion. Participants are advised to bring only what they need for the day trip.
Is There Phone Reception and Wifi at Humantay Lake?
Phone reception and WiFi are limited at Humantay Lake due to its remote location. The tour doesn’t provide access to these services, so visitors should plan accordingly and bring any necessary communication devices or chargers.
Sum Up
The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco offers a chance to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Peru’s Andes. With a convenient start, hearty meals, and expert guidance, travelers can enjoy the serene turquoise waters and dramatic glacial landscapes. This unforgettable excursion is an ideal way to experience the wonders of the region with comfort and ease.
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