The Humantay Lagoon tour from Cusco offers a chance to witness the captivating beauty of this natural wonder. Trekking to the turquoise lake provides an opportunity to connect with the Inca culture‘s reverence for the land. With an experienced guide, a nutritious breakfast and lunch, and essential amenities, this one-day adventure immerses visitors in the magical landscapes of the Cusco region. Whether you’re seeking an enriching cultural experience or simply want to marvel at the stunning scenery, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.

Contents show

Key Points

A 1-day tour from Cusco to the turquoise Humantay Lagoon, a sacred site linked to Pachamama, with a 2-km hike and scenic views of Salkantay mountain.
The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch, as well as additional amenities like walking sticks and first aid.
The tour lasts approximately 1 day, with a 2.5-hour car ride to Mollepata for breakfast and a 1.5-hour car ride to reach the starting point at an altitude of 3900 meters.
Participants have the opportunity to engage in a gratitude ceremony with stones, honoring the sacred nature of the lagoon and connecting with Inca traditions.
The tour offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and is available in Aymara, English, and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Humantay Lagoon 1-Day Tour offers a captivating adventure from Cusco, providing travelers with the opportunity to witness the stunning turquoise waters of the Humantay Lagoon.

This full-day excursion is priced from $24.00 per person and lasts for approximately 1 day. Availability can be checked for various start times, and the tour can be cancelled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is offered in Aymara, English, and Spanish, catering to diverse linguistic needs. Pickup from Cusco hotels is included, along with round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and essential amenities like walking sticks and first aid.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Itinerary

Starting early in the morning, the tour begins with pickup from hotels within Cusco’s historic center between 4:00 and 5:00 AM.

It’s then a 2.5-hour car ride to Mollepata for breakfast. The journey continues for 1.5 hours by car to Soraypampa at an altitude of 3900 meters.

From there, hikers embark on a 2 km trek to Humantay Lagoon, which takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic views of Salkantay mountain and the diverse flora and fauna.

Humantay Lagoon

Humantay Lagoon is the main attraction of this tour. This turquoise-colored lake is fed by glaciers and reflects the sky beautifully.

Humantay Lagoon is a turquoise-colored lake fed by glaciers, reflecting the sky in a breathtaking natural display.

The lagoon is considered a sacred site for the Inca culture, linked to Pachamama (Mother Earth). Visitors have the opportunity to participate in a gratitude ceremony with stones during their visit.

The 2 km hike from Soraypampa to the lagoon takes 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views of Salkantay mountain and diverse flora and fauna.

The lagoon’s natural beauty and cultural significance make it a must-see destination for those exploring the Cusco region.

Sacred Site for Inca Culture

As a sacred site for the Inca culture, the Humantay Lagoon is deeply connected to Pachamama, or Mother Earth. This revered glacial lake holds great significance within the Inca belief system:

The turquoise waters are thought to represent the life-giving force of water, a vital element in Inca cosmology.
The surrounding mountains are considered sacred, with the Salkantay peak holding a prominent place in Inca spirituality.
Visitors can partake in a gratitude ceremony, offering stones as a gesture of respect and appreciation for the natural world.

More Great Tours Nearby

Gratitude Ceremony With Stones

Visitors to the Humantay Lagoon are offered the opportunity to participate in a gratitude ceremony with stones. This ritual honors the sacred nature of the lagoon and its connection to Pachamama, or Mother Earth.

Participants select stones from the ground and hold them as they reflect on their appreciation for the natural wonder before them. The guide then invites them to make an offering of the stones, symbolizing their gratitude.

This heartfelt ceremony allows visitors to deepen their connection to the land and the Inca traditions that hold it in reverence.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup within Cusco’s historic center, as well as round-trip transportation to the starting point.

Along the way, a bilingual guide accompanies the group, providing insights and assistance. Breakfast and a buffet lunch are also included, ensuring travelers are fueled for the day’s activities.

The tour also provides:

Walking sticks and a first aid kit for the hike
Oxygen, in case of altitude-related discomfort
The entry fee to Humantay Lagoon (10 soles for nationals, 20 soles for foreigners)
An optional horse rental for the hike (60 soles)
Travel insurance for peace of mind.

Customer Feedback

How has the Humantay Lagoon 1-Day Tour been received by customers? Based on 8 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5.

Customers have generally enjoyed the experience, praising the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation. However, some have noted limited food options and insufficient time at the lagoon as areas for improvement.

The tour provides hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, meals, and necessary equipment. While the majority of customers seem satisfied, the operator may want to consider feedback to enhance the overall experience.

Getting There

Getting to the Humantay Lagoon begins with an early morning pickup from hotels within Cusco’s historic center.

The journey takes around 2.5 hours, with a stop for breakfast in Mollepata along the way. The final leg of the drive climbs to Soraypampa, the trailhead at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) altitude.

From here, the hike to the lagoon covers:

The hike to the lagoon covers 2 km distance, 1.5 to 2 hours duration, and 300 meter elevation gain.

2 km distance
1.5 to 2 hours duration
300 meter (984 feet) elevation gain

With the high altitude and terrain, the hike can be challenging, but the stunning views of Salkantay Mountain and the turquoise Humantay Lagoon make it well worth the effort.

Things To Know

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The tour typically experiences cool and sometimes chilly weather, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Hikers should dress in layers and bring warm clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day’s activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and water for the tour. However, a breakfast and buffet lunch are already included in the tour package. Bringing extra snacks or hydration is optional but recommended, especially for the hike.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?

There are no strict age or fitness requirements, but the hike to Humantay Lagoon is considered moderate and not recommended for young children or those with limited mobility. Participants should be reasonably fit and able to hike for 1.5-2 hours.

Is the Tour Suitable for Solo Travelers?

The Humantay Lagoon 1-Day Tour is suitable for solo travelers. The tour offers hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a bilingual guide, making it a convenient option for individuals exploring on their own.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Lagoon?

The tour’s fixed itinerary doesn’t allow for extended stays at the Humantay Lagoon. Guests have 1.5-2 hours to explore the area before returning. If more time is desired, it’s recommended to book a multi-day trekking package instead.

Sum Up

The Humantay Lagoon 1-day tour from Cusco offers a chance to immerse in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With a scenic journey, breakfast, lunch, and a guided hike to the stunning turquoise lake, it’s an affordable and comprehensive experience. The included gratitude ceremony honors the sacredness of the site for the Inca culture, making it a meaningful adventure for those seeking to explore the Cusco region.