From Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip With Breakfast and Lunch

Nestled in the Andes, Humantay Lake is a true natural wonder. This day trip from Cusco offers a chance to witness its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop. With an early start, a hearty breakfast, and a guided hike, adventurers can enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes. But the journey doesn’t end there – what awaits upon return is a well-deserved buffet lunch, capping off an unforgettable experience. For those seeking an active exploration of Peru’s natural beauty, this trip could be the perfect addition to their Cusco itinerary.

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Key Points

This 12.5-hour day trip from Cusco includes transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch for $29 per person.
The tour involves a 2-hour scenic drive and a 2-hour trek (2.4 miles/4 km) to reach the stunning Humantay Lake.
The trip allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes essential safety gear like emergency oxygen.
Participants should be in good physical condition, and advisories are provided for individuals with certain health conditions or age.
Recommended gear includes comfortable shoes, warm clothing, snacks, and water, and participants should allow time for group pickup.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Humantay Lake Day Trip offers a chance to explore a stunning glacial lake nestled in the Andes Mountains. Priced from $29 per person, this 12.5-hour excursion departs from Cusco hotels.

Guests enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive, followed by a 2-hour trek to the lake. Lunch, transportation, and a bilingual guide are included.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later. While the trek requires moderate fitness, the rewards of this breathtaking location make it a must-do activity for visitors to the Cusco region.

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Itinerary and Activities

After being picked up from downtown Cusco hotels between 3:30 and 4:00 AM, the day begins with a 2-hour drive to Mollepata for breakfast and last-minute supplies.

The day begins with a 2-hour drive from Cusco hotels to Mollepata for breakfast and supplies.

The group then travels to Soraypampa, taking in stunning views of Apu Salkantay and Humantay.

From there, it’s a 2-hour trek (2.4 miles/4 km) to the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

After spending time at the lake, the group returns to Soraypampa for a buffet lunch before the journey back to Cusco, arriving between 5:00 and 6:00 PM.

Pricing and Inclusions

The day trip to Humantay Lake from Cusco is priced from $29.00 per person. The 12.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch with a vegetarian option. Entrance fees, an optional walking stick, and emergency oxygen are also provided. However, oversize luggage and tips are excluded.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Oversize luggage |

| Transportation | Tips |

| Bilingual guide | |

| Breakfast | |

| Buffet lunch | |

| Entrance fee | |

| Optional walking stick | |

| Emergency oxygen | |

Health and Safety Considerations

Not all travelers may be well-suited for the Humantay Lake day trip. The trek requires participants to be in relatively good physical condition, as it involves a 1.8-mile (3 km) climb to the lake.

Individuals with back or heart problems, altitude sickness, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg) or 70 years old are advised against joining.

Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so travelers should check forecasts before departure.

While rental horses are available, they aren’t managed by the tour provider, so participants must arrange this independently if needed.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour includes a first aid kit and emergency oxygen.

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Recommended Gear and Preparation

While preparing for the Humantay Lake day trip, travelers should bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing such as an extra sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves.

Snacks and water are also recommended. Participants should be aware that the rental of horses isn’t managed by the activity provider, so they’ll need to arrange it independently if needed.

It’s advisable to allow 30-45 minutes for group pickup, as the tour guide may arrive early.

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Customer Reviews

What do the customer reviews say about the Humantay Lake day trip?

Customers rave about this excursion, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on one review. Reviewers praise the trip’s organization, the quality of the food, and the dedication of the guide.

Customers rave about the excursion’s organization, quality of food, and dedicated guide, earning it a perfect 5/5 rating.

They highlight the breathtaking beauty of the lake and the overall exceptional experience. The tour seems to deliver on its promises, offering a well-planned adventure to this stunning natural wonder.

Customers who’ve taken the Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco appear thrilled with their decision and recommend the tour to others.

Getting to Humantay Lake

The Humantay Lake day trip begins with an early morning pickup from your downtown Cusco hotel, typically between 3:30 and 4:00 AM.

After the initial 2-hour drive to Mollepata, you’ll have a chance to enjoy breakfast and grab any last-minute supplies before continuing the journey.

The next leg of the trip takes you to Soraypampa, where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of Apu Salkantay (6,230 m) and Humantay (5,250 m).

From here, you’ll embark on a 2-hour, 2.4-mile (4 km) trek to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, the main highlight of the day.

What to Expect on the Day Trip

After the scenic drive and preparations, participants can expect an engaging and rewarding trek to Humantay Lake.

The 2-hour hike covers 2.4 miles, gradually climbing to an elevation of 5,250 meters. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding Andes peaks, including the majestic Apu Salkantay.

Upon reaching the ice-blue waters of Humantay Lake, there’s time to relax, take photos, and soak in the breathtaking scenery.

The return journey is a leisurely descent, followed by a delicious buffet lunch.

Throughout the day, a knowledgeable bilingual guide provides insights and ensures a safe, memorable experience.

Things To Know

What Is the Altitude of Humantay Lake?

Humantay Lake sits at an elevation of 5,250 meters (17,220 feet) above sea level. The high altitude means participants should be in good physical condition to handle the 2-hour trek to reach the stunning glacial lake.

Can I Rent a Horse for the Trek to the Lake?

Yes, horse rental is available for the trek to Humantay Lake, though it’s not managed by the tour provider. Participants should arrange horse rental independently if needed, as it costs 100 PEN one way.

Is There an Option to Extend the Day Trip?

Yes, customers can extend the day trip by arranging for horse rental independently. The tour provider doesn’t manage horse rentals, but they can provide information on local options if needed.

Are There Any Nearby Attractions to Visit After the Lake?

There aren’t any nearby attractions mentioned in the overview. The tour focuses solely on visiting Humantay Lake and returning to Cusco. Extending the day trip or visiting additional sites isn’t an option included in this particular excursion.

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes breakfast and a buffet lunch, but you’re welcome to bring additional snacks or beverages if desired. Just be mindful of any restrictions on single-use plastics.

Sum Up

The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco offers a breathtaking natural wonder and a cultural experience at an affordable price. With a scenic drive, hearty meals, and a guided trek, this adventure promises an unforgettable day amidst the stunning Andes. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas or immersing in local culture, this day trip is a must-do for visitors to Cusco.