From Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip With Breakfast and Lunch

Exploring the stunning Humantay Lagoon is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Cusco. This day trip offers a chance to witness the breathtaking turquoise waters nestled amidst the majestic Salkantay mountain range. With a guided hike, delicious meals, and a small group size, it promises an intimate and memorable experience. But beyond the natural beauty, the lagoon holds cultural significance to the Inca and local Andean people. Discovering this rich history is what truly makes the journey remarkable.

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Good To Know

A day trip from Cusco to the Humantay Lagoon, a sacred Inca site, with round-trip transportation, breakfast, and lunch included.
The hike to the Humantay Lagoon takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views of the Salkantay mountain.
The small-group tour is limited to 15 participants and provides trekking poles and reserved area tickets.
Warm clothing, good fitness level, and acclimatization are recommended due to the high-altitude environment.
The tour offers an opportunity to learn about the cultural and natural significance of the Humantay Lagoon from knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Details

The Humantay Lake Day Trip departs from Cusco and is priced from $90.00 per person.

The 12-hour excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. The small-group tour is limited to 15 participants.

Guests will be picked up from their Cusco hotel around 4:30 AM and transported to the trek’s starting point via the Limatambo Valley. The hike to the scenic Humantay Lagoon takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.

Breakfast, lunch, and necessary equipment are included.

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Itinerary and Experience

After an early morning pickup from their hotel in Cusco around 4:30 AM, guests board a shuttle that takes them through the scenic Limatambo Valley to the starting point of the trek in Soraypampa. The hike to Humantay Lagoon lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with stunning views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain along the way. Once at the lagoon, guests have free time to explore, meditate, and capture photographs.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Shuttle to Soraypampa | Variable |

| Hike to Humantay Lagoon | 1.5 – 2 hours |

| Free time at Lagoon | Variable |

| Return to Cusco | Variable |

Inclusions and Amenities

As part of the Humantay Lake Day Trip, round-trip transportation is provided, and both breakfast and lunch are included for participants.

A professional guide fluent in English and Spanish accompanies the group, offering insights and historical context about the lagoon.

Trekking poles and reserved area tickets are also provided, ensuring a seamless experience.

To keep hikers refreshed, the tour offers additional soda/pop and bottled water.

With all the essentials covered, participants can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and exploring Humantay Lagoon without worrying about logistics.

Preparation and Recommendations

To ensure a comfortable and successful Humantay Lake Day Trip, hikers should bring warm clothing, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

The trek requires a good fitness level, and those with back or heart problems, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and individuals with low fitness levels aren’t recommended to participate.

Due to the high altitude, acclimatization is advised to avoid sickness. Travelers should dress appropriately for unpredictable weather conditions and bring the following:

Snacks and water
Hiking shoes
Sunscreen and rain gear
Trekking poles (provided)

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Important Considerations

The Humantay Lake Day Trip is considered a challenging hike that requires a good fitness level.

Travelers should be aware that the high altitude may cause sickness, so acclimatization is recommended. Smoking, alcohol, drugs, plastic bottles, and littering are strictly prohibited.

While the guides share the history and cultural significance of the Humantay Lagoon, the hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels.

Proper preparation, including warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, and rain gear, is essential for a successful and enjoyable experience.

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The Beauty of Humantay Lagoon

Though the hike to Humantay Lagoon may be challenging, the breathtaking beauty of the turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks make the journey well worth the effort.

The lagoon’s striking azure hue, fed by glacial meltwater, reflects the majestic Salkantay mountain, creating a serene and awe-inspiring landscape.

Visitors can:

Enjoy peaceful moments of meditation and contemplation by the lagoon’s edge.
Capture stunning panoramic photos showcasing the lagoon’s picturesque setting.
Marvel at the lagoon’s spiritual significance within Inca and local Andean traditions.

The Humantay Lagoon offers a truly mesmerizing experience for those willing to undertake the trek.

Exploring the Cultural Significance

Beyond its natural beauty, the Humantay Lagoon holds deep cultural significance for the Inca and local Andean people. Regarded as sacred, the lagoon was an important site for ceremonies and rituals.

Guides will share the rich history and significance of the lagoon, explaining how it was revered as a source of spiritual renewal and connection to the divine. Visitors gain insight into the Andean worldview and the reverence for the natural environment.

This cultural education enhances the overall experience, providing a deeper appreciation for the lagoon’s role in the region’s indigenous heritage.

Journey to the Stunning Salkantay Mountain

As the group sets out from Soraypampa, the towering presence of Salkantay Mountain becomes the focal point of the hike. The glaciated peak, standing at over 20,000 feet, dominates the landscape.

The trek offers:

Breathtaking views, Inca mythology, and a connection with nature as the path winds through the rugged terrain.

Breathtaking views of the snow-capped summit during the ascent.
An opportunity to appreciate the mountain’s significance in Inca mythology and culture.
A chance to connect with the stunning natural environment as the path winds through the rugged terrain.

The challenging but rewarding hike provides an immersive experience in the shadow of this iconic Andean peak.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Visit Humantay Lake Alone Without a Group?

There’s no option to visit Humantay Lake alone without a group. The trip requires a guide and transportation, which are only provided as part of organized tours. Visiting independently is not feasible or recommended due to the challenging hike and high altitude.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Day Trip?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Humantay Lake day trip. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals due to the challenging hike and environmental considerations of the protected natural area.

Will There Be Any Breaks During the Hike to Humantay Lagoon?

The hike to Humantay Lagoon typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. There will be brief rest stops along the way for participants to catch their breath and take in the scenic views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Meals at the Lagoon?

No, additional snacks or meals cannot be purchased at the Humantay Lagoon. The tour package includes breakfast and lunch, so travelers should plan accordingly and bring any extra food or snacks they may want during the hike.

Is It Possible to Extend the Visit at Humantay Lagoon?

Yes, visitors can extend their time at Humantay Lagoon. The itinerary allows for free time at the lagoon for exploration, meditation, and photography. However, the total duration of the trip is fixed at 12 hours.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Cusco to Humantay Lagoon offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the region. With round-trip transportation, a guided hike, and delicious meals included, it’s a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the lagoon’s stunning turquoise waters and learn about its cultural significance. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an intimate adventure, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.