From Cusco: Humantay Lake Trek With Meals and Transfer

The Humantay Lake trek from Cusco offers a captivating one-day adventure for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers can enjoy the stunning Andes landscape, admiring the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake against a backdrop of majestic mountains. With meals, a professional guide, and essential equipment included, the $47.49 per person price tag promises an enriching experience. While the early 4:30 AM pickup might deter some, the breathtaking vistas and memories made on this trek could make it well worth the early start.

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Key Points

The Humantay Lake Trek is a 1-day excursion from Cusco, priced at $47.49 per person, with hotel pickup, meals, and entrance fees included.
The trek involves a 1.8-mile hike over approximately 2 hours, offering panoramic views of the Andes and the Humantay and Salkantay mountains.
The tour includes a 2-hour drive to Mollepata for breakfast and snack pickup, followed by the hike and return to Cusco by 6:00 PM.
Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and rain gear, and to carry at least 2 liters of water to prevent altitude sickness.
The tour provider is a reputable company that prioritizes safety, with knowledgeable guides and emergency equipment, and accommodates various dietary needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Humantay Lake Trek is an activity that offers a day-long excursion from Cusco, priced from $47.49 per person.

The trek lasts 1 day and includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, meals, and entrance fees.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.

With panoramic views of the Andes, this trek provides an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.

Participants should be in reasonably good physical shape to undertake the 1.8-mile hike to the stunning Humantay Lake located at an altitude of 13,779 feet.

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Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with a 4:30 AM pickup from downtown Cusco, not from private residences.

After a 2-hour drive to Mollepata, you’ll enjoy breakfast and pick up snacks before beginning the trek from Soraypampa.

The ascent to Humantay Lake, located at 4200 meters (13,779 feet), takes approximately 2 hours. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Apu Salkantay (6,230 meters) and Humantay (5,250 meters).

Following the lake visit, you’ll descend for 1.5 hours back to Soraypampa for lunch before returning to Cusco by 6:00 PM near the Plaza de Armas or your accommodation.

Inclusions and Equipment

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional tour guide (available in English and Spanish), breakfast and lunch (with a vegetarian option), a first aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies, tourist transport to and from Soraypampa, and entrance to Humantay Lake.

Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, professional guide, meals, emergency gear, transport, and entrance to Humantay Lake.

The tour also provides:

1 bottle of water per person.
Optional horse rental for 80 soles one way.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Recommended to bring 2 liters of water per person to prevent altitude sickness.

Preparation and Recommendations

To prepare for the Humantay Lake Trek, participants should bring comfortable shoes and hiking boots.

They’ll also need warm clothing, sunglasses, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear. It’s recommended to pack 2 liters of water per person to prevent altitude sickness.

Pets, large bags, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed. It’s important to use the bathrooms before the hike, as the weather can change suddenly.

The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, vertigo, or respiratory problems, and those with low fitness levels. Participants should be in reasonably good shape for the 1.8-mile (3 km) trek.

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Participant Guidelines and Restrictions

Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, vertigo, or respiratory issues, as the trek may pose challenges for those with such conditions.

The activity is best suited for participants in reasonably good physical shape. The trek difficulty is 1.8 miles (3 km), and the provider recommends being prepared:

Avoid bringing pets, large bags, alcohol, and drugs.
Use bathrooms before the hike, as weather can change suddenly.
Payments for entrance fees must be made in local currency.
The provider may take 30-45 minutes for group pickups.

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About the Tour Provider

The tour provider for the Humantay Lake Trek is a reputable company that specializes in outdoor adventures around Cusco.

They employ knowledgeable guides who are certified in first aid and familiar with the local terrain. The company prioritizes safety, ensuring they carry emergency equipment like oxygen and first aid kits.

They’ve designed the trek to be accessible for reasonably fit participants, though certain medical conditions may preclude someone from joining.

The provider offers hotel pickup and drop-off, and they accommodate various dietary needs for the included meals.

Highlights of the Trek

Although the Humantay Lake Trek is just one day long, it offers a wealth of captivating highlights.

The journey begins with a 2-hour drive from Cusco to Mollepata, where participants enjoy breakfast and pick up snacks.

The actual trek takes around 2 hours to ascend to the stunning Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic vistas of the towering Apu Salkantay (6,230 meters) and Humantay (5,250 meters) mountains.

After enjoying the serene lake, the group descends for 1.5 hours back to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch before returning to Cusco.

What Past Travelers Have Said

Numerous past travelers have raved about the unforgettable experience of the Humantay Lake Trek. They describe the stunning vistas, the challenging yet rewarding hike, and the exceptional service provided by the tour guides.

Many highlight the breathtaking views of the turquoise lake nestled beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Hikers praise the well-organized logistics, delicious meals, and attentive staff who ensure a memorable day.

Despite the physical demands, most agree the trek is a must-do activity that delivers incredible value. With free cancellation and flexible booking, the Humantay Lake Trek is a popular choice for visitors to Cusco.

Since You Asked

Is It Possible to Extend the Trek to Include Other Lakes or Viewpoints?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the trek to include other lakes or viewpoints. Customers can inquire about customized options that go beyond the standard Humantay Lake itinerary, which may incur additional costs and time.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Camera or Photography Equipment Allowed?

There are no specific restrictions on camera or photography equipment. Visitors can bring their preferred cameras, though large professional equipment may be cumbersome during the hike. The activity provider advises packing light for the trek.

Can the Trek Be Modified to Accommodate Dietary Needs or Preferences?

The activity provider can accommodate dietary needs or preferences like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals. Participants should inform the provider of any dietary requirements when booking the tour.

What Is the Process for Booking a Private or Custom Tour for This Activity?

To book a private or custom tour, contact the activity provider. They can accommodate dietary needs and customize the itinerary as requested. A higher price may apply for private or customized tours compared to the standard group option.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Optional Horse Rental?

The activity doesn’t specify any age or height restrictions for the optional horse rental. Participants should confirm the horse’s capabilities with the provider before booking to ensure it’s suitable for their needs.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake Trek from Cusco offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Peru’s stunning natural landscapes. With meals, transfers, and essential equipment included, this one-day adventure provides a safe and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers can expect breathtaking views of the turquoise lake and surrounding Andes mountains, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Cusco region.