Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour

The Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour is a captivating adventure that takes travelers on a journey to one of Cusco’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With its stunning turquoise waters set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. From private transportation to expert guidance, the tour’s inclusions make it an accessible option for adventurous spirits. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to witness the lake’s mesmerizing beauty firsthand.

Key Points

1. The Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour is a guided excursion from Cusco, Peru, priced at $43 per person and includes private transportation, meals, and a professional guide.
2. The tour reaches an altitude of 14,000 feet, which may pose challenges for travelers due to the risk of altitude sickness, and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
3. The tour includes an entrance ticket to Humantay Lake, which is priced at 20 soles or $5 USD per person, and concludes at Jugueria Peru Juice in Cusco.
4. Travelers can choose to be picked up from their hotel or the Plaza de Armas in Cusco, and the tour provides a travel confirmation upon booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
5. The tour’s environmental impact and the treatment of horses used to assist travelers are sustainability considerations that should be addressed by the tour operator.

Tour Overview

The Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour is a popular excursion located in Cusco, Peru. Priced from $43 per person, the tour includes private transportation, meals, a professional guide, and essential hiking gear.

Reviewers have given it a 5.0 rating based on 2 reviews, with no negative feedback. The tour is provided by Machu Picchu Peru Travel and offers pickup options either at the customer’s hotel or the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

The tour concludes at a juice bar in Cusco. While the hike is described as "easy," the high altitude of 14,000 feet may pose challenges for some travelers.

Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation, breakfast and lunch, a professional tour guide, and walking sticks.

The tour package also includes:

The tour package also includes an entrance ticket to Humantay Lake, pickup options, and the end point at Jugueria Peru Juice in Cusco.

1. An entrance ticket to the Humantay Lake, priced at 20 soles or $5 USD per person.

2. Pickup options, with the choice to confirm the hotel name in Cusco or meet at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

3. The end point of the tour being Jugueria Peru Juice, located on C. Marques in Cusco 08002.

Travelers receive a travel confirmation upon booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Meeting and Pickup

Travelers can choose to either confirm their hotel name in Cusco for pickup or meet the tour at the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

The tour will end at Jugueria Peru Juice, located on C. Marques in Cusco 08002.

Travel confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

The conveniently arranged meeting and pickup options, along with the clear end point, make it easy for participants to join and conclude the Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour.

Tour Experience

Strong physical fitness is required for the Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour, as it isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

The tour reaches an altitude of 14,000 feet, putting travelers at risk of altitude sickness. Travelers are advised to acclimate and consider altitude medication prior to the trek.

The hike, while described as "easy," can be challenging, involving a significant ascent. Despite the description, the actual experience may vary, and travelers should be prepared for a demanding trek.

Key considerations:

1. Altitude: Tour reaches 14,000 feet, increasing risk of altitude sickness.

2. Physical Demands: Strong fitness required, not recommended for certain medical conditions.

3. Hiking Difficulty: "Easy" hike, but can be challenging with significant ascent.

Feedback and Recommendations

Previous travelers highlighted the need for clearer expectations regarding the trek’s difficulty and necessary preparations (proper clothing, gear).

Some travelers felt uncomfortable with the use of horses to assist individuals up the mountain, expressing concerns about the treatment of the animals.

The tour provider has acknowledged this feedback and committed to improving tour descriptions to provide better clarity for future participants.

These insights underscore the importance of setting accurate expectations and addressing ethical considerations to ensure a positive and meaningful experience for all.

Preparing for the Trek

While the Humantay Lake trek is considered an "easy hike," travelers must still be prepared for the physical demands and altitude considerations. Proper preparation can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Recommended preparations include:

1. Acclimate to the altitude by spending at least 1-2 days in Cusco prior to the tour.

2. Bring proper hiking gear, such as sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, warm layers, and sun protection.

3. Consult a healthcare provider about altitude sickness medication if you have concerns about your ability to handle the elevation.

With the right mindset and preparation, travelers can tackle the Humantay Lake trek with confidence.

Highlights of the Humantay Lake

As travelers ascend the mountain path, they’re greeted by the breathtaking sight of Humantay Lake, a stunning glacial lake nestled in the Andes.

The vivid turquoise hue of the water, contrasted against the snow-capped peaks, creates a scene of serene beauty. Reflections of the surrounding mountains dance on the lake’s surface, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

Hikers can explore the area, taking in the panoramic vistas and snapping photos to capture the moment. The lake’s remote location and the challenging trek to reach it make the experience all the more rewarding for those who make the journey.

Sustainability Considerations

The Humantay Lake tour raises important sustainability considerations that deserve attention. The tour’s environmental impact, treatment of animals, and visitor experience are key factors to consider.

1. Environmental Impact: The trek to Humantay Lake takes place in a fragile alpine ecosystem. Proper waste management, limiting group sizes, and educating visitors on minimizing their footprint are crucial to preserving the natural beauty of the area.

2. Animal Welfare: The use of horses to assist some travelers up the mountain raises concerns about the animals’ well-being and the ethics of their use. Responsible practices and transparency around their treatment are essential.

3. Visitor Experience: Ensuring the tour accurately reflects the physical demands and potential challenges can help set appropriate expectations and enhance the overall experience for travelers.

The Sum Up

The Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour offers an exceptional experience in Cusco, Peru. Priced at $43 per person, the tour includes private transportation, meals, and a professional guide, making it accessible for travelers. While the high altitude of 14,000 feet requires good physical fitness, the stunning views and natural beauty make the trek worthwhile. With a perfect 5.0 rating, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure while prioritizing sustainability and responsible travel practices.