Embarking on a day trip from Cusco to the stunning Humantay Lake is a must for nature enthusiasts. The journey begins with an early morning pickup, followed by a scenic van ride to Mollepata where a delightful buffet breakfast awaits. Prepare for a challenging 2-hour hike from Soraypampa to the mesmerizing turquoise lake, granting 45 minutes to soak in the breathtaking vistas. After returning to Mollepata for a satisfying lunch, the adventure concludes with the trip back to Cusco. While the hike may prove strenuous, the rewards of witnessing Humantay Lake’s natural beauty are truly unparalleled.
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Health and Safety Information
- Customer Feedback
- Getting to Mollepata
- Exploring Humantay Lake
- Return to Cusco
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Stay at the Lake?
- Is It Possible to Book Private or Custom Tours?
- What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Humantay Lake?
- Can We Hire a Personal Porter to Carry Our Belongings?
- Recap
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- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Key Points
- The Humantay Lake day trip departs from Cusco hotels between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM and includes transportation, meals, guide, and entrance ticket.
- The 12-14 hour tour includes a 2-hour hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake, with 45 minutes of leisure time at the lake.
- Breakfast is provided in Mollepata District, and a buffet lunch is served in Mollepata after the return hike.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with health issues, and requires comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes.
- Customers have praised the tour’s scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and efficient organization, with suggestions for a longer stay at Humantay Lake.
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Tour Overview
Offering a captivating day trip to Humantay Lake, this excursion immerses travelers in the stunning natural beauty of the Cusco region.
The tour lasts 12-14 hours, with pickup from Cusco hotels between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM. Participants will journey to Mollepata District, enjoy a breakfast, and then continue to Soraypampa before hiking to the breathtaking Humantay Lake.
After 45 minutes of leisure time at the lake, the group will return to Soraypampa and Mollepata for lunch before the 2-hour drive back to Cusco.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, meals, a guide, first aid, and an entrance ticket, making it a well-rounded and convenient experience.
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Itinerary
Beginning with the pickup from Cusco hotels in the early hours, typically between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM, the day trip to Humantay Lake commences. Guests are transported by air-conditioned van to the Mollepata District, where they enjoy a hearty breakfast. The journey continues to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. After a 2-hour ascent, visitors relish in the breathtaking vistas for around 45 minutes before retracing their steps back to Soraypampa. Following the return hike, a delicious lunch is served in Mollepata before the group heads back to Cusco.
| Step | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup from Cusco Hotels | Cusco | 03:30 AM – 04:00 AM |
| Van Ride to Mollepata District | Mollepata | 2 hours |
| Hiking to Humantay Lake | Soraypampa | 2 hours |
| Leisure Time at Humantay Lake | Humantay Lake | 45 minutes |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Humantay Lake Day Trip includes a comprehensive package of services to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation via air-conditioned van, are provided. Guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast and lunch, with a vegetarian option available.
An official guide accompanies the group, and a first-aid kit is on hand. The entrance ticket is also included if selected.
Additional amenities such as one walking stick and drinks are provided. However, tips, luggage or large bags, and the use of drones aren’t covered by the package.
Health and Safety Information
Certain health and safety considerations are important to be aware of for the Humantay Lake Day Trip.
The activity isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back, heart, respiratory issues, mobility impairments, or altitude sickness. It’s also not recommended for people over 60.
Participants should wear comfortable, waterproof hiking shoes and bring warm clothing, a sun hat, water, rain gear, and extra snacks.
A first-aid kit is provided, but it’s crucial to disclose any medical conditions to the guide beforehand.
Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the stunning Humantay Lake.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Positive reviews of the Humantay Lake Day Trip highlight the friendly and helpful nature of the guides, the delicious buffet meals provided, and the breathtaking scenic beauty of the Humantay Lake itself.
Customers were particularly impressed by:
- The knowledgeable and attentive guides who ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience.
- The quality and variety of the buffet breakfast and lunch, which included vegetarian options.
- The stunning vistas of the turquoise Humantay Lake nestled among the snow-capped peaks.
- The overall organization and logistics of the tour, which ran efficiently and on schedule.
Some reviewers suggested that a longer stay at the lake would have allowed for better appreciation of the area’s natural wonders.
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Getting to Mollepata
From Cusco, the journey to Mollepata District takes approximately 2 hours by van. Along the way, you’ll pass through stunning Andean landscapes, including rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Quechua villages.
The drive provides a glimpse into the rural life of the region. Once you reach Mollepata, you’ll stop for a hearty breakfast to fuel up before the hike to Humantay Lake.
This small town serves as the starting point for the trek, where you’ll board the van for the final leg of the journey to Soraypampa, the trailhead for the lake.
The scenic drive sets the stage for the breathtaking views to come.
Exploring Humantay Lake
The hike to Humantay Lake begins at Soraypampa, the trailhead located about an hour’s drive from Mollepata.
The 2-hour ascent takes trekkers through stunning mountain scenery, passing by grazing alpacas and sweeping Andean vistas.
Upon reaching the lake, visitors are rewarded with the sight of its turquoise waters set against the backdrop of the majestic Humantay peak.
Key highlights of this portion of the journey include:
- Marveling at the lake’s vibrant color, a result of glacial silt.
- Spotting the occasional Andean condor soaring overhead.
- Taking in the peaceful, serene atmosphere of the high-altitude environment.
- Capturing the perfect photo to commemorate the unforgettable experience.
Return to Cusco
After taking in the serene beauty of Humantay Lake, the group begins the return journey. The hike back to Soraypampa takes around 2 hours.
Once there, the group boards the van for the 1-hour ride to Mollepata, where they enjoy a buffet lunch. Fully refreshed, the van then sets off for the 2-hour drive back to Cusco.
Along the way, the guide points out notable landmarks and shares more insights about the region’s history and culture. Finally, the group is dropped off at their original pickup locations in Cusco, concluding the memorable Humantay Lake day trip.
The tour’s convenience, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery make it a highlight for many visitors to the Cusco area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
According to the tour overview, the Humantay Lake Day Trip includes breakfast and lunch. While participants can bring their own snacks, it does not mention allowing outside food or drinks during the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Stay at the Lake?
There’s no option to extend the stay at Humantay Lake on this specific tour. The itinerary includes 45 minutes of leisure time at the lake, which some customers have suggested could be longer to better appreciate the scenic surroundings.
Is It Possible to Book Private or Custom Tours?
Yes, private and custom tours are available for the Humantay Lake Day Trip. Travelers can inquire with the tour provider about options to extend their stay at the lake or customize the itinerary to better suit their needs and preferences.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Humantay Lake?
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This ensures clear weather and optimal views of the stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Can We Hire a Personal Porter to Carry Our Belongings?
While the tour does not provide personal porters, travelers can hire their own porter to carry belongings during the hike to Humantay Lake. This service is available at an additional cost and can make the trek more comfortable.
Cusco: Humantay Lake Day Trip With Breakfast and Lunch
“The tour guide Carlos Parker was excellent. There was a last minute change due to weather conditions and they gave us the option to go to the Seven…”
Recap
This Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable journey through stunning natural landscapes. The challenging hike to the breathtaking turquoise lake is rewarded with ample time to soak in the views. With breakfast and lunch included, it’s a well-rounded experience that allows you to learn about the beauty of the Andes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an adventure, this day trip is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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