Cusco: Humantay Lake With Breakfast and Buffet Lunch

Exploring the breathtaking Humantay Lake from Cusco is a must-do for any traveler seeking to enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes. This guided day trip promises a well-rounded experience, with a delicious breakfast, a hearty buffet lunch, and the option to hike or ride a horse to the turquoise waters of the lake. Professional guides ensure a seamless and informative journey, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the panoramic vistas of Apu Salkantay and Humantay mountains. But the true highlight lies in the lake itself, where the serene waters and the surrounding peaks create a scene that will leave a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Key Points

• This is a day trip from Cusco to Humantay Lake, lasting 12 hours and priced at 26.07 EUR per person with a 15% discount.
• The tour includes pickup from Cusco hotels, a 2-hour van ride to Mollepata, a 30-minute breakfast stop, and a 1-hour van ride to Soraypampa.
• The highlight of the tour is a 2-hour hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, with an optional 1.5-hour horse riding experience.
• The tour includes a buffet lunch and return to Cusco by 6:00 PM, and is offered in both English and Spanish with free cancellation.
• Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring warm clothing, and prepare for challenging hike conditions and cold temperatures at high altitudes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a day trip to the stunning Humantay Lake from Cusco.

It’s a 12-hour activity priced at 26.07 EUR per person, with a 15% discount.

Pickup is available from downtown Cusco hotels, although there may be a 15-minute delay.

The tour is offered in English and Spanish, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The itinerary includes a 2-hour van ride, a breakfast stop, and a 2-hour hike to the lake situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters.

Optional horse riding is available for an additional fee, and the tour includes a buffet lunch and return to Cusco by 6:00 PM.

Itinerary Details

Departing between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM, the tour begins with a 2-hour van ride to Mollepata, where a 30-minute breakfast stop is included.

After this, the journey continues with a 1-hour van ride to Soraypampa. From there, it’s a 2-hour hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters.

Participants have the option to ride horses for an additional fee, which takes 1.5 hours. Once at the lake, visitors can enjoy the panoramic vistas for 30 minutes before embarking on the 1-hour hike back to Soraypampa.

The tour then heads to Mollepata for a 30-minute buffet lunch before the 2-hour return trip to Cusco, arriving between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Pickup and Transportation

According to the tour overview, pickup is available at downtown hotels in Cusco, though participants may experience delays of up to 15 minutes.

The tour includes:

1. A 2-hour van ride from Cusco to Mollepata, where a 30-minute breakfast stop is provided.
2. A 1-hour van ride from Mollepata to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lake.
3. After the lake visit, a 1-hour van ride from Soraypampa to Mollepata for a 30-minute lunch before the 2-hour return journey to Cusco.

The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, and offers the convenience of hotel pickup in Cusco, though minor delays are possible.

Hiking to Humantay Lake

After the van ride from Mollepata, travelers embark on a 2-hour hike to reach the stunning Humantay Lake.

The trek takes them through breathtaking Andean landscapes, climbing nearly 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) in elevation to reach the lake’s shores. The hike is challenging, but the payoff is immense – visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Apu Salkantay and Humantay mountains.

Throughout the trek, guides provide support and ensure the safety of the group. Hikers can also opt for an additional 1.5-hour horse ride to the lake if they prefer a more leisurely pace.

The visit to Humantay Lake lasts around 30 minutes, allowing ample time to take in the serene beauty of this high-altitude wonder.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Horse Riding

For those seeking a more leisurely trek to Humantay Lake, an optional horse riding experience is available. This 1.5-hour journey allows visitors to admire the stunning mountain vistas from the back of a gentle steed.

The horse riding adds an extra fee to the tour, but it offers a unique perspective and a chance to rest tired legs. Some key considerations for the horse riding include:

1. Breathtaking panoramas of the Andes mountains and the turquoise Humantay Lake.
2. No prior riding experience necessary, with skilled local guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
3. An opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the region in a more relaxed manner.

Highlights and Experiences

The centerpiece of the Humantay Lake tour is the breathtaking panoramic views that unfold before visitors.

From the tranquil turquoise waters of the lake, travelers can admire the majestic Apu Salkantay (6,230 meters) and Humantay (5,250 meters) mountains, towering over the landscape.

The 2-hour trek to reach the lake at an altitude of 4,200 meters challenges participants, testing their physical condition.

However, the reward is well worth the effort, as the stunning natural scenery and serenity of the lake create an unforgettable experience.

Breakfast and a buffet lunch are included, catering to various dietary needs.

First aid kits and oxygen bottles are also available in case of emergencies.

What to Bring and Not Allowed

What should visitors prepare to bring on the Humantay Lake tour? The tour requires comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sun protection. Specifically, visitors are advised to pack:

1. Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking shoes or boots to navigate the 2-hour trek to the lake.

2. Layered clothing, including a warm jacket or parka, to withstand the cold temperatures at the high-altitude location.

3. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to shield against the intense sun exposure.

Plus, it’s recommended to bring snacks, water, and any personal medications.

Large bags and luggage aren’t permitted on the tour. Preparing properly will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

Customer Feedback

Numerous positive reviews from past participants highlight the tour’s key strengths. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 1,019 reviews, the Humantay Lake tour earns consistent praise for its breathtaking views, delicious meals, and attentive guides. Customers particularly appreciate the tour’s attention to detail, from the first aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies to the optional walking stick. However, some challenges were noted, such as the physically demanding hike and cold temperatures. To ensure an enjoyable experience, the tour company recommends bringing appropriate layers and staying hydrated to acclimate to the high altitude.

Positive Aspects	Challenges
Beautiful views	Tough hike
Good food	Cold temperatures
Attentive guides	Rough road conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and food for the tour. However, breakfast and a buffet lunch are already included in the tour price, so additional meals may not be necessary.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Horse Riding?

The tour doesn’t specify a weight limit for the optional horse riding. However, guests should check with the tour operator before booking, as weight restrictions may apply to ensure the safety and comfort of both riders and horses.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

There are no permanent restroom facilities along the hike to Humantay Lake. However, the tour provides stops where hikers can use portable toilets or find natural areas to use the restroom during the trek.

How Much Extra Time Is Needed for the Horse Riding?

The horse riding option adds an additional 1.5 hours to the overall itinerary. Participants can choose to ride a horse for 1.5 hours during the trek to Humantay Lake, which costs an extra fee.

Can I Leave Some of My Belongings on the Bus During the Hike?

You can’t leave belongings on the bus during the hike. The tour doesn’t allow large bags or luggage, so you’ll need to bring a small daypack with only the essentials for the trek.

Recap

The Humantay Lake tour from Cusco offers a remarkable day of exploration and scenic beauty. Travelers can marvel at the stunning Andean landscapes, relish delicious meals, and choose between hiking or horseback riding to reach the captivating turquoise lake. With knowledgeable guides and convenient transportation, this tour provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of Peru’s breathtaking highlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: