Humantay Lake

Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, Humantay Lake captivates visitors with its striking turquoise waters and the majestic snow-capped peaks that surround it. This glacial lake, accessible through a guided tour from Cusco, offers a scenic and rewarding hike that climbs to an elevation of 4,200 meters. Trekkers can expect to enjoy the region’s natural splendor, with ample opportunities for exploration and photography. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, Humantay Lake promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Humantay Lake is a popular tour destination located in the Andes mountains near Cusco, Peru, with a duration of approximately 12 hours from Cusco.
• The tour price starts at $32 per person and is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, with guides available in English and Spanish.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, breakfast, lunch, entrance to the Mollepata community, first aid, and walking sticks, with restrictions on alcohol, drugs, littering, and certain individuals.
• The hike to Humantay Lagoon takes about 1 hour from the starting point at Soraypampa, with 3 hours allocated for exploration and photography at the lake.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnant women, and compliance with the guidelines is mandatory.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Humantay Lake tour is a 12-hour excursion from Cusco that takes visitors to the stunning glacial lake nestled in the Andes mountains.

Priced from $32 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 10 participants and features live English and Spanish-speaking guides. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The itinerary includes hotel pickup, breakfast and lunch, entrance to the Mollepata community, first aid, and walking sticks.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, and restrictions apply regarding alcohol, drugs, and littering.

Itinerary Details

The Humantay Lake tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM, followed by a 2-hour drive to the town of Mollepata at an elevation of 2,900 meters.

Participants enjoy a 45-minute breakfast there before continuing the journey to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike at 3,900 meters.

The guided hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon at 4,200 meters takes about an hour. Visitors then have 3 hours to explore the lake and take photos before hiking back to Soraypampa.

A buffet lunch in Mollepata precedes the return to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.

Inclusions

The Humantay Lake tour package covers a range of inclusions to provide a seamless and enriching experience.

It includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, as well as tourist transportation to and from the key locations. Breakfast and a buffet lunch are also provided, ensuring you’re fueled for the day’s adventure.

You’ll be accompanied by a professional guide who’ll lead the way and provide insights. The package also includes entrance to the Mollepata community, a first-aid kit, and walking sticks to assist you during the hike.

Plus, you can opt for horse rental if you prefer not to hike the entire route. These inclusions aim to make your Humantay Lake experience as comfortable and memorable as possible.

Exclusions and Restrictions

Aside from the comprehensive inclusions, the Humantay Lake tour also outlines several exclusions and restrictions.

Participants are responsible for any extra expenses not mentioned, such as additional food items. On top of that, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, high blood pressure, low fitness levels, or pregnant women.

Plus, the following are strictly prohibited:

• Alcohol
• Drugs
• Littering
• Diving

These exclusions and restrictions ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants throughout the Humantay Lake excursion.

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Important Information

Weather conditions may vary during the tour, so participants should be prepared for changes in climate and terrain.

The hiking duration is approximately 3 hours round trip to the Humantay Lagoon.

Travelers must wait in their hotel lobby 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to ensure the group departs on time.

It’s important to note that the itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, high blood pressure, low fitness levels, or pregnant women.

Participants should follow the guide’s instructions and refrain from prohibited activities like alcohol, drug use, and littering.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, which occurs between 4:00 and 4:30 AM.

You’ll then travel for approximately 2 hours to Mollepata, located at an altitude of 2,900 meters above sea level. During this journey, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Admire the scenic Andean landscape
• Enjoy a 45-minute breakfast stop in Mollepata
• Continue the ascent to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike to Humantay Lagoon at 3,900 meters above sea level

From Soraypampa, you’ll embark on the approximately 1-hour hike to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, where you’ll have 3 hours to explore and capture unforgettable photos.

Hiking and Sightseeing

Typically, the hike to Humantay Lagoon takes approximately 1 hour to complete. Trekkers ascend from Soraypampa (3,900 masl) to the pristine turquoise waters of Humantay Lake at 4,200 masl.

Along the way, they’ll be treated to stunning vistas of snowcapped Andean peaks. Once at the lake, participants have 3 hours to explore the area, take photos, and marvel at the natural beauty.

The return hike follows the same route back to the starting point. Travelers should be prepared for the high altitude with proper gear and hydration.

Despite the moderate difficulty, the journey to Humantay Lagoon offers an unforgettable glimpse of Peru’s remarkable landscapes.

Lunch and Return

After the guided tour and photo opportunities at the stunning Humantay Lagoon, you will begin the return hike down to Soraypampa.

The hike back is approximately 1 hour, allowing visitors to soak in the breathtaking scenery once more. Upon reaching Soraypampa, a delicious buffet lunch will be served, featuring local Peruvian delicacies.

This break will provide a chance to refuel and rest before the journey back to Cusco.

• The buffet lunch offers a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes, catering to different dietary preferences.
• Participants will have ample time to enjoy their meal and savor the flavors of the region.

After lunch, the group will begin the return trip to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Clothing and Shoes Are Recommended for This Tour?

Hikers should wear warm, breathable layers, sturdy hiking boots or shoes, and bring a rain jacket. Sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended for this high-altitude tour.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks to the Lake?

While participants can bring their own food and drinks, the tour includes a breakfast and buffet lunch. Bringing extra snacks and water is recommended, but alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

There are restroom facilities available along the hike to Humantay Lake. Participants can use the restrooms at the starting point in Soraypampa and during the lunch break in Mollepata, providing convenient access throughout the day’s activities.

Can We Swim in the Humantay Lake?

Visitors can’t swim in Humantay Lake. The lake’s waters are extremely cold, and swimming isn’t allowed to protect the delicate ecosystem. However, visitors can enjoy the stunning views and take photos from the shore during the guided tour.

Is There an Option to Rent Walking Poles or Hiking Sticks?

Yes, the tour includes the optional use of walking sticks and hiking poles to assist participants during the trek to Humantay Lake. These are provided as part of the included equipment for the excursion.

Recap

Humantay Lake is a must-visit destination for those seeking a breathtaking natural wonder. The journey to this turquoise gem in the Peruvian Andes offers a scenic hike, stunning vistas, and the chance to take in the region’s remarkable beauty. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, this captivating glacial lake is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: