The Humantay Lake Full Day Tour is a captivating adventure that beckons travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Andes. Embarking on an early morning journey, participants can enjoy the region’s natural wonders, from the scenic drive to the moderate hike leading to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Along the way, guests have the opportunity to observe local wildlife and partake in a Pachamama ceremony, creating lasting memories amidst the region’s serene beauty. With detailed itinerary, tour requirements, and customer feedback, this rundown invites readers to uncover the allure of this mesmerizing destination.
Key Points
- A full-day tour to visit the breathtaking Humantay Lake, located in the Andes mountains near Cusco, Peru, featuring stunning landscapes and cultural experiences.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and an emergency horse, with a moderately challenging 1.5-hour uphill hike to the lake.
- Highlights of the tour include exploring the crystal-clear Humantay Lake, observing local wildlife, and participating in an ancient Pachamama ceremony.
- The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, with a maximum group size of 16 and pricing starting from $85 per person.
- Advance booking is recommended due to limited availability, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Highlights
- Itinerary and Experience
- Tour Details and Requirements
- Customer Feedback and Ratings
- Booking and Availability
- What to Expect on the Hike
- Preparing for the Adventure
- Exploring Humantay Lake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Should I Pack for the Humantay Lake Hike?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
- Are There Any Safety Precautions to Be Aware Of?
- How Can I Ensure I Have a Successful and Enjoyable Experience?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Full Day in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Highlights
Humantay Lake is a spectacular one-day hike in Cusco, Peru, offering breathtaking landscapes, views of the snow-capped Salkantay, and rich flora and fauna.
The tour includes a professional guide, emergency horse, and round-trip transportation from your hotel. Travelers can expect to witness the lake’s crystal-clear waters and observe local wildlife, with time for an ancient ceremony honoring Pachamama.
The highlights of this tour include the opportunity to take in the Andean wilderness and capture stunning photographic memories of the awe-inspiring natural beauty surrounding Humantay Lake.
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Itinerary and Experience
The tour begins with a 4:00 AM hotel pickup, followed by a 2-hour drive to Mollepata for breakfast. Afterward, a 1-hour drive to Soraypampa leads to a 1.5-hour uphill hike to Humantay Lake (4200 m.a.s.l.). Travelers can explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters and observe local wildlife, with time for an ancient ceremony honoring Pachamama.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Hotel Pickup | 4:00 AM |
| Drive to Mollepata | 2 hours |
| Drive to Soraypampa | 1 hour |
| Hike to Humantay Lake | 1.5 hours |
| Explore Humantay Lake | Variable |
Tour Details and Requirements
The tour package includes a 13-hour duration, with a maximum group size of 16 travelers. Priced from $85.00, the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Moderate physical fitness is required, as the hike to Humantay Lake (4200 m.a.s.l.) involves a 1.5-hour uphill trek. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions.
Despite these requirements, the tour provides an emergency horse for those who may need it during the hike.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The Humantay Lake tour has received positive feedback from customers, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars across 5 reviews.
Travelers highlighted the excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and memorable experiences. However, one review noted issues with a second trip organized by the same company.
The tour’s fitness level requirement of moderate physical fitness is well-suited for most visitors, though it may not be accessible for those with serious medical conditions.
With the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, customers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary.
Booking and Availability
The Humantay Lake tour operates Monday to Sunday, from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM, with confirmation received at the time of booking. Travelers can select their preferred pickup points, and the guides will be easily identifiable by their company-branded clothing. To book the tour, visitors can choose from the following options:
| Pickup Location | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cusco City | 13 hours | $85 |
| Ollantaytambo | 12 hours | $80 |
| Urubamba | 11 hours | $75 |
The tour has limited availability, so it’s recommended to reserve your spot in advance to ensure a spot. Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any fees.
What to Expect on the Hike
Embarking on the Humantay Lake hike, travelers can expect a moderately challenging 1.5-hour ascent through diverse Andean landscapes.
The trail winds through lush meadows, rocky terrain, and snow-capped peaks, offering stunning panoramic views. Climbers will need to pace themselves, as the high altitude can make the trek more strenuous.
Along the way, guides will point out local flora and fauna, including the elusive Andean condor.
Reaching the serene, turquoise-hued Humantay Lake is the reward, where travelers can take in the breathtaking scenery and participate in a sacred ceremony honoring the Pachamama.
With proper preparation and determination, the Humantay Lake hike promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
Preparing for the Adventure
Preparing for the Humantay Lake hike requires thorough planning and packing. Travelers should wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots to handle the uneven terrain.
Bringing a daypack with plenty of snacks, water, sunscreen, and layers of clothing is essential, as the weather can change rapidly. Trekking poles can also be helpful for the uphill climb.
Altitude sickness is a concern, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated, take it slow, and listen to one’s body.
Exploring Humantay Lake
Upon reaching the Humantay Lake trailhead, travelers embark on a captivating journey of exploration.
As they ascend the 1.5-hour trail, they’re rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains and the shimmering azure waters of Humantay Lake.
The crystal-clear lake, nestled at an altitude of 4,200 meters, is a true natural wonder.
Visitors can observe the diverse flora and fauna, including native birds and llamas, as they take in the serene atmosphere.
An ancient ceremony honoring Pachamama, the Inca earth goddess, provides a meaningful cultural experience.
With ample time to explore and photograph the stunning landscape, travelers leave Humantay Lake with memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Pack for the Humantay Lake Hike?
Based on the tour details, hikers should pack warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a hat or headband. Bringing trekking poles can also help manage the uphill hike to the lake.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks for the Humantay Lake hike. This allows them to customize their meals and have sustenance during the approximately 3-hour hike to the lake and back.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There is no minimum age requirement for the tour, but it’s recommended that children be at least 8 years old due to the moderate fitness level and high elevation. The tour is not suitable for very young travelers.
Are There Any Safety Precautions to Be Aware Of?
The tour includes several safety precautions. Travelers should be aware of the high altitude, prepare with proper clothing and equipment, and follow the guide’s instructions. An emergency horse is provided in case of difficulty during the hike.
How Can I Ensure I Have a Successful and Enjoyable Experience?
To ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, one should review the tour’s requirements, pack appropriate gear, stay hydrated, acclimate properly, and follow the guide’s instructions. With proper preparation, travelers can maximize their chances of a memorable and safe adventure.
Humantay Lake Full Day Tour
“WE BOOKED WITH ALIPERUTREKS AND DID THE HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR. THE SERVICE WAS SPECTACULAR ALL MY FAMILY IS HAPPY FOR HIRING ALIPERUTREKS THE GUIDE WH…”
Recap
The Humantay Lake Full Day Tour offers an unforgettable Andean adventure. Travelers will be captivated by the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, set against the dramatic mountain landscape. With the opportunity to observe local wildlife and participate in a Pachamama ceremony, this tour provides a truly immersive cultural experience amidst the natural beauty of Peru’s Cusco region.
