Humantay Lake Tour From Cusco All Inclusive

The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco offers a captivating full-day adventure for those seeking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Andes. This all-inclusive experience whisks travelers away at 4 AM for a scenic drive to the trailhead, followed by a challenging yet rewarding 1.5-hour hike to the breathtaking turquoise lake situated at an impressive 13,779 feet. With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and essential hiking gear provided, this tour promises a rich cultural experience and an opportunity to explore the Inca mythology surrounding this remarkable destination. For those with a spirit of adventure and a desire to enjoy the grandeur of the Peruvian highlands, the Humantay Lake Tour is an enticing proposition.

Key Points

• The full-day Humantay Lake tour from Cusco features a 4.5-star rated hike to a stunning alpine lake at an altitude of 13,779 feet.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, breakfast, lunch, a professional guide, and essential hiking equipment, with prices starting at $37 per person.
• The challenging 1.5-hour hike to the lake offers breathtaking views of the Andes mountains and opportunities to learn about Inca mythology.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level, with a minimum age of 14 and a maximum group size of 19.
• Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and overall value, although some guests have noted minor organizational issues and concerns about overcrowded transportation.

Tour Overview

The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco offers a full-day hike to a stunning alpine lake nestled high in the Andes mountains at an elevation of 13,779 feet (4,200 meters).

This popular tour has an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 208 reviews and starts at $37 per person.

Guests can expect an early 4 AM hotel pickup in Cusco, a 2-hour drive to the starting point, and a 1.5-hour ascent to the lake, with an optional horse rental available.

Once at the lake, hikers will have 3 hours to enjoy the breathtaking views and learn about Inca mythology before returning to Cusco for lunch.

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and essential hiking equipment.

Location and Altitude

Located in the picturesque Cusco region of Peru, the Humantay Lake sits at an impressive altitude of 13,779 feet (4,200 meters) above sea level, offering visitors a glimpse into the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes mountains.

This high-altitude destination is a prime attraction for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, who come to marvel at the crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

The trek to reach the lake is challenging, with a steep ascent through the rugged terrain, but the stunning vistas make the effort worthwhile.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, the Humantay Lake promises an unforgettable experience amidst the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Reviews and Pricing

Reviews for the Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco generally praise the experience, with an impressive 4.5-star rating from 208 reviews.

The tour’s pricing, starting at $37.00, offers a compelling value proposition for travelers seeking to explore this breathtaking natural wonder in the Peruvian Andes.

While some guests have noted minor organizational issues or room for improvement in transportation and meal quality, the vast majority of reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the stunning views of the lake, and the overall satisfaction with the tour.

For those with a moderate fitness level, the Humantay Lake Tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and Inca history of the region at an accessible price point.

Tour Itinerary

The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco offers a full-day hike with an early 4:00 am pickup from hotels in the city center or designated meeting points for those staying outside.

After a 2-hour drive to the village of Mollepata, travelers enjoy an American breakfast before beginning the 1.5-hour steep ascent to the stunning Humantay Lake.

The tour includes:

1. Option to rent horses for the climb up to the lake.

2. 3 hours at the lake to soak in the stunning views and learn about Inca mythology.

3. Lunch in Mollepata before the return journey to Cusco.

The return trip to Cusco takes approximately 3 hours, completing this challenging yet rewarding full-day adventure.

Transportation and Pickup

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco’s city center, and for those staying outside the central area, a designated meeting point is provided. From there, travelers embark on a 2-hour private minivan ride to the village of Mollepata. This scenic drive allows participants to take in the stunning Andean landscapes before reaching the starting point of the hike.

Pickup	Transportation
Hotel pickup in Cusco city center	2-hour private minivan ride to Mollepata
Designated meeting point for hotels outside the center	Private minivan provides comfortable travel

Once in Mollepata, the group enjoys a hearty breakfast before beginning the ascent to the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

Tour Inclusions

Included in the Humantay Lake Tour are a variety of amenities and services to enhance the overall experience. The tour package includes:

1. A professional guide who’ll lead the hike and provide insights into the Inca mythology surrounding the lake.

2. Breakfast and lunch, with a vegetarian option available, to fuel the body during the challenging trek.

3. Essential equipment such as walking sticks, a first aid kit, and emergency oxygen, ensuring the safety and comfort of the travelers.

While gratuities and drinks aren’t included in the tour price, the comprehensive inclusions make the Humantay Lake Tour a well-rounded and value-packed experience for adventurous travelers.

Recommendations and Restrictions

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the Humantay Lake Tour has several recommendations and restrictions in place.

Travelers should be aware of the moderate fitness level required, as the hike isn’t suitable for pregnant individuals, those with serious medical conditions, or people with back problems.

The minimum age for participation is 14 years, and the tour isn’t recommended for children or the elderly.

The group size is capped at 19 travelers, with a minimum of 2 people required for the small group option.

Lastly, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for any unexpected changes in plans.

Traveler Feedback

Based on the provided information, travelers have shared a mix of positive and constructive feedback about the Humantay Lake Tour. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the spectacular views of the beautiful lake, and the satisfactory breakfast and lunch provided.

However, some guests have expressed concerns about overcrowded transportation and a lack of organization, along with suggestions for improving the quality of the food and the condition of the vans.

The key takeaways from traveler reviews include:

1. Excellent guides who provide informative and engaging experiences.

2. Breathtaking scenery at the Humantay Lake.

3. Opportunities for improvement in logistics and dining options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity for the Guide Mandatory?

The tour overview does not state that gratuity for the guide is mandatory. While tipping is customary, the decision to provide a gratuity is up to the individual traveler’s discretion based on their satisfaction with the guide’s performance.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Water?

Travelers can generally bring their own snacks and water on the Humantay Lake tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator as they may have specific policies regarding outside food and beverages. Bringing extra provisions can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Lunch?

The tour spends 1 hour at Mollepata for lunch, providing a vegetarian option. Travelers have sufficient time to enjoy their meal and recharge before continuing the hike back to Cusco.

Are Children Allowed to Participate in the Hike?

The tour is not recommended for children, as the minimum age is 14 years. Younger travelers may struggle with the strenuous hike and high altitude. The tour provider advises against bringing children or elderly participants for safety reasons.

Can I Make Special Dietary Requests for the Meals?

Yes, special dietary requests can be accommodated for the meals on this tour. Travelers can notify the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, and appropriate meals will be provided.

Recap

The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable day in the Andes.

Priced affordably, the tour includes transportation, a guided hike to the stunning turquoise lake, and all necessary gear.

With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and breathtaking views, this experience promises a rewarding exploration of Inca mythology and the natural beauty of the region.