Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco

This comprehensive full-day package includes tourist transportation and the company of a professional bilingual guide to lead you safely through the high-altitude terrain. You will be provided with a fortifying breakfast and a traditional buffet lunch in the village of Mollepata, where vegetarian options can be requested. Additionally, the tour provides first aid equipment, emergency oxygen, and an optional wooden walking stick to assist you during the trek.

The local entrance fee to the Humantay Lake area is 20 PEN and must be paid in physical cash directly to the community on-site. If you choose to rent a horse for the ascent, this fee is approximately 80 PEN and is handled directly with the local handlers at the trailhead. Furthermore, personal expenses, snacks, and optional gratuities for your guide and driver are not included in the booking price.

Travelers can choose between three different service levels to best suit their needs and budget. Options include a standard tour with a fixed meeting point in the city center, a tour that includes hotel pickup from downtown accommodations, or a private tour for those seeking a personalized pace and exclusive service. Each option provides the same scenic rewards while offering different levels of convenience and privacy.

The tour begins in the very early hours of the morning, with pickups starting between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM for those who chose the hotel pickup option. If you selected the fixed meeting point, you must meet your group next to the Hotel San Pedro Plaza door at the designated time. This early start is crucial to ensure you reach the Soraypampa plateau in time to enjoy the mountain views before the afternoon weather changes.

It is strongly recommended that you wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in several warm layers, including a jacket, sweater, hat, and gloves for the cold morning hours. You should pack a daypack with a reusable water bottle, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and rain gear in case of sudden Andean showers. Carrying enough cash in local currency for the entrance fee and horse rentals is also essential for a smooth experience.

To protect the local environment and ensure the comfort of all participants, pets are not permitted to join the tour. Large luggage or bulky bags are not allowed on the tourist vehicle due to limited storage space; travelers should stick to standard daypacks. Additionally, smoking is prohibited during the transport and throughout the trek to respect the natural protected area and other hikers.

The trek to the lake involves a steep 3km (1.8 miles) climb at high altitude, so it is vital that you are in relatively good physical condition. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco to acclimate before attempting this trip to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Because weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, you should check local forecasts and prepare for varying temperatures throughout the day.

Due to the steep 3km (1.8 miles) incline and the extreme altitude of 4,200 meters, this trek is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with a low level of fitness. It is also restricted for travelers with respiratory issues, heart problems, or vertigo, as the thin mountain air and rugged terrain can be physically demanding. Additionally, the tour cannot accommodate wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments because the trail consists of uneven, high-altitude mountain paths.

You will experience a profound connection with the raw power of the Andes, starting with the sight of the massive Apu Salkantay as you arrive at the Soraypampa plateau. The centerpiece of the journey is the 2-hour trek to Humantay Lake, where you will witness the stunning contrast between the emerald-colored water and the hanging glaciers of the mountains above. Standing at 4,200 meters, you will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos of one of the most iconic and sacred natural wonders in Peru.

Beyond the physical challenge of the hike, you will experience the local flavors of the region during a traditional buffet lunch in the village of Mollepata. This stop offers a chance to rest and refuel while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the highland district. From the early morning mist to the turquoise reflections of the glacial lake, this tour provides a complete sensory journey through the high-altitude landscapes of the Salkantay range.

If you have specific questions or need to coordinate your meeting details for this Humantay Lake tour from Cusco, you should contact the activity provider, Inka Altitude, via the tour page on GetYourGuide.