Humantay Lake Full Day Tour from Cusco

HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR FROM CUSCO: THE MAGIC TURQUOISE LAKE

Humantay Lake is a must-see place, providing amazing views and a one-of-a-kind experience in the Andes Mountains. It’s famous for its beautiful turquoise water, and it sits at the base of the glacier-covered Humantay Mountain, creating a stunning mix of colors and natural beauty. On the tour, you’ll also get to see the impressive Salkantay mountain range, which is one of the most famous hiking areas in the region. This is a great trip for people who love nature and adventure and want to explore the wild and breathtaking beauty of Peru. At Magical Peru Expeditions, we are direct tour operators, and we prioritize your safety. We offer modern transportation, expert guides, and ensure all necessary safety measures are in place to make sure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

Humantay Lake full day

Humantay Lake is a beautiful natural spot located in the Andes Mountains near the town of Mollepata, about 100 kilometers from Cusco, Peru. The lake formed by the melting of the Humantay Glacier is considered sacred by the local people. The Humantay Lake tour is a popular activity for tourists visiting Cusco, giving them the chance to see the natural wonders of the Andes Mountains and learn about the local culture and traditions. Here are some of the best things about the Humantay Lake Peru hike:

Breathtaking Scenery:

The hike to Humantay Lake takes you through the Andes Mountains, offering fantastic views of snow-covered peaks and lush valleys. The lake itself has a mesmerizing turquoise-blue color. It is surrounded by tall mountains, making for a truly unforgettable sight.

Cultural Experience:

The Humantay Lake tour offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the history and traditions of the local community. Tourists can meet and talk with the Quechua-speaking people who live nearby, learn about their everyday lives, the customs they follow, and the beliefs they hold. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional ceremony led by a local shaman, gaining a deeper understanding of the spiritual beliefs of Andean culture.

Challenge:

Hiking to Humantay Lake is a moderate-level trail that involves climbing about 1,200 meters in elevation. The trek can be challenging, especially for those not used to high altitudes. However, the stunning views and the satisfaction of reaching the lake make the journey worthwhile. Please prepare for the hike by acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco for a day or two before the tour.

Fauna and Flora:

The area around Humantay Lake is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including the Andean condor, viscachas (which are like big, fluffy rabbits), and many types of birds. The region also has several native plants that are used for traditional medicine.

Spiritual Significance:

Humantay Lake holds a deep spiritual significance for the local people. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in a traditional ceremony led by a local shaman, providing a profound understanding of the spiritual beliefs of Andean culture. This experience will leave you feeling intrigued and respectful of the local traditions.

Origin of the Lake of Humantay:

The lake’s story comes from a legend about two brothers, Salkantay and Ausangate, who went in different directions to find water and end a drought in Cusco. Ausangate went south and found supplies, while Salkantay went north and also found supplies. However, he fell in love with a goddess named Veronica, and the story didn’t end happily. The two brothers had to return, and they were transformed into the snowy mountains of Salkantay and Ausangate. Salkantay’s sadness led to the creation of Humantay Lake, whose beautiful turquoise waters are said to reflect the feelings of the mountain god.

Location of Laguna Humantay:

This lake is situated in the province of Anta, in the district of Mollepata. Located on the slopes of the snow-capped mountain called Humantay, at an altitude of about 4,200 meters above sea level. To reach the lake, people usually start from the town of Soraypampa, which is the main starting point for the hike to this natural attraction.

In conclusion, the Humantay Lake tour is a special and memorable adventure that gives you the chance to enjoy beautiful nature, get to know local culture, experience some physical activity, and connect with the spiritual meaning of the place. It’s a great way to explore the Andes Mountains and learn about the history, customs, and beliefs of the people who live there.

Humantay Lake Day trip Itineray

CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE – CUSCO

To start for your Humantay lake guided tour, We will collect you from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 am and 4:30 am. We’ll travel through the local areas of Izcuchaca and Limatambo. Upon arriving in Mollepata after about 3 hours, we’ll have a healthy breakfast. Then, we’ll head to Soraypampa, which is at 3,900 meters / 12,800 feet, and begin our hike to the famous Humantay Lake.

After hiking for 1 hour and 30 minutes, we’ll arrive at the lake, which is at 4,220 meters / 13,850 feet. The view from there is fantastic, with the lake’s bright blue waters and the snow-covered peaks of the Humantay and Salkantay Mountains behind it, making it one of the most beautiful spots in the Andes.

We’ll take some time to enjoy the incredible scenery, and our local guide will share the history and importance of this place. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own. We’ll return to Soraypampa and have a semi-buffet lunch using our transportation. Finally, we’ll drive for about 3 hours and 30 minutes back to Cusco, and we will drop you off at Plaza San Francisco.

What is Included in one one-day trek to Humantay Lake?

High-quality service & safety

Pre-departure briefing about Humantay Lake Cusco

Usually one day before the tour.

Professional tour Guide

English and Spanish speaking, professionally educated, and official tour guide. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings along the entire route, including leading groups in ancient ceremonies, he or she will keep you safe. So that you can enjoy your time worry-free.

First AID or Kit Medical kit

All Magical Peru Expeditions Guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every year. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers, diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.)As well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.

Customer service 24/7

We have telephone service available 24 hours a day for ease of communication with Magical Peru Expeditions leading up to your trek.

Breakfast & lunch

Our passengers love our food. We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing.

Private transport

All your transportation is included in this package. We will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. Once you complete the tour, we will take you back to the door of your hotel in Cusco.

What is not included in the Humantay day trek?

• Dinner
• entrance ticket
• Hiking clothes

Tips for our staff

Tipping is the norm in any excursion in Peru, although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome.

Additional costs or delays beyond our control

Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemic, government policy, political instability, strikes, an act of god, etc.

Frequently asked questions about Humantay Lake:

What exactly is Humantay Lake?

This magnificent lake, with its mesmerizing turquoise hue, can be found nestled in the breathtaking Andes Mountains of Peru.

What is the route to reach Humantay Lake?

To reach Humantay Lake effortlessly, it is recommended to partake in a guided tour departing from Cusco. This comprehensive tour includes convenient transportation to and from the lake, along with a knowledgeable guide to lead you on a memorable hike.

What is the duration of the hike to Humantay Lake?

To complete the round-trip hike to Humantay Lake, expect to cover a distance of roughly 5.5 miles and allocate approximately 3 to 4 hours of your time.

Does the hike to Humantay Lake present a challenging endeavor?

With its steep inclines and uneven terrain, the hike to Humantay Lake is classified as moderately challenging. It is advised for those who possess a moderate level of physical fitness.

When is the ideal time of year to visit Humantay Lake?

For optimal hiking conditions, it is recommended to plan a visit to Humantay Lake during the dry season, which spans from May to September. This period offers pleasant weather and clear skies, ensuring an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Is it possible for someone to swim in Humantay Lake?

Due to its sacred significance to the local community, swimming is strictly prohibited in Humantay Lake.

What items should I pack for a hike to Humantay Lake?

For the tour, it is recommended to have suitable hiking footwear, warm attire, sun protection, headgear, a backpack, a camera, and an ample supply of water and snacks. The tour company will supply breakfast and lunch.

Is there a fee required to enter Humantay Lake?

Indeed, there is an entrance fee to gain access to the lake, and this fee is included in the overall price of a guided tour.

Are there any lodging options available in close proximity to Humantay Lake?

Due to its secluded location, Humantay Lake does not offer any lodging options in close proximity. Many tourists choose to stay in neighboring towns like Mollepata or Soraypampa instead.

How long will I stay in the Laguna Humantay?

Depending on the group’s speed and the weather, we often stay between thirty minutes and an hour at the Laguna Humantay lookout.

¿What to Pack for Humantay lake hike?

• Hiking Boots
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• T-shirts (quick-dry)
• Comfortable Trekking Pants
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen (SPF 35+)
• Toiletries and hand sanitizer
• Personal medication
• Camera and film

Here are some ideas for a day excursion to Humantay Lake.

To ensure a successful hike to Humantay Lake, begin early in the morning to enable enough time to finish before nightfall.

• Because Humantay Lake is located at a high elevation of over 4,200 meters, it is vital to be prepared for altitude sickness symptoms if you are not accustomed to such elevations. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed, and consider altitude medication if necessary.
• It is critical to dress adequately for the Andes’ ever-changing weather. Layer your clothes because temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and remember to protect yourself from the sun with a hat, rain gear or poncho, and sunscreen.
• Bring plenty of snacks and water for hydration to keep your energy levels up during the journey.
• In order to protect the pure ecology of Humantay Lake, it is critical to leave no trace and to strictly follow to approved pathways in order to avoid harming the delicate ecosystem.
• Hiring a guide can substantially enhance your hiking experience if you lack experience or knowledge with the area. A guide can help you traverse the trail and provide useful information about the area’s history and environment.

Humantay lake guided tour Price

Humantay lake group tour.

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Humantay lake private tour

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For our group travel experience, we require a minimum of two people to organize the Humantay Lake day trip. We guarantee that your Lagoon Humantay Tour or Humantay Trek 1 Day will be limited to a maximum of 15 people and fully supported. No problem if your date does not match with other traveler departures, we can open a new departure just with you on any date you wish. Feel free to email us or call us at +51 941011519

Advantages of booking the Humantay Lake Full Day Tour in Private Service.

• Flexibility on dates: Choose your own travel dates, and you decide when to start your Humantay Lake day trip.
• Flexibility to Explore or Go at your own pace: Walk or explore on your own rhythm, and spend as little or as long as you want on your full-day Humantay Lake tour, forget to stay or keep up with the large groups. It’s your own journey.
• Perfect for families, groups of mates (friends), or honeymoons: Make this Lagoon Humantay Tour for you and your loved ones or someone special.
• Totally customizable: Travel the way you want and enjoy a customized trip; where you specify the itinerary of the Humantay Lake tour. Book this trip as is or customize it to be as active, relaxed, rustic, or luxurious as you wish to go. Also, this trip is perfect for multi-generational families and to celebrate a special anniversary or milestone birthday.
• Private treks, single trekkers, custom treks, large groups, and packages are welcome! Please email us to customize.

How do I make a reservation?

Please contact us via this page by filling out the INQUIRY form, asking for availability first and we will provide you with all the information on how to book a day trip to Lake Humantay, and once we’re okay, you’ll book the tour on demand, otherwise, we can’t guarantee availability.

When contacting us, please provide the location of your hotel, the number of tour members you are traveling with, and group tours, or private tours. Thank you for your preference