Best Humantay lake full day tour from Cusco
The most complete tour to Huacachina from Lima, featuring dune buggies, sandboarding, and free time to explore the oasis.
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Secure your spot with only 50%
Confirmation
Immediate
Duration
16 Hours
Difficulty
Easy
Daily departures
365 days a year
Trip type
Group or private
Save your spot with only 50%
- Safe and secure payment
- Immediate confirmation
- International cards accepted
Humantay Lake 1 Day tour Cusco
GET IN PERU takes you early in the morning to visit one of Cusco’s hidden gems, where you will see Humantay Lake, with its turquoise waters and snow capped mountains awaiting us.
Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the best treks in Cusco with us. Reserve your spot now and live the all inclusive experienc
Group Tour
- Best price
- Independent traveler
- Fixed departures
Private Tour
- Flexible schedule
- Personalized service
- Private vehicle
Día 1: Best Humantay lake full day tour from Cusco
Your Experience at a Glance:
4:30 AM
Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
6:30 AM
Breakfast in Mollepata
7:15 AM
Drive continues along the unpaved road
8:15 AM
Trek to Humantay Lake at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level
10:00 AM
Arrival and exploration at Humantay Lake
12:30 PM
Return hike back to the transport
1:30 PM
Buffet lunch in Mollepata
2:30 PM
Return journey to the Imperial City of Cusco
4:30 PM
End of the tour at Plaza Regocijo
- Transportation
- 4 km
- Guide
- Tickets
- 12 Hours
4:30 AM - Pick-up from your Cusco hotel
Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel located within Cusco's tourist zone.
6:30 AM - Buffet breakfast in the Mollepata district
It gets cold on this tour, so a nice hot cup of coffee paired with a nutritious breakfast is the perfect way to kick off the day.
7:15 AM - Continuing towards Humantay
Past Mollepata, the road is unpaved a dirt path where local muleteers pass by with their mules and horses.
8:15 AM - Start of the trek to Humantay Lake
At an altitude of 3,800 meters, we will begin our 2 km hike alongside our guide to reach the summit and view Humantay Lake.
10:00 AM - Arrival and exploration of Humantay Lake
After crossing 1 km of gentle slopes and 1 km of pure uphill climbing, we arrive at this spectacular landscape gifted to us by nature.
Free time and photography at the turquoise lake
Our guide will show you the best spots to take photos and connect with the spirit of the mountains.
12:30 PM - Departure back to Cusco
We will begin our return journey by transport along the same road.
1:30 PM - Buffet lunch included in Mollepata
To recharge your energy, we will enjoy an included buffet lunch.
2:30 PM - Departure from the restaurant heading to Cusco
From here, we have a 2 hour nap ahead of us in the vehicle until we reach the city of Cusco.
4:30 PM - End of the tour in Cusco
Our tour will conclude at Plaza Regocijo, just one block away from the Main Square (Plaza de Armas).
Regional Considerations
Maximum Altitude
4200 mt
Minimum Altitude
3800 mt
Distance
4 KM
Horses
100.00 PEN (Opcional por tramo)
Maximum Temperature
18°C
Minimum Temperature
5°C
Travel Expert Recommendations
Can I rent horses for the Humantay Lake tour if I don't want to hike?
Absolutely, just make sure to bring cash in Peruvian Soles (PEN). The cost is 100 Soles for the uphill section.
What kind of clothing and footwear should I wear to visit Humantay Lake?
Warm clothing; it gets very cold here, especially during the months of June and July, so dress in layers.
Is it possible to rent horses for the downhill section from the lake?
Yes, but I do not recommend it, as the descent is steep and they will only assist you for 1 km you will still have to walk the rest of the way.
Why is this tour different?
- Hotel pick up
- Breakfast in the town of Mollepata
- Trekking to Humantay + free time for photos
- Lunch
- Book with just 50% down
Book with confidence
- Instant confirmation
- Over 12 years creating unforgettable experiences
- Personalized WhatsApp assistance
- Specialized local tour operator
- Guaranteed departures
Día 1: Best Humantay lake full day tour from Cusco
Your Experience at a Glance:
3:00 AM
Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
5:00 AM
Buffet breakfast in Mollepata
6:10 AM
Drive continues along the unpaved road
7:00 AM
Trek to Humantay Lake at 3,800 meters above sea level
9:00 AM
Arrival at Humantay Lake
12:00 PM
Return hike back to the transport
1:00 PM
Buffet lunch in Mollepata
2:00 PM
Return journey to the Imperial City of Cusco
4:00 PM
End of the tour at Plaza Regocijo
- Transportation
- 4 km
- Guide
- Tickets
- 12 Hours
3:00 AM - Pick up from your Cusco hotel
Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel located within Cusco's tourist zone.
5:00 AM - Buffet breakfast in the Mollepata district
It gets cold on this tour, so a nice hot cup of coffee paired with a nutritious breakfast is the perfect way to kick off the day.
5:50 AM - Continuing towards Humantay
Past Mollepata, the road is unpaved a dirt path where local muleteers pass by with their mules and horses.
7:00 AM - Start of the trek to Humantay
At an altitude of 3,800 meters, we will begin our 2 km (1.2 miles) hike alongside our guide to reach the summit and view Humantay Lake.
9:00 AM - Arrival at Humantay Lake
After crossing 1 km of gentle slopes and 1 km of pure uphill climbing, we arrive at this spectacular landscape gifted to us by nature.
Free time to take photos
Our guide will show you the best spots to take photos and connect with the spirit of the mountains.
12:00 PM - Departure back to Cusco
We will begin our return journey by transport along the same road.
1:00 PM - Buffet lunch in Mollepata
To recharge your energy, we will enjoy an included buffet lunch.
2:00 PM - Departure from the restaurant
From here, we have a 2 hour nap ahead of us in the vehicle until we reach the city of Cusco.
4:00 PM - End of the tour in Cusco
Our tour will conclude at Plaza Regocijo, just one block away from the Main Square (Plaza de Armas).
Regional Considerations
Maximum Altitude
4200 mt
Minimum Altitude
3800 mt
Distance
4 KM
Horses
100.00 PEN (Opcional por tramo)
Maximum Temperature
18°C
Minimum Temperature
5°C
Travel Expert Recommendations
Can I rent horses if I cannot walk?
Absolutely, just make sure to bring cash in Peruvian Soles (PEN). The cost is 100 Soles for the uphill section.
What kind of clothing should I wear to go to Humantay Lake?
Warm clothing; it gets very cold here, especially during the months of June and July, so dress in layers.
Do they rent horses for the descent?
Yes, but I do not recommend it, as the descent is steep and they will only assist you for 1 km you will still have to walk the rest of the way.
Why is this tour different?
- Hotel pick up included
- Buffet breakfast
- Trekking to Humantay + free time for photos
- Buffet lunch (included)
- Book with just 50% down
Book with confidence
- Instant confirmation
- Over 12 years creating unforgettable experiences
- Personalized WhatsApp assistance
- Specialized local tour operator
- Guaranteed departures
Included
- 24/7 support and assistance after your booking.
- Modern transportation with all required legal permits.
- All entrance fees to the park.
- Professional mountain guide.
- Oxygen tank.
- First aid kit.
- Buffet breakfast.
- Buffet lunch.
Not included
- Some services, such as breakfast, may not be included due to the departure schedule; in such cases, refunds do not apply.
- Dinner.
- Tips for the guides.
- Travel insurance (Peruvian laws suggest that you enter Peru with an active policy purchased in your home country).
- We work with several clinics and can assist you in managing medical care should you need it (the clinics will apply the insurance you previously purchased; however, they do not offer travel insurance themselves).
What to bring!
- Personal medication.
- A legible photo of your passport.
- Small daypack (with a rain cover if possible).
- Water (we recommend bringing 1L per day).
- Rain poncho or rain jacket.
- Extra snacks.
- Hiking shoes and trekking pants.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lip balm Lip moisturizer.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Warm clothing (jacket, sweater, fleece, long sleeve shirts, etc.).
- Cash in Peruvian Soles (PEN).
Payment
AVOID SCAMS!
GET IN PERU will only charge a 50% deposit to reserve your seats and tickets.
The remaining balance must be paid 3 days before your departure.
Contact your travel advisor for more details or visit our Terms of Service Agreement.
Travel your way
$ Price per person
Our tour packages are available in both group and private formats. Consult with one of our travel experts to tailor your journey and enjoy a personalized experience led by our specialized local guides.
Budget friendly
Group Tour
From:
$40USD
per person
- Best Price
- Ideal for Independent Travelers
- Fixed Departures
Recommended experience
Private Tour
From:
$115USD
per person
Minimum 2 travelers
- More Personalized Service
- Personalized Hotel Pick-Up
- Better Photo Opportunities
- Flexible Schedule
- More Time at Each Destination
- Specialized Local Guides
Always Included
- Daily Departures
- Expert Travel Advisors
- 24/7 Support
- Flexible Payment Options
Recommended experience
Private Tour
From:
$115USD
per person
Minimum 2 travelers
- Exclusive Guide for Your Group
- More Personalized Service
- Personalized Hotel Pick-Up
- Flexible Schedule
- More Time at Each Destination
Budget friendly
Group Tour
From:
$40USD
per person
- Best price
- Ideal for Independent Travelers
- Fixed Departures
Always Included
- Daily Departures
- Expert Travel Advisors
- 24/7 Support
- Flexible Payment Options
Secure your spot with only 50%
Pay the rest later
- Secure Payment Processing
- Instant Booking Confirmation
- All Major International Cards Accepted
- Pay in Your Preferred Currency
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Still have questions?
Here are the answers
Is Humantay Lake worth visiting?
Yes. Humantay Lake features the most stunning turquoise waters in Cusco.
The tour combines a journey to the base of the snow capped mountain, a guided uphill trek, Andean vistas, and free time to explore the lake.
Tip: If you are looking for the best photos, try to book on clear days to enjoy the reflection of the snow capped peak on the turquoise waters.
How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
It is of moderate difficulty. The altitude and steep inclines are the greatest challenge.
The tour combines a steady paced ascent, assistance from experienced guides, Andean vistas, and free time to recover at the lake.
Tip: If you want to avoid exhaustion, try to walk slowly while taking short breaks, or consider renting a horse at the trailhead.
How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The uphill trek takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, strictly depending on each traveler’s pace.
The tour combines a continuous ascent along defined paths, strategic breaks to acclimatize, Andean vistas, and free time on the shores of the lake.
Tip: If you are looking for a more comfortable experience, try starting the hike with short steps and using trekking poles to reduce the impact on your knees during the descent.
What is the altitude of Humantay Lake?
The lake is located at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level, right at the foot of the imposing snow-capped peak.
The tour combines a comfortable transfer from Cusco, a guided uphill trek with pace control, Andean vistas, and free time at high altitude.
Tip: To avoid issues with the altitude, try to schedule this visit for your last days in Cusco and drink plenty of water or coca tea before you start.
Is acclimatization needed for Humantay Lake?
Yes. It is recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour to adapt to the altitude.
The tour combines a safe transfer along the Andean route, an uphill hike with strategic stops, and free time to contemplate the lake safely.
Tip: To ensure good acclimatization, avoid heavy meals during your first nights in the city and get plenty of rest before starting the trek.
What makes Humantay Lake special?
It stands out for the dazzling turquoise color of its mystical waters, guarded by the imposing snow capped mountain.
The tour combines a scenic approach toward the mountain range, a guided hike to the main viewpoint, and free time to feel the energy of the surroundings.
Tip: If you want to capture its most intense hue, try to view the lake when the sun’s rays hit the water directly around midday.
What is the best season to visit Humantay Lake?
Between April and November. The Andean climate rewards you with clear skies and spectacular views of the snow capped mountains.
The tour combines scheduled transfers during the period of best visibility, a guided hike under stable conditions, and free time to contemplate the unobstructed landscape.
Tip: If you travel during these dry season months, make sure to bring strong sun protection and thermal clothing, as the days are very sunny but the mornings are freezing.
Is it very cold at Humantay Lake?
Yes. The mornings are usually very cold due to the altitude, especially between June and August.
The tour combines travel in a heated minivan, outdoor hikes exposed to the freezing wind, and free time to take photos comfortably.
Tip: Make sure to bring a small daypack to store the layers of clothing you take off as you warm up during the hike.
What clothing should I wear to Humantay Lake?
Warm clothing, trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a waterproof jacket.
The tour combines hiking over uneven and changing terrain, direct exposure to Andean solar radiation, and free time to contemplate the landscape in total comfort.
Tip: Try to dress using the layering system so you can easily adapt to the temperature changes you will experience during the physical effort of the climb.
Does the Humantay Lake tour include breakfast and lunch?
Yes. Most services include a full breakfast and a buffet lunch during the journey.
The tour combines strategic stops at local restaurants before and after the hike, energy-boosting meals adapted to the route, and free time to rest after eating.
Tip: If you have any major dietary restrictions (such as a vegetarian or vegan diet), make sure to communicate this at the time of your booking so the buffet has options ready for you.
How early does the Humantay Lake tour start?
It starts between 4:00 A.M. and 5:00 A.M. from Cusco. An early departure is essential.
The tour combines an early morning transfer in a private minivan, a buffet breakfast included along the route, and free time to hike at your own pace without paying anything extra.
Tip: To avoid delays, try to leave all your gear ready the night before and go to bed early to lessen the impact of the early wake up call.
Is it worth waking up early to visit Humantay?
Yes. The early hours of the day offer better landscapes and less rain during the journey.
The tour combines an early morning transfer in a private minivan, a buffet breakfast included along the route, and free time to hike at your own pace without paying anything extra.
Tip: To avoid delays, try to leave all your gear ready the night before and go to bed early to lessen the impact of the early wake up call.
Can you ride a horse up to Humantay Lake?
Yes. Along part of the route, horses are available for rent for those who wish to reduce the physical effort.
The tour combines a continuous ascent along defined paths, strategic breaks to acclimatize, Andean vistas, and free time on the shores of the lake.
Tip: If you are looking for a more comfortable experience, try starting the hike with short steps and using trekking poles to reduce the impact on your knees during the descent.
Is Humantay Lake recommended for families?
Yes. Although the hike can be demanding due to the altitude, many families complete it by taking frequent breaks.
The tour combines a safe transfer along the Andean route, an uphill hike with strategic stops, and free time to contemplate the lake safely.
Tip: To ensure good acclimatization, avoid heavy meals during your first nights in the city and get plenty of rest before starting the trek.
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