Humantay Lake: Small group hike with picnic & guide

Summary

That morning at Humantay Lake still lingers in my mind

You’ll wake before dawn in Cusco and head out with a local guide toward Humantay Lake, sharing breakfast under snowy peaks before hiking up together. Expect moments of silence by turquoise water, a traditional Andean ceremony, and lunch with new friends—a day you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want another cup?” our guide, Julio, grinned as he poured steaming coca tea into my hands. It was barely light out in Cusco when we got picked up—my brain felt foggy, but there was this quiet excitement buzzing through the van. The drive to Soraypampa took a while (I dozed off for half of it), but when we stepped out for breakfast, the air actually tasted different—cold and sharp, almost sweet. Salkantay and Humantay peaks just sat there above us like they’d always been waiting.

The hike up to Humantay Lake wasn’t easy—I mean, 4200 meters is no joke. I kept stopping “to admire the view” (really just catching my breath). Julio didn’t rush anyone; he pointed out these tiny purple flowers growing between rocks and told us how locals use them for tea. There were birds darting around, and sometimes all you could hear was someone’s boots crunching on gravel or the wind moving through grass. At one point I wondered if my lungs would forgive me.

When we finally reached the lake…honestly, it didn’t look real at first. The water was this wild turquoise color that changed every time a cloud moved. Some people sat quietly; others took photos or just stared. Julio did a little ceremony with coca leaves—he explained it’s a way to thank the mountain spirits. I tried to follow along but mostly just felt grateful to be there (and maybe a bit dizzy). Lunch by the shore tasted better than anything I’d packed myself—maybe it was the altitude or maybe just hunger.

I still think about that view sometimes—the glacier hanging over us, everyone kind of hushed for once. On the way down, someone started laughing about how their legs felt like jelly. I get it now why people say a day trip to Humantay Lake from Cusco is worth it—even if you’re not sure you can make the climb. It’s not really about conquering anything; more like letting yourself be small for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Humantay Lake Hike and Ceremony

• Hotel pickup at 4:30 am
• Drive to Soraypampa
• Breakfast with mountain views
• Hike uphill to Humantay Lake
• Explore or relax at the lake
• Ancient mountain gods ceremony
• Descend back from the lake

Top questions

How long does it take to hike to Humantay Lake?

The uphill hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake takes about 2 hours each way.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Cusco is included.

What meals are provided during the day trip?

A buffet breakfast, snack, and lunch are included on this tour.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes, live tour commentary is provided in English by your local guide.

Are entry fees to Humantay Lake included?

Yes, admission fees are covered as part of your booking.

How high is Humantay Lake?

The lake sits at approximately 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What fitness level is required?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness due to altitude and hiking conditions.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking; please advise any specific needs in advance.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning hotel pickup in Cusco, roundtrip transport to Soraypampa, entry fees for Humantay Lake, buffet breakfast overlooking mountain peaks, snacks along the trail, lunch by the lake’s edge with your group and local guide commentary throughout—all before returning back in the evening.