Full-day Trek To Humantay Lake From Cusco With Guide

It was a great experience, the guide was very responsive and helpful, the food was delicious and the vehicle modern. A must do, totally recommended!!

Humantay lake was one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing with my own two eyes. The hike up was tough but a good challenge and the descent was incredibly fun. The location gets 5/5. Unfortunately our tour guide was not as great. I was seated next to him on the shuttle ride to and from Humantay. He looked hungover and we had to stop very quickly into the trip over so (I’m guessing) he could use the restroom. After we continued on the trip he proceeded to fall asleep and continuously bump into me and even fell over with his head on my shoulder. This continued for 2 hours to our breakfast spot. After breakfast he continued to fall asleep on me on the way to Humantay. Once we got there he proceeded to give us very little guidance or direction on the path to take up. We had to follow other groups up to know the path. Once we were up there he explained the history of the area briefly for 15 minutes after we had time to take pictures and then started the descent. On the trip back he again fell asleep on me and I started lightly shoving him off me and he didn’t notice in the slightest. After lunch on the trip back I finally shook him awake (which took a surprising amount of effort) and asked him to please get off of me. He did. For 5 minutes. Before falling asleep on me again. At this point I was fed up and started shoulder checking him off of me which he again didn’t seem to notice. The commute to and from humantay was incredibly unprofessional and downright miserable considering I was awake from 3am to 7pm (2 hours later than we were supposed to return) due to a man repeatedly sleeping on me. I would recommend booking Humantay through a company other than Trip Advisor.

In total it was great! But - The agency has told the guide another pick up location than us. The agency was also not reachable. We were 7 people - one older woman was riding the horse. I don’t know if it is common but the guide was with here instead with us - the people who were climbing up the mountain. Don’t underestimate the altitude and slope

The tour was great. Bit changeling but breathtaking at the top. Food was good too and special thanks to driver Antonio y our gia Havier and training gia Mery!

Excellent company with top notch, customer oriented service. Great communication before hand ensuring you have all questions answered and service on the trail was terrific as well. Big kudos to the team!

I would definitely recommend this tour! The guide was so amazing and taught us so much about Incan culture which was absolutely amazing! This hike is a bit challenging and I would recommend not doing it your first few days in peru to get adjusted to the elevation. Again this tour was amazing 10/10

Good food, good guide and amazing place! The road to get there is a bit rough but it is worth it. I recommend the tour and the company.

This hike is not for the faint of heart! but so worth it. If you think you can't make it, pay for the horses... but don't QUIT! You will be tired the next day but so so happy you did it! :) Beautiful place!

Had a phenomenal time on my Humanity Lake hike! Pick up (although early) was so easy, with pickup right near my hostel. It's a long, windy, but beautiful path. We stopped for breakfast on the way. Food and views were great! Continued on to start hiking around 11:30am. Our guide was so fun and took the time to describe some of the history of the area, which enhanced my experience immensely! The hike itself is tough, but mostly because of the altitude. It's beautiful with awesome views the entire way. The lake itself is pretty mesmerizing. We stopped for a late lunch on the way back to Cusco at the same place, which was delicious! Drop off back in Cusco was super easy! Overall, had an awesome time!

The pickup did not show up -> No Trek. I booked with tripadvisor on a short notice, but they had a working day time and failed to give any feedback. If you choose to go with Mapi Travel always call to get confirmation.

Tough but AMAZING hike and experience! I struggled as I was not quite adjusted to the altitude yet but the tour guide was patient and helpful during the climb. It’s a long ride up and down and the hike is a little intense but the views and the lagoon were totally worth it!! Would recommend for a day trip in Cusco!!

The hike is moderate with the last half hour a bit more steep. If you don't feel up to it, there is a horse "taxi" waiting to take you up for 80 soles. Once you get up there and you are lucky enough to have a sunny day, the view is very much worth the effort. We got glimpses of the background mountain through the cloud patches in December.

Such a beautiful place! Really enjoyed the tour and the scenery. I would do it all over again. I recommend bringing sun block and water.

Excelente trip. The hike can be strenuous due to altitude unless in top shape. There are horses to help all the way up. A wonderful must do.

This company is the WORST. No communication. Came to pick me up 3 days before my actual tour. After I was accidentally picked up, they dropped me up in random place to take a taxi back with my own money. How is this a tour company? AVOID!

The tour was well coordinated. I had a great time and took some fantastic photos! Just be aware that the altitude is a bit high, and you might feel the fatigue kick in, but they had horses to mount on for a fee.

This company is not reliable. They canceled our trip last minute and did not let us know until we called an hour later after we were supposed to be picked up. Then they want us to pay cash and be picked up way later than what we are supposed to. Their excuse was that they tried to confirm in the middle of the night of the same day of the hike and we did not answer. Extremely unreliable, will never use again.

We did the day hike to Humantay Lake... and it was a very well done tour. Absolutely loved it. They pick you up at your hotel, and then drive about two hours in a nice, well maintained van. Breakfast is included at a very charming venue... then off to Humantay Lake (another hour or so of driving). Guides were excellent, food was great, and the lake itself is stunning. The hike isn’t too long/hard... but you can rent a horse if you like. One of the highlights of our trip. Thanks Freddie and the whole group of guys! If you’re on the fence, do this tour!

Well organized trip with a nice guide. Really good breakfast and lunch at a cozy restaurang. The hike was a bit challenging, but you get to do it at your own pace. You also can rent a horse to get up (80 soles). We did The hike pretty fast so we had lots of time att The lake. The lake is really beautiful! It was a really nice Day trip.

My first ever tour bought on TripAdvisor. I was very sceptical about it. How wrong was I. This tour was the icing on the cake. Had already visited churches and old archeological sites but nature it's just in another level of beauty. About the service: 5 stars. It was more than I expected. The guide was awesome, he always kept an eye on us, looking after our safety and our well being. Had oxygen and a first aid kit just in case any of us had trouble breathing 'cause of the high altitude we where at. 5 star rating Breakfast and lunch buffet included. About the food provided: mmm... it could've been better. I'm not a picky eater, but it should be improved in taste and variety, 3 star rating. The place where we ate was nice and clean. 4 star rating. About the the views and expectations. Online pictures definently don't do justice to this place. It really blew my mind when we reached the top. This is one of those breathtaking places, literally. It took me an hour and a half to get to the top from base camp. The trip from Cusco to base camp took 3 hours... one of the best time investing activities had ever made. Would I do it again? Definitely. Would I buy the same tour from TripAdvisor? 100%. Thanks for everything.

Best trip in Peru besides Machu Picchu - hard hike, v early morning but it’s the best ever! Go with mapi travel - last minute booking but guide was fantastic!

We did the hike with Mapi Travel we thougt. We did not get any information in advance. There was no way to get in contact with the agency. At the last moment they give us a message via tripadvisor that they will pick us up at the hotel at 4:30 AM. The agency changed in name to Willka travel. Bit annoying they do not response at our emails, we almost canceld the trip because of that. The hike it selfs was a bit crowdy, many people along the way. Many people at the lake also. The view was really beautiful en calming. But many people where shouting en talking loud so you just cannot relax and take a moment for your self. At the lake you only have 30 minutes and then you have to go back again (wich is much easier) If i could do it another time if would stay more directly by the mollepata Checkpoint en crab a taxi to the starting point and then start hiking before the crowd or after 1 PM when everybody is leaving and you have the lake to yourself

Not only a great location, this was a great tour overall. I had lowered my expectations because of a mediocre experience in a different hike two days prior, but Javier and company did a great job with this tour. In addition to speaking English and Spanish, Javier shared some great insights about the cultural and historical importance of an awe inspiring location. Breakfast, lunch, and the driver were all excellent as well. I doubt you will find a better deal than this!

I booked the trip via TripAdvisor with MaPi Travel Agency in the back for 5 September. In my trip confirmation, there was never a mentioning of start/end times so I tried to contact the agency via mail and phone. Via email, there was only one short response without the information needed and my several follow-up emails have not been answered. My hotel then tried to call the number that was provided but the line didn’t exist any longer. So, I had to do some google research to find out the location of the agency in Cusco. When I went there, I found out that this company has double names or recently changed its name into Willka Travel. This was definitely a minus for my review. The tour as such was very well organized. Unfortunately, it was rainy/cloudy so we couldn’t enjoy the lake view in the end. Pickup was at around 3:50 from the hotel with Cusco finally leaving at 4:45. After 2 hours, we arrived at Mollepata Checkpoint for breakfast which was really excellent (very nice garden, Indio music, coffee/tea, juices, fruits, scrambled eggs etc). At around 7:30, we left for another 1 hour car ride to Sorampayo bus parking from which the trek started. Good thing was that the company provided walking sticks which was specifically important for the long way down. The trek as such is a roundtrip of 7.6km (3.8 up, 3.8 down) from 3.900m (Sorampayo) to 4.250m (Humantay). The way up is very steep and very challenging for people who have not adjusted to the height. I’m in very good physical condition and it was a real challenge for me. You can of course take horses to get up to the lake (2-8 Soles) but here, I’m really missing the point why one should do it. The lake is smaller than I expected and you will have around only 30min up there. It gets really crowded with tourists up there which can be a bit annoying, specifically with the growing Instagram community for which only the good picture is the aim of such a day. You will see foolish girls falling/stepping into the water why slipping from the rocks. They are usually the ones taking the horses... Our tour guide Hilton did a great job in explaining everything, I really enjoyed the day with him as tour guide. Overall statement: nice challenging trek which is nice to prepare for more (i.e. 4 Day Inca Trail). If you want to find such a like in front of a mountain, you will easily find that in the Alpes without any tourists.

The hike was very steep so I took a horse for the ascent for 80 soles. Views were definitely worth it and the tour guide was excellent in ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort.

This is a decently high altitude hike. Although the hike is not long, some parts are straight up and it’s easy to lose your breath if you’re not a seasoned hiker. Highly recommend acclimating yourself to the higher altitude before going if you plan to walk it (not take a horse). Regardless of how you get there, the view is incredible. 1000% recommend as a must see if you’re going to the Cusco area! If you’re going during July, bring warm clothes. You’re going to need them.

I just wanted to leave a review about our awesome trip to this wonderfull lagoon, it was a tough hike as traveling uphill the majority of the way, I recommend this tour you will not regret it easy to book by Mapi travel on the website. Thanks again

This was such a beautiful experience! The entire hike was gorgeous. It was definitely a challenging hike because it was mostly uphill, but it was so worth it! It was beautiful along the way and the lake at the end was gorgeous. I'm glad we had an early morning tour because the lake got very crowded around 12pm when we were leaving. We had plenty of time (1-2 hours) at the lake itself, which was amazing because that's why we came. The people who were slower hikers definitely didn't get as much time at the lake since it was a large group. Our tour guide didn't really interact with us much. I appreciated that he kept accountability for us when we got there and made sure we never left anyone behind. He also carried oxygen for us and asked several times if anyone needed anything. He gave a small description/explanation at the lake about some history. Other than that, he didn't really engage with us (on the hike, he was with the last group member so we never saw him). The bus ride was a nightmare. They were late in picking us up (we had to meet at a plaza because apparently our hotel was not in the range for them to pick up). This made us nervous just because it was dark and so early in the morning we started to get nervous that we were in the wrong spot! We were the last ones they picked up, so we had to sit in the very back of the bus. It was so cramped and such a small space for my 6'5" husband, it was extremely uncomfortable the entire ride. They definitely crammed 19 people into this bus! We got a flat tire on the way there, and again on the way back. The way back was scary because you could hear the tire just completely go flat. They took forever to figure it out, and they replaced the tire in the afternoon with the flat tire from the morning (they only had one spare). I understand that this wasn't the guides fault, but he didn't say anything to us about it, nor did he apologize or acknowledge the inconvenience this was for us. The 12 hour day turned into a 15 hour day because of this.

The length of this post is a tribute to my passion for and awe of Humantay Lake. I found this excursion after booking my trip to Peru, with my 81 year old Dad, to visit one of our bucket list items - see Machu Picchu. I'd never heard of Humantay Lake, but when I saw the pictures and read the review, I knew I HAD to see it. And, the long journey was well worth the reward of laying my eyes on this incredibly beautiful site! Unfortunately, after booking the trip, my Dad had some health issues which resulted in multiple procedures/surgeries. We weren't sure, until ~2 weeks before the trip, that he'd be able to go. He made it, but was still weak, so I made arrangements with Rolando for horses and a personal guide. There was a misunderstanding about the "extras" I paid for. Before I could even ask about it, Rolando had already communicated with our guide to resolve the issue. Our guide, Cesar (Cobarrubias?) was amazing! He was informative/helpful from the moment we sat down in the bus/coach. He was very attentive to my Dad (and me), which was what we really needed to make it to the top. After taking pics, he sat us down and told us about his people (the Incas) and the details/history of Humantay Lake, He even played Andean music to set the mood! We got to know him personally throughout the day. He ended up being more than a guide and we couldn't have asked for a better one than Cesar! Important things to know: -Even if you take horses to the top, you still have to walk a distance that's pretty steep on the final leg. We didn't know this and if my Dad had known in advance, he may not have done the trip. We had to stop to rest several times, but he was determined and Cesar helped him with an extra walking stick. -Getting horses is usually only for the trip up. The rocks and the steep decline make it very difficult for the horses on the way down - even without a human on their backs. My Dad made it down much of the way, but it wasn't easy and became clear he couldn't walk all the way down. Once we got to the less steep part, Cesar quickly got another horse and a wonderful woman - who's name I don't know...:( - for the remainder of the trip down. -Although it's a long journey, don't let that dissuade you from booking this excursion!! The purpose of our trip was to see Machu Picchu - I've wanted to since I saw pictures in elementary school (~5 decades ago). However, having done both now, I'd say it's a tie - Machu Picchu for human creation; Humantay Lake for natural creation. It's a natural miracle and I feel honored to have seen it!!

Not an easy hike. Just short of two miles with 1200 feet of gain but worth the effort. A lot of people there but didn’t take away from the view. Different trail going down but not bad. A good experience and worth the work getting there.

Great day. Food was average otherwise a beautiful trip. Water was not available, only able to purchase

Went on this trek with my family during our vacation in Peru. It was a tough getting up that early and the hike is definitely a challenge, but the reward at the end if definitely worth the effort. Started the day with a prompt 3:45am pick up at the hotel in Cusco. After a 2 hour drive we stopped in Mollepata for small breakfast. Then it was another hour on a road that is not for the faint of heart up to the trial head. Freddy our guide was great in getting us ready and letting us know what to expect. We got walking poles and were off. The hike is very easy for the first 20-30 minutes, but then the climb starts. It doesn't look that steep, but the altitude more than makes up for it. If you feel you can't make it, there are horses available to take you up this part for about 75 Soles (~$20). The hike up takes about 1-1.5 hours, including breaks to catch your breath. The view at the end is well worth it, however. Especially since we were the first ones up. Spent about 1.5 hours at the top then did the 1 hour hike back to the trail head. Returned to Mollepata, where we got a great lunch before heading back to Cusco. A must do, it you are in the area.

Trip was well organized, served good food and total value for money. We loved the company of Hilton's (our tour guide) parents. We were able communicate with them effortlessly using sign language :) The guide shared lot of information about the Peru culture, people and their belief! Other team members even felt that he is far more friendlier and good guide compared to others. We even performed a small ritual (organizing stones on top of cocoa leaves) and offered prayers to the mountain gods! we all loved it and I recommend this trip to my friends visiting Peru.

Make sure you are in good physical condition and acclimated to the altitude. It was demanding. Almost at the end I needed a horse because I was too tired and altitude was affecting me. If unsure if you can do it just get a horse from the start. It's best to get there earlier to enjoy the view with less people. Please remember to respect the place, it is sacred. No swimming, no drones, no throwing rocks.

We done this full day trek from Cusco and trust me it is one tough trek but worth it. But be advised Humantay Lake lies 4200m above see level so altitude and air quality can be a problem for some trekkers. It is also a long day, we left Cusco at 3.30am to start the bus trip which is approximately 3hrs drive with breakfast and lunch included and return d to Cusco around 17.50pm. The climb to the lake is tough, the path is steep but there are horses you can hire from the owners for around 50 Peruvian sole ( you can haggle the price). But with dermination we climbed it, refused to rent a horse and when you turn the corner of the mountain the view was just spectacular with a sense of achievement ( from a group of 14 only 4 of us actually climbed it on foot) , so don’t underestimate this climb. If you fancy a challenge give this trek a go. Oxygen shots are also available to buy in Cusco or your guide will also have an oxygen cylinder with him for trekkers needing that little extra help on the mountain. Well worth a visit.

We booked this trip last minute based on a recommendation. It is an early morning rise with a 3 hour drive but well worth it. A long uphill trek. I recommend taking the horse if you are not well adjusted to the altitude. The view once you get to the top is AMAZING. We went during the week, so it wasn't crowded with tourists. Our tour guide Freddy made it the best experience. Freddy was patient, kind and humorous the entire way. The view of Humantay Lake was amazing but the Freddy made the journey unforgettable. I would recommend this tour company and Freddy as your guide. Many thanks to Freddy to making this tour enjoyable for our family.

Spectacular scenery!!! It’s quite a journey back and forth. Very strenuous hike at high elevations. But there are plenty of horse ranchers who will take you up for 80 soles. Hour and half hike minimum, ending in the spectacular sight. Half our group chose the horse, other half persevered. Weather was perfect. Be prepared for a 2 hour early morning drive, stop for breakfast(included but not very appetizing), then an hour and half drive along a scary narrow dirt/rocky road to the trailhead. Included lunch was pretty decent. Guide was helpful but repeated himself over and over and seems to rush the group(this has been all tours though).

While Humantay itself was absolutely amazing, the company really screwed it up. Not only were they 45 minutes late picking us up for our 4:30 AM departure, they would have forgotten all together if one of the girls in our group didn't have an international phone plan and actually CALLED them. They eventually sent a taxi to pick us up and drive us the entire way. Definitely do Humantay, maybe don't use this company.

There is nothing like an incredible lagoon, it is worth all the sacrifice of climbing the mountain as the landscape is incredibly beautiful.

Incredible tour, guide Fredy accompanied the group to and from the mountain, always concerned and attentive to everyone's health and well-being. I recommend.

The tour to the lagoon is excellent, our guide Jeferson was very helpful and attentive, always giving us the best tips, including for photos. The climb, as it is quite steep, requires a certain amount of physical preparation.

Everything perfect, the guide very attentive and do not take tourists to shops with agreements. The food in the restaurant is also very good.

A Laguna Humantay é uma das paisagens mais lindas que já tive a oportunidade de admirar. A subida da montanha é íngreme e com alguns obstáculos, mas bem possível de fazer. Quanto a empresa que nos guiou até lá, deixou bastante a desejar. Difícil comunicação e demora nos retornos com as instruções do passeio. Nosso guia Fred além de fazer brincadeiras vulgares referente aos brasileiros, a todo o momento parecia querer nos desmotivar a subir a pé, para que pegássemos (e pagássemos por) cavalos. Tínhamos 2 senhoras no grupo, e o guia em nenhum momento ofereceu suporte ou ajudar para elas, pelo contrário, muitas vezes andava bem a frente ou ficava para trás. Em resumo, super indico o passeio, mas com outra agencia.

It 's a very valid experience , the view of the lagoon is beautiful , and the path itself too . Indicated for those who are willing to trekking and like natural beauties , because it really requires energy for the climb and the movement to the pond , but it is very worth it !

The walk was spectacular we met many people who encouraged us to go forward along with the best guide we had yonathan H.P.

La Laguna es hermosa, y el guía nos dejo ir a nuestro paso ya que éramos los rápidos del grupo. Hay un poco de adrenalina para llegar a la Laguna ya que solo van VANs y el camino es muy angosto. Pero vale totalmente la pena.

Lousy logistics. When booking on Tripadvisor the tour was carried out by an agency called Mapi Travel who not only do not reply messages and their phone number is not active. Eventually staff arrived from another agency and we are told that the entrance to the park was not cancelled in the price so we were charged an additional money to the agreement. I do not recommend making these reservations on Tripadvisor, it is better to make them directly with the local tourism operators.

Les escribí 2 veces x msil para cancelar, ya q estaba varada en Bolivia y no llegaba a cuzco. No me respondieron. Me llamaron a las 05 am osra decirme q estaban en el hotel esperándome. Les mande captura de pantalla de mus mails enviados y nada de respuesta

Very good, Hillton took it upon himself to make this an excellent experience. To improve we found that the price was high vs other tour operators that offered exactly the same and even included a cane to support you in the ascent