Highlights

  • See the impressive peaks of Salkantay and Humantay on a day trip from Cusco
  • Turquoise colored Humantay under beautiful snow covered mountains.
  • Enjoy authentic family-style meals, breakfasts and lunches at soraypampa .
  • Tour led by an expert guide.
  • Hike by he path salcantay
  • We skip the crowds!—Everyone else goes to Lake Humantay at the same time. That means they are all on top at the same time. There are few places to take the classic photograph of the Humantay Lagoon and it would not appeal to a large crowd of people. Since we left Cusco at 03:00 am. You will arrive at Lake Humantay before the crowd.
  • Our guide always brings oxygen tanks, which is important since it rises to more than 4,200 metres/13,779 feet above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this, so it’s definitely something to consider when choosing the best Humantay Lake operator .
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 people maximum. This fact sets us apart from other travel companies that accept larger groups.
  • You will take your time and enjoy the walk without pressure.
  • Friendly, attentive tour guides, with fluent English and extensive knowledge of everything related to Humantay Peru.

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY 1:

Humantay Lagoon 1 Day Trek

You can join us on this exciting journey any day of the week. It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as part of a larger group; we can handle it. Do not miss the opportunity to see this glorious natural wonder when you are in Cusco.

The Humantay lagoon is one of the many hidden gems in the mountainous region of Peru. Witness two imposing snow-capped sacred mountains, the apus Salkantay and Humantay . The lagoon sits like a turquoise gem against the snowy background and feels like something out of a dream.

 

Inclusions

Pricing

Number of personas Price per person
2 Personas $ USD 149.00 Deseo Reservar
3 Personas $ USD 129.00 Deseo Reservar
4 Personas $ USD 119.00 Deseo Reservar
5 Personas $ USD 99.00 Deseo Reservar
6 Personas $ USD 89.00 Deseo Reservar
7 Personas $ USD 79.00 Deseo Reservar
8 Personas $ USD 69.00 Deseo Reservar
9 Personas $ USD 69.00 Deseo Reservar
10 Personas $ USD 69.00 Deseo Reservar
11 Personas $ USD 69.00 Deseo Reservar

This level of flexibility ensures that every moment is spent exploring the sights and activities that resonate most with the traveler. Whether it’s adjusting the pace of the tour, choosing specific landmarks to visit, or delving into niche interests, a private tour provides the freedom to craft a truly bespoke and meaningful travel experience.

Furthermore, the intimate nature of private tours fosters a deeper connection between the traveler and the destination. Engaging with a knowledgeable and dedicated guide on a one-on-one basis allows for a more enriching cultural exchange. The personalized attention enables travelers to ask questions, delve into local stories, and gain insights that might be overlooked in a larger group setting. This tailored interaction creates a more profound and memorable connection with the destination, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Additionally, the convenience and comfort associated with private tours cannot be overstated. Travelers can enjoy a hassle-free experience with the flexibility to start and end the tour at their convenience. The absence of large groups also ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable exploration, free from the constraints of rigid schedules. In essence, opting for a private tour empowers individuals to curate a unique and meaningful journey, fostering a more profound connection with the destination while reveling in the comfort and convenience of personalized travel.

What to Bring

  1. Clothing:
    • Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable clothing for hiking.
    • Warm layers for chilly evenings and nights.
    • A waterproof and windproof jacket or poncho.
    • Quick-drying underwear and socks.
    • Hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes with good traction.
    • Sandals or comfortable shoes for camp.
  2. Gear:
    • Backpack (30-40 liters) for daily essentials.
    • Sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.
    • Lightweight and compact trekking poles.
    • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
    • Camera or smartphone for capturing the breathtaking scenery.
  3. Protection from the Elements:
    • Sunscreen with a high SPF.
    • Lip balm with sun protection.
    • Wide-brimmed hat or cap.
    • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  4. Health and Personal Care:
    • Personal first aid kit with bandages, blister treatment, and any necessary medications.
    • Water purification tablets or a water filter.
    • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
    • Insect repellent.
  5. Documents and Essentials:
    • Passport and any required permits.
    • Cash for tips and souvenirs.
    • Snacks and energy-boosting foods (granola bars, trail mix, etc.).
    • Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
  6. Optional Items:
    • Binoculars for bird watching and enjoying distant views.
    • Travel pillow for added comfort during the nights.
    • Trekking gaiters for added protection in wet or muddy conditions.
    • Power bank to recharge electronic devices.
  7. Clothing for the Last Day in Machu Picchu:
    • A change of clothes for the visit to Machu Picchu.
    • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
    • Hat and sunglasses.
    • Small daypack for your essentials during the visit.

Recommendations

You must acclimatize correctly

To acclimatize yourself correctly, it is necessary to spend a few days in the city of Cusco or in another high altitude location before starting the hike or adventure you want to do. Acclimatization helps your body gradually adapt to the lower concentration of oxygen in the air that exists in high-altitude cities, thus reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Use these days to explore Cusco and enjoy the local culture and allow your body to adjust to the change in altitude more comfortably.

Physical preparation for walks in Cusco

The hikes we offer can be somewhat difficult, but this is more due to the altitude. Before the walk you can do regular exercises to strengthen your legs and improve your resistance, all of this to prepare your muscles for the effort. This will allow you to enjoy the ride more and reduce the risk of muscle fatigue.

Pack your backpack rationally

For your hikes you should include only the essentials: such as a good quality backpack, comfortable hiking boots (remember to wear shoes that you have used before, do not wear new shoes, as these have not yet adapted to your feet), warm clothing ( as temperatures can drop at night), rain gear and a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures.

Make sure you only carry the essentials to keep your backpack light and comfortable throughout the hike.

Water and snacks for the walk

Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike. Also, be sure to bring enough water for the day and take advantage of opportunities along the trail to refill your bottle. Energy snacks, such as dried fruit and granola bars, will provide you with the energy you need to maintain a good pace.

Travel with a travel agency or independently

Decide if you prefer to do the walk independently or with a guided tour with our travel agency. While doing it independently gives you more flexibility, a guided tour provides logistical support, transportation, and often includes meals. A guide can also enrich your experience by providing information about local history and culture. Also remember that many of our routes are several days long, with changing climates, constant ascents and descents; Traveling with heavy luggage on your back is exhausting and dangerous for the body; At “Xpedition Trek” we do not want you to take risks of any kind, although it is true that there are routes that you can do on your own; There are others that we do not recommend you go alone.
We provide you with all the necessary logistics to make your hike as pleasant as possible.

What you should consider for the climate

In Cusco, the walks and Tours are done in different climates and altitude conditions, so it is necessary to adapt to each of the conditions; Before taking these tours, always ask us about the specific weather of the tour you will do. In addition to warm clothing, bring a waterproof jacket and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Check weather forecasts before you leave and adjust your luggage accordingly.

Permits and Entry Tickets

Many tourist sites in Cusco require special permits, and involve a cost; Check whether permits are required for the hike or tour you are taking in advance, especially if you plan to go during peak season. This will guarantee your place on the route and allow you to avoid possible logistical setbacks.

Prevention of altitude sickness:

Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and consider using medication to prevent altitude sickness. Consult a health professional before taking any medication. Additionally, walk at a steady pace and allow your body to gradually adapt to the altitude to minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Enjoy the landscape

Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural sites along the way. The Salkantay Route offers impressive views of the Andes. Don’t rush and take advantage of every moment to absorb the natural beauty that surrounds you. Consider bringing a camera to capture unforgettable memories of your adventure.

FAQ´s

The altitude of the Humantay Lagoon is 4,200 m above sea level. Therefore, before embarking on the excursion to the Humantay Lagoon , it is recommended to spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Cusco. Altitude sickness is not fun.

The walk from Soraypampa to the Humantay lagoon climbs about 460 meters of altitude. Although it is not the highest of elevations, especially if you plan to take on other treks around Cusco, such as Choquequirao or Ausangate, you will still feel the effect of your efforts due to the high altitude.

The hike to Lake Humantay is of moderate difficulty. It’s not the highest or longest hike, but again, the altitude adds an extra level of difficulty. That being said, the Humantay Lagoon tour shouldn’t be too difficult for you if you are in good physical condition and well acclimatized.

The weather in the Humantay lagoon can be very variable. Clouds are very common around Humantay Mountain and it is not uncommon for the peak to be hidden. Clouds obviously mean less sun, which can affect the color of Lake Humantay in Peru. Still, don’t be discouraged. When we visited, we walked through quite a few low clouds, but by the time we got to Laguna Humantay proper, the clouds had begun to disperse. In the end, the Humantay Lagoon was bathed in sunlight and the turquoise color of the water was incredible.

No, swimming is not allowed in the Humantay Lagoon in Peru. Humantay is a sacred place. In addition, the lake is a source of water for local communities. There is also concern that human interference could alter the color of the water. In addition, Lake Humantay is located at 4,200 m above sea level and is fed by the melting of glaciers. Therefore, the temperature of the lake is very cold.

The best time to visit the Humantay Lagoon is during the dry season in Peru. This runs from May to October. The chances of it raining are low, which is great. But the dry season also coincides with winter. Therefore, although the sun keeps temperatures high during the day, they can drop very low in the early morning and at night. Daytime temperatures during the dry season are usually around 15°C, while those in the wet season reach 17°C.

The excursion to Lake Humantay is between 7 and 7.5 km round trip and lasts about 3 hours. Given the slope from Soraypampa to Laguna Humantay , it usually takes hikers 1-1.5 hours to reach the lake and an hour to return.

Since mid-2022, the entrance fee to the Humantay Lagoon is S/10 ($2.50USD) for nationals and S/20 ($5USD) for internationals. Entry is only allowed for one day and arrival must be between 6am and 12pm. Entry will not be allowed after 12 at night.

Travel Guide

Be sure to bring plenty of water for this hike. We recommend 2 liters per person. Staying properly hydrated is important to prevent altitude sickness.

Wear walking shoes or boots. No slippers!

Wear several layers and bring warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf. The weather at this altitude changes rapidly, most of the time it is cold. but you’ll also sweat a lot walking around, so you’ll want to be able to take your clothes off depending on how you feel.

A hiking stick will come in handy, especially if the trail is muddy.

You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting yourself from UV rays. The higher the elevation, the more intense the effect of the sun. Using sunscreen is very important, especially at an altitude of 4,231 meters above sea level.

The only restrooms are at the beginning of the walk. Make sure you use it before you start the hike!

 

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