Humantay Lake Trip: Honest Review & Helpful Tips

Okay, so you’re probably looking into making a day trip from Cusco to Humantay Lake, right? Maybe you have viewed pictures online, and the shimmering, turquoise waters against that powerful mountain backdrop totally captivated you. I get it; like your jaw actually drops at the beauty of it. Believe me, that’s exactly what hooked me too. Now, I am here to tell you about my adventure – what I learned, what I experienced, and tips so that you have a good time when visiting.

What to Expect on the Road to Humantay

Right, the bus ride. Ah, it’s not always a smooth ride, I’ll tell you that much. That part from Cusco could be quite lengthy, maybe around three hours or so. Don’t expect a straight shot either; be ready for twisty mountain roads that snake their way up into the Andes. A good tip is that you take some motion sickness medicine if, like your tummy, is usually sensitive; otherwise, it is something you might end up regretting. However, just try and enjoy this part because even the drive can showcase views; seriously enormous mountains, farmlands, little villages, and just all sorts of things you might not have a chance to see if, for example, you only visit Cusco. The route gives you some looks into regular Peruvian life way up in the mountains.

Now, as for the meals that many tour companies promise. Normally, this is a fairly simple breakfast stop someplace about halfway into the drive; keep in mind that breakfast usually just has something along the lines of bread, jam, maybe some eggs, and coffee or tea. No doubt this meal is functional, to basically help wake you up and to make sure that you aren’t hiking up a mountain on a totally empty stomach. I would really advise that you pack extra snacks and bottled water just in case you end up wanting something specific. Then again, maybe this is just me with the grumbles when I’m missing that specific comfort snack.

The Hike Up to Humantay Lake

So, here’s what’s really up: that hike is no walk in the park; frankly, some folks end up underestimating just how tough that can be. To start, you’re dealing with some pretty high altitude. That place hovers at roughly 13,900 feet (4,200 meters). Even if, say, you’ve already spent some time up in Cusco acclimatizing, you may still feel the effects. A little heads-up for you is that, to go slow, keep yourself hydrated, and perhaps consider taking some coca tea. The coca can sometimes make things easier on you.

The trail itself isn’t super long — maybe around two miles, in a way, — but what really makes that intense is the steepness, you see, and the terrain. Lots of people tend to struggle the last half-mile when the path seriously inclines; you’ll be walking over a lot of loose rocks and dirt too it’s almost guaranteed that your legs might burn. Okay, maybe that does sound scary, though trust me, it is not impossible. Just pace yourself, and don’t forget to stop from time to time; take those short rests, catch the spectacular views along the way. If for any reason, say, you are having a very hard time, there’s often the option of hiring a horse to get you part of the way up, too it’s almost like a mountain taxi.

Now, a practical tip, that I have is to come prepared. Bring quality hiking boots, layers because of fluctuating temperatures, trekking poles for stability, sunscreen that can hold up against all that Andean sun, a hat, and also sunglasses. Honestly, not having the things on this list might end up being a mistake that could distract you away from enjoying what should be a mind-blowing moment for you.

Experiencing Humantay Lake

Oh my, when you arrive at that lake. Whew. All of the sudden, you are at the Humantay Lake, and the sheer natural beauty is striking; it looks every bit as remarkable as what you may have seen on those glossy postcards; or, perhaps it is even better. What sets that scene is the surreal turquoise color, created by minerals coming from the Humantay Glacier. Also, towering just right there in the background, the massive, snow-capped Humantay Mountain looks like it keeps guard over the lake.

I mean, it is common that most folks simply stand there for a bit and just absorb it. Okay, that spot gives one the perfect place for pictures. Of course, I recommend you spend more time absorbing the environment than taking selfies! I was just listening to how peaceful it was there — mostly silence broken with the sounds of nature. Maybe even go to the shore; take that freezing water; put it on your face… so refreshing. Just spend a while thinking and letting it sink in that you are actually here; up among the clouds with such pure, untouched natural splendor right in front of you.

I noticed some folks did these little offerings and thanked Mother Earth (Pachamama). It makes it a great way of paying respects for letting them experience the views; many people think that such connections with nature make travel all that much richer.

The Descent and Return Trip

So, listen; the way down may feel so much easier, though that can be tricky just because of that steep incline combined with some slippery loose gravel on the trail. The descent puts different stresses on your leg muscles. Be very watchful on where to put your feet in a sure-footed way. By now, it’s likely that the knees and ankles can begin to protest a little bit. Just keep breathing to stay relaxed and use those trekking poles that you did bring. No doubt, you do feel very thankful to have them.

Lunch after a big descent feels really gratifying. Commonly, your tour takes place at some local restaurant back closer towards Mollepata. Now, here, is where you are most likely going to get served some pretty typical Peruvian cuisine – so expect things like soup, maybe chicken or beef accompanied with rice, potatoes and some local vegetables. It’s really all basic, nourishing food and it works fine when you’ve just burned tons of calories. If, by chance, you’re a vegetarian or have diet issues, it would definitely be a fine plan to inform your tour company ahead of time, too it’s almost always the best to arrange anything ahead.

Alright, so following lunch, that last bus ride straight back to Cusco has that chance of feeling rather long. Lots of people on the tour normally use this point to nap after a long, exhausting day. Just see this like part of it all: reflect, and just relive a great experience. I am going to guess, at this moment, you will find you are also happy just to sink into a seat, to rest while looking outside at these passing landscapes.

Is the Trip Worth It? My Honest Opinion

Okay, here we have come to the million-dollar thing. Listen, if asked straightforwardly: heck yes. Totally and absolutely! Look; this “From Cusco One Day Trip to Humantay Lake with Meals,” even with what I know, regarding the somewhat long drives and physically taxing hike, becomes one experience that might just stay as one of the highlight reel items from your trip to Peru. I feel there is a real reward here.

That jaw-dropping beauty of Humantay Lake, together with this accomplishment feeling of making that tough hike — those make something pretty incredible. So that any person who enjoys exploring natural environments; one that has just an eagerness for seeing just uniquely gorgeous Andean scenery, this whole adventure makes for an absolute must.

Right, and to really finish things, I do advise selecting that reliable tour operator that gives excellent guides, fair meals, and cares properly for your well-being. And absolutely: do come really equipped for the hike with appropriate clothes and just those essential gears — doing such can allow for an easy and really gratifying experience.

• Beauty: The turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains is really worth seeing.
• Challenge: Be aware of the physical challenge, the altitude, and rocky terrain.
• Preparation: Pack the correct equipment: layers, boots, and hiking poles.
• Respect: Regard nature and local customs while there.
• Memories: Prepare for lasting, mind-blowing recollections.