Taking a guided tour to Humantay Lake is one of the most convenient and stress-free ways to experience this stunning natural wonder in Peru’s Andes Mountains. With various tour options available, you can easily find one that fits your travel style and schedule. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits of booking a guided tour, the types of tours available, and what to expect from your experience.
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Why Book a Guided Tour to Humantay Lake?
While it’s possible to trek to Humantay Lake on your own, booking a guided tour offers several advantages, especially for those unfamiliar with high-altitude hiking or who want a more comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Key Benefits of a Guided Tour
- Local Expertise: Professional guides are well-versed in the region’s history, culture, and environment, offering you valuable insights that you might miss if you hike alone. They are also trained to handle emergencies, such as altitude sickness.
- Convenience: Guided tours typically handle all logistics, from transportation and meals to entry fees and equipment. This allows you to focus on enjoying the trek without worrying about the details.
- Safety: High-altitude treks can be challenging, and having an experienced guide ensures that you’re in safe hands. They know the terrain well, can assist in case of altitude sickness, and are equipped to handle unpredictable weather conditions.
- Social Experience: If you’re traveling solo or in a small group, a guided tour provides the opportunity to meet fellow travelers, which can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Types of Tours Available: Day Trips and Overnight Packages
There are two primary types of tours to Humantay Lake: day trips and overnight packages. The option you choose will depend on your schedule, level of adventure, and how deeply you wish to explore the area.
Day Trips to Humantay Lake
Day trips are the most common and accessible option for visitors. These tours typically start early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco, and return by late afternoon or evening.
- Duration: A full day, usually 12-14 hours, including transportation to and from Cusco, with about 3-4 hours of hiking.
- Difficulty: Moderate, with a steep ascent to the lake, but the pace is manageable, and there are plenty of breaks.
- Inclusions: Most day trips include transportation, breakfast, lunch, a bilingual guide, and sometimes hiking poles.
This option is ideal for travelers who are short on time but still want to experience the beauty of Humantay Lake.
Overnight Packages
For a more immersive experience, consider an overnight tour, which includes camping or staying in nearby lodges. These tours allow for more time to explore the surroundings and acclimate to the altitude.
- Duration: 2 days, with an overnight stay near the Salkantay or Soraypampa region.
- Difficulty: These tours typically involve more trekking, but the slower pace allows for better acclimatization to the altitude.
- Inclusions: Besides the basic inclusions of day trips, overnight packages often include camping gear, additional meals, and sometimes side trips to nearby attractions like the Salkantay Pass.
This option is perfect for adventure seekers who want to fully immerse themselves in the Andean landscape and spend more time at higher elevations.
Best Tour Companies for Humantay Lake
There are numerous tour operators offering trips to Humantay Lake, but it’s important to choose a reputable company with experienced guides and a focus on safety and sustainability.
What’s Included in a Humantay Lake Tour?
Most Humantay Lake tours offer a comprehensive package that includes several key services and amenities to make your hike as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here’s what you can typically expect:
1. Transportation
Almost all tours provide round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead at Soraypampa. This can be a major convenience, as the lake is located about a 3-hour drive from Cusco, and the road conditions can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area.
- Type of Transport: Most companies use comfortable minivans or buses, equipped with air conditioning and ample space for gear.
2. Meals
Tours typically include meals, usually breakfast and lunch, since the tour starts early in the morning and lasts most of the day.
- Breakfast: Often served in a local restaurant on the way to Soraypampa, featuring traditional Peruvian fare such as bread, fruit, eggs, and coca tea to help with altitude acclimatization.
- Lunch: Served after the hike, usually at a restaurant or picnic-style near the trailhead. Expect hearty, local dishes like quinoa soup, trout, or lomo saltado.
3. Professional Guide
A bilingual guide (usually English and Spanish-speaking) is included in most tours. The guides are experienced in high-altitude trekking and can provide valuable information about the area’s history, geology, and culture.
- Key Features: Guides often carry basic medical kits and are trained to handle emergencies, such as altitude sickness or injuries.
4. Entry Fees
Most tours include the Humantay Lake entry fee, which is usually a small charge paid to local communities for maintaining the trail and facilities.
5. Trekking Gear
Some tours provide hiking poles, which can be helpful for navigating the steeper sections of the trail. On overnight tours, camping gear or lodge accommodations are also included.
6. Optional Extras
Depending on the tour operator, additional services like oxygen tanks, portable toilets, and even mules to carry gear may be available for an extra fee.
Conclusion:
Booking a guided tour to Humantay Lake is an excellent way to make the most of your trek, offering convenience, safety, and an enriching experience led by local experts. Whether you’re opting for a day trip or a more immersive overnight adventure, choosing the right tour operator and knowing what’s included will help you have a memorable journey to this awe-inspiring destination.
