What to Pack

👕 HOW TO DRESS FOR THE HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR

The Humantay Lake tour takes place in the Andes Mountains, where weather conditions can change quickly and the hike can be physically demanding. Dressing properly will help you stay comfortable, safe, and enjoy the experience to the fullest. Here are some essential tips:

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  🧥 Dress in Layers:
  Temperatures can vary throughout the day—from cold mornings to warm afternoons—so wear layers you can easily put on or take off.

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  👖 Comfortable Pants:
  Choose lightweight, flexible, and quick-drying pants. Hiking pants or leggings are great options. Avoid jeans.

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  🥾 Proper Footwear:
  Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip and ankle support. Avoid sandals or flip-flops—they’re not suitable for the terrain.

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  🧢 Accessories:
  Bring a hat or beanie, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from sun exposure. Gloves and a neck buff or scarf are recommended for warmth, especially in the morning.

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  🎒 Backpack:
  Carry a comfortable daypack to hold your water, snacks, and extra clothing. A good backpack with even weight distribution will reduce strain.

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  🧴 Sunscreen & Sunglasses:
  The sun is strong at high altitudes. Protect your skin and eyes with sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses.

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  🥤 Snacks & Water:
  There are no vendors along the trail, so bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks to stay hydrated and energized.

✅ In short, wear layers, choose durable and comfortable clothing, and be prepared for changing weather. The right gear makes all the difference on your adventure to Humantay Lake.

How to Book with Machu Picchu Team

? HOW TO BOOK THE HUMANTAY LAKE FULL-DAY TOUR

? Online Booking

• Step 1: Click the “BOOK ONLINE”button to access our secure booking platform.
• Step 2: Choose Your Date, Select your preferred travel date — we have daily departures available.
• Step 3: Enter Your Information, Fill in your basic personal details, including name, nationality, hotel in Cusco, and WhatsApp number.
• Step 4: Secure Payment, Pay safely using any debit or credit card. A 5 % processing fee applies for online payments.
• Step 5: Confirmation & Details, Once your payment is processed, you’ll receive an automatic confirmation email with your payment receipt and tour confirmation. A follow-up email will include detailed instructions and personalized information to prepare you for your trip.
• Booking Deadline: You can book online until 9:00 PM the day before the tour.

? Booking at Our Office in Cusco

• Location:
  Visit us at our central office:
  Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco
  Our friendly staff will walk you through the details and show you a map of the tour.

• Payment Options:
• Cash: We accept USD, EUR, and soles.
• Cards: All major cards accepted. A 3.9% card fee applies and is paid by the customer.

? Required Information for Booking

• Full Name
• Nationality
• Hotel Name in Cusco
• WhatsApp number (with country code) or Peruvian cellphone — essential for coordinating your hotel pick-up

? Tour Terms & Conditions

Agency Cancellations: In case Machu Picchu Team must cancel the tour due to weather, political issues, or other unforeseen circumstances (either before or during the trip), we will provide a 100% refund of the tour cost.

Modifications & Rescheduling: You may reschedule your tour or switch to a similar option (Palcoyo, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley, or 7 Lagoons) at no extra cost until 7:00 PM the day before your original tour date. To make changes, email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

Cancellations & Refund Policy

• Full Refund:
  Cancel at least 24 hours before the tour to receive 100% of your payment back.
• Partial Refund (50%):
  Cancel within 24 hours but before 7:00 PM the day before the tour.
• No Refund:
  Cancellations made after 7:00 PM the day before the tour are non-refundable.
• To cancel, email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

Frequently Asked Questions HUMANTAY LAKE FULL DAY TOUR

How does the hotel or Airbnb pickup service work?

• Our pickup service is available between 4:15 AM and 4:45 AM. Your guide will collect you directly from your accommodation in Cusco during this time. Alternatively, if you’re staying near our office located at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo (near Plaza de Armas), you can choose to meet us there at 4:45 AM, which is the final pickup point before the tour begins.
  When booking, please provide the name and address of your hotel or Airbnb. If you prefer to meet at the office, mention this in your reservation. If you haven’t finalized your accommodation yet, you can update your pickup details later by emailing us at  info@machupicchuteam.com.

When and where does the tour end?

• The tour typically concludes between 6:00 PM and 6:30 PM at Plaza Regocijo, conveniently located near the Plaza de Armas. This is the designated final drop-off point for the tour.

How many people are in each tour group?

• Tour groups usually range from 14 to 16 participants, with a maximum of 16, all guided by a professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish).

Are meals included in the tour?

• Yes! The tour includes a nutritious breakfast and a buffet lunch. We also cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary restrictions at no additional cost—just let us know in advance.

Can I store my luggage during the tour?

• Yes, we offer free luggage storage at our central Cusco office. It’s available daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing you to explore worry-free without carrying extra bags.

Can I change my tour date or switch to a different tour?

• Yes, you can reschedule your tour or switch to a similar one (such as Palcoyo, Rainbow Mountain, Sacred Valley, or 7 Lagoons) at no extra charge, as long as the change is made before 7:00 PM the day prior to your tour.
  To request changes, please email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

• 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
• 50% refund if you cancel within 24 hours, but before 7:00 PM the day before the tour.
• No refund if you cancel after 7:00 PM the day before the tour.
  To cancel, email us at info@machupicchuteam.com.

What essential tips should I know before hiking to Humantay Lake?

• Start early: The hike includes an elevation gain of over 1,000 meters. Starting early gives you plenty of time to enjoy the trail and return before dark.
• Prepare for the altitude: The lake sits at 4,200 meters above sea level. Stay hydrated, take breaks, and consider altitude medication if recommended.
• Dress in layers: Andean weather can change quickly. Wear layered clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, and bring rain gear or a poncho.
• Bring snacks and water: There are no vendors along the trail, so bring enough to stay hydrated and energized.
• Respect nature: Pack out all trash, and stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.
• Consider hiring a guide: If you’re not an experienced hiker or unfamiliar with the area, a guide can provide valuable assistance and insights into the region’s history and environment.

Is Humantay Lake worth visiting?

Absolutely. Humantay Lake is one of the most breathtaking natural sites in the Cusco region — a pristine glacial lake at 4,200 meters with striking turquoise waters set against the snow-capped Humantay and Salkantay peaks. Unlike Machu Picchu, the site receives far fewer visitors, making it a peaceful and intimate experience. Most travelers describe it as one of the highlights of their entire Peru trip.

How difficult is the Humantay Lake hike?
The hike is rated moderate. From the starting point at Soraypampa (3,900m), the trail climbs approximately 400 meters over 3 km to reach the lake at 4,200m. Most people complete the ascent in 1.5 to 2 hours depending on fitness and altitude adjustment. The descent takes about 1 hour. The main challenge is altitude rather than distance. Hiking poles are available to rent if needed.

What is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The best time is during the dry season from May to October, when skies are clear and the turquoise color of the lake is most vivid. Morning light between 9 and 11am offers the best conditions for photography. Tours operate year-round, but during the rainy season (November to April) the trail can be muddy and cloud cover may partially obscure the views.

Travel Guide

Photo Gallery