Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake (4 Days / 3 Nights)
4 days / 3 nights
4,200 m.s.n.m
Difficult
2 to 6 people
Este tour te llevará a la histórica ciudad de Cusco, donde descubrirás dos de los lugares más emblemáticos del Perú: la mística ciudad de Machu Picchu, una de las Siete Maravillas del Mundo, y la impresionante Laguna Humantay, con sus aguas turquesas rodeadas de imponentes montañas cubiertas de nieve. Un viaje que combina aventura, cultura y paisajes naturales impresionantes.
ITINERARY
Reception in Cusco
We will welcome you at the Cusco airport and transfer you to your hotel. The morning is free for you to rest and acclimate to the altitude (3,400 meters). Drinking coca tea is recommended to help with acclimatization.
City Tour in Cusco
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a City Tour exploring the most important sites of the ancient Inca capital and its surroundings:
- Cusco Cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas, showcasing impressive colonial art.
- Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the main Inca temple, once adorned with walls covered in gold.
- Sacsayhuamán, an Inca fortress built with massive stone blocks perfectly fitted together.
- Qenqo, a ceremonial center revealing the worldview of Inca culture.
- Tambomachay, a site dedicated to water worship with impressive aqueducts and fountains.
Train to Aguas Calientes
In the morning, we’ll depart from Ollantaytambo by train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride follows the Urubamba River, surrounded by stunning mountains and cloud forest.
Visit to Machu Picchu
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take a bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour (2-3 hours) of the main areas, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the agricultural terraces. The guide will share the history, mystery, and engineering of this sacred Inca site.
Free Time at Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own, take photos, and enjoy the spectacular views. If desired, you can hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance reservation required).
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
After your visit, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at a hotel.
Return Train to Cusco
After breakfast, we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation to Cusco, arriving around noon.
Afternoon Free in Cusco
The afternoon is yours to explore Cusco at your own pace. You can visit local markets, shop for handicrafts, or simply relax at your hotel. This is an ideal day to rest and prepare for the hike to Humantay Lake the following day.
Departure to Soraypampa
We’ll leave early (around 5:00 a.m.) in private transportation to Soraypampa, located at 3,900 meters. The drive takes about 2.5 hours through Andean mountain landscapes to the trailhead.
Hike to Humantay Lake
We’ll begin the uphill hike to Humantay Lake, a trek of approximately 1.5 hours. The ascent is steep, but the views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding landscapes make it worthwhile. The turquoise lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offers a spectacular setting for relaxation and connection with nature.
Time at Humantay Lake
You’ll have time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the lake’s breathtaking view. You can meditate or simply sit and appreciate the tranquility of this magical place.
Return to Cusco
After enjoying Humantay Lake, we’ll hike back to Soraypampa, where transportation will take us back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
INCLUDES
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour.
- Round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites (City Tour, Machu Picchu, and Humantay Lake).
- Bilingual professional guide (Spanish-English).
- Bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (round trip).
- 2 nights of accommodation in Cusco.
- 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Breakfasts at hotels.
- Lunch during the Humantay Lake trek.
NOT INCLUDED
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, advance booking required).
- Lunches and dinners (except lunch during the Humantay Lake trek).
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for guides or drivers (optional).
RECOMMENDATIONS
What to Bring:
- Layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes (light clothes during the day and warm clothes for cold mornings).
- Hat, gloves, and scarf for the trek to Humantay Lake.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap to protect yourself from the sun during the trek.
- Small backpack to carry water, snacks, and daily essentials.
Recommended Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking boots with good grip, especially for the trek to Humantay Lake.
Local Remedies:
- Coca tea: Very useful for preventing altitude sickness, especially for the Humantay Lake trek.
- Coca or muña candies: Helpful for maintaining energy during the hikes.
Pharmaceutical Remedies:
- Pain relievers for potential altitude-related headaches.
- Stomach medications if you are sensitive to altitude or dietary changes.
Possible Issues During the Tour:
- Altitude Sickness:
- Humantay Lake is at a significant altitude, and mild symptoms of altitude sickness are common. Stay hydrated, walk slowly, and drink coca tea to prevent symptoms.
- Extreme Fatigue:
- The hike to Humantay Lake is demanding due to the steep ascent. It’s important to go at your own pace and take breaks when necessary.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Yes, it’s recommended to spend at least one day in Cusco to acclimate to the altitude before hiking to Machu Picchu and Humantay Lake.
The hike is moderately to highly challenging due to the steep ascent, but it’s manageable for people in good physical condition. Physical preparation is advisable.
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your preferences. If you wish to make changes or add more visits, consult with the tour operator.
Accommodation is in comfortable tourist-class hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. If you prefer a higher category, upgrades can be requested for an additional cost.
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, the best approach is to rest, drink water or coca tea, and walk slowly. If symptoms persist, descending to a lower altitude is recommended.
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