Humantay Lake Tour
60 usd
- Cusco - humantay lake - CUSCO
Humantay Lake Tour
The Humantay Lake Tour is one of the most breathtaking full-day adventures you can experience from Cusco. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and dramatic Andean landscapes, Humantay Lake offers a natural spectacle that feels almost unreal.
This Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco begins early in the morning with a scenic drive through the Peruvian Andes. Along the way, you will witness traditional villages, vast valleys, and stunning mountain views. After breakfast, the journey continues toward Soraypampa, where the hike to the lake begins.
At over 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level, Humantay Lake captivates visitors with its intense turquoise waters reflecting the glacier above. The moderate hike rewards you with panoramic views and an unforgettable connection with nature. Your professional guide will share cultural insights and local stories, making the experience even more meaningful.
If you are looking for adventure, spectacular photography spots, and one of the most iconic landscapes near Cusco, the Humantay Lake Tour is an experience you should not miss.
Humantay Lake Itinerary
Summary
Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Cusco
05:00 a.m. – Departure from Cusco
07:00 a.m. – Arrival in Mollepata
07:10 a.m. – Breakfast at a local restaurant
08:00 a.m. – Entry checkpoint for the Salkantay trekking circuit
09:00 a.m. – Arrival at Soraypampa (3,880 m.a.s.l.)
09:10 a.m. – Start of the hike to Humantay Lake
10:00–10:30 a.m. – Arrival at Humantay Lake (4,180 m.a.s.l.)
10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Free time at the lake (photos, guide talk, rest)
12:00 p.m. – Start of descent to Soraypampa
12:30–01:00 p.m. – Arrival at Soraypampa and lunch
01:30 p.m. – Departure from Soraypampa to Cusco
05:00 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco and end of the tour
Humantay Lake tour full day | Itinerary
01
Cusco – Humantay Lake - Cusco
Departure from Cusco is at 5:00 a.m. heading toward Mollepata, arriving there at approximately 7:00 a.m. Along the route, we’ll enjoy beautiful landscapes and fields of various crops such as corn. As we approach Limatambo, we’ll see avocado, squash, and other products grown in this fertile valley.
In Mollepata, we will have breakfast. Then, around 8:00 a.m., after breakfast, we’ll pass through the checkpoint to enter the Salkantay trekking circuit. We will then continue the drive to Soraypampa, arriving at approximately 9:00 a.m. This is the first campsite for those doing the Salkantay Trek and is located at 3,880 meters above sea level.
From this point, we begin the hike to Humantay Lake. Those who prefer not to hike have the option to rent a horse. The hike takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes at a slow pace, reaching the lake around 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., depending on the exact departure time from Soraypampa.
Humantay Lake is located at 4,180 meters above sea level and is known for its turquoise color. Here, our guide will share information about the lake and the Humantay glacier (Apu Humantay). We will have approximately an hour and a half to enjoy the view of the lake and the glacier, and to connect with nature.
We begin the descent at 12:00 p.m., arriving back at Soraypampa between 12:30 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. The descent takes less time. At Soraypampa, we’ll have lunch and then return to the city of Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m.
Included
- Qualified guide
- First aid kit
- Walking sticks
- Tourist transportation
- 01 American breakfast
- 01 Buffet lunch
Not Included
Entrance to Humantay Lake
What to bring on the tour
- Passport
- Backpack
- Jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunglasses Water
- Insect repellent
- Cash
- Hat
- Rain poncho
Prices
Humantay Lake tour Full day | Price
60.00 USD
Frequent Asked Questions About Humantay Lake Tour full day
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with pick-up at 4:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco and ends around 6:00 p.m. with your return to the city.
How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike is of moderate difficulty. It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill and is done at high altitude (up to 4,200 m). Good acclimatization is recommended beforehand.
What is the altitude of Humantay Lake?
The lake is located at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. It is important to take precautions against altitude sickness.
Is acclimatization necessary?
Yes. Due to the altitude, it is highly recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
Can children or elderly people join?
The tour is suitable for people in good physical condition. It is not recommended for small children or people with respiratory or heart conditions due to the altitude.
When is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The best time is during the dry season (April to October), when there is less rain and better views. However, the tour operates year-round.
Can I rent a horse if I don’t want to walk?
Yes, in Soraypampa you can rent a horse optionally (for an additional cost) to ride part of the way up.
Are there bathrooms available during the tour?
Yes, there are rustic bathrooms in Mollepata and Soraypampa. There are no facilities at the lake itself.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance?
It’s not mandatory, but it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers adventure activities and high-altitude medical assistance.
Humantay Lake Tour
Book now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group
- Duration: Full Day
- Activity: Hike
- Group Size: 6 - 12
- Difficulty: Easy
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Distance Trip: 50 km