Humantay Lake Full Day

The turquoise lake at the foot of snow-capped Humantay

  • Cusco
  • 1 day
  • Group or private

Experience overview

Hike to the turquoise lake at the foot of snow-capped Humantay, one of the most beautiful nature excursions in Cusco.

Humantay Lake is a turquoise mirror of water fed by meltwater from the Humantay glacier, at about 4,200 meters above sea level, on the route of the famous Salkantay trek. It’s a short but intense hike that rewards you with one of the most stunning landscapes in Cusco.

A day trip with breakfast and lunch in Mollepata, also ideal for acclimatizing before longer treks.

  • Duration1 day
  • DepartureCusco (hotel pickup)
  • RouteCusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa, Humantay Lake
  • GroupGroup or private
  • DifficultyModerate
  • LanguagesSpanish

Highlights

  • Turquoise lake at 4,200 m a.s.l.
  • Views of snow-capped Humantay and Salkantay
  • An ideal acclimatization hike

Itinerary

  1. Morning Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa Transfer and breakfast

    Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

    Drive of approx. 2 h 30 min to the town of Mollepata, where we'll have breakfast.

    We continue to Soraypampa (approx. 3,900 m a.s.l.), the starting point of the hike.

  2. Hike Ascent to Humantay Lake 4,200 m a.s.l.

    Uphill hike of approx. 1 h 30 min to 2 hours along a mountain trail.

    Free time at the lake to enjoy the scenery, take photos and admire snow-capped Humantay.

    • Views of snow-capped Salkantay on clear days
  3. Afternoon Return to Cusco Lunch in Mollepata

    Descent to Soraypampa and transfer to Mollepata for lunch.

    Approximate arrival in Cusco. End of services.

What's included

Included services

Transportation & Guide

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
  • Tourist transportation
  • Professional guide

Meals

  • Breakfast in Mollepata
  • Buffet lunch

Safety

  • First aid kit
  • Emergency oxygen

Not included

Entrance Fees

  • Entrance to Humantay Lake (community fee, paid in cash)

Optional

  • Horse rental for the ascent

Other

  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance or medical assistance
  • Services not mentioned in the itinerary

What to bring

  • Original national ID (DNI) or passport
  • Warm layered clothing and a waterproof jacket
  • Beanie, gloves and scarf
  • Trekking shoes or boots
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap
  • Reusable water bottle and snacks
  • Cash for entrance fees and personal expenses
  • Personal medications

Times are approximate and may vary depending on the season, the weather and your hotel pickup time. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least one day early to acclimatize to the altitude.

Prices

Price per person based on number of travelers
No. of travelersPrice per person (USD)
Shared service (per person) USD 52 Best price

Approximate price per person for shared service. Ask us about group and private service rates.

Frequently asked questions

How challenging is it?

It's moderately difficult: a steep climb of 1 h 30 min to 2 hours at altitude. You can hire a horse in Soraypampa.

Is it cold at the lake?

Yes, especially early in the day. Bring layered clothing, a beanie, gloves and a waterproof jacket.

Keep exploring

You may also like

FromUSD 52
Book now

Your next trip starts here

Ready to discover Peru?

Tell us how many people are traveling and when: we'll put together your itinerary and quote in minutes.

Need help?