2 Days

Duration

Challenging

Difficulty

Nature / Adventure

Tour Type

2 or more

Group Size

Places you’ll visit

Humantay Lake

Salkantay Mountain

Humantay Glacier Peaks

Soraypampa

Trip Overview

High in the Peruvian Andes, at 4,200 m (13,779 ft), lies Humantay Lake, a breathtaking lagoon famous for its intense emerald color and dramatic backdrop of snowcapped peaks and ancient glaciers. Hidden between the towering mountains of Salkantay and Humantay, this lake has long been considered sacred. Today, travelers and local spiritual practitioners still visit its shores, often placing small stone offerings—apachetas—as a gesture of gratitude to the mountain spirits.

The hike to the lagoon is relatively short but challenging due to the altitude. The effort, however, is rewarded the moment the lake appears—only visible once you complete the ascent. The sight of its shimmering turquoise waters surrounded by rugged cliffs is one of the Andes’ most unforgettable experiences.

✔️Included

Humantay Lake Tour

Full-day guided hike to Humantay Lake, one of the most impressive turquoise lagoons in the Andes.

Meals Included

Buffet breakfast and buffet lunch served at top-rated restaurants in Mollepata.

Entrance Ticket

Official admission to the Humantay Lake trail.

Transport

Private or shared transportation for the full-day excursion.

❌Not Included

Travel Insurance

Does not include medical, evacuation, or trip-cancellation coverage.

Extra Meals & Drinks

Food and beverages not specified in the itinerary.

Trekking Gear

Walking sticks and other personal equipment not included.

Horse Option

Horse rental for the uphill section is available but not included.

Your Day-by-Day Adventure

Full-Day Itinerary – Humantay Lake

Early Departure from Cusco

Your adventure begins around 4:00 a.m., when we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Traveling by private transport, you head through quiet mountain landscapes toward the community of Mollepata, where a warm breakfast helps prepare you for the high-altitude hike ahead.

Drive to Soraypampa & Start of the Trek

After breakfast, the road continues to Soraypampa (3,920 m / 12,860 ft), the starting point of the trail. Here you can take in the impressive scenery, including views of the Sky Camp domes and the immense snow-covered peaks of Salkantay and Humantay.

Following a short rest and briefing, you begin the ascent toward the lake. The hike typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, gaining about 350 meters in elevation. Although the trail is not long, the altitude makes it demanding—your guide will help set a comfortable pace.

Humantay Lake Experience

Reaching Humantay Lake is an extraordinary moment. The vibrant green and blue tones of the water contrast sharply with the white glacier above, creating a picture-perfect scene. You’ll have time to walk around the lagoon, take photos, relax, or even dip your feet in the icy water if you’re feeling adventurous.

Return to Soraypampa & Lunch

When the group is ready, you descend back to Soraypampa, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. Enjoy a hot meal while surrounded by sweeping mountain scenery.

Return to Cusco

After lunch, you head back to Cusco by private transport, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m.—tired, satisfied, and filled with incredible glacier-lake views.


Trekking Details

Lowest Point: 3,920 m / 12,860 ft

Hiking Time: 2–3 hours total (approx.)

Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles

Highest Point: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

What’s included

  • Private or shared transport depending on your selection.
  • Full-day experience at Humantay Lake, a scenic turquoise lagoon high in the Andes.
  • Blankets available in the vehicle to keep passengers warm during early-morning travel.
  • Buffet breakfast served at one of Mollepata’s best restaurants.
  • Buffet lunch provided in Mollepata as well.
  • Entrance ticket for the Humantay Lake hiking route.
  • Hot beverages such as coca tea and muña tea included.
  • Professional English-speaking guide throughout the excursion.
  • Oxygen bottle available during the hike if altitude symptoms appear.
  • First-aid kit provided; travelers must bring personal medications with a prescription.
  • Medical, emergency evacuation, or travel insurance.
  • Trip-cancellation insurance or any other coverage.
  • Trekking gear, including walking sticks.
  • Any food or beverages not mentioned in the itinerary; travelers should bring plenty of drinking water.
  • Additional personal expenses.
  • Horse rental for those who prefer to ride rather than hike.
  • Tips or gratuities for guides or staff.

Contact Us

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