Humantay Lake
Our Humantay Lake tour takes you to the turquoise lake at the foot of Humantay peak, one of Cusco's natural gems, on a full-day hike or a two-day experience with glamping under the stars.
A turquoise mirror at the foot of the glacier
Summary
Humantay Lake is a glacial lake of intense turquoise color, located at 4,200 meters above sea level at the foot of Humantay peak, in the Vilcabamba range. It is a sacred place for local communities and, therefore, one of the most special landscapes in Cusco.
The Humantay Lake tour begins with a drive to Mollepata and Soraypampa, at the foot of Salkantay. From there, you hike up for about an hour and a half to the lake, where you have time to admire the landscape and take photos.
In addition to the one-day option, we offer a two-day, one-night experience with glamping in Soraypampa, so you can sleep under the stars with glacier views and hike up to the lake at a more relaxed pace. Also, if you want a longer adventure, the Salkantay Trek starts at the same point, while Rainbow Mountain is another classic high-altitude day trip.
Highlights
Itinerary
04:30 - 05:00
Hotel pickup
We pick you up at your hotel in the historic center of Cusco before sunrise.
Our team picks you up at your hotel. Then we begin the drive to Mollepata by tourist transportation.
05:00 - 07:30
Transfer and breakfast in Mollepata
Drive across the Anta plain, then breakfast.
We cross the Anta plain to the village of Mollepata, where we have breakfast before continuing along a mountain road.
07:30 - 08:30
Transfer to Soraypampa
Arrival at the foot of Salkantay.
Then we continue to Soraypampa (3,900 m a.s.l.), the trailhead, with views of the imposing Salkantay peak.
08:30 - 10:00
Hike up to Humantay Lake
Uphill hike until you reach the lake.
We start the climb along a trail with a steady slope. We walk at a slow pace, with stops to rest and acclimatize, until we reach the lake.
10:00 - 11:00
Humantay Lake
Time to admire and photograph the lake while you rest.
You have free time to enjoy the turquoise color of the lake, the glacier of Humantay peak and the sacred setting that surrounds it.
11:00 - 12:00
Descent to Soraypampa
Return along the same trail when the visit ends.
Then we descend the same way to Soraypampa, where our transportation is waiting.
12:00 - 14:00
Lunch in Mollepata
Transfer, then a buffet lunch.
Later, we return to Mollepata to enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
14:00 - 17:00
Return to Cusco
Return by tourist transportation to Cusco during the afternoon.
After lunch, we return to Cusco. Finally, the Humantay Lake tour ends at the Main Square or near your hotel in the historic center.
Include
What does it include?
- Pickup from hotels in the historic center of Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional guide in English or Spanish
- Breakfast and buffet lunch
- Community entrance fee to Humantay Lake
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Permanent assistance during the tour
What's not included?
- Horse rental for the climb
- Glamping and services of the 2-day option (quoted separately)
- Trekking poles
- Drinks and snacks
- Tips for the guide
- Travel insurance
Important information
What to bring
Warm layered clothing, beanie and gloves
Rain jacket or waterproof poncho
Hiking shoes with good grip
Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
Water and energy snacks
Cash for horse rental or restrooms
Passport or identification document
Altitude and acclimatization
The lake is at 4,200 meters, so we recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before the tour. Also, the climb is short but steep, so it is best to walk slowly.
Best season
The tour operates all year. However, from April to October the sky is usually clear and the lake’s turquoise color is more intense.
Recommendations
The lake is considered sacred by local communities, so swimming is not allowed. Also, follow your guide’s instructions and do not leave any waste along the trail.
Gallery
FAQ
How difficult is the hike?
The Humantay Lake tour is moderate. The climb takes about an hour and a half with a steady slope, although it is at high altitude.
Can I go up on horseback?
Yes. In Soraypampa you can rent horses for much of the climb, although it has an additional cost paid on site.
What does the 2-day, 1-night option include?
It includes a night of glamping in Soraypampa, with equipped domes or tents and glacier views, as well as dinner, breakfast and a more relaxed hike to the lake. It is quoted separately.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. The lake is considered sacred by local communities, so swimming is not allowed.
Is it a good tour to acclimatize before a trek?
Yes. It is excellent preparation for routes such as Salkantay or Ausangate, as long as you have already spent a couple of days in Cusco.
Can I book this tour as a private service?
Yes. The tour is available as a group or private service, in both the one-day and two-day options.
You might also be interested in
