Humantay Lake Tour Full Day Peru
About this experience
Get ready for one of the most breathtaking adventures in the Andes. During our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour from Cusco, we will explore one of Peru’s most spectacular natural treasures. The turquoise waters of Humantay Lake reflect the majestic Salkantay Mountain, creating a dreamlike scene that will take your breath away.
We will travel through beautiful Andean landscapes, passing traditional villages and lush valleys. Our journey will begin early in the morning as we drive toward Mollepata, a charming town located at 2,803 meters above sea level. Here, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and prepare for our hike to the famous lake.
The trail will lead us through peaceful mountain paths surrounded by unique flora and fauna. Step by step, we will ascend toward Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 meters above sea level. The vivid turquoise color of its waters contrasts beautifully with the white peaks of Salkantay Glacier, creating a scene of pure natural beauty.
This tour combines adventure, culture, and nature in a single day. It is perfect for travelers who want to discover the essence of the Peruvian Andes and connect with their majestic landscapes and the Salkantay trek.
Why will we love the Humantay Lake Full Day Tour?
We will visit the famous turquoise lake of Cusco, admire stunning mountain views, and travel with expert local operators who will guide us every step of the way.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1:
Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
Start: 04:30 hrs approx.
End: 18:30 hrs approx.
Important: Schedules are referential. Our operations team will confirm the exact pick-up time one day before the tour. The Humantay Lake Peru tour will start at your hotel in Cusco’s historic center and end at Plaza Regocijo or Plaza San Francisco.
We will start our adventure early in the morning, between 04:00 and 04:30 hrs, picking everyone up from their hotels in Cusco. If we stay outside the historic center or in an Airbnb, we will agree on a meeting point to ensure an on-time departure at 05:00 hrs.
We will travel for almost 2 hours and 30 minutes through the stunning Andean valleys, witnessing the first light of dawn touching the mountains. Our first stop will be in Mollepata, a charming Andean town located at 3,000 meters above sea level. Here, we will enjoy a delicious traditional Andean breakfast prepared with local ingredients. The setting is rustic, offering a genuine experience of rural life in the highlands.
After breakfast, we will continue by bus toward Soraypampa, located at 3,900 meters above sea level. The landscapes along the way will reveal deep valleys, ancient terraces, and snow-capped peaks from the Salkantay range. Upon arrival in Soraypampa, our guide will give us time to prepare our hiking gear, walking poles, water, and personal backpacks before beginning the trek.
The hike to Humantay Lake will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes on a steep uphill path. We will walk at our own rhythm while admiring breathtaking views of the Salkantay Glacier, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes. Along the way, we will see native vegetation and may encounter local herders guiding their animals through the rugged terrain.
Reaching Humantay Lake at 4,250 meters above sea level will be a magical moment. The turquoise waters of the lake reflect the majestic snow-covered peaks above, creating a stunning natural mirror. We will have enough time to rest, take photos, and connect with the peaceful energy that surrounds the lake. The place invites reflection and gratitude, offering a perfect setting for meditation or a quiet moment of admiration.
After enjoying this unforgettable view, we will descend the same trail back to Soraypampa, taking approximately 1 hour. Our transport will be waiting to take us back to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a comforting Andean lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, we will return to Cusco, arriving at around 18:30 hrs.
Day Statistics
- Total distance: 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip
- Highest altitude: 4,250 meters above sea level
- Lowest altitude: 3,000 meters above sea level
- Route: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay – Cusco
- Difficulty level: Moderate
We will finish our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour with hearts full of gratitude and incredible photos of one of Peru’s most beautiful natural treasures. This unforgettable journey through the Andes will connect us deeply with the spirit of Humantay and Salkantay.
Inclusions & exclusions
What's included
- Round-trip transportation Cusco – Soraypampa – Cusco
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Entrance ticket to Humantay Lake
- One breakfast and one lunch
- Trekking poles
- Blankets for the cold
- Professional certified guide
- First aid kit
What's not included
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Horse rental (optional, 80 PEN)
- Extra expenses such as tips
Frequently asked questions
We answer your questions about this tour
Frequently asked questions
We answer your questions about this tour
1 Do we need to book the Humantay Lake tour in advance?
We recommend booking in advance due to high and low seasons, which affect tour availability.
2 How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours at a slow pace. We may reduce time by renting horses at the mountain base.
3 When are the high-demand dates?
High-demand periods include: Easter (April 7–11), Inti Raymi (June 20–25), Independence Day (July 28–31), All Saints’ Day (Nov 1–4), Christmas and New Year (Dec 23–Jan 1).
4 How much does a horse rental cost?
Horse rentals are arranged directly with locals at the start of the trail. The cost is about 90 PEN (USD 25) for one-way. You will walk on the return.
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