The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco is one of the most spectacular day trips in the Peruvian Andes. The journey begins early in Cusco with a scenic drive to Soraypampa, where the hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake begins. This moderate trek takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour and leads to a stunning turquoise glacier lake surrounded by towering mountains. Located at the base of the sacred Salkantay Mountain, the lake offers unforgettable views and a unique cultural connection to the Andean Apus. It is an ideal adventure for travelers seeking nature, high-altitude landscapes, and authentic experiences near Cusco.
Summary
The Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco with Top Inka Travel begins early in the morning with hotel pickup between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. in Cusco. After pickup, travelers head toward Soraypampa, a scenic journey of about three hours through the Andes.
From this point, the hike to the spectacular Humantay Lake begins. The trek takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and leads to a breathtaking turquoise glacial lake located at the base of the majestic Salkantay Mountain.
Along the way, visitors enjoy impressive mountain landscapes, fresh Andean air, and one of the most beautiful natural settings near Cusco.
Along the way, travelers enjoy stunning Andean landscapes, fresh mountain air, and the guidance of bilingual experts who share the cultural and spiritual importance of the lake for local communities. The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between May and September, when the weather is clearer and the lake displays its most vibrant turquoise color.
Itinerary
Humantay Lake Tour Itinerary
Tour Schedule: 4:50 AM – 18:00 PM
Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:20 and 4:50 AM. After meeting the group, we travel by tourist transport toward the town of Mollepata, where we stop to enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast before continuing the journey.
We then drive through scenic Andean landscapes until reaching Soraypampa (3,900 m), the starting point of our hike. From here, we begin a 1.5-hour trek to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m), located at the base of the impressive Salkantay Mountain.
At the lake, you will have time to admire the turquoise glacial waters, take photos, and enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery while your guide explains the cultural significance of this sacred place.
After exploring the area, we hike back down to Soraypampa and return by transport, stopping again in Mollepata for a buffet lunch before heading back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 PM.
Includes
Includes
- Hotel pick up (central locations).
- Tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
- Lunch and Breakfast (Buffet).
- Medical kit and oxygen balloon.
- Walking sticks.
Not Included
- Entrance fee to the lagoon (20 soles)
- Rental horse (optional).
- Personal expenses.
- Tips (tips)
- Travel insurance
- Snacks and / or soft drinks.
Important information
Hotel pick up will take place in central locations, around the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
If your hotel is far away from the historical center, the meeting point will be at the pool of the Plaza de Armas.
The exact pick up time will be communicated the day before the tour.
Our tour ends at the regocijo square located one block from the main square of Cusco.
Recommendations
Recommendations and Useful Tips for the Humantay Lake Tour
To make the most of your Humantay Lake Tour with Top Inka Travel, we recommend bringing the following essentials:
- Passport or identification document
- Warm and comfortable clothing suitable for trekking
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Rain poncho (especially during the rainy season)
- Comfortable hiking or trekking shoes
- Enough water for the hike
- Medication for altitude sickness, such as Sorojchi Pills, particularly if you are not fully acclimatized
It is also advisable to carry a small backpack with your personal essentials. If needed, you can hire a horse during the hike, a service available at the starting point for travelers who prefer a more comfortable ascent.
For photography lovers, the best time to capture the beauty of Humantay Lake is usually between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m., when sunlight enhances the turquoise color of the water and the surrounding glaciers.
Additional Tour Information
Humantay Lake is located near Soraypampa, approximately three hours by vehicle from Cusco. The hike begins at about 3,900 meters above sea level, while the lake sits higher at around 4,200 meters, making proper acclimatization essential before starting the trek.
Most tours include hotel pickup in central Cusco or the San Blas neighborhood. The journey is made in comfortable tourist transport along scenic mountain roads, gradually gaining altitude.
During the hike, travelers can enjoy spectacular Andean landscapes, fresh mountain air, and the guidance of bilingual local guides who share insights about the cultural and spiritual importance of the lake. For centuries, this area has been considered a sacred place where local communities performed offerings and rituals in honor of the surrounding mountains.
Many tours also include stops at panoramic viewpoints and traditional Andean villages, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
For travelers planning longer adventures, this tour is often combined with the famous Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, one of the most scenic trekking routes in the Peruvian Andes.
Why Choose Top Inka Travel
Choosing Top Inka Travel means experiencing more than just a tour. Our guides are specialists in Andean culture, history, and mountain geography, many of them born in the region and passionate about sharing authentic local stories.
Our tours are designed for all types of travelers, including families, couples, photographers, solo adventurers, and visitors experiencing high altitude for the first time.
We also offer private tours to Humantay Lake, ideal for travelers who want a more personalized experience, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to visit the best photography spots.
For added comfort, horses can be rented along the trail, which is especially helpful for travelers who prefer a less demanding hike or those visiting with children or older family members.
Best Time to Visit Humantay Lake
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season from May to September, when skies are usually clear, trails are more stable, and the lake displays its most intense turquoise color.
Between November and March, the region experiences the rainy season. While the scenery remains beautiful, rain showers and muddy trails are more common, so proper hiking gear is recommended.
FAQ
Humantay Lake Tour FAQs
How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike to Humantay Lake is considered moderate to challenging, mainly due to the high altitude. The trail begins at Soraypampa (around 3,900 m / 12,795 ft) and usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the lake. Walking slowly and taking short breaks helps most travelers complete the hike comfortably.
How high is Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake is located at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level in the Peruvian Andes, near the base of the impressive Salkantay Mountain.
Do I need to acclimatize before visiting Humantay Lake?
Yes. Because of the altitude, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before doing the tour to help your body adapt to the elevation.
How long does the Humantay Lake tour take?
Most Humantay Lake day tours start early in the morning and last around 12 to 14 hours, including transportation from Cusco, meals, and the hiking portion.
Can beginners hike to Humantay Lake?
Yes. Many travelers with basic fitness levels complete the hike successfully. However, the altitude can make the trek more challenging, so it is important to walk at your own pace and stay hydrated.
Is it possible to ride a horse to Humantay Lake?
Yes. Horses can usually be rented at Soraypampa for travelers who prefer not to hike the entire trail. Local muleteers guide the horses along the route for a safer and more comfortable ascent.
What is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season from May to September, when skies are clearer and the turquoise water of the lake is at its most vibrant.
How far is Humantay Lake from Cusco?
The lake is located about 120 km (75 miles) from Cusco. The drive to the starting point at Soraypampa takes approximately three hours.
Is Humantay Lake part of the Salkantay Trek?
Yes. Humantay Lake is located near the beginning of the famous Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, one of the most scenic trekking routes in Peru.
Is Humantay Lake worth visiting?
Absolutely. Humantay Lake is considered one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in Peru, known for its intense turquoise color, dramatic mountain scenery, and cultural significance in the Andes.
Map
Map
