Location

Humantay Lake sits high in the Andes Mountains at about 4,200 meters above sea level (13,780 ft). It’s part of the Mollepata district in the Anta province of the Cusco region. Close to the lagoon is the iconic Salkantay Mountain, and its waters stand out for its unique turquoise hue.

Hot to Get to Humantay Lake

If you’re already in Cusco and have enjoyed its nearby archaeological sites, plus Machu Picchu, it’s time to visit Humantay Lagoon for another amazing experience.

Getting there is pretty easy since it’s a popular place, and travel agencies even offer tours you can book just a day in advance. It all depends on what works best for you.

With a travel agency: 

The easiest and most convenient option is to book with a travel agency. Most tours include everything you’ll need: transportation, a guide, breakfast, lunch, and sometimes even the entrance fee. You can book directly at a tour operator’s office in Cusco or online through a travel app. Tours usually leave early, between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m.

Make sure to pick a reliable agency with good reviews. If you’d like, you can book the Humantay Lake Tour with us, but it’s totally up to you!

On your own: 

If you’d rather skip the groups and take things at your own pace, you can definitely visit the lake on your own. Just keep in mind that it’ll cost a bit more, and by “more,” we mean there’s quite a noticeable difference.

One option is to take a shared van (colectivo) from Cusco to Mollepata. It costs about 20 soles (around USD 5), and you can catch one at the Arcopata station. Once you’re in Mollepata, you’ll need to find another ride to Soraypampa.

Another option is to grab a taxi straight to Soraypampa from the same station. This can cost up to 200 soles (USD 50), but if you’re traveling with friends, you can split the cost. The big advantage is that you can leave later than a group tour and won’t have to wait around for others. But if you want to make the most of your day, it’s still a good idea to head out as early as possible.

Humantay Lake: The Day trip from Cusco

Once you’ve picked your transportation or tour, you’ll be traveling about 120 kilometers from Cusco. It’s a 3-hour ride where you’ll pass through charming Andean villages like Limatambo and Mollepata. From Mollepata, the adventure continues!

From Mollepata to Soraypampa

After arriving in Mollepata, you’ll make your way to the nearby community of Soraypampa. This is where the hike to Humantay Lagoon begins.

The hike

The trail from Soraypampa to the lagoon is 2 kilometers uphill and can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on your pace and fitness level. You’ll be climbing to 4,200 meters above sea level, so it’s a bit of a challenge!

If you’re used to hiking at high altitudes, you can absolutely do this on your own. But if you’re not, it’s a good idea to book a tour in advance so you can have a guide and support along the way.

Difficulty

The hike is relatively short, about 2 kilometers. If you’re experienced, like we are, you’ll probably reach the top in about an hour at a good pace. But if it’s your first time, plan for around an hour and a half. There’s no need to rush; as long as you keep a steady pace, you’ll be fine.

What makes it a bit challenging is the incline—it’s pretty steep. If it rains, the trail can get a little slippery, so make sure to bring good trekking shoes to avoid any surprises.

What to do at Humantay Lake

Humantay Lagoon is one of those places that feels like a well-earned reward after the journey. Sitting at an altitude of 4,200 meters, the turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks are absolutely worth the effort to reach.

Once you arrive, the sense of accomplishment is incredible. You can explore the shoreline for a closer view or take a short hike up to the ridge for a higher vantage point. From up top, you’ll get a spectacular clear view of Humantay Mountain, which gives the lagoon its name. If you’re into photography, we absolutely recommend this spot for the best angles and a chance to capture the full beauty of the landscape.

Just keep in mind that entering the lagoon is not allowed, as it’s a sacred site. Respecting the local beliefs is essential, but there’s still so much to experience by simply enjoying the scenery and the peaceful atmosphere.

Another highlight of visiting Humantay Lagoon is learning about its cultural meaning. Its name comes from the Quechua word “Uma,” meaning “head” or “head of the gods,” as it’s near Mount Salkantay, one of the sacred mountains in Andean culture. Local legends say that Salkantay and Ausangate, two of the region’s most famous mountains, set out from this area to help their people in times of need.

More things to do at Humantay Lake

There are some other things you can take advantage of as you make your way up to this sacred and unique spot.

• If the hike feels a bit challenging, you can ride a horse up from the community of Soraypampa. Horses are available for rent to help you tackle the tougher sections of the trail for just 90 soles.
   
• Some tours also include a unique opportunity to participate in an ancient ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth). As part of the ritual, you’ll place a stone in a special spot to show your gratitude for safely reaching this sacred site. It’s a beautiful way to connect with the local traditions and culture.
   
• If you want to take things up a notch, consider spending the night at an eco-camp just a few minutes from the lagoon. You’ll sleep under a sky full of stars and wake up surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Tips for your hike

The trail to Humantay Lagoon isn’t too long, but it can be challenging with its steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery sections. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your hike:

• Take time to acclimate: Spend a day or two in Cusco to get used to the altitude. It’ll help you avoid altitude sickness, especially if you’re not used to hiking at high elevations.
• Dress for the weather: Make sure you’ve got the right gear—a warm jacket, a poncho or raincoat, a hat, gloves, durable pants, and sturdy trekking shoes are must-haves.
• Trekking poles are a game-changer: If you have them, bring them along. They’re super helpful on the steeper parts of the trail.
• Pack smart: Bring a light backpack with just the essentials—water, snacks, and anything else you really need. You’ll be glad it’s not weighing you down.
• Stay hydrated: Carry plenty of water, but sip it slowly instead of gulping. This keeps you hydrated without feeling heavy.
• Bring snacks: Pack something like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit to keep your energy up along the way.
• Age: The hike isn’t recommended for kids under 12 or adults over 60 unless they’re in excellent health and fitness.

Entrance fees

To visit Humantay Lagoon, you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket in Mollepata. This ticket gets you access to the Soraypampa campsite and the lagoon area. For foreign visitors, it’s 10 soles (about $2.50), and for Peruvians, it’s 5 soles (about $1.50).

If you’re booking a tour from Cusco, expect to pay between $50 and $80. Most tours include transportation, the entrance ticket, a professional guide, breakfast, and a buffet lunch—pretty much everything you need.

Best time to go

If you’re planning your trip, the dry season (May to mid-October) is a great time to go. The skies are usually clear, and the lagoon’s turquoise color looks amazing in the sunlight. Just keep in mind that this is also the busiest time, so you’ll likely see more people around.

But don’t worry if you’re visiting during the rainy season (November to March). There will be fewer crowds, which can make the experience feel more peaceful. There might be some rain, but as long as you’re prepared, it won’t take away from how special this place is.

Seee you at Humantay Lake!

We hope this has you pumped to visit Humantay Lagoon! It’s an incredible spot—the views are breathtaking, the villages you pass through are full of charm, and there’s something truly special about standing by the lagoon itself.

It’s not just the hike or the photos (though those are definitely worth it). Visiting gives you a chance to connect with the history, legends, and traditions of the Cusco region in a way that feels really meaningful.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, take a look at our Humantay Full Day Tour, which includes a scenic picnic lunch in the mountains.