The Humantay Lake Tour is undoubtedly one of the best day hikes in Peru. Ascend to the heights and reach the heavens, enjoying the fantastic mountain views, the exotic flora and fauna, and the awesome lagoon. As if that weren't enough, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients, without mentioning the support of our expert tour guides.

This is a great choice if you want to experience the natural beauty and don't mind a little exercise.

Our full-day Humantay Lake tour from Cusco includes round-trip transport, so you only have to enjoy the tour. Reservations can be made from one day to the next, and our groups are around 10 people, 16 at most.

Overview Humantay Lake Peru tour

Our journey is the perfect way to see one of Peru's most beautiful places. This full-day tour takes you on a hike to the stunning Humantay Lake in the Salkantay Mountain region. It is nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 4,200 meters, making it a truly unique sight, with crystal clear waters and breathtaking views.

Perfect for those looking for nature, moderate challenge hiking, and unforgettable views, all in just one day.

Tour Highlights

Spend an epic day hiking among gigantic snow-capped mountains.
Moderate physical challenge for your personal achievement
Discover the fantastic Flora and Fauna of the site
Explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake.
Experience the spiritual significance of the lagoon for the people of the Andes
Enjoy a refreshing breakfast and lunch prepared with local products

Humantay Lake from Cusco at a glance

We’ll leave early from the city of Cusco, picking you up from your Cusco hotel, and head toward Mollepata town to enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Then we’ll continue our car journey heading to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike.
Our guides will accompany you during the ascent, offering support and interesting facts about the hiking area.
Once you reach the lagoon at the top, you’ll have time to rest, take photos, and enjoy a truly unique Andean landscape.
After the visit, you’ll descend by the same way to Soraypampa. There, you’ll take our transportation towards Mollepata town, to enjoy a fantastic lunch made with local ingredients at a nearby restaurant.
Finally, you’ll board your transportation again, back to Cusco. We will drop you off at your Cusco hotel door.

Included

Round-trip transportation from Cusco
Pick up from your hotel in Cusco, around 04:30 am.
Drop off back at your hotel, around 06:00 pm.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide
Entry ticket to Humantay Lake
Oxygen tank, first aid kit, Satellite phones
Energetic breakfast at a local restaurant
Delicious lunch at a local restaurant
Trekking poles
Small group tours (Around 10 people, and a maximum of 16 people)

Not Included

Horse riding (optional)
Travel Insurance
Tips

Extra Upgrades and private service

Rent a horse: You can rent a horse at the trailhead to arrive at Humantay Lake. However, horse riding is possible on only 80% of the entire trail. For the remaining 20%, you need to hike. Payment is made directly to the mule driver and the cost is approximately 80 soles. He will accompany you on the tour. Returning down the hill on a horse is not recommended.
Private service: You can upgrade to a private experience with picnic meals prepared by our trekking chefs and served in comfortable picnic tents set up by our porters. This option requires a minimum of two travelers; for larger groups, contact us for special pricing.
For larger groups: Please send us a request to get a special price.
Vegetarian options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available on request in advance.

Why book with TreXperience?

Local Expert: Get the best prices and best service with a 100% Peruvian company
Expert Tour Guides: Our tour guides are professionals and fluent in English
TreXperience always has a solution: Contact us, we always have other tour options for you
Expert in treks: We have other unforgettable treks like Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days

Humantay Lake Tour Full Day

This unforgettable day begins very early! We’ll collect you from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 a.m. Pickups are available from any hotel inside the historic center. Settle in for a two-hour ride to Mollepata town.

Then fuel up with a tasty breakfast made with fresh, local ingredients at a local restaurant.

Afterward, we continue for one more hour in van to Soraypampa, the trailhead, where we get ready for an awesome hike.

There, your guide will give you a moment to get set, use the restrooms, and warm up. The route begins gently and grows steeper as we approach the lake.

After about two hours of hiking through striking scenery, we’ll reach the brilliant turquoise waters of Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters (13,779 ft), tucked just below the peak of the same name. Take time to wander, relax, and breathe the crisp mountain air.

Once you’ve soaked in the calm at the lake, we’ll begin a two-hour descent back to the trailhead (Soraypampa).

From there, hop in the van to Mollepata for a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy a few moments to take in the town views.

Then settle in for the two-hour drive back to Cusco. We’ll drop you off at your hotel at around 6:00 p.m., ending this adventure in the best possible way.

Throughout the day, we provide trekking poles for the hike.

Price of the Humantay Lake Tour

This tour has the advantage of being bookable even from one day to the next!

Price per person

From US$ 70 per person – With meals served at a local restaurant in the town of Mollepata
US$ 200 per person – With picnic meals prepared by our expert trekking chefs (based on 2 persons)
5+ Travelers, contact us to get a special price: info@trexperienceperu.com

How to book

To book the Humantay Lake tour, click on the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, select the tour option of your choice (group or private service), and fill in all the requested details. Finally, enter your credit/debit card details and make the payment. Our team will contact you shortly to reconfirm your payment and give you more information.

You can also request an exclusive quotation for our special service with picnic meals prepared by our TreXperience cooks, writing us at info@trexperienceperu.com

Or, you hire our special tour, Salkantay & Humantay Lake 2-day tours with camping, where you will be able to explore amazing off-the-beaten-path lakes and trails.

Similar tours you might be interested in:

What to bring for my tour

To participate in a full Humantay Lake tour from Cusco, it’s important to have all the necessary equipment to enjoy this amazing place to the fullest. Weather in the high Andes can shift fast, and the hike can be strenuous. Dress smart to stay comfortable and safe all day. Below is a detailed list of what you will need to take on the Humantay Lake tour.

Appropriate Footwear: Choose sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with solid grip and ankle support. Skip sandals or flip-flops; the terrain is rocky and uneven.
Comfortable Pants: Pick lightweight, stretchy, quick-dry pants or leggings. Avoid jeans; they’re heavy and slow to dry.
Layer Up: Chilly mornings and milder afternoons are common. Wear layers you can add or remove easily.
Accessories: Bring a hat or beanie, gloves, a neck buff or scarf, and sunglasses. These help with warmth early on and reduce glare.
Rain gear: Bring a rain jacket and poncho; avoid umbrellas due to heavy winds.
Basic first aid kit: Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, altitude sickness pills, motion sickness pills, and pain relievers.
Camera: A good camera or your phone fully charged, plus extra batteries.
Binoculars: Bring them if you have them.
Sunglasses & Sunscreen: UV is intense at altitude. Apply sunscreen and wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield skin and eyes.
Daypack: Carry a comfy daypack for water, snacks, and spare layers. Good weight distribution helps prevent strain.
Water & Snacks: There are no vendors on the trail. Pack plenty of water and energy-rich snacks to stay hydrated and fueled.

In summary, dress in layers, choose durable and comfortable clothing, and be ready for changing weather. The right gear makes a big difference on your Humantay Lake day.

Useful Information about Humantay Lake

Location

Humantay Lake is located in the Peruvian Andes, about a 3-hour drive from the city of Cusco and a 2-hour hike to the lake. The lake is situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), making it one of the highest lakes in Peru. It is surrounded by mountains, including Humantay Peak, which rises to 5,917 meters (19,427 feet).

History

Humantay Lake is a glacial lake in the Cusco Region of Peru. It sits in the saddle between the mountains of Salkantay and Humantay. The lake is fed by glacial meltwater from nearby glaciers and has a turquoise color due to light reflecting off the sediments at the bottom. The area around Humantay Lake has been inhabited for centuries by indigenous people.

The lake holds spiritual significance for many indigenous communities and is used for ceremonies and rituals. In recent years, it has become a popular tourist destination. The area around the lake is beautiful, and several hiking trails lead to different viewpoints.

Altitude

Humantay Lake lies at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Cordillera Vilcabamba mountain range in the Peruvian Andes.

Weather

The weather at Humantay Lake varies depending on the time of year. In the rainy season, the lake is often covered in mist and can be quite cold when cloudy or rainy. During the dry season, it is typically sunny and warm during the day but very cold at night or early morning. Visitors should be prepared for both types of weather when planning a trip to Humantay Lake.

Difficulty

The Humantay Lake tour is not for the faint of heart. The hike is moderate to challenging, with a steep incline and rocky terrain. The real difficulty comes from the high altitude. At over 4,200 meters above sea level, the oxygen is thin, and it can be hard to catch your breath. This can make the hike more challenging, so it’s important to take breaks often to rest and recover. While the views from the lake are stunning, getting there is no easy feat.

Humantay Lake Vs Rainbow Mountain

Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain are the two most popular day tours you can take from Cusco. These tours are available every day and are similar in organization, schedules, and logistics; however, the experience and landscapes are completely different. While Humantay Lake is located near Salkantay Mountain, with green landscapes typical of the high cloud forest region at 4,200 meters, Rainbow Mountain is in the Ausangate region, which is higher and drier. It has reddish landscapes typical of the 5,000-meter area.

Humantay Lake

Distance: About 8 kilometers (5 miles)
Location: Near Soraypampa, Salkantay Trek
Difficulty: Some steep, rocky sections, but manageable if you’re in good shape
Highlight: A gorgeous turquoise lake below towering Andes peaks
Time: About 4 hours of hiking, plus 6 hours travel time

Rainbow Mountain

Distance: About 9 kilometers (5.5 miles)
Location: In the Ausangate Region
Difficulty: Tougher terrain, especially at high altitude
Highlight: Unique, colorful mountain scenery
Time: About 4 hours of hiking, plus 6 hours travel time

For the less demanding hike and lower altitude, the Humantay Lake is a great option. If you’re up for a challenge and want unforgettable views, consider Rainbow Mountain—just be aware of the thin air and long distance.

Tips for visiting Humantay Lake

If you're looking for a beautiful turquoise lake to visit in Peru, Humantay is the perfect spot. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between May and September, when the weather is warm and dry.
To get to Humantay Lake, you'll need to drive for about 3 hours from the town of Cusco.
The trail is challenging, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and bring plenty of water.
Once you reach the lake, take some time to enjoy the views!
When you're ready to head back down, give yourself plenty of time to hike leisurely so you don't get too tired.

And that's it—following these tips will help you have a great time visiting Humantay Lake!

Humantay Lake Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

Are you planning a trip to Humantay Lake and have some questions?, you have come to the right location! On this page, you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Humantay lake from Cusco. We have all the information you need, from directions and packing tips to what you can anticipate upon your arrival.

How to get to Cusco?

The best way to get to Cusco is by flying into the city's airport. First, you need to book a flight to Lima city, then a domestic flight to Cusco airport. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your hotel in Cusco.

Where to stay in Cusco for pick up?

There are many options available for staying in Cusco. You can choose a hotel, hostel, or even an Airbnb and apartments. The recommended hotels are:

Hotel Monasterio
Palacio del Inka
JW Marriott El Convento
Hilton Garden
Costa del Sol Ramada
Hilton Garden
Novotel
Casa Andina Plaza

Book a hotel near the main center and route access. Some hotels might be located off the route and have difficult access, especially when your pick-up is an early or late drop-off.

What is Humantay Lake?

Humantay Lake is a stunning glacial lake situated in the Salkantay region on the eastern side of the Peruvian Andes. It sits at the base of Mount Humantay and is known for its turquoise color and breathtaking surroundings. The lake is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and photography.

How to get to Humantay Lake?

To get to Humantay Lake, you will need to take a bus from Cusco to the town of Mollepata. From Mollepata, you need to take a private taxi to Soraypampa village, the trailhead. From Soraypampa, you will need to hike for about 2 hours until you reach the lake. The trail is not overly difficult, but it is recommended that you wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.

The easiest way to visit Humatay Lake is through an organized tour; you need to hire a company like TreXperience to enjoy these unique places.

What to do at Humantay Lake?

Hiking is the only way to arrive at Humantay Lake and is an excellent way to get some exercise. Several trails of varying difficulty levels lead up to the lake. Once you reach the lake, there are plenty of places to relax or take a short hike. The water is generally quite cold, and swimming and fishing are not allowed.

Picnicking is not allowed as well. However, you can enjoy your favorite snack, and warm water is possible. Just make sure you do not leave any trash behind.

What activities can be done there?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at Humantay Lake, including hiking, horseback riding, and simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The lake is also a great place for picnics and camping. You can only have picnics and camping in the village at the trailhead, Soraypampa.

How much does it cost to visit Humantay Lake?

The price for visiting Humantay Lake varies depending on the time of year, the group size, and the specific activities you plan to do while there.

You can book budget tours for a day trip to the lake from $98 per person. This price includes transportation from Cusco to the trailhead, a guide, and entrance fees. Breakfast and lunch are provided in local restaurants.
You can also book personalized premium tours with picnic meals $180. Includes transportation to the trailhead, entry fees, tour guide, chef, picnic meals, and private transport. These are the best tour options for Humantay. An exclusive chef and top-qualified tour guides will prepare your meals.

When is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between May and September. The weather is warm, and there are fewer chances to have rain. The rainy season is also a perfect time to visit; the landscapes are greener and have beautiful colors.

Are there any dangers at Humantay Lake?

Yes, like any adventure trip out in nature, there are some dangers at Humantay Lake.

The most common danger is getting lost. There are no marked trails, and the terrain is very rugged. It is easy to get lost if you don't know where you are going or don't follow the tour guide's instructions.
Other dangers include hypothermia and altitude sickness.
The lake is at a high elevation, and you need to be acclimated to the altitude; arrive a few days before Cusco.
Be sure to dress warmly and drink plenty of fluids to avoid these problems.

What are the recommended tours before and after the Humantay Lake tour?

Humantay Lake is a high-altitude day hike; you must acclimate properly before participating in this tour.