Humantay Lake
Cusco, Peru
Full day
The trail to Humantay Lake begins far from the noise of Cusco, in a quiet Andean valley where small communities, grazing animals and towering mountains set the rhythm of everyday life.
From Soraypampa, the path climbs steadily toward the glacial lake. The ascent is short compared with many multi-day treks, but the altitude makes every section of the trail meaningful. With Salkantay and Humantay mountains rising above the valley, the scenery changes with every step.
At the end of the trail, the landscape opens to reveal Humantay Lake, a striking turquoise body of water surrounded by rocky slopes and snow-covered peaks. The destination is impressive, but the journey there is what gives the experience its character.
Itinerary
A turquoise lake beneath the high Andes
- Early morning – departure from Cusco: The day begins before sunrise with your pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- We leave the city and travel toward the province of Anta, passing through Andean landscapes as the road gradually climbs into the mountains.
- After approximately two hours, we reach the area of Mollepata.
- Breakfast in Mollepata: We stop at a local restaurant for breakfast.
- This is a good opportunity to have a proper meal before beginning the hike and to prepare for the high-altitude conditions ahead.
- After breakfast, we continue toward Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike.
- Soraypampa – The beginning of the trail: Upon reaching Soraypampa, we begin our walk toward Humantay Lake.
- The trail climbs through a high-altitude landscape surrounded by mountains and open valleys. The terrain becomes steeper as we gain elevation, so the pace will be steady and adapted to the group.
- Along the way, your guide will provide assistance and explain aspects of the surrounding landscape, local traditions and the importance of the mountains within Andean culture.
- Humantay lake – The reward at the top: After the ascent, the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake gradually come into view.
- The lake is fed by the melting snow and ice of Humantay Mountain, creating an intense contrast between its turquoise waters, the dark rocky slopes and the surrounding peaks.
- Once at the lake, we will have time to rest, take photographs and appreciate the scenery.
- Your guide will also share information about the area and the cultural significance of the Andean mountains.
- Descent to Soraypampa: After spending time at the lake, we begin the descent toward Soraypampa.
- The return route is considerably easier than the ascent, although the uneven terrain requires attention.
- Once back at Soraypampa, our transportation will be waiting for us.
- Lunch and return to Cusco: We continue toward Mollepata, where we stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
- After lunch, we begin our return journey to Cusco.
- We expect to arrive in the city during the afternoon or early evening, depending on road and weather conditions.
Includes
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Entrance fee to the Humantay Lake area
- Assistance during the hike
- Emergency oxygen available in the vehicle
Does not include
- Horse rental
- Additional transportation not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Drinks
- Tips
- Walking sticks
- Services not mentioned in the program
Recommendations
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Entrance fee to the Humantay Lake area
- Assistance during the hike
- Emergency oxygen available in the vehicle
Book now
Price
$ 350.00
Per Person