Humantay Lake Trip | 1 Day Tour from Cusco, Peru

Overview

The Humantay Lake Trip is a full-day adventure from Cusco that takes travelers to one of the most stunning natural attractions in the Peruvian Andes. The tour begins with an early morning transfer from Cusco to Mollepata for breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike.

The trek to Humantay Lake covers approximately 2 km and offers spectacular views of the Humantay and Salkantay snowcapped mountains. Located at 4,200 meters above sea level, the lake is famous for its breathtaking turquoise waters and extraordinary Andean landscapes.

After enjoying free time at the lake for photos and sightseeing, the tour continues back to Soraypampa and Mollepata for lunch before returning to Cusco in the evening. The Humantay Lake Trip is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and unforgettable scenery in Peru.

Day 1: Humantay Lake Trip – Salkantay Route

Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., followed by a scenic drive to Mollepata for breakfast. Continue the journey through Challacancha to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. Trek approximately 2 km to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), enjoying spectacular views of the Humantay and Salkantay snowcapped mountains. Free time at the lake for photos and sightseeing before returning to Soraypampa. Lunch in Mollepata and transfer back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 p.m.

Why Choose the Humantay Lake Trip?

The Humantay Lake Trip is perfect for travelers looking to explore one of the most breathtaking natural destinations in Peru. This full-day adventure combines trekking, spectacular Andean scenery, and the opportunity to discover the famous turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, surrounded by the impressive Humantay and Salkantay mountains.

Book the Humantay Lake Trip

Book the Humantay Lake Trip and discover one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the Peruvian Andes. For more information about this unforgettable experience, visit Leading Peru Travel or contact us via WhatsApp at +51 984 509 207.

Itinerary

Humantay Lake Trip – Humantay Lake Full Day Tour – Enjoy the spectacular Humantay Lake Trip by joining this unforgettable Humantay Lake Full Day Tour from Cusco. Discover the famous Humantay Lake, one of Peru’s most beautiful turquoise lakes, located at the base of the impressive Humantay Mountain glacier. During this Humantay Lake Trip, travelers will witness breathtaking Andean landscapes, dramatic mountain scenery, and stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Andes while enjoying an incredible day hike to one of Peru’s natural wonders.

Humantay Lake Trip – 1 Day Tour on the Salkantay Route

The Humantay Lake Trip is one of the most spectacular excursions in Cusco, taking travelers to discover one of the most beautiful natural treasures of the Peruvian Andes. This 1 Day Tour on the Salkantay Route combines adventure, trekking, and breathtaking landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience surrounded by snowcapped mountains and crystal-clear waters.

One day before the Humantay Lake Trip, our team will provide all the necessary information about the tour, including recommendations and a detailed itinerary.

On the day of the excursion, we will pick you up from your hotel between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. and travel by minivan to Mollepata, located in the lush Apurímac River Valley. Here, we will enjoy breakfast before continuing the journey toward the stunning Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 meters above sea level.

After breakfast, the Humantay Lake Trip continues through Challacancha, where travelers can admire the magnificent scenery of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range and views of the impressive Humantay Snow Mountain. We will then arrive at Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike and the perfect place for a short rest before beginning the trek.

The hike during the Humantay Lake Trip covers approximately 2 km, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Along the trail, visitors will enjoy incredible views of the Humantay Snow Mountain and the majestic Salkantay Mountain, creating perfect settings for unforgettable photographs.

Upon arrival at Humantay Lake, travelers will have approximately 1 hour of free time to relax, take photos, and admire the spectacular turquoise waters of the lake. After the visit, we will return to Soraypampa and continue to Mollepata for a delicious lunch before returning to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:30 p.m.

The Turquoise Color of Humantay Lake

One of the highlights of the Humantay Lake Trip is the extraordinary turquoise color of the lake. This beautiful shade is created by the purity of the glacial waters, the presence of natural microalgae, and the reflection of sunlight and the blue Andean sky, making Humantay Lake a magical destination.

Difficulty of the Humantay Lake Trip

The Humantay Lake Trip has a moderate difficulty level, as the hiking distance is only 2 km. The trek requires moderate physical effort and is recommended for travelers with regular physical condition. The average hiking time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

What Does Humantay Mean?

The word Humantay means “Head of the Gods”, referring to the majestic snowcapped mountain located high in the Andes and considered sacred by local communities.

Includes

INCLUDE

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco.
Professional route guidance.
Tourist transport from Cusco to Mollepata / Soraypampa – Mollepata Cusco.
Equipment of kitchen, dinning tent, chairs, tables – Cook.
Meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch)
First aid, emergency oxygen Kit.
Entrance to Salkantay.

NOT INCLUDED

Extras not listed.
Horse extra if needed.

Recommendations

Small backpack.
Hat or Sun hat.
Trekking shoes.
Personal medication.
Additional battery for your camera.

Practical Tips:

Acclimatize: Spend a day in Cusco or a nearby town to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting the hike.
Pack Essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear comfortable, layered clothing. The weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for a hassle-free experience. Knowledgeable guides can enhance your understanding of the local culture and environment.
Leave No Trace: Respect the environment by adhering to the principles of Leave No Trace. Carry out all trash and minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystem.

Price

The cost of this Tour is expressed in American dollars and is per person, the cost will depend on the hotel accommodation you choose, we work with hotels from 2** to 5**** stars, it will also depend on the type of room required : single (1 person), double (2 people) and triple (3 people). You can request the list of hotels we work with for your choice.