Humantay Lake
The Humantay Lake Tour is one of the most spectacular nature experiences in the Peruvian Andes. Located near Cusco, the stunning Humantay Lake is famous for its bright turquoise waters formed by the glaciers of Humantay Mountain.
This adventure combines a scenic journey through Andean valleys with a moderate hike to the lake, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and pristine mountain landscapes.
Itinerary at a Glance:
Full Day Tour: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Cusco.
Early morning departure from Cusco toward the village of Mollepata, followed by a scenic drive to the trailhead. Begin a hike through the Andes to reach Humantay Lake, where you will have time to admire the turquoise waters and surrounding glaciers before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.
Itinerary
- Your journey begins before sunrise with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Traveling northwest in comfortable tourist transportation, you’ll leave the city behind and venture into the Andean countryside. During the approximately three-hour drive, the landscape gradually transforms into wide valleys, rolling hills, and traditional highland villages where local communities maintain ancestral farming practices against a backdrop of towering peaks.
- A stop is made in the village of Mollepata, where you will enjoy a nutritious breakfast to prepare for the hike ahead. Afterward, the journey continues toward Soraypampa (3,900 meters / 12,795 ft), the starting point of your trek and a scenic base camp area surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
- From Soraypampa, you will begin a moderate uphill hike lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. As you ascend, breathtaking panoramic views unfold with every step—snow-capped peaks, sweeping valleys, and the imposing presence of Humantay Mountain rising above the landscape. The trail steadily climbs through high-altitude terrain, offering opportunities to pause, acclimate, and fully appreciate the grandeur of the Andes.
- Upon reaching Humantay Lake, you will be rewarded with the sight of its striking turquoise waters set beneath glacier-covered summits. Here, you will have time to rest, explore the surroundings, take photographs, and absorb the serenity of this remarkable natural setting. Your guide will share insights into the Andean worldview and explain the spiritual significance of the Apus—sacred mountain spirits revered in Inca culture and still honored by local communities today.
- After enjoying free time at the lake to connect with nature and capture unforgettable images, you will descend back to Soraypampa. The return journey includes lunch in Mollepata before heading back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon with lasting memories of one of the Andes’ most spectacular high-altitude landscapes.
Includes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Tourist transportation
- Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Does not include
- Entrance fee (paid locally)
- Horse rental (optional for ascent)
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional)
Recommendations
- Acclimatize at least 1–2 days in Cusco before the tour
- Wear hiking shoes with good grip
- Dress in warm layers (weather changes quickly)
- Bring gloves, hat, and sunglasses
- Use sunscreen
- Bring water and light snacks
- Walk slowly and maintain steady breathing due to altitude
Prices
- Price: Please contact us for private group rates.
- Student Discount: Available for students with a valid University ID (under 25) or teenagers under 17.
- Booking Process: A deposit is required to secure your Inca Trail permits, which are non-refundable and non-transferable.
More Info
Additional Options
As highlighted in our Additional Options section, you have the opportunity to enhance your trip with various upgrades.
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Humantay Lake
1 Day
$ 39.00
Per Person
Request Booking
Quick Stats
Duration
1 Day
Physical Rating
Moderate/Hard – Walking with minimal physical exertion.
Trip Type
Cultural, History, and Hiking.
Team
Private English-Speaking Guide, Driver, and Trip Expert.
