Cultural
We will travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu one day tour, to learn about the history, architecture and beauty of this Wonder...
View tourCuscoPeru.com invites you to discover Humantay Lake, one of the best-known natural attractions near Cusco. The day starts early and follows the route through Mollepata and Soraypampa before the uphill hike to the lake at 4,200 m, surrounded by snowcapped mountains.
The Humantay lake tour is a full-day experience for travelers who want to walk through an Andean setting and see the turquoise water fed by nearby glaciers. Along the way, you can also view Salkantay Mountain and the landscapes found at the beginning of the Salkantay trekking route.
The hike starts in Soraypampa at 3,900 m. The tour covers a total distance of 7 km, three to four hours of hiking, and an elevation gain of approximately 400 m. Although its technical difficulty is described as moderate, the altitude and continuous climb make it important to keep a comfortable pace.
This Humantay lagoon tour includes tourist transportation with emergency oxygen, assistance during the tour, a professional English and Spanish-speaking guide, admissions mentioned in the program, hiking poles, and lunch in Mollepata. The return to Cusco is scheduled for approximately 6:30 PM.
Day 1
Pickup in Cusco and stop in Mollepata
The laguna Humantay tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:00 AM. We then travel by tourist vehicle for about two and a half hours to Mollepata, in Anta Province.
The itinerary schedules a breakfast stop in Mollepata and time to purchase any additional provisions you may need. We then continue for approximately one and a half hours along a dirt road to Soraypampa. The drive offers the first views of Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding highland scenery.
Soraypampa and the hike to the lake
Soraypampa is located at 3,900 m and marks the start of the hike. The uphill section covers approximately 2 km and usually takes between one and a half and two hours. The actual time depends on the group's pace and each traveler's response to the altitude.
The trail passes mountain scenery and local flora and fauna. The full hike covers a round-trip distance of 7 km, an estimated three to four hours of hiking, and an elevation gain of around 400 m. We continue with breaks and follow the guide's instructions.
Time at Humantay Lake
At Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 m, you will have time to view the turquoise water and the mountains surrounding it. The guide accompanies the group and shares information about the lake and its setting.
The length of the visit may be adjusted according to weather, group pace, and arrival time. We then descend along the same trail to Soraypampa, where the vehicle will be waiting.
Lunch in Mollepata and return to Cusco
From Soraypampa, we drive back to Mollepata for an Andean lunch. After the meal, the tour laguna Humantay continues back to Cusco.
Arrival is scheduled for approximately 6:30 PM. This time may vary according to traffic, weather, and the group's progress during the hike.
| Distance | 7 km round trip |
|---|---|
| Technical difficulty | Moderate |
| Minimum altitude | 3,900 m |
| Maximum altitude | 4,200 m |
| Estimated hiking time | 3 to 4 hours |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 400 m |
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Many thanks to the CuscoPeru.com team. I had an incredible time during the one-day tour to Humantay Lake. It was an experience I truly enjoyed, thanks to the team’s warmth and attention, as they were attentive to us throughout the day. The punctuality, transportation, guide, and lunch were all very well organized, allowing us to enjoy the journey at ease.
Humantay Lake was truly spectacular, and I am taking home a very special memory of this experience in Cusco. I am very grateful to the entire team for making the trip so enjoyable. Until life brings us together again!
View images of Humantay Lake and the Andean landscape along the hike.
Find answers about physical effort, pickup, meals, horse rental, emergency oxygen, and service types.
The hike is rated moderate and takes three to four hours of hiking. However, the trail starts at 3,900 m and reaches 4,200 m, so the altitude can make the climb feel more demanding. You can walk at your own pace and let the guide know whenever you need a break.
The program offers hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 4:00 AM. Send us your accommodation address when booking, and we will confirm whether the vehicle can pick you up there or whether you need to meet the group at a nearby point.
Lunch in Mollepata is listed as included. The itinerary also schedules breakfast in Mollepata, but breakfast does not appear in the English included-services list. We will confirm in writing whether breakfast is part of your selected service before payment.
Horse rental is not included. Its price and the section of trail covered must be confirmed before the tour. If you are considering this option, ask us before traveling so we can explain the current local arrangements.
Tourist transportation is equipped with emergency oxygen. This does not mean that oxygen support follows each traveler along the entire trail. If you have a health condition or concerns about altitude, tell us before booking and seek appropriate medical advice.
The group service includes shared transportation and guiding for up to 15 travelers. The private service provides private transfers and a private guide. Both published rates are per person and require at least two travelers; we will confirm availability for your date.

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