Humantay Lake Full Day Hike
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Hike to the Stunning Turquoise Waters of Humantay Lake
The Humantay Lake hike is easily one of the most scenic one-day adventures you can take from Cusco.
This unforgettable journey takes you through the charming Andean villages of Limatambo and Mollepata, where the local Quechua communities still live by ancient Inca traditions.
From there, you’ll set off on a 90-minute uphill hike to reach the breathtaking shores of Laguna Humantay. Surrounded by dramatic mountain views, the lake’s bright turquoise water reflects the towering snowy peak of Mount Humantay on clear days — creating postcard-perfect scenes at every turn.
If you’re looking for incredible views, fresh mountain air, and some of the best photo opportunities near Cusco, this hike is an absolute must!
CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAGOON – CUSCO
Your day begins bright and early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 AM.
From there, sit back and relax on a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the lush Apurímac Valley until you reach the charming mountain town of Mollepata (2,803 m / 9,200 ft). Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local spot in the town square to fuel up before your hike.
After breakfast, your driver will continue the journey for another 90 minutes up the valley to Soraypampa (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) — the starting point of your hike. From here, your guide will lead you on a 90-minute uphill trek through breathtaking Andean landscapes until you reach the star of the show: Humantay Lake (4,180 m / 13,714 ft).
If you’re not up for the full hike, don’t worry — there’s an option to rent a horse to take you most of the way up to the viewpoint.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the stunning turquoise waters of this glacier-fed lake, with the snow-covered peak of Mt. Humantay towering above. On clear days, the reflection in the water is picture-perfect — ideal for unforgettable photos and a few peaceful moments surrounded by nature.
After soaking in the views and the crisp mountain air, you’ll hike back down to Soraypampa, where your driver will be waiting to take you back to Mollepata for a well-earned lunch with sweeping views of the valley.
Finally, you’ll return to Cusco in the comfort of your private transport, arriving back at your hotel around 4:00 PM — tired but happy, with your camera full and your heart even fuller.
✓ Quality service and safety.
- Meals as indicated: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
- Cook and cooking gear, boiled water
- English-speaking guide
- Transportation by private car or train to trailhead, return by train and bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Train and bus tickets
- Porterage of camping equipment, food and up to 7 kg personal gear per person by porters from trailhead to Machu Picchu during the 4 days trek
- Camp gear including tables and camp chairs, dining tent,
- Spacious sleeping tents, sleeping pad
- Entrance fees to Inca Trail & Machu Picchu.
- Documentation regarding route and cultural info.
️× What is not included?
- Airline tickets, eventually airport taxes
- Personal equipment
- Sleeping bag
- Tips
- Other meals as stated
- Personal health and trip insurance
- Expenses due to mishaps to mishaps
☝ Recomendations
- Original passport – expiration date no less than 7 months
- Walking shoes or light shoes or tennis shoes
- Canteen water bottle as you should drink plenty of fluid on the tour
- Raincoat or long poncho during the rainy season
- Long sleeve shirts
- Long pants
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat – UPV is strong at altitude
- Sunglasses
- Medicines and / or personal effects
- A small light backpack
- Camera or phone camera
- Cash/coins – small denominations – soles & dollars
- Face mask and face shield (if preferred)
- Bottle of water and snacks
F.A.Q.s
Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise glacial lagoon nestled high in the Andes near the Salkantay Mountain. It’s famous for its vibrant color, crystal-clear waters, and jaw-dropping backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Many travelers visit for the breathtaking scenery and to experience a slice of the high Andes without doing a full multi-day trek.
The hike is short but steep — about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill depending on your pace. It’s not technically difficult, but the altitude (over 4,000 meters / 13,000+ ft) can make it challenging. If needed, you can rent a horse for most of the way up.
You don’t have to be an athlete, but a basic level of fitness helps. The altitude is the toughest part, so take your time, stay hydrated, and give yourself a day or two in Cusco to acclimate before doing the hike.
Yes! It’s one of the most popular full-day tours from Cusco. You’ll leave early (around 5:00 AM) and get back by late afternoon. The drive and hike are totally worth it for the views and the experience!
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