Humantay Lake Tour 1 day

Highlights Humantay Lake Tour 1 Day from Cusco

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Humantay Lake on our 1-day tour from Cusco. This excursion is perfect for travelers seeking majestic landscapes and an unforgettable adventure without the need for multi-day treks. Previously, the lake was part of the longer Salkantay route, but now it is accessible in a single day, making it a convenient and exciting option for those visiting Cusco.

Located in the Mollepata district of Anta province, along the route to the towering Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), Humantay Lake sits at 4,250 meters above sea level. This glacial lake originates from the snowy Humantay peak (5,450 m / 17,880 ft) in the Vilcabamba mountain range, surrounded by the stunning Peruvian Andes. Its turquoise waters and dramatic surroundings make it one of the most photogenic and captivating natural attractions in the region.

Sites to Visit

Mollepata
Soraypampa
Humantay Lake

Tour Details

Activities: Trekking Adventure
Transport to Soraypampa: 3½ to 4 hours by bus from Cusco
Difficulty level: Moderate (3/5)
Hiking distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles roundtrip
Hiking time: Approximately 2½ to 3 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
Departure: Daily
Return: Around 5:45 pm to Cusco

Itinerary Overview

4:00 – 4:30 am: Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
2½ hours bus ride to Soraypampa
1½ hours uphill hike to Humantay Lake (3 km)
45 minutes at the lake to take photos, enjoy the views, and relax
40 minutes downhill hike back to Soraypampa
2½ hours return bus ride to Cusco
Arrival in Cusco around 6:00 pm

Our Humantay Lake tour offers an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes, combining stunning landscapes, glacial turquoise waters, and the thrill of adventure in a single day. Ideal for photography, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a memorable excursion from Cusco.

Day 1 Humantay Lake Tour Cusco 1 day

We begin the experience with a hotel pick-up between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m., heading in our comfortable tourist bus to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast before starting the adventure. Afterwards, we continue the journey to Soraypampa, the starting point for the hike to Humantay Lake. For those who prefer, there is also the option to ride a horse, which will take you closer to the lake comfortably.

The hike lasts approximately 1½ hours, passing through breathtaking Andean landscapes, surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Upon arrival at Humantay Lake, our guide will provide an explanation about the lake’s unique turquoise colors and its glacial formation. We will have around 30 minutes to rest, take photos, and enjoy the majestic scenery of this natural paradise.

On the return trip, we descend back to Mollepata, where a nutritious and satisfying lunch awaits to recharge your energy. Finally, we return by bus to the city of Cusco, arriving between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., with drop-off at San Francisco Square or the Cusco Artisan Center (intersection of Av. Tullumayo and Av. El Sol), concluding an unforgettable experience at Humantay Lake and the Peruvian Andes.

Included services to Humantay lake Tour

Pick up from your hotel (hotel in the historical center).
Continental breakfast.Semi Buffet Lunch
Professional bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide.
First Aid Kit.
Oxygen.
Walking sticks

No Included services to Humantay lake Tour

Humantay Entrance tickets s/. 25.00 soles.
Personal expenses.
Horses (if necessary) from s/70.00 soles.

Recommendations

Water or hydration drinks.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Snacks (chocolate, sweets, coca leaves).
Jacket for cold weather.
Raincoat (check depending on the season).
Trekking shoes or sturdy sneakers.

How to Get to Cusco and Humantay Lake

The best way to reach Cusco is by air. Several airlines offer direct flights from Lima to Cusco, including LATAM, Viva Air, Sky Airline, and Star Perú. It is recommended to book in advance, especially if you plan to combine your visit to Humantay Lake with the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

If you prefer traveling by land, buses from Lima to Cusco take around 22 hours, while from cities like Puno or Arequipa the trip is shorter, approximately 12 hours. This option is ideal for those who want to explore the Andean region and enjoy the scenic route before starting the hike to Humantay Lake.

From Cusco, the tour to Humantay Lake begins with a transfer by tourist bus to the district of Mollepata and then to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. Soraypampa is located near the Andes Mountains and serves as the perfect base to explore the impressive Salkantay Mountain and Humantay Lake at over 4,200 meters above sea level.

The hike to Humantay Lake takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and Andean landscapes along the same route as the famous Salkantay Trek. Many travelers combine this one-day tour with a visit to Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail, creating a complete experience in the Cusco region and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

For those who prefer less hiking, there is also the option to take horses that will bring you closer to the base of Humantay Lake. This allows you to enjoy the scenery without missing the adventure and is perfect to combine with other excursions in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Humantay Lake 1-Day Tour Prices

Enjoy our Humantay Lake 1-Day Tour with comfortable transportation and expert guides who will accompany you throughout the adventure. Experience an unforgettable day exploring the stunning landscapes of Humantay Lake and the surrounding Andes Mountains!

Shared Service

Price per person: ~~US$ 35.00~~ US$27.00

Private Service Prices for the Humantay Lake Tour

Number of Participants	Price USD
2 participants	$ 157.00 p.p.
3 participants	$ 119.00 p.p.
4 participants	$ 99.00 p.p.
5 participants	$ 79.00 p.p.
6 or more participants	$ 74.00 p.p.

Note: Prices do not include fees for credit/debit card payments or money transfers via Western Union or other platforms. Prices are subject to the terms and conditions of Andino Tours Peru. Includes transportation, breakfast, entrance fees to Humantay Lake, and expert guides throughout the experience.

Book your spot now and enjoy a full day exploring the breathtaking Humantay Lake and the majestic Andes Mountains.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions – Humantay Lake 1-Day Tour

Where is Humantay Lake located and how do I get there from Cusco?

Humantay Lake is located in the district of Mollepata, Anta province, at over 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) above sea level, surrounded by the Andes Mountains and the Salkantay snowcapped peak. Most tours depart from Cusco in a tourist bus, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. This tour can also be combined with popular itineraries such as the Salkantay Trek, the Inca Trail, or a visit to Machu Picchu.

How long does the Humantay Lake tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. from Cusco. It includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, the hike to Humantay Lake, free time for photos and enjoying the scenery, and lunch in Mollepata before returning to Cusco around 5:30 – 6:00 p.m.

What is the difficulty level of the hike to Humantay Lake?

The hike is moderate in difficulty, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours uphill. No prior hiking experience is required, but good physical condition is recommended due to the high altitude. For those who need assistance, horses are available to carry visitors closer to the lake.

What can I see and do at Humantay Lake?

At Humantay Lake, you will enjoy breathtaking views of turquoise waters surrounded by snowy mountains, including the majestic Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Visitors have time to take photos, rest, enjoy local drinks such as coca tea, and experience the unique flora and fauna of the Andes. The tour offers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and local culture.

What is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is stable and the landscapes are clearly visible. Avoid the rainy season (November to March) as paths can be slippery and hiking conditions more challenging.

What does the Humantay Lake tour include?

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, breakfast and lunch, a bilingual professional guide, entrance fees to Humantay Lake, altitude assistance, and basic safety equipment. Some tours also offer optional horseback rides and travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Is it necessary to acclimate before hiking to Humantay Lake?

Yes, it is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the tour to acclimate to the high altitude. Drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and resting beforehand will help ensure a more enjoyable experience during the hike.

Can the Humantay Lake tour be combined with Machu Picchu or the Salkantay Trek?

Yes, many travelers combine the 1-day Humantay Lake tour with the Salkantay Trek 5 days or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This allows visitors to explore several iconic destinations in the Cusco region within an organized itinerary.

What should I bring for the Humantay Lake tour?

We recommend wearing comfortable, layered clothing suitable for cold weather, waterproof jackets, trekking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a camera. Trekking poles can also be helpful for the uphill hike, especially for those less experienced with high-altitude hiking.

What safety and health measures are in place for the Humantay Lake tour?

All guides are trained in first aid, and each tour includes a first aid kit and oxygen for altitude emergencies. Safety briefings are conducted before the hike, and transportation is provided in secure tourist vehicles. These measures ensure that visitors can enjoy the tour with confidence and peace of mind.

Humantay Lake Tour Cusco – 1 Day