About 3 hours to ascend from Soraypampa to the lagoon, plus around 2 hours for the descent.
A full-day Humantay Lake tour from Cusco — a rewarding hike to a turquoise glacier lagoon at 4,300 m, cradled by snow-capped peaks beneath mighty Salkantay.
Explore the stunning Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem nestled in the Andes at 4,300 m. Guided by INKANET ADVENTURE, you’ll visit this breathtaking high-altitude lake fed by the Humantay Glacier, its vibrant colors shining against snow-capped peaks in a mesmerizing, almost otherworldly spectacle.
Hiking to Humantay offers rewarding panoramic views, glimpses of Andean wildlife and a deep connection to nature and Andean spirituality. Along the trail you’ll pass traditional villages where timeless customs thrive, while knowledgeable guides share insights on Inca traditions, local culture and the delicate alpine ecosystem — and the lagoon’s sacred role, revered by locals.
Admire the unforgettable turquoise lagoon reflecting snow-capped mountains and serene Andean sky.
Take in breathtaking views as you hike through traditional Quechua communities to the lake.
Learn from local experts about the spiritual significance and ancestral beliefs of this sacred lagoon.
Relish crisp mountain air and breathtaking Andean tranquility in untouched surroundings.
Take part in a brief ceremony of thanks to the mountain spirits at the lagoon.
Spot alpacas, llamas and native birds along the spectacular trail.
A rewarding day in the high Andes — early drive, traditional breakfast, a 3-hour ascent to the glacier lagoon and return to Cusco by evening.
04:30 AMDeparture from Cusco. Hotel pickup and a bus to Mollepata (3,400 m) for a traditional breakfast, then on to Soraypampa (3,900 m).
07:30 AMBreakfast in Mollepata. We enjoy a hearty Andean breakfast before reaching the trailhead at Soraypampa.
08:30 AMAscent to the lagoon. We begin a roughly 3-hour ascent through spectacular Andean landscapes to Humantay Lake at 4,300 m.
11:30 AMAt the lagoon. Take part in a brief Inca ceremony of thanks to the mountain spirits and marvel at the azure glacial waters.
12:30 PMDescent & lunch. We begin the 2-hour descent back to Mollepata for a well-earned Andean buffet lunch.
05:30 PMReturn to Cusco. We arrive back in Cusco between 5:00 and 6:00 PM after an unforgettable day.
Exactly what is covered in your Humantay Lake tour — and what to budget separately.
A few essentials we recommend to make your Humantay Lake day the most rewarding possible.
Spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before this hike. The lagoon sits at 4,300 m. Hydrate well, eat light, walk gently and take your time — oxygen is carried throughout.
The hike is rated moderate: 3 hours uphill + 1.5 hours back down. If you can walk steadily for 4–5 hours at home, you'll be fine. Horses are available at the trailhead (~ US $20) if needed.
Dry season: April to October. Skies are clearer, trails firm, colors most vibrant. Avoid the rainy season (Dec–Mar), when colors mute under cloud cover. We run tours year-round but recommend the dry months.
The Andean sun is intense at 5,000 m. Bring sunscreen SPF 50+, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF, and dress in layers. Pre-dawn is below freezing; midday can hit 18°C in the sun.
Free cancellation up to 30 days before the tour. In case of dangerous weather (snowstorms, road closures), we'll offer a free reschedule or full refund. Safety always comes first.
Travel light but smart. Here's exactly what we recommend bringing for a comfortable, safe day at altitude.
Transparent pricing — no hidden fees. The more travelers in your group, the lower the price per person.
| Group Type | Group Size | Price / Person | What's Different |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Group Most popular | 2 – 14 travelers | US $40 / pp | Mixed international group · set departure |
| Private Group ★ Best experience | 2 – 6 travelers | US $120 / pp | Your group only · personalized pace |
| Family Package | 4+ adults & kids | US $38 / pp | 5% discount for adolescents & children |
| Group of 8+ | 8 or more travelers | From US $36 / pp | Automatic group discount at checkout |
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Full refund for cancellations 30+ days before. 50% refund 15–29 days before. Weather-related cancellations from our side = full refund or free reschedule.
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often. More? See the full FAQ page or reach us on WhatsApp.
Humantay Lake guides
