About this experience
Humantay Lake, a sacred site once revered by the Incas, continues to attract spiritual travelers and Andean priests who perform the traditional "Apacheta" ritual, placing stones to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth) and seek blessings for the journey.
The hike begins at 3,800 meters above sea level, offering scenic views of highland farms, remote camping areas, and encounters with llamas, alpacas, and local livestock along the trail.
Due to the high altitude, proper acclimatization in Cusco is highly recommended to avoid altitude sickness and ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. For travelers who may find the hike physically demanding, alternative support options are available on the route.
Similar to the popular Rainbow Mountain experience, the Humantay Lake day tour from Cusco is a highly sought-after adventure, perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to connect with the spiritual and cultural roots of the Andes.
At a glance
- Duration: 9 hr–11 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 9 hr–11 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Humantay Lake Day Trip From Cusco
Plan a Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco with practical guidance on transport, weather, acclimatization, costs, accessibility, packing, and booking a suitable tour.
What is included
- Walking stick (optional)
- First aid kit available during the hike
- Breakfast, lunch, snack, and bottled water
- Small group experience for personalized service
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in central Cusco
- Bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish)
- Private round-trip transportation from Cusco
- Entrance fees to Humantay Lake and surrounding areas
Not included
- Personal Expenses
- Tips and Gratuities (optional)
- Optional Horseback Ride: Available at Soraypampa for an extra cost, paid directly on-site.
Itinerary and highlights
CUSCO TO MOLLEPATA:
In the morning, between 06:00 and 07:00, we’ll collect you from your Cusco hotel. Once all travelers are on board, our comfortable tourist transport begins a scenic three hour drive to the Andean village of Mollepata, where we’ll stop for a traditional breakfast and allow time to purchase snacks or supplies.
MOLLEPATA TO SORAYAPAMPA:
After breakfast, we continue with a one hour drive to Soraypampa, the official starting point of the Humantay Lake trek. The hike begins at an altitude of 3,871 meters and gradually climbs to 4,236 meters. This moderate trek takes approximately 1.5 hours, surrounded by spectacular mountain views.
AT HUMANTAY LAKE:
We often arrive before the main crowds, giving you plenty of time to explore the turquoise lake, take stunning photographs, and enjoy the serenity of this sacred Andean site. For adventurous travelers, there is an option to climb to a nearby viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding peaks.
RETURN FROM LAGUNA HUMANTAY TO SORAYAPAMPA:
After enjoying your time at the lake, we begin the descent back to Soraypampa, which typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once at the parking area, our vehicle will be waiting to transport the group back to Mollepata.
JOURNEY BACK FROM MOLLEPATA TO CUSCO:
In Mollepata, we pause for a buffet style lunch before beginning the return drive to Cusco. Arrival is expected between 03:00 PM and 03:30 PM, with drop off at Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square
Meeting and pickup information
- Pick-up will be from hotels located near Cusco’s main square (Plaza de Armas) for easy access and identification. A brief orientation will also be provided at this location before starting the tour.
Languages and tickets
- German — Guide
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- French — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Salkantay Travel Peru
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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