About this experience
Get ready to experience one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. The Humantay Lagoon Trek combines a hike through the mountains of the Vilcabamba range with the beauty of the turquoise-blue waters of one of the most iconic lagoons in the Cusco region.
Along the way, you'll be surrounded by mountain scenery, Andean valleys, and snow-capped peaks until you reach Humantay Lagoon, situated at approximately 4,200 meters (13,779 ft) above sea level. At a relaxed pace and with a guide by your side, you'll be able to take in the trail and learn about the cultural and spiritual significance this place holds for Andean peoples.
The hike is rated as moderately difficult. Since Humantay Lagoon is located at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level, it's important to be properly acclimatized to Cusco's altitude before doing this activity. Walking at a relaxed pace and following your guide's instructions will help you enjoy the trail more comfortably.
At a glance
- Duration: 14 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 14 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- The hike begins at approximately 4,200 m (13.780 ft) above sea level and requires a good level of physical fitness.
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
- First-aid kit.
- Onboard Starlink satellite internet connection.
- Round-trip transfer from your hotel to the tour (please confirm your accommodations with our team).
- Professional driver qualified for long-distance routes.
- Buffet lunch.
- A bottle of water.
- Professional tour guide in Spanish and English
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- A trekking pole.
- Blanket available on the vehicle for cold weather.
- Buffet breakfast.
Not included
- Meals or drinks not mentioned above.
- Gratuities and tips, at each traveler's discretion.
- The admission fee to Humantay Lake is not included in the tour.
- Horseback ride (optional).
Itinerary and highlights
Your adventure begins with an early pickup at your hotel in Cusco. From there, we'll travel to the Mollepata area, a trip of approximately 3.5 hours. Along the way, we'll stop for breakfast at a cozy restaurant before continuing on to the trailhead.
Before reaching the trailhead, we'll stop in Mollepata for breakfast at a cozy restaurant.
Before starting the hike, our guide will provide important information about the route along with some recommendations so you can enjoy the activity with peace of mind.
The hike begins at approximately 3,800 meters above sea level and continues to Humantay Lagoon, located at around 4,200 meters in altitude. For this reason, we take the route at a relaxed pace, respecting each traveler's rhythm.
Upon reaching the lagoon, you'll be able to admire its turquoise-blue waters, surrounded by the Andes mountains. Our guide will explain the lagoon's origin and its cultural significance for Andean communities. Afterward, you'll have free time to take in the scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the surroundings.
As an alternative, part of the route can be done on horseback, subject to availability and an additional fee.
After the visit, we'll head back to the parking area to board the vehicle and continue on to lunch. The walk back to the parking area takes approximately 45 minutes.
After a day of hiking and discovery, it will be time to enjoy a buffet lunch made with local ingredients. We've selected a restaurant where you can sample different flavors of Peruvian cuisine.
After lunch, we'll travel back toward Cusco. Once in the city, you can choose to be dropped off at your hotel or at the Plaza de Armas, depending on the service logistics.
After wrapping up all the activities, we'll return to Cusco, with drop-off at your accommodation.
Meeting and pickup information
- • We offer pick up services from several locations within the center of Cusco. • If your accommodations aren't on the list or fall outside the transfer route, we'll suggest a nearby meeting point. • You will receive a confirmed pick up time upon booking.
Languages and tickets
- Portuguese — Guide
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Viagens Machu Picchu
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- The hike begins at approximately 4,200 m (13.780 ft) above sea level and requires a good level of physical fitness.
- We recommend travelers be properly acclimatized to the altitude before taking part in this experience.
- We recommend consulting a doctor before the trip if you have any health condition that could affect your ability to take part in this activity.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
• If your accommodations aren't on the list or fall outside the transfer route, we'll suggest a nearby meeting point.
• You will receive a confirmed pick up time upon booking.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
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