Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

Your adventure to Humantay Lake begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. As we leave the city behind, the drive takes you through quiet Andean villages, wide valleys, and beautiful mountain landscapes that make the journey just as special as the destination itself. Along the way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the Andes while learning more about the local culture and daily life in the highlands of Peru.

Our first stop is the village of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a fresh breakfast before continuing toward Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. Surrounded by massive snow-capped mountains, this area offers some of the most impressive scenery near Cusco and serves as the gateway to Humantay Lake.

The hike to the lake is moderately challenging due to the altitude, but the views along the trail make every step worth it. As you walk uphill, you’ll be surrounded by mountain landscapes, fresh air, and breathtaking views of the Humantay Glacier. Once you finally reach the lake, you’ll understand why it has become one of the most famous natural attractions in Peru. The bright turquoise water, combined with the dramatic mountain backdrop, creates an unforgettable setting perfect for relaxing, taking photos, and simply enjoying nature.

After spending time at the lake, we hike back down to Soraypampa and continue to a local restaurant for lunch. Later in the afternoon, we begin the drive back to Cusco, ending a day filled with incredible landscapes, fresh mountain air, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the Peruvian Andes.

Humantay Lake Tour Travel Information

The Humantay Lake Tour is one of the most popular nature experiences near Cusco, offering travelers the chance to explore breathtaking Andean landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and the famous turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. Located high in the Peruvian Andes at the base of the Humantay Glacier, this destination is known for its incredible scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

This full-day adventure combines scenic drives through rural valleys with a moderate hike surrounded by dramatic mountain views. Along the route, travelers pass traditional Andean villages, wide open landscapes, and beautiful valleys before reaching the trailhead at Soraypampa.

Humantay Lake is part of the Vilcabamba mountain range and is considered one of the most photogenic natural attractions in the Cusco region. The vibrant turquoise color of the lake, combined with the surrounding glaciers, creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Altitude Information

Humantay Lake is located at a high altitude, so acclimatization before the tour is very important. Spending at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before attempting the hike is strongly recommended to help your body adjust to the elevation.

Approximate Elevations

• Cusco: 3,399 m / 11,152 ft
• Mollepata: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
• Soraypampa: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
• Humantay Lake: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Because of the altitude, some travelers may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or mild headaches during the hike. Walking slowly, staying hydrated, and taking breaks when necessary can help make the experience more comfortable.

Weather and Climate

The weather around Humantay Lake can change quickly throughout the day. Early mornings are usually cold, while midday temperatures become warmer when the sun is out. Rain and wind are also possible at any time of year.

Dry Season (May to September)

• Sunny days with clearer mountain views
• Cold mornings and evenings
• Best conditions for hiking and photography
• Popular season with more visitors

Rainy Season (November to March)

• Occasional rain showers and muddy trails
• Greener mountain landscapes
• Cloudier conditions around the lake
• Fewer tourists compared to the dry season

Average Temperatures

• Daytime: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
• Nighttime and early mornings: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)

What to Bring

Being properly prepared will make the hike to Humantay Lake much more enjoyable. Since temperatures and weather conditions can vary, bringing layers is highly recommended.

• Comfortable hiking shoes or trekking boots
• Warm jacket and layered clothing
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack for personal items
• Snacks for the hike
• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Trekking poles if desired

Physical Difficulty

The Humantay Lake Tour is considered a moderate hike due to the altitude and uphill terrain. Although the hike itself is relatively short, the high elevation makes the walk more physically demanding for many travelers.

The trail from Soraypampa to the lake usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, depending on pace and weather conditions. Travelers are encouraged to walk slowly and take breaks whenever needed.

For those who prefer additional support, horses are often available for rent locally during the ascent.

About Humantay Lake

Humantay Lake is a glacial lake formed by the melting waters of the Humantay Glacier. Its striking turquoise color comes from mineral-rich water flowing down from the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

The lake is considered sacred by many local Andean communities and is surrounded by impressive mountain scenery that creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Many visitors consider Humantay Lake one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Peru due to its dramatic location and vibrant colors.

Food and Meal Information

The tour includes breakfast and lunch, usually served in local restaurants along the route. Meals often include traditional Peruvian dishes, soups, rice, vegetables, chicken, and hot drinks.

Because the hike takes place at high altitude, eating a light breakfast and staying hydrated throughout the day is highly recommended.

Photography Opportunities

Humantay Lake offers spectacular photography opportunities from the moment the journey begins. Travelers can capture panoramic mountain landscapes, rural Andean villages, snow-covered peaks, and the vivid turquoise lake itself.

Morning departures often provide clearer skies and better lighting conditions for photography. Bringing a fully charged camera or phone is strongly recommended.

Important Travel Tips

• Spend at least 1 or 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour
• Walk slowly during the hike due to the altitude
• Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Bring cash if you plan to rent a horse or buy snacks
• Use sunscreen even on cloudy days because of the strong mountain sun
• Wear layered clothing for changing temperatures
• Avoid carrying unnecessary weight during the hike