Peru
Humantay Lake Trek
Humantay Lake Trek
Duration
Day tour
Start/End
Cusco
Tour type
Private · Group
Level
Moderate
Overview
Humantay Lake is a turquoise glacial lake at 4,200 m, framed by the ice-covered peaks of Humantay and Salkantay. This day hike from Cusco takes you to one of the most photogenic places in the Andes. After a scenic drive to Soraypampa and breakfast (not included), you hike about 1.5 hours up to the lake. There you have time to enjoy the silence, the shimmering water and the glaciers before returning to Soraypampa for lunch (not included) and driving back to Cusco. Private transport, an experienced local guide, the entrance fees and a first-aid kit with emergency oxygen are included.
Tour Code
Tour Language
English, SpanishMaximum altitude
Itinerary
Itinerary
Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
approx. 3 h · 300 m / 984 ft elevation gain · max. 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am for a scenic drive of about three hours to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). There we stop for breakfast (not included) and get ready for the hike. The trail climbs steadily for about 1.5 hours, with ever wider views, up to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Its turquoise water lies right at the foot of the Humantay glacier – a breathtaking sight. Take your time to enjoy the tranquility, take photos and soak in the scenery. We then descend back to Soraypampa for lunch (not included) and drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 pm.
Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
Itinerary
approx. 3 h · 300 m / 984 ft elevation gain · max. 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am for a scenic drive of about three hours to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). There we stop for breakfast (not included) and get ready for the hike. The trail climbs steadily for about 1.5 hours, with ever wider views, up to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). Its turquoise water lies right at the foot of the Humantay glacier – a breathtaking sight. Take your time to enjoy the tranquility, take photos and soak in the scenery. We then descend back to Soraypampa for lunch (not included) and drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 pm.
Price from
US$90.00
Services
What's included
Pre-Trip Briefing: Briefing at your hotel the evening before the tour.
Private Transportation: Pick-up from and return to your hotel in Cusco.
Professional Guide: Experienced local guide (English and Spanish).
Entrance Fees: Access to the community land.
First Aid Kit: Including emergency oxygen.
What's not included
Meals: Breakfast and lunch are not included.
Tips & Personal Expenses: Tips for the guide and driver are optional and appreciated; personal expenses are not included.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Character of the trip
Condition
Moderate
Altitude
High (up to 4,200 m)
Culture / nature
Balanced
Fitness – moderate: About 1.5 hours of steady climbing with 300 m (984 ft) of ascent and around 1 hour of descent on a steep path. Good basic fitness is required.
Altitude – high: The hike starts in Soraypampa at 3,900 m (12,795 ft) and reaches the lake at 4,200 m (13,780 ft).
Culture & nature – nature-focused: A turquoise glacial lake, the Humantay and Salkantay glaciers and high Andean landscapes.
Long day: Pick-up at 4:30 am and return to Cusco around 5:00 pm, with about 6 hours of driving in total.
Dates and Prices
Individual Dates
Groups of 5 or more: contact us for special rates and tailor-made options.
Travel Information
Good to know
Acclimatization: This tour reaches high altitude. Please spend at least two days in Cusco beforehand so your body can adjust.
What to bring
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack for the day.
Original Passport: Required at entrance checks; bring your ISIC card if you claim a student discount.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes or hiking boots with ankle support.
Clothing: Rain jacket or poncho and warm layers (fleece, beanie, gloves) – mornings and evenings in the Andes are cold.
Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and insect repellent.
Extras: Water bottle (metal or Nalgene), snacks, camera with spare batteries, personal medication and some Peruvian soles for drinks and emergencies.
Walking Poles: Optional, but helpful on the descent.