Humantay Lake Day Hike from Cusco – A 1-Day Andean Adventure
Escape the city and discover one of the most spectacular high-altitude landscapes near Cusco on our Humantay Lake Day Hike. This full-day adventure takes you from Cusco into the dramatic Andes, where turquoise glacial waters meet snow-covered peaks.
Travel through traditional Andean communities before reaching Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike at approximately 3,900 m / 12,795 ft. From there, follow a scenic mountain trail toward Humantay Lake, located at around 4,200 m / 13,779 ft beneath the impressive Humantay Mountain and its glacier.
After reaching the lake, take time to admire the scenery, photograph the turquoise waters, and learn about the natural and cultural significance of this sacred Andean landscape. After the hike, enjoy a traditional lunch before returning to Cusco.
Perfect for travelers who want to:
Get ready for a full day in the high Andes, combining a scenic journey, a rewarding mountain hike, and the spectacular turquoise waters of Humantay Lake. From the first views of the snow-capped peaks to the moment you reach the lake, your local guide will accompany you throughout the experience.
Your Humantay Lake Day Hike begins early in the morning with a private pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:00 AM. We leave the city behind and travel south through the spectacular landscapes of the Andes.
After about two hours on the road, we reach Mollepata, where you’ll stop for a traditional breakfast and have a chance to prepare for the hike. From here, we continue by private vehicle toward Soraypampa, located at approximately 3,900 m / 12,795 ft above sea level.
As we approach Soraypampa, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with views of the snow-covered Salkantay and Humantay Mountains.
At Soraypampa, we begin our approximately 2–2.5-hour uphill hike toward Humantay Lake. The trail climbs gradually through the high-Andean landscape, with impressive mountain scenery surrounding you throughout the journey.
Your local guide will accompany you along the trail, allowing you to walk at a comfortable pace and take breaks when necessary.
After reaching approximately 4,200 m / 13,779 ft, you’ll arrive at the spectacular Humantay Lake. Its turquoise waters, fed by the surrounding glacier, contrast beautifully with the snow-covered peaks of the Andes.
Take time to enjoy the scenery, explore the viewpoint, learn about the natural and cultural importance of the area, and capture photographs of this remarkable landscape.
After spending time at the lake, we begin our descent back to Soraypampa, following the same scenic trail.
Our private vehicle will be waiting to take us back toward Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved traditional lunch.
After lunch, we continue the drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at approximately 5:00 PM, depending on road and traffic conditions.
A full day of mountain scenery, high-Andean landscapes, and the unforgettable turquoise waters of Humantay Lake comes to an end.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 04:00 AM | Private pickup from your hotel in Cusco |
| 06:00 AM | Traditional breakfast in Mollepata |
| 07:00 AM | Drive to Soraypampa |
| 08:00 AM | Begin the hike toward Humantay Lake |
| 10:30 AM | Arrive at Humantay Lake – exploration and photos |
| 11:30 AM | Begin descent to Soraypampa |
| 01:30 PM | Traditional lunch in Mollepata |
| 02:30 PM | Begin return journey to Cusco |
| 05:00 PM | Arrival and hotel drop-off in Cusco |
Be prepared for high-altitude conditions and changing mountain weather. We recommend bringing the following items for a safe and comfortable Humantay Lake experience:
Please note that itineraries, schedules, routes, and activities may be adjusted when necessary due to circumstances beyond our control, including weather conditions, road conditions, strikes, demonstrations, natural events, or other local restrictions. Any changes will be communicated and coordinated with you whenever possible.
The hike is considered moderate to challenging because of the high altitude. The trail covers approximately 7 km / 4.35 miles round trip, with around 4 hours of walking. You can take breaks along the way and follow your guide’s recommendations.
Yes. Proper acclimatization is strongly recommended because the hike takes place at high altitude. We recommend spending a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before attempting the hike.
Yes. An emergency horse may be available locally at an additional cost if you have difficulty continuing the hike. Availability and price are subject to local providers and should be coordinated with your guide on the day of the tour.
The trail does not require technical climbing skills, but the high altitude makes it physically demanding. Beginners can participate if they are properly acclimatized and comfortable with several hours of uphill and downhill walking.
The two hikes are different experiences. Humantay Lake involves a steeper uphill section, while Rainbow Mountain is generally longer but has a different trail profile. Both take place at high altitude, so acclimatization is important for either experience.
