Tour Humantay Lake Full Day
Price
Trip Details
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificult
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- Language
- Distance
6 km
Experience the magic of Humantay Lake with its sacred, luminous turquoise waters, a true mirror of the Peruvian Andes. Enjoy breathtaking, close-up views of the majestic, snow-capped Salkantay peak and immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in a heartfelt traditional offering ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (Mountain Spirits).
Trek with complete peace of mind, supported by professional guides certified in Wilderness First Responder (WFR) protocols, carrying satellite phones and emergency oxygen tanks to ensure your safety at all times. This adventure is also ideal for robust altitude acclimatization, making it the perfect preparation for the legendary Salkantay Trek or any high-altitude journey. For more guidance, check our comprehensive tips in Altitude Sickness in Cusco: A Complete Guide to Prevention by Local Experts.
The day starts with a 4:00 AM hotel pickup in Cusco and a hearty breakfast in Mollepata to fuel your hike. From Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), your WFR-certified guides lead a safe, 1.5-hour uphill trek to the turquoise Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l.), where you can admire the scenery and take part in a traditional offering ceremony to Pachamama and the Apus.
After soaking in the views, the descent back to Soraypampa is easier, followed by a hot lunch made with fresh local ingredients. The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 PM, completing your Humantay Lake Tour Full Day adventure.
INCLUDES
- Pick up and drop off from your hotel for the excursion.
- All private and tourist transport during the humantay lake tour full day.
- Professional, expert guides (English and Spanish speaking) trained in high altitude first aid (WFR Certified).
- Safety equipment: Satellite phones, first aid kit, and an oxygen tank for emergencies.
- Hot breakfast and hot lunch (Andean Fuel).
- Entrance ticket to Humantay Lake.
NOT INCLUDES
- Trekking poles (available for rental).
- Water or personal snacks during the trek.
- Emergency horse rental (available at Soraypampa, paid directly to the local community).
Humantay Lake sits at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). The trek begins at Soraypampa, slightly lower, making this the perfect Humantay Lake Tour Full Day for acclimatization and enjoying the stunning Andean scenery.
The hike to Humantay Lake is moderately challenging, mainly due to the high altitude rather than steepness. The uphill trek takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a rewarding part of your Humantay Lake Tour Full Day.
To avoid altitude sickness, spend 1−2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before your Humantay Lake Tour Full Day. Stay hydrated, walk at a steady pace, follow your guide’s instructions, and know that an oxygen tank is carried for safety.
Yes, if you struggle with the altitude or the ascent, you can rent a horse directly from the local community at Soraypampa. This cost is not included in the humantay lake full day tour package.
The stunning turquoise color of the water is due to the glacial meltwater. Minerals from the Humantay and Salkantay mountains mix with the water, giving it its vibrant hue.
We typically spend about 45 minutes to one hour at the lake. This gives you plenty of time for photos, exploration, and participating in the offering ceremony.
We aim to return you safely to your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, depending on traffic conditions.
The high altitude makes this trek challenging for young children. We recommend participants be over eight years old and properly acclimatized for the Humantay Lake Tour Full Day.
Yes, both a hot breakfast and a hot lunch are included. These meals are provided in Mollepata.
Your guide is trained in first aid and carries a satellite phone and oxygen tank. You should inform your guide immediately if you feel dizzy or short of breath.
Yes, Humantay Lake is the first major highlight and typically the first stop on the 5-day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
Basic restroom facilities are available at Mollepata (breakfast/lunch spot) and at Soraypampa (the start of the hike).
No, swimming or wading in Humantay Lake is prohibited. It is considered a sacred Apus (mountain spirit) and we must respect the environment and its cultural significance.
You should dress in layers. It is very cold in the early morning, but you will warm up quickly during the uphill hike. Waterproof layers are essential.
Yes, the humantay lake full day tour runs year-round. However, the rainy season (November to March) can make the trail muddy.
It is a small, traditional ceremony led by your guide. It is an offering of respect to Mother Earth (Pachamama) and the mountain spirits (Apus) for safe passage and good health.
Yes, the return hike from the lake to Soraypampa is entirely downhill. It is much easier and takes less time.
While you don’t need extensive experience, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. If you can walk uphill for two hours, you should be fine.
- Small backpack (20L max).
- Layers of warm clothing, including a thermal base layer.
- Waterproof jacket and pants (or a plastic poncho).
- Hat, gloves, and a bandana for sun protection.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (crucial at high altitude).
- Sturdy trekking boots (waterproof if possible).
- Water bottle (at least 1.5 liters).
- Snacks: energy bars, chocolate, nuts.
- Original passport and money for tips or horse rental.
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificultad
- Housing
- Language
- Distance