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• Humantay Lake Hike: Begin the activity at 5:00 with pickup service from travelers’ hotels, then travel northwest from Cusco to Soraypampa.
• After an hour-and-a-half journey, we arrive at Mollepata to enjoy an optional and not included local breakfast. Mollepata has beautiful colonial-style houses. We continue for another hour and a half until we reach Soraypampa.
• In Soraypampa, we start the beautiful Cusco Humantay Lake Tour, where we walk up a semi-flat slope for about 40 minutes; the rest of the Humantay Trail climbs for 1 hour and 20 minutes until you reach the enchanting turquoise Humantay Lake.
• Have a great photo op at Salkantay and Humantay Glaciers, Humantay Turquoise Lagoon. Lake Humantay is located between the Andes Mountains and the Salkantay Mountains.

The Journey Begins: Cusco to Soraypampa

The adventure commences in the historic city of Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Soraypampa, a small village at the base of Humantay Mountain. The journey is a feast for the eyes as you traverse through picturesque landscapes, passing quaint Andean villages and lush valleys.

Setting Foot on the Trail

The hike to Humantay Lake begins in Soraypampa, where you’ll follow an ascending trail that gradually gains elevation. The walk is classified as moderately challenging, so it’s essential to be physically prepared and take acclimatization seriously. As you trek higher, the air gets thinner, and the views become even more impressive.

The Beauty of Salkantay Mountain

En route to Humantay Lake, you’ll also catch glimpses of the mighty Salkantay Mountain, which stands at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). The mountain is significant in Andean culture and is often called the “Savage Mountain” due to its rugged appearance. The locals consider it sacred and believe it embodies the spirit of a protective deity.

Arrival at Humantay Lake

After a few hours of hiking, you’ll finally reach Humantay Lake, and the sight that awaits you is nothing short of breathtaking. The pristine turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding glaciers and mountains create a postcard-perfect panorama. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility of the place and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Connecting with Nature

Humantay Lake is not just a scenic spot; it’s also a place of spiritual significance for the local communities. Many visitors participate in traditional offerings to the Apus (mountain spirits) as a sign of respect and gratitude for the protection and resources provided by the mountains. This spiritual connection to nature is an integral part of the Andean culture.

Picnic Amidst the Andean Majesty

As you spend time near the lake, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a delightful picnic surrounded by the Andean majesty. Savor the flavors of local Peruvian cuisine while relishing the pristine environment and fresh mountain air. This is a nourishing experience for the body and the soul.

The Descent and Farewell

After spending ample time at Humantay Lake, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting destination. The hike’s descent back to Soraypampa allows you to take another look at the breathtaking Andean scenery you saw there. The return trip is accompanied by a feeling of accomplishment and the pleasure of reconnecting with nature at its finest.

Cusco Humantay Lake Tour on Horseback Riding

The inhabitants of Soraypampa and its surroundings offer a horse rental service at the beginning of the walk to the Humantay Lagoon.

The Humantay Lake Horseback Service is only available for uphill sections; the horse leaves visitors just a 20-minute walk from the top of Lake Humantay. Please write us if you require a horse to ride through the Humantay Lagoon.