The shimmering turquoise Humantay Lake Peru is one of the most visited attractions on a full day trip from Cusco. Infact, statistically, it is the most visited attraction in Cusco Peru after Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
Laguna Humantay Peru is a high altitude lake. It flows at 13800 ft above sea level (4200 meters). The lake is snuggled between Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Humantay Lake from Cusco can be visited on a full day guided tour.
This high altitude lake is a glacier lake. Melting snow from the snow capped Humantay Mountain has resulted in the formation of this lake. Laguna Humantay Peru is a popular stop on the renowned alternate trek to Machu Picchu, Salkantay Trek.
In the Andean mythology, the lake is sacred. Andean priests or Shamans visit the lake often to offer their gratitude. They do it in the form of Apacheta. It is a process of piling stones – each on top of the other.
The hike from the starting point could be challenging because of the altitude. However the staggering views of the highland villages, snow capped peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range would easily compensate for that. If you are not willing to trek then renting a horse from the community would be an ideal option.
Please note that it is imperative that you spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before visiting Humantay Lake. Often primitive trekkers are prone to altitude sickness.
We offer Laguna Humantay Peru day trek from Cusco both in private and as a small group tour.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
0420 AM
Laguna Humantay Peru Trip Schedule
Your epic trip to Humantay Lake Peru begins early in the morning. We will embark on a 2 hours and 45 minutes drive from Cusco to Mollepata. Mollepata is a small Andean community at 2803 meters (9196 ft.) above sea level.
We will be stopping for breakfast here. After a short safety briefing by our guide, we will continue driving further to Soraypampa (3850m/12631ft). This is the starting point of your Laguna Humantay Peru trek.
Our local expert will be sharing some tips on hiking. You will have some time to wear sunscreen and prepare for this scenic hike.
We will gradually begin our uphill hike through highland farms and villages. You will have plenty of opportunities to spot Andean camelids – Alpacas and Llamas grazing in their natural habitat. You will also be accompanied by pristine views of snow capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range.
We will have plenty of stops along the way for you to catch up with your breath. Our guide will be sharing information about the Andean traditions and customs.
Once we reach the summit, you will be welcomed by the captivating views of the shimmering turquoise lake. We will have plenty of time here to soak in the views and immerse in the tranquility of the Andes.
Once you have had your fill of the views. We will be hiking back down to the point where we started the trek from. Here we will meet our driver for our journey back to Mollepata. We will be stopping for a traditional lunch here.
After lunch, we will be driving you back to Cusco city. We will be reaching Cusco by 0600 PM.
