Hiking Humantay lake (Soraypampa) Full Day

Itinerary

Day 1 | Humantay Lake

Cusco - Soraypampa Humantay lake - Full Day.

From your hotel, we'll start our trip to Humantay Lake in a private vehicle to Mollepata, where we'll enjoy breakfast before beginning our adventure.

Soraypampa is where we'll stop on the first day of the Classic Salkantay Trek. After about an hour's drive to Soraypampa (12,800 feet high), we'll start hiking. The Humantay Lake sits at 13,780 feet with amazing views all around. On clear days, you can see the mountain spirits (Apus) of Salkantay and Humantay nearby.

The walk to the lake takes about 1.5 hours. It's not too hard, and the views at the top make it worth it. If walking is difficult for you, you can rent a horse. Once there, you'll have plenty of time to take photos and make a small offering to the mountain spirits.

After spending some free time at the lake, we'll walk back down to Soraypampa, which takes about 1.5 hours and is much easier than going up. Then we'll go to Mollepata for lunch, rest a bit, and get back to Cusco by 6:00 PM.

• Food: Breakfast and Lunch
• Difficulty:  Moderate
• Walking distance: 7 km
• Estimated walking time: 3 hours (1.5 hours uphill and 1.5 hours downhill)
• Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft

What's Included?

• Tourist transport: We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco in the morning and travel by private transport to Mollepata - Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike to Humantay Lagoon.
• Experienced Humantay Lagoon Trekking Guide: Professional English and Spanish speaking guide, professionally trained and certified in tourism. All grew up in this region and have a true passion for teaching about their heritage. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings throughout the entire route, including leading your group in ancestral ceremonies! He or she will keep you safe, healthy, and comfortable on your hike so you can enjoy your time along the trail and ensure you are safe and happy.
• Entrance tickets to tourist attractions.
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch (vegetarian, vegan or special menu options available at no additional cost).
• Medical Kit and Oxygen Cylinder: Our team will carry a first aid kit, including an emergency oxygen cylinder.
• Return transfer to Cusco: Private tourist transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.
• 24-Hour Customer Service: We have a 24-hour telephone service available to facilitate communication and preparation with the agency before your trek.

What's not Included?

• Walking sticks: You can rent a set of walking sticks from our company if you wish.
• Clothing and personal equipment.
• Horses.
• Travel insurance.
• Additional costs or delays beyond the management's control (landscape, adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability/strike, etc.).

Additional Services

• Extra Horses “Optional 30.00 USD”

What to Bring?

• Poncho.
• Warm clothes.
• Bottle with water.
• Walking shoes/tennis shoes
• Sunscreen
• Camera or camcorder
• Extra money for drinks, souvenirs and other tips.

PRICES

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Important information

Tour Location

Humantay Lake is located in the Peruvian Andes, about a 3 ½ drive from Cusco. It’s easily accessible, making it an ideal option for a day trip.

Physical Grading: ★★★☆☆

The difficulty depends on each traveler's physical condition. This tour is designed for those with limited time and a decent fitness level. It’s best to do it toward the end of your stay in Cusco, once you’re better acclimated to the altitude.

Departures

We operate daily departures during the dry season, from mid-April to November. If you choose to visit during the rainy season (Andean winter), you may experience rain or even some snowfall.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between April and November, during the dry season. The lake is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range, where the weather is generally mild, though it can vary due to the high altitude.

Trek Difficulty

The hike to Humantay Lake is short but steep—like climbing stairs continuously. It takes about 1 hour at a steady pace with a few short breaks. Some parts of the trail can be slippery, so trekking boots are highly recommended for stability and safety.

Lake Altitude

The trek begins at 3,870 meters (12,700 feet) and climbs to 4,240 meters (13,900 feet). Although the ascent is demanding, it rewards you with stunning Andean scenery.

Trek Duration

The hike takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and physical condition. If needed, horses are available for rent from local residents (it’s recommended to descend on foot for safety reasons).

Hiking Humantay lake (Soraypampa) Full Day Map