NATURE / FULL DAY

Humantay Lake

Una laguna mágica

Duration Full Day
Difficulty Moderate
Group Max 12 people
Destination Featured
Ask on WhatsApp
Duration Full Day
Meals Breakfast and lunch
Transport Private tourist transport
Tour Type Nature / Full day

The Expedition

Tour Overview

Immerse yourself in the purest natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. We invite you to discover the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a dream destination nestled high in the mountain range, at over 4,200 meters above sea level. Its intensely turquoise waters, fed by the meltwater from the imposing Humantay snow-capped peak, create an awe-inspiring visual contrast with the green of the valleys and the white of the summits.

With Soncco Adventures, this one-day hike becomes a transformative experience. Surrounded by sacred mountains and the energy of nature in its purest state, you will live a day of adventure, unforgettable landscapes, and connection with the spirit of the Andes.

Day by Day

Your Itinerary

1

04:30 am – 05:00 am | Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
Our adventure begins very early. The Soncco Adventures team will pick you up from your accommodation to board our comfortable tourist bus. We will begin the journey south of the Sacred Valley, venturing into the imposing Andean geography.

07:00 am | Andean Breakfast in Mollepata
After a journey of approximately 2 hours, during which we will pass through picturesque villages such as Poroy and Limatambo, we will arrive at the welcoming town of Mollepata (2,900 m a.s.l.). Here we will enjoy a delicious typical breakfast, prepared with local products to fuel up before starting the hike.

08:30 am | Arrival at Soraypampa and Start of the Trek
We will continue our journey along a winding road until we reach Soraypampa (3,900 m a.s.l.), the starting point of our hike. From here, with trekking poles in hand (recommended) and accompanied by our professional guide, we will begin an uphill hike of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The trail offers panoramic views of the valley and the imposing Vilcabamba mountain range.

10:00 am | Arrival at Humantay Lagoon
Upon reaching the summit, the reward is simply magical: Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m a.s.l.) opens up before our eyes with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, reflecting the imposing Humantay snow-capped peak (5,450 m a.s.l.) that stands as a guardian of the place. We will have ample time to explore its shores, take the most impressive photographs, breathe in the peace of the surroundings, and listen to our guide's fascinating explanations about the formation of the lagoon and its spiritual significance for the Andean communities.

11:30 am | Descent to Soraypampa
We will begin the descent back to Soraypampa, a much more relaxed path that will allow us to say goodbye to the landscape from new perspectives.

12:30 pm | Lunch and Exploration of the Salkantay Trail
In Soraypampa, a restorative lunch awaits us to replenish our energy. We will also take the opportunity to explore the surroundings and enjoy the views of Salkantay Snow-Capped Peak (6,271 m a.s.l.), the second highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the most venerated apus (sacred mountains).

02:00 pm | Return to the City of Cusco
We will board our transport to begin the return journey. During the trip, you can relax and relive the moments experienced as the bus winds its way back through the Andean valleys.

05:00 pm (approx.) | Arrival in CuscoWe will arrive in the city of Cusco, dropping you off at the Plaza de Armas or a central point near your accommodation. Thus concludes an unforgettable day at one of the most beautiful natural destinations in the Peruvian Andes.

Meals Breakfast, Lunch

Why This Trek

Expedition Highlights

Turquoise lagoon

Glacial waters of intense turquoise at the foot of the Salkantay glacier.

Uphill hike

A demanding ~1-hour climb to 4,200 m.

Salkantay views

Panoramas of the imposing glacier and the Andes.

Unique scenery

One of the most beautiful mountain lakes near Cusco.

What's Covered

Inclusions

What's Included

  • Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and return transfer.
  • Tourist transport round trip (Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Cusco).
  • Full meal plan: 01 typical breakfast in Mollepata and 01 lunch in Soraypampa.
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English) throughout the excursion.
  • Guided visit to Humantay Lagoon.
  • Emergency equipment: First aid kit and portable oxygen on board.
  • Permanent assistance and coordination by Soncco Adventures.

Not Included

  • Entrance fees (access to the lagoon requires a direct payment of approximately S/ 20.00 soles, subject to change).
  • Trekking poles (available for rent in Soraypampa for an additional cost, or you may bring your own).
  • Beverages (soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic drinks during meals).
  • Tips for the guide and driver (personal appreciation, optional).
  • Personal expenses and those not specified in the program.
  • Travel insurance (we recommend purchasing one from your home country).

Before You Go

Recommendations

Recommendations for your trip

  • Bring your original passport or valid identification document.
  • Bring cash (soles) in small denominations for the community entrance fee and for possible personal expenses or tips.

Good to Know

Frequently Asked

Moderate to demanding: ~1 hour of continuous climbing at high altitude. A horse option is available near the lagoon.

Swimming is not allowed; it is a sacred, very cold glacial lagoon.

Warm clothing, rain jacket, trekking poles, sunscreen, water and snacks.

Yes, we recommend 1–2 days in Cusco beforehand due to the altitude.

You Might Also Like

More Adventures

Start Planning

Begin Your Andean Journey

Tell us a little about your dream trip and our local experts will craft a tailored proposal within 24 hours — no obligation.