Humantay Lake is a turquoise glacial lake at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped peak (5,473 m), very close to Salkantay. Humantay Lake from Cusco is visited in one day and is, for many travelers, the most spectacular excursion in the region. It is also the best way to acclimatize before a multi-day trek.
Humantay Lake from Cusco: key facts
- Lake altitude: 4,200 m.
- Start of the hike: Soraypampa, 3,850 m.
- Distance: about 7 km round trip.
- Climbing time: 1 h 30 to 2 h.
- From Cusco: 3 hours by bus, passing through Mollepata.
What the day is like
We pick you up around 4:30, have breakfast in Mollepata and reach Soraypampa with the Salkantay snow-capped peak in the background. The climb is a zigzag, at your own pace, with stops. At the top you have time for photos, rest by the water and take part in an offering to the Pachamama. We go down, have lunch in Mollepata and reach Cusco in the afternoon. See the itinerary of our Humantay Lake tour.
Tips to enjoy it
- Do it on your second or third day in Cusco: it helps you acclimatize for the Inca Trail or Salkantay.
- Climb slowly and drink water. If you run short of breath, a horse is a good option.
- Bring layers: in Soraypampa it is cold early, and on the climb the sun is strong.
- Do not forget cash for the entrance (S/ 20) and extras.
More ideas in our guide to acclimatizing in Cusco.
Detailed itinerary
- 4:30 · Pick-up at your hotel in Cusco.
- 7:00 · Breakfast in Mollepata.
- 8:30 · Arrival at Soraypampa (3,850 m) and start of the hike.
- 10:00 · Humantay Lake (4,200 m): free time for photos and rest.
- 11:30 · Descent to Soraypampa.
- 13:00 · Buffet lunch in Mollepata.
- 18:00 · Arrival in Cusco.
Best time to visit Humantay
You can visit all year. From April to October (dry season) the sky is usually clear and the turquoise color looks more intense in the morning sun; nights and early mornings are very cold. From November to March it rains more, the trail can be muddy and clouds sometimes hide the peak, but there are fewer people and the landscape is greener. More information in the best time to hike in Cusco.
What to bring to Humantay Lake
- Trekking shoes with a good sole (there are loose stones on the descent).
- Layered clothing: thermal shirt, fleece and a windproof or waterproof jacket.
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Water bottle and energy snacks.
- Cash in soles for the entrance, the horse and restrooms.
- Trekking poles if you have knee trouble.
Humantay Lake or Rainbow Mountain?
If this is your first high-altitude excursion, start with Humantay: the hike is shorter and the lake is lower than Rainbow Mountain (5,036 m). Many travelers do Humantay on the second or third day and Rainbow Mountain a day later. Read our complete guide to Rainbow Mountain.
Humantay and Salkantay
The lake is on the Salkantay trek route: if you do the 5-day Salkantay, you visit it on the first day. If you do not have time for the full trek, Humantay is the best sample of those landscapes in a single day.
Got your date? Send your booking request and we confirm the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the hike to Humantay?
It is a short but steep climb: about 3.5 km in 1 h 30 to 2 h up to 4,200 m. It is demanding because of the altitude, but suitable for people of normal fitness who are acclimatized.
Can you swim in the lake?
It is not allowed. It is a sacred place for the local communities and the water comes straight from the glacier.
Are there horses for the climb?
Yes, you can rent horses in Soraypampa for the climb, for an extra payment of around S/ 80.