Full Day – Humantay Lagoon
Duration
Full Day
Difficulty
Moderate
Language
Español / Ingles
Max. Altitude
4,600 msnm
Humantay Lake Hike offers you the chance to enjoy Peru’s dramatic Andean mountains and glaciers in just one day. Feel the power of nature and beautiful views of Lake Humantay and its glacier with our day tour from Cusco. Humantay’s sparkling turquoise waters shimmer in front of the pure-white Humantay glacier under the watch of the Humantay and Salkantay mountains. This is a perfect acclimatization walk and day tour out of the bustle of Cusco.
Prices
The call of the mountain is an early one. We’ll pick you up at 4 am from your hotel for the start of our Lake Humantay tour. Don’t worry about breakfast; we drive for a couple of hours to Mollepata then Soraypampa (3,900m/12,795ft), where we enjoy a Delicious healthy breakfast.
The Lake Humantay hike begins after we’ve sated our appetites. The views are wonderful from start to finish. We’ll see offerings made to the mountain gods as we walk along and can make our own at some stone buildings known as Apachetas.
Our path involves climbing for around 90 minutes to Humantay Lake, which nestles under the sheltering gaze of Humantay Mountain. The lake sits at an elevation of 4,200m / 13,780ft, making it perfect as an acclimatization walk.
Humantay’s picture-perfect turquoise waters are framed by Humantay glacier. Humantay Lake can also be the starting point for a Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu.
We’ll enjoy this stunning slice of Andean beauty then return to our private nini van in Soraypampa and retrace our steps to Cusco, dropping you off at your hotel.
Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Mollepata Humantay, Peru
- Tour Type: Full Day tour / van
- Start/End Time: Pickup is at 4 am from your hotel lobby and you should be back around 4 PM
- Consideration: Please remember to comfortable clothes or follow our company recommendations
Included
- Professional English Spanish Speaking Tour Guide
- Full Day Private Transportation
- Lunch For the Day
- Humantay Lagoon Permit
- 1 Breakfast
Not Included
- Trekking poles
- Tips are not include for your guide, Chef, Driver (not obligatory)
- Arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Bring your original passport or a copy for the tour.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
- Dress in layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons.
- Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
- Bring warm clothing for early morning temperatures.
- Stay well hydrated during the hike.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the night before the tour.
- Carry a small backpack for personal items and water.
- Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for optional expenses.
- Walk at your own pace and follow your guide’s instructions.
- Respect nature and do not leave trash at the lagoon.
The Humantay Lake hike is considered moderate. The trail is short but uphill and reaches high altitude, which can make it challenging for some travelers. No technical trekking experience is required, but good physical condition and proper acclimatization in Cusco are recommended. Horses are usually available for rent if you need assistance during the ascent.
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable and the lake shows its vibrant turquoise color. June, July, and August are the most popular months. March and November are also good options, with fewer visitors and occasional rain.
The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, depending on your pace. The descent usually takes around 1 hour. The total walking distance is short, but the altitude makes the hike more demanding than it appears.
You should bring hiking shoes, warm layered clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A small backpack, water, and snacks are recommended. Trekking poles are optional and can be helpful for stability, especially on the descent.
Yes, altitude sickness can affect some travelers, as Humantay Lake is located at over 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). To reduce the risk, acclimatize in Cusco before the tour, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and walk slowly. Coca tea is commonly offered to help with altitude adjustment.
Prices
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All Included:
Tours with hotel pick-up, transportation, professional guide, and entrance tickets.
24/7 Communication:
We’re here for you before, during, and after your journey.
Flexible Cancellation:
Cancel up to 30 days before your tour in case of emergency. (For Machu Picchu and Inca Trail tours, please check specific conditions.)
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