Hike into the high Andes and discover the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lake beneath snow-covered peaks.

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

Full Day

Duration

Up to 18 people

Group Size

4,200 m.a.s.l

Max Altitude

Moderate – Challenging

Difficulty

Overview - Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

Discover one of the most spectacular glacial landscapes in the Cusco region on our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour, a high-altitude adventure combining mountain scenery, hiking, and Andean culture.

Travel from Cusco through Mollepata to Soraypampa, where the trek begins at approximately 3,900 meters above sea level. From here, follow an uphill mountain trail surrounded by broad valleys, glaciers, and impressive views across the Vilcabamba mountain range.

The destination is Humantay Lake, located at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). Its striking turquoise waters lie beneath Nevado Humantay and create one of the most photogenic natural settings in southern Peru.

Beyond its natural beauty, the surrounding mountains hold important cultural and spiritual meaning within Andean traditions, adding another dimension to the experience.

With transportation, breakfast, lunch, professional guiding, first-aid equipment, and emergency oxygen organized for the journey, this Humantay Lake hike offers a memorable full-day escape into the high Andes.

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour Itinerary

DAY 01

Humantay Lake

Early Morning Departure from Cusco

Your Humantay Lake Full Day Tour begins with hotel pickup between approximately 4:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

Travel through the Andean countryside toward Mollepata while the landscape gradually changes from valleys and agricultural areas to increasingly mountainous terrain.

Breakfast in Mollepata

After approximately 2 to 2½ hours on the road, arrive in Mollepata for an included breakfast.

Take time to eat, hydrate, and prepare before continuing toward the starting point of the hike.

Continue to Soraypampa

Travel for approximately another hour toward Soraypampa, situated at around 3,900 meters above sea level.

The surrounding landscape provides impressive views toward the high peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

Begin the Humantay Lake Hike

From Soraypampa, begin the uphill trek accompanied by your professional guide.

The ascent typically takes approximately 1½ to 2 hours. Walk at your own comfortable pace as the trail climbs through increasingly dramatic mountain scenery.

Because of the altitude, the hike can feel considerably more demanding than a similar-distance walk at lower elevation.

Arrive at Humantay Lake

Reach the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft).

Enjoy time for photographs, rest, and panoramic views of the lake, glaciers, and surrounding peaks while your guide explains aspects of the landscape and its significance within Andean traditions.

Descend to Soraypampa

After the visit, begin the downhill walk back toward Soraypampa.

The descent usually takes less time than the ascent but should still be approached carefully because of uneven mountain terrain.

Lunch in Mollepata

Return by vehicle to Mollepata and enjoy an included lunch after completing the hike.

Afternoon Return to Cusco

After lunch, begin the final road journey back to Cusco.

Arrival is expected between approximately 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., although mountain conditions, traffic, road access, and group pace can influence the final schedule.

What Is Included?

Round-Trip Transportation

Early Pickup in Cusco Pickup from your hotel or coordinated meeting point before beginning the full-day journey.
Tourist Transportation Transportation connects Cusco, Mollepata, Soraypampa, and the final return to the city.

Professional Hiking Guide

English / Spanish-Speaking Guide Travel with a professional guide who accompanies the hike and provides information about the natural environment and Andean traditions.

Meals During the Journey

Breakfast Before the Hike Enjoy breakfast in Mollepata before continuing toward Soraypampa.
Lunch After the Trek Lunch is included after completing the Humantay Lake hiking experience.

High-Altitude Support

First-Aid Equipment Basic first-aid equipment is carried during the tour.
Emergency Oxygen Supplemental oxygen is available for emergency assistance during the high-altitude experience.

Tour Assistance

Pre-Departure Coordination Receive confirmed pickup information and practical recommendations before departure.

What Is Not Included?

Local Admission

×
Humantay Lake Entrance – S/20 The local entrance fee is paid separately from the standard tour service.

Optional Horse Assistance

×
Horse Rental Horse assistance can be arranged directly with local providers at Soraypampa when available.

Additional Food & Drinks

×
Personal Snacks & Drinks Additional bottled water, snacks, soft drinks, and other refreshments are not included.
×
Dinner Dinner after returning to Cusco is not included.

Personal Costs

×
Personal Expenses Souvenirs, toilets, horse service, and other personal purchases are not included.

Gratuities

×
Tips for Guide & Driver Tips are voluntary and remain entirely at the traveler’s discretion.

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour Pricing

Experience our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour from US$30 per person. The standard rate applies to the shared departure, while local admission and optional services are paid separately.

2026 Rate

SHARED TOUR
Starting from US$ 30 per person

Daily departures are subject to availability and mountain conditions.

Local Entrance Fee

Humantay Lake Admission S/20 per person

The local admission fee is separate from the US$30 tour rate and should be paid in Peruvian soles.

Need Help with the Ascent?

Optional Horse Service Price determined by local providers

Horse assistance may be available for travelers who prefer additional support during part of the uphill or downhill route.

Availability, price, and distance covered are determined locally. Some walking should still be expected.

Private Humantay Lake Experience

PRIVATE EXPERIENCE
Starting from US$ 150 per person

Minimum 2 travelers.

Private service is ideal for travelers who prefer dedicated transportation, their own professional guide, and greater flexibility with the hiking pace.

Traveling Alone Privately?

SOLO PRIVATE TOUR
Individual Quote

The private rate for one traveler is calculated separately.

Contact Machupicchu Booking Peru on WhatsApp at +51 957 804 566 for the current solo-tour rate.

Reservation & Payment

A 50% deposit is required to secure your reservation. The remaining balance can be paid in Cusco before departure.

Online card payments are available through a secure payment link. A processing fee of approximately 5%–7% may apply.

Booking Details We Need

  • Full name
  • Travel date
  • Number of travelers
  • Shared or private option
  • Accommodation in Cusco
  • WhatsApp number including country code

Confirmed Tour Price

After your reservation and selected services have been confirmed, the agreed tour price will remain unchanged.

Additional charges apply only when you request extra services, a private upgrade, a date change, or another modification after confirmation.

Important: Hiking at 4,200 Meters

Humantay Lake is approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft) above sea level. The uphill hike can feel considerably more demanding because of the elevation. Spending time acclimatizing before the tour is strongly recommended.

Mountain Conditions & Schedule

Weather around Humantay Lake can change quickly. Rain, cold, road access, trail conditions, or other local circumstances may affect the normal schedule.

Departure, hiking, lake visit, lunch, and return times are therefore approximate.

Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellation at Least 2 Days in Advance

If you cancel at least 48 hours before departure, a partial refund may be possible after deducting services already arranged, transaction fees, and other non-refundable booking costs.

Cancellation Within 48 Hours

Reservations cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled departure are non-refundable.

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour Packing List

Pack carefully for your Humantay Lake Full Day Tour. The trail climbs above 4,000 meters and can combine cold mornings, strong sunlight, wind, rain, and rapidly changing mountain conditions.

Documents & Cash

Passport or Valid Identification Carry valid identification throughout the full-day journey.
Peruvian Soles in Cash Useful for local admission, horse service if required, toilets, snacks, and personal purchases.

Mountain Clothing

Hiking Shoes with Good Grip Wear supportive footwear appropriate for steep and uneven mountain terrain.
Layered Clothing Use breathable layers that can be added or removed as temperatures change.
Warm Jacket Cold and windy conditions can develop around Soraypampa and the lake.
Waterproof Jacket or Poncho Recommended because mountain weather can change quickly.

High-Altitude Sun Protection

Sun Hat or Cap Useful during exposed sections of the hike.
UV-Protective Sunglasses Recommended because of strong high-altitude sunlight.
High-SPF Sunscreen Apply before hiking and reapply when necessary.

Trail Essentials

Small Hiking Daypack Carry water, clothing layers, documents, and personal essentials without unnecessary weight.
Drinking Water Stay hydrated before and during the hike.
Energy Snacks Nuts, fruit, or energy bars can be useful during the ascent.
Trekking Poles Optional but helpful for balance on steep or slippery terrain.
Personal Medication Carry any medication or personal health items you normally need.
Phone or Camera Keep your device charged for photographs at Humantay Lake.
Portable Power Bank Useful during the long day away from Cusco.

Prepare for the Altitude

The lake sits at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level. Give yourself time to acclimatize, walk slowly, stay hydrated, and communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.

Contact us by email to check availability, request detailed information, and receive your secure payment link. Our team will reply within a short time to assist you with your booking.

Booking

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour

Starting from

$ 30.00 USD

per person

Group & private options available

Contact us on WhatsApp to check availability, private options, and confirm your booking.

BRIEF CONDITIONS

• 50% deposit required
• Secure payment link provided (+7%)
• Balance paid in Cusco

- Five travelers enjoying panoramic views of Machu Picchu
- Five travelers enjoying panoramic views of Machu Picchu

Why Choose Our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour?

Our Humantay Lake Full Day Tour combines one of the Cusco region’s most beautiful natural landscapes with a rewarding mountain hike and professionally coordinated travel.

Discover the Famous Turquoise Lake

Reach Humantay Lake at approximately 4,200 meters and experience its remarkable color beneath dramatic high-Andean peaks.

A Rewarding High-Altitude Hike

Walk from Soraypampa through impressive mountain scenery on a challenging but manageable full-day adventure.

Surrounded by Glaciers & Mountains

Enjoy spectacular views across the Vilcabamba range and the snow-covered landscape surrounding Humantay.

Breakfast & Lunch Included

Start the hiking portion after breakfast and recover with lunch after completing the trek.

High-Altitude Support

Basic first-aid equipment and emergency oxygen are carried as additional support during the journey.

Shared & Private Options

Join the US$30 shared departure or choose private service from US$150 per person for a more personalized experience.

Humantay Lake Full Day Tour FAQs

How high is Humantay Lake Peru?
Humantay Lake sits at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) above sea level.
Is the Humantay Lake hike difficult?
The hike is best considered moderate to challenging. The trail is not technically difficult, but the uphill gradient and elevation above 4,000 meters make it physically demanding.
How long does the hike to Humantay Lake take?
Most travelers require approximately 1½ to 2 hours for the ascent. The return walk is generally faster.
How much does the Humantay Lake Full Day Tour cost?
The shared service starts from US$30 per person. Local admission is paid separately.
What is included in the Humantay Lake Full Day Tour?
The standard service includes tourist transportation, professional guiding, breakfast, lunch, first-aid equipment, emergency oxygen, and return transportation.
Is the Humantay Lake entrance included?
No. For our standard operation, travelers should currently budget S/20 per person for local admission, paid separately.
What time does the Humantay Lake Tour start?
Hotel pickup normally takes place between approximately 4:00 and 5:00 a.m.
What time will I return to Cusco?
Return is generally between approximately 5:00 and 6:00 p.m., depending on weather, road conditions, and group pace.
Should I acclimatize before hiking Humantay Lake?
Yes. Spending time at altitude before attempting the hike is recommended because the lake is approximately 4,200 meters above sea level.
Is emergency oxygen available?
Yes. Emergency oxygen is carried as part of the tour’s high-altitude support equipment.
Can I hire a horse at Humantay Lake?
Horse assistance may be available from local providers at Soraypampa. It is optional, paid separately, and generally covers only part of the hiking route.
Do I still need to walk if I rent a horse?
Yes. Horse service normally does not reach every section immediately beside the lake, so travelers should still be prepared for some walking.
Are breakfast and lunch included?
Yes. Breakfast in Mollepata before the hike and lunch after completing the trek are included.
What should I bring to Humantay Lake?
Bring hiking shoes, warm layered clothing, rain protection, sun protection, water, cash in soles, snacks, and personal medication.
Can I book a private Humantay Lake Tour?
Yes. Private service starts from US$150 per person based on a minimum of 2 travelers.
Can I book a private tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes. Solo private service can be arranged, but the rate is calculated individually according to your travel date and required services.
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