The Full Day Lake Humantay Tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the Andes, combining breathtaking landscapes and a challenging yet rewarding hike to the stunning Humantay Lake. This tour is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of Peru’s natural wonders while pushing their limits in a high-altitude environment.
Our journey begins as dawn breaks over Cusco, where we will gather at a pre-arranged meeting point and board comfortable transportation. As we leave the city behind, the scenic drive through the Salkantay route offers a stunning transformation from colonial streets to lush valleys, eventually leading us into the heart of the Andes.
After a few hours on the road, we will reach Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike, located at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) above sea level. The crisp mountain air and awe-inspiring views set the stage for the adventure ahead.
With the first light of day, we will begin the hike to Humantay Lake. The trail, though steep in parts, is manageable with the support of our experienced guides and trekking poles. As we ascend, the path becomes a journey through high-altitude landscapes, with every step bringing us closer to the stunning lake.
After an approximately 1.5 to 2-hour hike, we will arrive at Laguna Humantay, a breathtaking turquoise lake cradled by steep hillsides and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. At an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), the views are nothing short of spectacular, offering a perfect reward for the challenging climb.
We will spend time at Humantay Lake, giving us the opportunity to soak in the natural beauty, take photos, and enjoy a picnic lunch while learning about the cultural and ecological significance of the area. This is a time to reflect and appreciate the serenity of the high-altitude wilderness.
After enjoying the beauty of Humantay Lake, we will begin our descent back to Soraypampa. The return hike offers more stunning views, and a chance to reflect on the achievement of reaching such an extraordinary location. From Soraypampa, we will board our transportation and return to Cusco, arriving in the early evening with unforgettable memories of the day’s adventure.
The Full Day Lake Humantay Tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the rugged beauty of the Andes. From the scenic drive along the Salkantay route to the exhilarating hike and the breathtaking sight of Humantay Lake, this journey promises to leave you with a profound sense of accomplishment and awe for Peru’s natural wonders.
Here’s a concise overview of the Full Day Lake Humantay Tour, highlighting key moments and important stats for your adventure.
Departure from Cusco:
Hike to Humantay Lake:
Arrival at Humantay Lake:
Return to Cusco:
Tour Stats:
Humantay Lake is located in the Cusco region of Peru, along the route to the Salkantay Mountain, approximately 120 kilometers from the city of Cusco. It sits in the Andes mountain range at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. Known for its stunning turquoise color, Humantay Lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is a popular stop for trekkers on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
The cost of visiting Humantay Lake varies depending on how you organize your trip. If you choose a guided tour from Cusco, prices typically range from 70 to 120 soles (around $20 to $35 USD). This usually includes round-trip transportation, expert guides, and sometimes a light meal or picnic at the lake. If you prefer to visit independently, you will need to pay for transportation, hire local guides, and possibly pay an entrance fee of 10 soles (about $3 USD) at Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike.
The hike to Humantay Lake covers approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) round trip from Soraypampa, the starting point of the trek. The trail can be steep in certain sections and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). Depending on the group’s pace, the ascent takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, while the descent is faster, around 1 hour. Although the hike is moderate to challenging due to the altitude, it is accessible for those with average fitness who take their time.
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable, with clear skies and less chance of rain. The rainy season, from November to March, can make the trail muddier and access more difficult, though the landscapes are greener and more vibrant during this time.
Absolutely incredible experience with Xplor Machu Picchu! The Full Day Laguna Humantay Tour was nothing short of breathtaking. The turquoise waters of Laguna Humantay surrounded by the towering Andes left me in awe. The entire journey was well-organized, and our guide was knowledgeable and friendly. I couldn’t have asked for a better adventure. Thanks to Xplor Machu Picchu for making my visit to Peru truly memorable!
