Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Daily departures
- Duration: 1 day (approx. 13 hours)
- Start time: 04:45 – 05:30 h
- Return time: 17:00 – 18:30 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: Medium – High (high-altitude hike, 1.5-hour ascent)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
Laguna Humantay, located at the base of the majestic Salkantay glacier, is one of Cusco’s most breathtaking natural destinations. Its turquoise waters framed by snowy peaks make it a sacred place for Andean communities and a paradise for nature and photography lovers.
This full-day tour is designed for those who wish to experience the grandeur of the Andes without committing to a multi-day trek. You’ll cross mountain landscapes, green valleys, and enjoy spectacular views of Salkantay, all accompanied by a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, and tourist transportation.
Itinerary Summary
- 04:45 – 05:30 a.m. – Hotel pick-up and departure to Mollepata
- 07:30 a.m. – Breakfast in Mollepata
- 08:30 a.m. – Arrival in Soraypampa and start of hike
- 10:00 a.m. – Arrival at Humantay Lake
- 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. – Free time to explore and take photos
- 11:00 a.m. – Return hike to Soraypampa
- 13:00 p.m. – Buffet lunch at the camp
- 14:00 p.m. – Return to Cusco
- 17:00 – 18:30 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco (near Plaza de Armas)
Detailed Itinerary
04:45 – 05:30 a.m. – Hotel Pick-up and Drive to Mollepata
Our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin the journey to the village of Mollepata, located in the Apurímac River valley. The drive offers scenic views of Andean landscapes, rural villages, and terraced crops.
07:30 a.m. – Breakfast in Mollepata
We stop to enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast prepared by our kitchen team — perfect for fueling your day.
08:30 a.m. – Arrival in Soraypampa and Start of the Hike
We continue by vehicle to Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), the starting point of the hike. After a brief orientation and warm-up, we begin the ascent to the lagoon.
10:00 a.m. – Arrival at Humantay Lake
After approximately 1.5 hours of hiking, we reach Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l.), nestled at the foot of the Humantay glacier. This is a perfect time for photography, a symbolic offering to Pachamama, or simply to enjoy the silence and beauty of this sacred place.
11:00 a.m. – Return to Soraypampa
We begin our descent along the same trail, taking in panoramic views of surrounding glaciers and valleys.
13:00 p.m. – Buffet Lunch at the Camp
Back at Soraypampa, we enjoy an Andean buffet lunch in a dining tent equipped with tables and chairs — the perfect break surrounded by mountains.
14:00 p.m. – Return to Cusco
We finish our Humantay experience and board our vehicle back to the city.
17:00 – 18:30 p.m. – Arrival in Cusco
We arrive in Cusco and drop you off near the Plaza de Armas. End of service.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Humantay Lake Tour?
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Professional guide (Spanish/English)
- Andean breakfast in Mollepata
- Buffet lunch in Soraypampa
- Entry to Humantay Lake (Salkantay area)
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Dining camp equipment: tent, tables, and chairs
- Full assistance throughout the excursion
What’s Not Included?
- Tips for guide or driver
- Extra horse (optional, paid directly to the local community)
- Snacks or additional beverages
- Personal expenses not mentioned
Tips
Recommendations for Your Humantay Lake Tour
- Dress in warm layers (cold mornings, sunny midday)
- Bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket (especially Nov–Mar)
- Wear non-slip trekking shoes
- Carry a light backpack with personal items
- Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
- Bring mineral water and energy snacks
- Carry a camera with full battery
- Bring cash in soles for personal expenses or horse rental
- Be in good physical condition and have at least 1 day of acclimatization in Cusco
- Note: This tour is not recommended for people with heart or respiratory conditions without prior medical evaluation.
