Details
The towering mountains of Peru conceal countless vibrant lake in shades of blue, turquoise, green, yellow, and red. Among these, Humantay Lake, one of the most breathtaking gems in the Cusco region, shines brilliantly. Its emerald waters, set against the strikingly white glacier, form a captivating scene at an elevation of over 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
Making a visit to Humantay Lake an unforgettable experience. Escape the bustle of Cusco for a day and immerse yourself in nature with Salkantay Trekking’s ultimate day trip. This stunning lake is a perfect retreat and an absolute must-see when visiting the region.
Departure & Return Location
Cusco hotel transfer
Departure Time
4:00 AM
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Mollepata – Soraypampa - Humantay Lake
Our exciting day starts bright and early at 4:00 a.m. with a pickup from your accommodation. We’ll first head to Mollepata, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast while soaking in the early morning mountain views—a perfect time for capturing memorable photos.
After breakfast, we’ll continue to Soraypampa (3,900 meters / 12,795 feet), where you’ll feel the awe-inspiring presence of the glaciers, their snowy peaks standing imposingly against the sky. After a brief orientation from your guide, we’ll begin the two-hour hike to Humantay Lake.
The trail is rocky and uneven, so using a walking stick is recommended. Take your time, walk at your own pace, rest as needed, and stay hydrated to adjust to the high altitude. Please avoid bringing plastic on the trail and always carry out any waste.
Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking view of Humantay Lake, its turquoise waters nestled within rugged mountain terrain and fed by the melting snow of the Humantay Glacier. Walk around the lake or take a short climb up the slopes for even better panoramic views—the higher you go, the more vibrant the turquoise waters appear.
Standing close to these majestic mountains is a deeply moving experience, and you’ll come to appreciate why they hold such sacred significance in Andean culture. Your guide will lead a simple ritual with coca leaves as a gesture of gratitude to nature.
The descent to Soraypampa takes about an hour and a half. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our chef at our Sky Camp. We’ll then board our transport back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive around 6:30 p.m., ready to rest after an unforgettable day.
Photos
