Hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, cradled by snow-capped Andean peaks. This full-day trip from Cusco climbs through beautiful valleys to one of Peru’s most stunning high-altitude lakes: a serene escape for nature lovers.
Suitable for all ages.
The walk takes about an hour and a half and climbs roughly 350 m, from Soraypampa at 3,850 m up to the lake at 4,200 m. There is no technical terrain, but the last stretch is steep and you are already high, so most people stop to breathe several times. Your guide sets a slow pace, and we carry emergency oxygen for the whole group.
Yes. Two full days in Cusco (3,399 m) before the hike makes a large difference, ideally after a gentler day around the city or the Sacred Valley. The lake sits some 800 m above Cusco, and travellers who attempt it on their first or second day in the Andes are the ones who struggle. Drink plenty of water and go easy on alcohol the night before.
Humantay is the gentler of the two. The lake is at 4,200 m against 5,036 m at Vinicunca, the walk is shorter, and the reward is a turquoise glacial lake below the Salkantay and Humantay peaks rather than a coloured ridge. If you only have one day at altitude, or you are unsure how your body will react, Humantay is the safer choice. Both leave Cusco before dawn and return in the evening.
Layers. It is cold at pickup and at the lake, and the same morning can bring strong sun, wind or rain. Bring a warm jacket, hat and gloves, a waterproof layer between November and April, and strong sun protection, since UV is intense at this altitude. Walking shoes with good grip matter more than anything else, as the trail can be muddy or loose.
Pickup in Cusco is between 04:30 and 05:00, and you are back around 18:30. The drive to Soraypampa takes about four hours, where breakfast is served before the hike, followed by a buffet lunch on the way down. The entrance ticket is included. Vegetarian and other special diets can be arranged if you let us know when you book.
