Humantay Lake - Full Day Tour

Why choose this experience with us?

Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 18 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.

Full meal plan: Breakfast and lunch buffet included, for a more complete and comfortable experience, with food provided before and after the hike.

Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address each of your questions, as well as provide you with information and safety throughout the entire journey.

Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination in detail.

Program Summary

Full day | Cusco - Mollepata - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Mollepata - Cusco Discover the spectacular Humantay Lagoon on a one-day adventure departing from the city of Cusco. During the journey, you will be able to appreciate vast landscapes of the Southern Valley until you reach Soraypampa, the place where the hike to the lagoon begins.

Technical tour data

Walking distance:

9 km / 5.6 miles (round trip).

Walking time:

4 hours 30 minutes (up and down).

Maximum altitude:

Humantay Lake - 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.

Minimum altitude:

Mollepata - 2,900 meters above sea level / 9,514 feet.

Difficulty level:

Moderate.

Temperature: varies according to the season:

Dry season (April to September): stable and clear days, with an average of 18 °C; very cold nights, which can drop to -10 °C, especially in June and July.

Rainy season (October to March): mild and sunny days, with an average of 19 °C; less cold nights, between 4 °C and 6 °C, but with frequent rain.

Highlights

Mollepata: a traditional Andean village surrounded by mountains, known for being the usual stop for breakfast and lunch, and also the gateway to the Humantay and Salkantay routes.

Soraypampa: campsite located at the foot of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains, starting point of the hike.

Humantay Lake: a spectacular turquoise lake surrounded by the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains, one of the most impressive natural landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.

Nevado Salkantay: imposing sacred mountain at 6,271 meters above sea level / 20,574 feet, considered one of the most important apus in Andean cosmology.

Full day | CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - SORAYPAMPA - HUMANTAY LAKE - MOLLEPATA - CUSCO Get ready to experience an unforgettable day among some of the most spectacular natural landscapes of Cusco. The Humantay Lagoon is a unique experience of connection with nature.

The adventure begins very early in the morning, between 03:30 and 04:00 AM, with pick-up from your hotel in the city of Cusco. The journey is made in tourist transportation, crossing the landscapes of the Southern Valley and enjoying the sunrise until reaching the town of Mollepata (2,900 meters above sea level / 9,514 feet) after almost 3 hours of travel.

In this place, there will be a brief stop for breakfast and to recharge energy for the journey.

Subsequently, continuing with the journey, we will travel to the Soraypampa campsite (3,850 meters above sea level / 12,631 feet), the starting point of the hike.

During the journey, you can admire impressive mountain landscapes and, if the weather permits, privileged views of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped peaks, considered sacred mountains in Andean culture.

The hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 meters above sea level / 13,780 feet) takes just over 2 hours, being considered of moderate difficulty mainly due to the final stretch of constant ascent.

For those who wish, there is also the possibility to rent horses to cover the route.

Upon reaching the lagoon, there will be enough time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, and appreciate the spectacular beauty of its turquoise waters surrounded by imposing mountains. Afterward, the descent begins to return to Soraypampa, where the tourist transport will be waiting for us.

Just like on the way there, there will be a brief stop in Mollepata for lunch. The return to the city of Cusco is scheduled around 6:00 PM, thus concluding an unforgettable experience in one of the most stunning natural landscapes of the Andes.

Hiking distance:

Day 1: 9 km / 5.50 miles (round trip)

Walking time:

Day 1: approximately 4 hours 30 minutes (uphill and downhill)

Maximum altitude:

Humantay Lake: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

Minimum altitude:

Mollepata: 2,900 meters above sea level / 9,514 feet

Difficulty level:

Moderate

Guaranteed entry

The entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon is included in the service, avoiding long lines to pay on-site.

Accompaniment and safety

Virtual assistance before the tour Before the start, the team provides virtual assistance to resolve all the traveler's questions and doubts about the program, so they can enjoy their trip without worries.

Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English) An excellent staff of professional guides, highly trained in history, culture, and tourist information, accompanies the entire tour to provide a safe, informative, and memorable experience.

First aid kit and oxygen tank Sakura Expedition prioritizes safety during each tour. Therefore, the guides receive constant training in first aid, ensuring timely assistance and a safe journey for all passengers.

Waterproof backpack cover A waterproof protector to safeguard belongings from the sun, rain, and road conditions throughout the hike.

1 pair of trekking poles The trekking poles provide greater stability and support during ascents and descents, reducing effort throughout the journey.

24/7 Customer Service The team is available to address the traveler's inquiries from start to finish, with an emergency phone number they can call whenever needed.

Gastronomic experience

During the adventure, a buffet breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in Mollepata, a resting point before and after the hike. The proposal combines traditional flavors of Andean cuisine, prepared with local ingredients and accompanied by a selection of typical desserts from the region.

Tourist transfers

Pick-up in tourist service from the hotel in Cusco.

Tourist transportation during the tour.

What is not included?

Horse rental (optional): approximate cost 80 soles.

Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.

Tips: Optional.

Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.

Note: the amounts in dollars are for reference and are subject to the current exchange rate. The payment is made in soles.

Private service at your own pace. A more comfortable and personalized experience, with flexible schedules, more time for photographs, and the freedom to take breaks. To be discussed with the sales executive.

Ancestral hike with llamas (private service). An exclusive experience accompanied by llamas from the local community, which carry part of the luggage during the hike, with moments shared with Andean families and a traditional herbal drink from the region.

Mandatory documents

Original valid passport or ID card (mandatory).

Recommended luggage

Lightweight backpack or handbag (20 to 30 liters) for the essentials.

Water bottle and snack.

Cash, preferably in small bills, for shopping and souvenirs.

Clothing and footwear

Trekking shoes or boots with a good non-slip sole.

Layered clothing: breathable base layer, coat, and down jacket (it's very cold at the lake).

Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.

Chullo and gloves for the morning.

Hat or cap for the sun and sunglasses.

Bandana or buff to protect against wind, dust, and solar radiation.

A special set to capture unforgettable photographs at Humantay Lake.

Personal items

Sunscreen.

Personal medication.

Basic personal first aid kit.

Wet wipes or toilet paper.

Hand sanitizer.

Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars).

Equipment and extras

Camera or cell phone.

Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, or tips.

Important considerations

It is recommended to acclimate for at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.

Avoid heavy luggage to better enjoy the experience.

Always keep documents and valuables with you.

What is the difficulty level of Laguna Humantay?

It is considered of moderate difficulty due to the altitude of the lagoon, at 4,200 meters above sea level / 13,780 feet. Although the trail is not technically complex, the steepness of the ascent and the altitude require basic physical fitness and proper acclimatization in Cusco.

How long does the hike to Humantay Lake take from the starting point?

The hike from Soraypampa to Laguna Humantay takes between 2 hours and 2 hours 30 minutes uphill. The first section is gentle, while the final part has a more demanding slope. The total distance is approximately 9 km / 5.50 miles for the round trip.

Can I suffer from altitude sickness?

Yes, it is possible to experience altitude sickness (soroche), as the hike takes place above 4,000 meters above sea level, where there is less oxygen. The symptoms may include headache, nausea, fatigue, or dizziness. To prevent it, good acclimatization, staying hydrated, and resting adequately before and during the hike are recommended.

Can elderly people, overweight individuals, or those with special medical conditions take the tour?

Yes, as long as the person can move around on their own and has an adequate physical condition. It is recommended that those over 70 years old and those with any pre-existing medical conditions undergo a prior medical evaluation. Due to the altitude and effort, the private service is recommended, which allows you to progress at your own pace and take the necessary breaks.

Can a horse be rented for part of the route?

Yes. The local inhabitants offer horse rentals to reduce the effort during part of the ascent. It is not included in the tour: it has an approximate cost of 80 soles, which is paid in cash directly to the community's muleteers on the same day.

The horses do not reach the lake itself: they leave the passenger about 10 to 15 minutes on foot from the final point.

Can a person who weighs more than 91 kg use the horse service?

No. By order of the local muleteers, the service is allowed for passengers weighing up to 90 kg. Starting from 91 kg, it is not allowed, as a measure of protection and well-being for the animals, given the demanding altitude and terrain conditions.

Does the agency provide an oxygen tank during the tour?

Yes. The company provides an oxygen tank for the group during the tour and an additional one in the transport unit. Even so, it is recommended that each passenger carry a portable oxygen inhaler (Oxishot or similar), especially if they are sensitive to altitude. The best prevention remains proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, avoiding heavy meals before the tour, and informing the guide of any discomfort from the start.

What is the best time to hike to Humantay Lake?

The dry season, from April to October or November. In those months, the sky is clear and there is less chance of rain, which allows you to appreciate the intense turquoise of the lake and ensures a safer hike.

How many people are in the shared group?

The groups have a maximum of 18 passengers, for more personalized attention. Those who prefer a more exclusive experience can request private service.

How far is Humantay Lake from Cusco?

Laguna Humantay is located approximately 120 km from Cusco. The trip by tourist transport takes about 3 hours to Mollepata, and then continues to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike.

What clothes should I wear?

The ideal is to dress in layers to adapt to the intense cold, wind, and strong sun. Essentials: warm jacket (down), comfortable pants, high-top trekking shoes, gloves, hat, and rain poncho.

What happens if I feel unwell during the hike?

Passenger safety is the top priority. The staff is trained in first aid. If a passenger shows symptoms of altitude sickness, fatigue, or any other discomfort, the team evaluates their condition and provides the necessary assistance: depending on the situation, they coordinate the return with the driver or the transfer to the community's first aid point. In case specialized care is required, there is support from a clinic near the start of the hike, which can coordinate evacuation to Cusco.

Is there cell phone or internet signal during the visit?

The signal is very limited and, in most cases, it is not available during the hike. At some elevated points, there may be intermittent signal, although not guaranteed. It is recommended to inform family members or contacts that communication may be lost for approximately 5 to 6 hours.

What is the reservation process like?

Step 1 - Availability inquiry: write to info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. A reservation form will be sent that each participant must complete.

Step 2 - Passenger Information: to manage the reservation, the following details as they appear in the passport are required: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy), and nationality.

Step 3 - Deposit and confirmation: a guarantee per person is required to secure the space. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during holidays and peak season.

Step 4 - Final Confirmation: Once the reservation is confirmed, the traveler receives the official invoice and their spot is guaranteed 100%.

How is the outstanding balance paid?

The balance can be paid in cash (US dollars or soles) in Cusco, one or two days before the tour, according to the conditions indicated by the sales executive.

Can the date be canceled or changed?

Yes, it is possible to cancel or change the date of the reservation up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases, an administrative fee is applied, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.

Do you have any more questions?

You can contact the sales team via WhatsApp at the numbers +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.

Why choose Sakura Expedition?

Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco destination. It has a team of certified guides, porters, and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences. Responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service set it apart. Backed by its tourism quality certification, it guarantees standards of excellence in every detail of the operation.