1 Day Trek: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon – Mollepata – Cusco
This tour starts very early to ensure you are among the first to reach the mountain and avoid the crowds.
We’ll pick you up between 3:00 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. from your hotel or the main square (depending on your location). Then, enjoy a 2-hour scenic bus ride to the town of Mollepata (2,900 m). Here, breakfast and entrance tickets to the community and Humantay Lagoon are included.
Next, we continue by bus for about 1 hour to Soraypampa (3,900 m), where the trek begins. The hike takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes uphill to reach the stunning Humantay Lagoon at 4,200 meters. Take time to admire its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surroundings.
After the trek, we return to Mollepata for a delicious included lunch, followed by a 2-hour bus ride back to Cusco, arriving between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Plaza de Armas or your hotel.
What You need to bring
🎒 Backpack (30L) – ideal size for day hikes
🧥 Rain jacket or poncho – weather can change quickly in the Andes
🧊 Thermal jacket – mornings are cold, especially at high altitude
🧴 Sun protection – sunscreen, sunglasses & a wide-brim hat
📸 Camera – to capture the stunning landscapes
💵 Extra cash – for snacks, water, souvenirs, or optional horse rental
FAQs
1. What is the Humantay Lake and where is it located?
Humantay Lake is a breathtaking turquoise glacial lagoon located in the Vilcabamba mountain range of the Peruvian Andes. It sits at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) and is formed by the melting waters of the Humantay Glacier, a neighbor of the majestic Salkantay Mountain.
2. How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike is considered moderate due to the altitude. It takes about 1.5 hours uphill from Soraypampa. Though it’s not a long hike, the elevation can make it physically demanding for some.
3. Do I need to be acclimatized before the trek?
Yes, we strongly recommend at least 1–2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before doing this hike to avoid altitude sickness and fully enjoy the experience.
4. Can I visit Humantay Lake without doing the full Salkantay Trek?
Absolutely. The Humantay Lake can be visited in a one-day trip from Cusco without doing the full multi-day Salkantay Trek.
5. What is the best time of year to visit?
The dry season, from May to September, offers the clearest skies and best hiking conditions. However, the lake can be visited year-round.
6. Is it possible to rent a horse?
Yes, horses can be rented directly from local community members at the starting point in Soraypampa, both for ascending and descending.
7. What should I bring for the trek?
We recommend a 30L backpack, rain jacket or poncho, thermal jacket, sun protection, camera, and extra money for snacks or horse rental.
8. How high is Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake is located at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) above sea level.
9. Can children or seniors do the hike?
With proper acclimatization and a gentle pace, it is possible. Horse rentals are also a good option for those who may struggle with the ascent.
10. What makes Humantay Lake special?
Its surreal turquoise color, surrounded by snowcapped peaks, and its spiritual significance in Incan culture make it a magical and sacred destination.
