DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru
DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru

Lake Humantay Tour from Cusco: 1-Day Adventure


Breakfast & Lunch
Meals
Group or private
Group size
4,200m / 13,780 ft
Altitude
Moderate
Dificulty

Humantay Lake Tour: Why Go

Humantay Lake Tour

If you love scenic hikes, nature and turquoise mountain lakes, the Lake Humantay Tour is a must-do day trip from Cusco. Tucked between snowcapped peaks in the Andes, Laguna Humantay is famous for its intense blue-green waters, created by glacial melt from Mount Humantay. The hike offers breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a great sense of accomplishment when you reach this ‘jewel of nature’.

This one-day adventure combines natural beauty, gentle physical challenge, and a glimpse into the high Andean landscapes that make Peru so unique.

What to Expect

Your adventure begins early in Cusco. After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at Soraypampa, the trailhead of the hike. From here, you’ll start your ascent to the lake — a moderate hike of about 1.5 hours uphill.

As you climb, you’ll pass herds of alpacas and enjoy sweeping views of the snowcapped Salkantay and Humantay mountains. At the top, the turquoise lagoon reveals itself like a hidden gem surrounded by rugged peaks — a picture-perfect spot for rest, photos, and quiet reflection.

After time to explore and take in the view, you’ll descend to Soraypampa for lunch before heading back to Cusco in the afternoon.

This full-day tour is ideal for nature lovers and active travelers looking for a taste of Peru’s high Andes.

Humantay Lake Tour

Photos

Tour Details

Highlights

Lake Humantay is a stunning turquoise lagoon surrounded by snowcapped peaks.

Scenic Drive: Pass through traditional Andean villages and landscapes en route to the trailhead.

Location
Soraypampa, northwest of Cusco
Tour type
Group or private
Hiking time
3 hours round-trip
Altitude
4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Difficulty
Moderate to Challenging (due to altitude)
Best season
April–October (dry season)

Additional Options:

Note:

If you do Salkantay trek you will also visit Lake Humantay on the first day.

Itinerary

  • 04:15–05:00 AM: Pick-up from accommodation or meeting point in downtown Cusco.
  • Drive by bus (approx. 3 hours): Scenic journey through Mollepata and mountain valleys.
  • Breakfast stop en route.
  • Arrival in Soraypampa (3,900 m): Start of the hike.
  • Hike (approx. 1.5 hours uphill): Enjoy panoramic views of Salkantay (6215m) and Humantay (5900m) mountains.
  • Arrival at the Lake Humantay: Time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Descent: 1–1.5 hours back to Soraypampa.
  • Lunch: Local meal included.
  • Return drive to Cusco (arrival approx. 6:30 PM)

Please note that the times provided in the above itinerary are approximate and subject to change. Last-minute adjustments may occur due to weather conditions, political unrest, or other unforeseen factors. We cannot be held responsible for any changes or delays.

Humantay Lake Tour

Good to Know

  • Acclimatization: This is a high-altitude hike; plan this excursion after other lower-altitude activities in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The hike reaches over 4200 meters.
  • Facilities: Basic restrooms are available near the trailhead.
  • Transport: mini-van.
  • What to bring: Hiking shoes, warm layers, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, snacks, and your passport (for control at the trailhead). Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Bring layers and be prepared for sun, wind, or occasional rain.
  • Fitness level: Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness. Horse rental may be available locally if you prefer not to hike the entire way.
  • Read: find more details on our blog post Visiting Lake Humantay
Humantay Lake Tour

Price & Inclusions

Price

 Contact us for updated price information

Included

 Round-trip transportation from Cusco by mini-van
Professional bilingual guide
Breakfast and lunch
(Entrance fee)
First-aid kit and oxygen tank

Not Included

 Personal expenses (snacks, water, tips)
Horse rental/ quad bikes (optional)
Walking sticks
Humantay Lake Tour
Humantay Lake Tour

Your booking request is subject to availability and is only confirmed once you receive our written confirmation

Reviews

Leon Sciarone
Peru Classic in 14 Days
It was a marvellous experience!

I recently booked an excursion with Dos Manos to Puno and the Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca. It was a marvelous trip and I really enjoyed it!

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Yves Leclerc
Peru Classic & Amazon in 20 Days
Your team is unbelievable!

When we came to your agency, it was for info on Salkantay trail. My wife and me are bilingual (French & English). We talked to Joseph a guy who speaks Spanish and French.

Read Review
Adam Rice
Peru Itinerary Classic & Northern Peru 20 days
We had a great time!

Just wanted to send you a note back from our trip. We had a great time, everything worked out really good,,the service by you and your company was excellent!!!

Read Review
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