Humantay Lake is a beautiful lake in the Cusco region of Peru. It lies at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay mountain and is known for its turquoise, crystal-clear water. It is considered one of the most beautiful and sacred lakes in the region.
The entrance fee is paid in the town of Mollepata and gives access to the Soraypampa area, where the trail to the lake starts. Besides the views, you can watch an offering ceremony to Mother Earth, hike nearby trails and enjoy nature. The lake is open all year, with fewer visitors in the rainy season.
This full-day tour lets you connect with nature high in the Peruvian Andes, with breathtaking landscapes and the beauty of one of the most beautiful and sacred lakes in Cusco.
At a glance
The Humantay Lake tour is a full-day trip from Cusco with a hike of about 1 hour 20 minutes from Soraypampa up to the turquoise glacial lake at the foot of Mount Humantay, at around 4,200 m. It includes hotel pickup, breakfast in Mollepata, a semi-buffet lunch and a bilingual guide; the lake entrance fee is not included.
Pickup
Your hotel in Cusco, 4:30 to 5:00 am
Hike
About 1 h 20 min up from Soraypampa, 5 km in total
Highest point
Humantay Lake, about 4,200 m
Meals
Breakfast in Mollepata and semi-buffet lunch
Group size
2 to 20 people
Not included
Lake entrance fee, paid in Mollepata
Updated · Permit rules by SERNANP and Peru's Ministry of Culture
Tour Details
Why hike the Classic Inca Trail
The Turquoise Secret of the Highlands: Why Does Humantay Lake Shine So Brightly?
The intense turquoise colour of Humantay Lake is the result of a natural phenomenon: a high concentration of minerals and rock dust, tiny particles ground down by the Humantay glacier, suspended in its cold water. In direct Andean sunlight at more than 4,200 m above sea level, these sediments reflect light in a unique way and create a surreal colour. In the Andean worldview its waters are sacred and a natural oracle for local communities.
Itinerary: day by day
Day 1
Humantay Lake Tour
The day begins early with pickup from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 am. We drive to Mollepata, a charming village where a semi-buffet breakfast awaits.
The journey continues to Soraypampa, where we take a short break before the hike to the lake.
The heart of the experience is the ascent to Humantay Lake: a hike of about 1 hour and 20 minutes leads to the lake, flanked by imposing mountains. You have time to explore, take photos and enjoy the tranquillity of the place.
Back at camp, a semi-buffet lunch awaits, with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. In the afternoon we drive back to Cusco.
For a more comfortable stay in Cusco, you can request an upgrade to a higher-category hotel. We offer 4- and 5-star options with better facilities, more comfortable rooms, excellent locations and additional services.
Private Guide On request
A private guide gives you a more personal experience: you explore at your own pace and get more detailed explanations of the history, culture and archaeology of Cusco and its main attractions.
Horses on the Hike to Humantay Lake On request
For a more comfortable hike, you can hire support horses for the climb. This is ideal if you prefer to reduce the physical effort of the ascent and enjoy the Andean landscapes more.
ATVs on the Way to Humantay Lake On request
An ATV ride lets you explore Andean landscapes in an adventurous way, along trails surrounded by mountains, fields and small local communities near Cusco.
Extra Night in Cusco On request
Add hotel nights in Cusco before or after the tour for more time to rest, acclimatize or keep exploring the city.
How to prepare
Acclimatization
Important
Cusco is at 3,399 m (11,152 ft), so spend at least one or two days in the city before high-altitude excursions such as Humantay Lake. Proper acclimatization lets you enjoy the trip more and reduces the symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche).
Required documents
Required
Carry your original passport or valid ID throughout the trip. Students who want a discount must show a valid student ID when booking and during the tour.
Safety during the tour
Important
Follow your guide's instructions and keep to the scheduled times for each activity. Keep your belongings secure and walk only on the recommended trails.
Money and payments
Warning
Bring cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses, purchases, snacks or additional services. Cusco has ATMs and shops that accept cards, but in remote areas cash is still more common.
Tips for Humantay Lake
Tip
The hike reaches high altitude, so acclimatize in Cusco first. Stay hydrated, hike at a moderate pace and wear warm clothing for the temperature changes along the route.
Rainy and dry seasons
Tip
The dry season, from April to October, brings sunny days and clear skies and is the best time for hiking. The rainy season, from November to March, brings frequent rain and greener landscapes, with fewer visitors, so you can take great photos.
Recommended luggage
Warning
Pack light and bring a small backpack for the day, with clothing for cold and mild weather, a raincoat, personal items and basic medication.
Packing list
Small travel backpack
Perfect for carrying personal items, water, documents and essentials on day trips.
Comfortable, lightweight clothing
Comfortable clothing that lets you move easily on hikes, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Protects you from sudden weather changes, light rain and wind, especially in the mountains.
Comfortable walking shoes
Sports or hiking shoes that give comfort and stability on different types of terrain.
Sunscreen
Essential to protect your skin from the sun at high altitude and during long hours outdoors.
Cap or hat
Recommended for sun protection on hikes and outdoor activities.
Reusable water bottle
Helps you stay hydrated throughout the day and helps protect the environment.
Portable battery (power bank)
Keeps your phone, camera and other devices charged during the excursion.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Humantay Lake have such an intense turquoise colour?
The colour comes from mineral sediments carried by meltwater from the Humantay glacier. These minerals reflect sunlight in a unique way and create the turquoise and emerald tones of the lake.
Do I need trekking experience for the hike?
Not necessarily. The climb is challenging because of the altitude, but most travellers in reasonably good physical condition can complete it by walking at a moderate pace.
What is the main challenge of the hike?
The altitude. The lake is above 4,000 m, so acclimatize in Cusco for at least one or two days before the tour.
Why is Mount Humantay considered sacred?
In Andean tradition, snow-capped mountains are Apus, the protective spirits of the mountains. Mount Humantay is one of the most important Apus in the region and is central to many ancestral beliefs.
What makes Humantay Lake different from other natural attractions in Cusco?
Its glacial scenery, vivid turquoise colour and relative closeness to Cusco make it one of the most impressive and popular nature excursions in the region.
