Tours Tradicionales Cusco

Humantay Lagoon- Full Day Tour

Laguna Humantay tiene misticismo debido a qué, está ubicado a los pies del nevado Salkantay y rodeada por la cordillera de Vilcabamba, a 4200 metros de altura.

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US$ 32.00

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Humantay Lagoon- Full Day Tour

Humantay Lake Tour

  • Duration: 12 hours approx. (Full Day)
  • Tour start: 4:00 a.m. approx. from Cusco
  • Maximum altitude: 4,200 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty level: Moderate
  • Guide language: Spanish / English / Portuguese

Description

Humantay Lake is one of the most impressive and spiritual natural destinations in the Cusco region. It is nestled in the foothills of the Vilcabamba mountain range, at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped mountain, and at an altitude of approximately 4,200 m.a.s.l. Its impressive turquoise color is a product of glacial melt, which gives it a special shine under the sunlight and makes it a true visual spectacle.

This magical place is part of the famous Salkantay trekking circuit, considered one of the most popular routes to Machu Picchu. To reach the lake, you take a moderate difficulty hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, starting from the community of Soraypampa, located about 2 km from the destination.

During the ascent, visitors have the opportunity to contemplate a dreamlike landscape: snow-capped mountains, clear skies, Andean vegetation, and animals such as llamas or alpacas. Additionally, those who are lucky can spot the imposing Andean condor high above, a symbol of the Andes and sacred bird in Inca cosmovision.

Humantay Lake is not only a visual attraction but also a place charged with spirituality and mysticism. For local communities, it represents an apu or mountain spirit, which is why many people make offerings with coca leaves or stones as a sign of respect and connection with nature.

This tour is ideal for lovers of adventure, photography, and ancestral Andean culture. Visiting Humantay Lake is, without a doubt, a transformative experience that connects body, mind, and spirit with the depths of the Peruvian Andes.

Highlighted Sites of the Tour

  • Humantay Lake: Turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, formed by glacial melt at 4,200 m.a.s.l.
  • Salkantay Snow-capped Mountain: Sacred mountain visible during the tour, considered an apu (protective spirit) in Andean cosmovision.
  • Soraypampa: Starting point of the hike and camping area, located about 2 km from the lake.
  • Mollepata: Traditional town where breakfast and lunch are enjoyed, known for its hospitality and local gastronomy.
  • Andean Hike: Natural trails with impressive views of snow-capped mountains, Andean vegetation, and local fauna such as llamas, alpacas, and condors.

Why Choose This Experience?

  • Explore one of the most beautiful lakes in Peru, with unique turquoise waters resulting from glacial melt.
  • Enjoy spectacular views of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes.
  • Ideal for connecting with nature and Andean culture, experiencing the spirituality of the apus.
  • Accessible hike for people with moderate physical condition, with a duration of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Opportunity to take memorable photographs in one of the most spectacular settings in the Cusco region.
  • Observation of Andean fauna such as llamas, alpacas, and, with luck, the majestic Andean condor in its natural habitat.

Tour Description

HUMANTAY LAGOON TOUR Discover the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a natural treasure hidden in the Andes of Cusco. At 4,200 meters above sea level and at the foot of the majestic Salkantay snow-capped mountain, this tour combines spectacular landscapes, fresh air, and adventure-filled hikes. Perfect for those seeking a connection with nature and unforgettable views in a single day. The hike, though challenging, is rewarded with the sight of its turquoise waters reflecting the sky and mountains. It is an experience that revitalizes the spirit and leaves you with spectacular memories and photographs.

Things you should know about this tour

Full Day Humantay – Between Glaciers and Lagoons

Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes by visiting Laguna Humantay, a turquoise gem surrounded by towering glaciers.

  • TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • Layered Clothing: Thermal clothing, fleece, and windbreaker/waterproof jacket. Temperatures are cold throughout the day, especially in the morning.
  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots or sports shoes with good grip and support. The terrain can be wet and rocky.
  • Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, cap or hat with visor. Solar radiation is intense at altitude.
  • Cash: Bring soles for horse rental (optional, approximately S/50-80), voluntary tips, and personal purchases.
  • Hydration: 1.5 to 2 liter water bottle. Staying hydrated is crucial during high-altitude hiking.
  • Backpack: 20-30 liter backpack to carry water, snacks, camera, extra clothing, and personal items for the full day.
  • Camera or Cell Phone: Essential to capture Humantay Lake with its turquoise waters, Salkantay snow-capped mountain, Andean fauna, and high mountain landscapes. Bring extra battery.
  • Medications: Altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills) are highly recommended. Also bring personal medications.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures (0-10°C) during the morning and tour. It may be sunny at midday. Bring warm jacket and windbreaker.
  • Documents: Original ID or Passport (mandatory) and cash in soles.
  • Acclimatization: Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour. Drink coca tea and avoid excessive efforts in the days prior.
  • Physical Condition: Acceptable physical condition required. The hike is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes with moderate ascent. Prior preparation recommended.
  • Rainy Season: If traveling between November and March, bring poncho or waterproof jacket. Trails can be muddy.
  • Snacks: Bring energy snacks (chocolates, dried fruits, cereal bars) to consume during the hike.
  • Trekking Poles: Optional but recommended for greater stability on irregular terrain and descents.
  • Coca Leaves: Bring coca leaves to make offerings at the lake (Andean tradition) and to chew during the ascent.
  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • Is it necessary to have prior experience in high-altitude hiking? It is not mandatory, but this tour has a moderate difficulty level due to the altitude (up to 4,200 m.a.s.l.) and the duration of the hike (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes). It is recommended to have acceptable physical condition and be acclimatized to the altitude to fully enjoy the experience.
  • What does this tour include? It includes tourist transportation from/to your hotel in Cusco, certified multilingual professional guide (Spanish, English, Portuguese), breakfast in the town of Mollepata, buffet lunch in Mollepata, and assistance throughout the entire tour.
  • What services are NOT included? Optional additional entrance fees, voluntary tips for guide and driver, extra beverages (soft drinks, alcoholic beverages), dinner, or additional personal expenses such as horse rental (optional for the ascent) are not included.
  • How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts a full day, approximately 12 hours. The maximum altitude is 4,200 m.a.s.l. at Humantay Lake. Pick-up is at approximately 4:00 a.m. and return to Cusco is around 6:00 p.m.
  • How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 2 days before the tour to properly acclimatize to the altitude. The maximum altitude of the tour is 4,200 m.a.s.l., so good acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
  • What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit the impressive Humantay Lake, with turquoise waters formed by glacial melt, located at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped mountain. You will also pass through the community of Soraypampa (starting point of the hike), the Salkantay snow-capped mountain (sacred mountain visible during the tour), and the traditional town of Mollepata where you will enjoy breakfast and lunch. During the hike, you can observe llamas, alpacas, and, with luck, the majestic Andean condor.
  • IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
  • Total duration: Full day (approximately 12 hours).
  • Departure: Approximately 4:00 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
  • Maximum altitude: 4,200 m.a.s.l. (Humantay Lake).
  • Difficulty level: Moderate (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes hike).
  • Documentation: It is mandatory to carry original ID or Passport.
  • Acclimatization: Recommended to stay at least 2 days in Cusco to adapt to the altitude.
  • Guide language: Multilingual (Spanish, English, and Portuguese subject to availability).
  • Service type: Group or private with comfortable tourist transportation.
  • Meals: Breakfast in Mollepata and buffet lunch in Mollepata included.
  • Entrance fees: Entrance to Humantay Lake included in the tour.
  • Restrictions: Acceptable physical condition required. Not recommended for people with severe cardiac or respiratory problems.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures in the morning and during the tour; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
  • Attire: Comfortable layered clothing; trekking boots or sports shoes with good grip recommended.
  • Optional: Horse rental available for the ascent (additional payment on site).
  • End time: Return to Cusco approximately at 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes by visiting Laguna Humantay, a turquoise gem surrounded by towering glaciers.

This map shows the route from Cusco to Soraypampa and the climb to Laguna Humantay. It covers high passes, glacial valleys, and natural viewpoints on a short but intense route, with stunning views of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain and the crystal-clear lagoon.

Map of the Route to Humantay Lagoon – Full Day Andean Tour

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service
Price Book
Shared Service Price per traveler
$32.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$85.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$78.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$70.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

+51 950 738 710 | +51 964 328 857

info@atvrainbowmountain.com
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1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?

  • ● Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
  • ● No prior experience required
  • ● Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
  • ● An exciting and different experience
  • ● Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
  • ● Horseback or trekking options
  • ● Daily departures all year round
  • ● Oxygen support and first-aid kit

2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

  • ● We are tour operators in Cusco
  • ● Professional and responsible work
  • ● 100% tourist vehicles
  • ● Safety for our visitors
  • ● Your trip will be the best experience
  • ● 100% responsible
  • ● Care for the environment
  • ● Commitment to service quality