Humantay Lake is one of the most beautiful turquoise lakes
in Peru. Located at 4,200 meters above sea level beneath
the mighty Salkantay glacier, this sacred Andean lake is
a must-visit near Cusco.
💎 WHY VISIT HUMANTAY LAKE?
✔ Stunning turquoise glacial lake
✔ Sacred site for Andean communities
✔ Spectacular views of Salkantay glacier
✔ Easier hike than Rainbow Mountain
✔ Perfect for photography
✔ Authentic Andean experience
📍 ABOUT HUMANTAY LAKE
Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay) sits at 4,200 meters above
sea level at the foot of Salkantay Mountain (6,271m).
The lake gets its incredible turquoise color from glacial
meltwater from the Salkantay glacier above.
For Andean communities this lake is a sacred Apu — a
mountain spirit that must be respected and honored.
📅 ITINERARY
4:30am — Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
7:00am — Breakfast at Soraypampa
7:30am — Start of the hike (3,900m)
9:30am — Arrive at Humantay Lake (4,200m)
10:00am — Free time at the lake
10:30am — Traditional Andean offering ceremony
11:30am — Descend to Soraypampa
12:30pm — Buffet lunch
5:00pm — Return to Cusco
🥾 DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Moderate
Distance: 4km round trip
Altitude: 4,200 meters above sea level
Duration: 2-3 hours hiking
Perfect for beginners and families.
🗺️ WHAT YOU WILL SEE
✔ Stunning turquoise glacial lake
✔ Salkantay glacier panoramic views
✔ Andean alpacas and llamas
✔ Traditional Quechua communities
✔ High altitude Andean landscape
✔ Sacred mountain Apu ceremony
✅ WHAT IS INCLUDED
✔ Private transport from Cusco
✔ Breakfast buffet
✔ Buffet lunch
✔ Professional bilingual guide
✔ First aid kit and oxygen
✔ Walking sticks
✔ Entrance ticket
❌ NOT INCLUDED
✘ Horse rental (optional S/.60.00)
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Tips
✘ Personal expenses
💡 IMPORTANT TIPS
✔ Acclimatize in Cusco 2 days before
✔ Bring warm layers — cold at the lake
✔ Wear comfortable hiking boots
✔ Bring sunscreen SPF50+
✔ Stay hydrated throughout
✔ Bring camera — incredible photos
✔ Respect the sacred lake
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How difficult is the Humantay Lake hike?
The hike is moderate — easier than Rainbow Mountain.
The trail is 4km round trip with steady elevation gain.
What altitude is Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake is at 4,200 meters above sea level.
Acclimatization in Cusco is recommended before the hike.
Can I ride a horse to Humantay Lake?
Yes — horses are available at the trailhead for S/.60.
This is a great option for those who find altitude difficult.
What is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The dry season from May to October is best.
Clear skies give the most vivid turquoise color.
How far is Humantay Lake from Cusco?
Humantay Lake is approximately 90km from Cusco.
The drive takes about 2.5 hours each way.
Is Humantay Lake better than Rainbow Mountain?
Both are spectacular but different experiences.
Humantay Lake is easier and less crowded.
Rainbow Mountain is higher and more dramatic.
🎒 BOOK YOUR HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR NOW
TripCusco is your local expert agency in Cusco since 2018.
Daily departures available.
📞 WhatsApp: +51 973 309 975
🌐 www.tripcusco.com
Considerada uno de los lugares más bellos del Cusco, la Laguna Humantay está situada a 4,200 msnm al norte de la ciudad. Sus aguas turquesas te hechizarán y harán que quieras volver. Itinerario: 4:00am salida desde tu hotel → 7:30am desayuno buffet → 8:30am inicio de la caminata → 11:45am regreso al bus → 1:30pm almuerzo buffet → 4:00pm regreso a Cusco.