Nestled high in the Andes, Laguna Humantay beckons adventurers seeking a breathtaking natural escape. This full-day tour from Cusco offers the chance to take in the stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by the majestic Salkantay mountains. Beginning with a hearty breakfast, the journey unfolds through picturesque landscapes, culminating in a rewarding hike and a delectable lunch. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that just might leave you longing for more.

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Key Points

The tour starts with hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, followed by a 2-hour bus ride to Mollepata for breakfast.
After breakfast, the group takes a 1-hour bus drive to Soraypampa, followed by a 1.5-hour hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters.
The return walk to Soraypampa takes 1 hour, followed by a 1-hour lunch in Mollepata before heading back to Cusco’s historic center.
The tour includes hotel pickup, tourist transport, buffet breakfast and lunch, bilingual guide, trekking poles, and oxygen ball, with entrance tickets covered.
The tour is suitable for travelers aged 10-70 with moderate fitness levels, but not recommended for those under 10, over 70, or with certain health conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour to Laguna Humantay starts with a pick-up from hotels in Cusco’s Centro Histórico between 4:30 and 5:00 AM.

Guests are picked up from hotels in Cusco’s Centro Histórico between 4:30 and 5:00 AM to begin the tour to Laguna Humantay.

After the 2-hour bus ride to Mollepata District, guests enjoy a 1-hour breakfast before continuing to Soraypampa.

Following a 10-minute break, hikers embark on a 1.5-hour trek to the stunning turquoise Humantay Lake, nestled at 4,200 meters above sea level.

The return walk to Soraypampa takes 1 hour, followed by a 1-hour lunch in Mollepata District.

The tour wraps up with the return to Cusco‘s Centro Histórico.

The entire experience lasts 1 day and is offered in Spanish and English.

Looking for more options in Soraypampa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary and Highlights

After the hotel pickup in Cusco’s historic center, guests embark on the 2-hour bus ride to Mollepata District, where they enjoy a hearty 1-hour breakfast.

Next, they board the bus for a 1-hour drive to Soraypampa. Following a 10-minute break, guests begin the 1.5-hour hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, surrounded by the snow-capped Salkantay mountains.

The return walk to Soraypampa takes 1 hour. Finally, guests have a 1-hour lunch in Mollepata District before the journey back to Cusco’s historic center.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup, tourist transport, buffet breakfast and lunch, a professional bilingual guide, trekking poles, and an oxygen ball.

Entrance tickets are also covered, costing s/20 for foreigners and s/10 for nationals.

Entrance tickets are covered, costing s/20 for foreigners and s/10 for nationals.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, individuals with altitude sickness, low fitness levels, those over 70, or pregnant women.

Alcohol, drugs, and drones aren’t allowed.

Horse rental is available at s/80 but must be arranged in local currency before the hike.

Visitors are advised to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days prior to the tour.

Difficulty Level and Recommendations

Although the tour to Laguna Humantay may not be suitable for everyone, it offers an unforgettable experience for those with a moderate fitness level. The hike to the turquoise lagoon is considered moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of over 1,300 meters. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operator has outlined the following recommendations:

| Criteria | Suitable | Not Suitable |

|———-|———–|————–|

| Age | 10-70 years old | Under 10, over 70 |

| Fitness | Moderate | Low |

| Health | Altitude adapted | Altitude sickness, heart problems, pregnancy |

Proper acclimatization, appropriate gear, and responsible behavior are essential for a successful trip to Laguna Humantay.

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Hotel Pick-up and Transport

The tour begins with a hotel pick-up from your accommodation in Centro Histórico, located in Cusco’s historic district.

Between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, a tour bus will arrive to transport you to the Mollepata District, which is about a 2-hour drive from Cusco.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Andes mountains.

Upon arrival in Mollepata, you’ll have time for a buffet breakfast before continuing the journey to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike to Laguna Humantay.

The total drive time from Cusco to the trailhead is approximately 3 hours.

Breakfast and Lunch Details

After the hotel pick-up, travelers enjoy a buffet breakfast in the Mollepata District. The breakfast provides energy for the day’s activities, with a variety of local and international dishes.

Following the breakfast, the group boards the bus for the 1-hour ride to Soraypampa. Here, they’ll have a 10-minute break before beginning the 1.5-hour hike to Laguna Humantay.

After the hike, the group returns to Mollepata District for a 1-hour lunch, featuring Peruvian cuisine. The buffet-style lunch ensures all travelers’ dietary needs are met before the return journey to Cusco.

Photographic Opportunities

One of the top highlights of the Laguna Humantay tour is the opportunity to capture awe-inspiring photographs of the turquoise lagoon and the snow-capped Salkantay mountains in the background.

The Laguna Humantay tour offers the chance to capture stunning photos of the turquoise lagoon and snow-capped Salkantay mountains.

The scenic hike to the lagoon (4,200 masl/13,779 ft) offers:

Panoramic vistas of the stunning natural landscape.
Reflections of the mountains on the tranquil waters of the lagoon.
Close-up shots of the vibrant colors and textures of the surrounding rock formations.
Unique perspectives of the local flora and fauna in their picturesque Inca region environment.

Practical Information and Policies

Visitors should note that the Laguna Humantay tour isn’t suitable for all travelers.

Children under 10, individuals with altitude sickness, low fitness levels, those over 70, or those with heart problems or pregnant women aren’t recommended to participate.

Guests are advised to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before the tour. Proper attire, including gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, hiking shoes, and warm clothing, is essential.

Alcohol, drugs, and drones are prohibited. Horse rental must be arranged in local currency before the hike.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a buffet breakfast and lunch, and outside food and beverages are not allowed. Bringing your own provisions would go against the tour’s policies.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but travelers can request minor changes by contacting the tour operator in advance. The standard itinerary is set to provide an optimal Laguna Humantay experience.

Do You Provide Any Gear for the Hike Besides Trekking Poles?

Yes, the tour provider supplies trekking poles and an oxygen ball for the hike. Hikers should also bring their own gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, hiking shoes, hat, and warm clothing as recommended.

Can I Leave Early or Stay Longer at the Lake?

Guests cannot leave early or stay longer at the lake. The itinerary is fixed, and the group must follow the schedule. Deviating from the planned route isn’t allowed as it could disrupt the logistics and experience for the entire group.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour With Additional Activities?

There don’t seem to be any options to extend the tour or add additional activities. The itinerary appears fixed, with a set duration and schedule. Staying longer at the lake or leaving early isn’t mentioned as a possibility.

Sum Up

This tour to Laguna Humantay from Cusco provides an unforgettable adventure. It offers stunning natural beauty, a hearty breakfast, and a delicious lunch, making it an ideal excursion for those seeking to experience the breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness of the region. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a moderate hike, it’s a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Peru’s Andes.