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Humantay Lagoon Full Day · Recoleta Cusco
Mountains & Lagoons · Full day · ≈ 13 h

Humantay Lagoon Full Day

A turquoise glacier lake at 4,200 m at the foot of the Humantay snow peak. Short, steep hike from Soraypampa with breakfast and lunch in Mollepata.

DurationFull day · ≈ 13 h
Pick-up04:00
DifficultyChallenging
Max. altitude4,200 m
Groupmax. 20 people

Overview

Humantay Lagoon is one of the most photographed places in the Andes: an intense turquoise lake fed by the glacier of Apu Humantay (5,473 m), sacred to the local communities. It is the first stop of the Salkantay Trek and a perfect day trip to test yourself at altitude.

How hard is the hike?

About 1.5 hours up from Soraypampa (3,900 m) on a steep but well-marked path and 1 hour down (≈ 7 km round trip).

Highlights

  • Turquoise glacier lake at 4,200 m
  • Apu Humantay snow peak (5,473 m) as backdrop
  • Views of the Salkantay massif
  • Breakfast and lunch in Mollepata

Tour plan

  1. 04:00Pick-up

    Pick-up at the hostel and drive west through Izcuchaca and Limatambo.

  2. 06:30Breakfast in Mollepata

    Breakfast and continue to Soraypampa (3,900 m), the trailhead.

    2.5 h drive
  3. 09:00Hike to Humantay Lagoon

    1.5-hour climb to the lagoon, free time for photos and offerings, and 1-hour descent.

    ≈ 7 km round trip · max. 4,200 m
  4. 13:30Lunch and return

    Lunch in Mollepata and return to Cusco around 5:30 p.m.

Included

  • Tourist transport (round trip)
  • 1 breakfast and 1 lunch
  • Professional guide
  • First-aid kit and emergency oxygen

Not included

  • Mollepata + Humantay entrance fee (S/ 20)
  • Horse ride (optional, paid on site)
  • Tips

What to bring

  • Warm layers (fleece + windproof jacket)
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
  • Gloves and beanie
  • 1–1.5 L of water and snacks
  • Cash in soles for entrance fees and extras
  • Passport or ID

Important: Bring cash for the S/ 20 entrance fee. Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.

Your questions, answered

01What time does the Humantay Lagoon Full Day start?

Pick-up is at 04:00 from Recoleta Hostel (or your hotel in the historic centre). Be ready in the lobby 10 minutes before.

02How difficult is it?

Challenging because of the altitude; spend at least 2 days in Cusco before. The highest point is about 4,200 m above sea level.

03Can I pay online and get a confirmation?

Yes. Book on this page and pay securely by card (Izipay or BBVA), PayPal or Yape. You receive the confirmation by email immediately.

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