A steep, high-altitude day trek from Soraypampa rewards hikers with the intense turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon and broad views of the Salkantay massif. This full-day tour from Cusco pairs transport, meals, and local guiding for a compact alpine experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin blue rim of water appears between shoulders of granite as you crest the final switchback—Humantay’s turquoise basin framed by snow-smudged peaks and wind-hardened tundra. The trail begins at Soraypampa (3,850 m) after a long drive from Cusco, then climbs a steep, stony path where every breath counts and the panorama opens with distance.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
13–15 hours (round-trip, door-to-door)
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and prior high-altitude hiking experience recommended; stair-climbing endurance helps.
Wildlife
History
Humantay sits within the broader Salkantay landscape, an area shaped by glaciation and historically traversed by Andean communities who made seasonal use of high pastures and sacred mountain rituals.
Conservation
The lagoon and surrounding puna are fragile; stay on marked trails, pack out waste, and avoid using soaps or leaving food scraps near water to protect water quality and wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Humantay Lagoon Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco before the trek to reduce altitude sickness risk and improve your ascent comfort.
Hydration and snacks
Carry 1–2 liters of water and energy bars—hard breathing at altitude burns more calories and dehydrates faster.
Sun and wind protection
Use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a windproof shell; the lake amplifies UV and wind chills increase quickly at the rim.
Pace the climb
Ascend slowly, taking short breaks; horses are available for part of the route if needed (approx. 90–180 soles).
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction on rocky, uneven trail and loose scree.
Warm insulating layers (fleece/down)
Summit temperatures often drop below freezing—pack an insulated jacket.
all
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
High-elevation UV is intense; reflected light from the lake increases exposure.
summer
Trekking poles
Help with balance on the ascent and reduce knee strain on the return.