A long, early-day drive from Cusco ends with a short but steep climb to Humantay Lake — a vivid glacial pool beneath Salkantay. This small-group day trip balances accessible hiking with alpine scenery and cultural stops en route.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before dawn a private van eases out of Cusco and the road unwinds toward the high pastures of the Apurímac valley. By midmorning you stand at Soraypampa (≈4,000 m), the air thin and sharp, and the trail narrows into a steady climb that pushes you up through grasslands and scree toward a bowl of vivid blue: Humantay Lake.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–14 hours (total trip); ~3 hours hiking
Fitness Level
Should have moderate fitness: able to sustain 300–350 m of uphill over 1.5 hours at high altitude.
Wildlife
History
The Salkantay corridor was a pre-Columbian route connecting highland communities and sits adjacent to Inca pathways toward Machu Picchu; nearby villages retain Quechua language and customs.
Conservation
The area is fragile alpine tundra; stick to established trails, pack out waste, and avoid disturbing wildlife or touching the glacier-fed shoreline.
Reserve your spot on the Small-Group Humantay Lake Day Trip with Breakfast and Lunch today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend at least 24–48 hours in Cusco to reduce risk of altitude sickness before attempting the hike to 4,300 m.
Hydrate and snack often
Carry 1–2 liters of water and high-energy snacks; sipping frequently helps with altitude and the steady climb.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trail is rocky and uneven; ankle-supporting hiking boots give confidence on the ascent and the descent.
Start early and dress in layers
Temperatures swing quickly—sunny and warm in the valley, very cold and windy by the lake—so layer for flexibility.
Water (1–2 L)
Hydration is essential at high altitude to reduce fatigue and headaches.
Sturdy hiking boots
Good traction and ankle support help on rocky, uneven trail sections.
Insulating jacket and wind shell
Cold winds and rapid temperature changes near the lake make layers a must.
Trekking poles
Useful for balance on the ascent and to ease impact on the descent.