A brisk, high-altitude ascent from Soraypampa rewards hikers with a striking turquoise lake framed by Salkantay’s snowfields. This full-day excursion blends cultural stops, steep alpine trail, and a short but demanding climb to Humantay’s rim.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the van into thin, cold air and a pale light that sharpens every ridge. Soraypampa parking lot opens onto a skeletal landscape where wind-edged tussocks and moraine direct your steps upward, and the silhouette of Humantay and Salkantay loom like old, slow gods. The trail climbs steadily—switchbacks, loose rock, the occasional muddy patch—until the lake appears: a bright turquoise bowl cupped against a band of glacial ice.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
10–14 hours (including transfers)
Fitness Level
Best for hikers with good cardiovascular fitness and prior high-altitude experience; regular trekking or running training recommended.
Wildlife
History
The area lies along traditional high-Andean routes used by Quechua communities; nearby archaeological sites speak to pre-Columbian pastoral life and Inca-era transit.
Conservation
The lake is sensitive to foot traffic and litter—stick to established paths, carry out all waste, and avoid leaving food scraps to protect local water quality.
Reserve your spot on the Laguna Humantay Full Day Trail today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend 48+ hours in Cusco doing easy activity to reduce altitude sickness risk—avoid heavy exertion the first day.
Bring sun protection
At 4,000+ m UV is intense—wide-brim hat, SPF 50 sunscreen, and quality sunglasses are necessary.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on the steep descent and help with balance on loose sections.
Pace for altitude
Walk slowly, take regular rests, and hydrate frequently—shortness of breath is normal but dizziness is not.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
High winds and rapid temperature drops make a warm mid-layer essential at the lake.
Trekking poles
Provide stability on steep, rocky slopes and reduce impact on knees during descent.
Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
Protects against intense alpine UV reflected off ice and water.
Sturdy hiking boots (water-resistant)
Good traction and ankle support are important on loose moraine and uneven trail.