A private, door-to-door day trip from Cusco to Laguna Humantay. Hike 1–1.5 hours to a turquoise alpine lake beneath Salkantay with optional horses and local guiding.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the vehicle at Soraypampa and the air bites with altitude; the trail ahead threads between tussock grass and rocky scree, rising toward a bowl of water the color of a glacier’s memory. Humantay Lake sits at the lip of a cirque below the snow shoulders of Humantay and the brooding Salkantay, and the first sight of that turquoise basin often hushes even loud groups.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Approx. 13 hours (door-to-door)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to hike uphill for 1–2 hours at high altitude and tolerate sustained elevation.
Wildlife
History
The trail follows routes used by the Inca and their tambos; Tarawasi is an example of an administrative rest point tied to Pachacutec-era road networks.
Conservation
High-Andean plants and wetlands are fragile—stay on trail, avoid entering the lake often, and pack out all waste to protect fragile soils and water quality.
Reserve your spot on the Private tour to the Humantay lake - Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco doing light activity to reduce altitude sickness risk before this 4,200 m hike.
Start early for stable weather
Morning windows usually offer clear visibility and calmer winds—aim to depart Cusco before dawn.
Footwear and poles
Sturdy, treaded hiking boots and the provided poles make the steeper sections easier and safer.
Pack for quick temperature swings
Bring a windproof layer and a warm insulating midlayer—temperatures can drop rapidly after the sun sets.
Sturdy hiking boots
Grip and ankle support on rocky, sometimes slippery alpine trails.
Insulating jacket + wind shell
Layers protect against cold winds and rapid temperature drops at 4,000+m.
Water bottle (1.5–2L) and electrolytes
Hydration combats altitude effects and keeps energy steady on the climb.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50)
High UV at altitude makes strong sun protection essential even on cool days.