Humantay Lake: the Hike from Cusco
An hour and a half's climb to a glacial lake at 4,200 m
Humantay Lake is a glacial lake at about 4,200 meters, below the glacier of the same name and close to Salkantay, one of the highest peaks in Cusco. Its turquoise color comes from meltwater. You reach it from Soraypampa, at the end of the road that leaves Cusco through Mollepata, with a short but steep hike. It is an ideal day trip once you have spent a couple of days in Cusco and want high-mountain scenery without a multi-day trek.
Tours to Humantay
Operated by MachuPicchuCusco · Certified guides · Small groups · Book with confidence.
How the day goes
We leave Cusco before dawn and drive about three hours via Mollepata, stopping for breakfast. From Soraypampa the hour-and-a-half climb begins, zigzagging and fairly steep. At the top you have free time by the lake, with the glacier reflected in the water on still days. The descent is quicker; then we head back to Mollepata for a buffet lunch and you are in Cusco in the afternoon.
How hard is it?
It is a short hike, but steep and at altitude: you gain about 300 meters starting above 3,900. Ideally do it after two days in Cusco. Go at your own pace, take short breaks and drink water. Trekking poles help a lot on the way down, which has stretches of loose dirt; you can rent them there.
What to bring
Layers, because the morning is very cold and the climb warms you up; a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen. Shoes with good grip, water, a snack and soles in cash for the entrance and pole rental.
When to go
From April to October there are more clear days and the turquoise color shows best. In the rainy season the trail gets slippery and the glacier is often covered, although the tour still runs. Arriving early gives the best light on the lake.
