Embark on the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon Hike, a full-day adventure from Cusco that takes you deep into the Andes to one of Peru’s most stunning alpine lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and fed by glacial waters, Humantay Lake amazes visitors with its brilliant turquoise color and peaceful mountain setting. The hike begins from Soraypampa and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, climbing steadily through high-altitude trails with unforgettable views.
Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, the hike to Humantay Lagoon combines physical challenge with natural beauty. This tour is ideal for acclimatization before visiting Machu Picchu or as a memorable stand-alone experience. Discover why the Humantay Lagoon full-day tour is a must-do in the Cusco region—scenic, spiritual, and absolutely Instagram-worthy.
Humantay Lagoon Hike – Overview
The Humantay Lagoon hike is a full-day excursion that begins in Cusco and leads to one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Andes. Set in a picturesque location below the imposing Humantay Mountain, this turquoise lagoon is a popular destination thanks to its crystal-clear waters and stunning glacial backdrop. The hike offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and physical challenge, making it perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers wanting to explore Peru's high-altitude landscapes beyond Machu Picchu.
This trek is suitable for most travellers with a reasonable level of fitness and provides a unique opportunity to experience the peaceful serenity of the Andes. Champions Peru Travel is proud to offer a comprehensive tour package, including early morning pick-up and expert guides. Our guests can expect a day filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural insights and unforgettable memories. Whether you are looking to acclimatise before visiting Machu Picchu or simply enjoy a stunning hike, the Humantay Lagoon tour is an essential part of any Peru itinerary.
Humantay Lagoon Hike – Tour at a Glance
Duration: Full-day tour (approximately 10 hours)
Departure: Daily, with early hotel pick-up between 4:00 and 4:30 AM
Includes: Transport from Cusco, breakfast, lunch, bilingual guide, entrance fees
Difficulty: Moderate – a steady 1.5 to 2-hour uphill hike at high altitude (4,200+ meters)
Highlights: Spectacular Humantay Lagoon, snow-capped mountains, Andean flora and fauna, breathtaking views
Why Visit or Hike Humantay Lagoon?
The Humantay Lagoon hike is an essential experience for nature lovers seeking stunning high-Andean scenery, conveniently located just a few hours from Cusco. This turquoise alpine lake, fed by glacier melt, is set within a dramatic landscape of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain, creating a peaceful yet awe-inspiring setting. The hike itself offers a perfect blend of physical challenge and visual reward, providing breathtaking panoramas and an opportunity to experience Peru's natural beauty and spiritual landscapes.
Is It Better to Visit Before or After Machu Picchu?
Most travellers find the Humantay Lagoon hike a beneficial experience prior to visiting Machu Picchu. This hike helps your body acclimate to the high altitude of the Andes, which can make your visit to Machu Picchu more comfortable and enjoyable. It is recommended that you spend a few days in Cusco before either tour to allow for acclimatisation. Your guide at Champions Peru Travel will assist you in planning the most suitable schedule, taking into account your itinerary and health requirements.
Is This Hike for Me?
If you possess a moderate level of fitness and are comfortable with uphill walking at high altitude, this hike is ideal. While not overly challenging, the ascent to the lagoon is steady and can be physically demanding due to the elevation (over 4,200 metres). The trail is well-maintained, and our experienced guides from Champions Peru Travel provide support and encouragement throughout, ensuring a safe and rewarding experience.
Itinerary – Humantay Lagoon Hike
Your adventure begins with an early hotel pick-up in Cusco at 4:00 AM, where you’ll meet your professional guide and drive toward the village of Mollepata. This scenic 3-hour drive takes you through the peaceful Andes, passing traditional communities and panoramic valleys as the sun rises. In Mollepata, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the hike. After breakfast, the journey continues to Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), the starting point of the Humantay Lagoon hike.
From Soraypampa, the hike begins with a steady uphill trail that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, native flora, and stunning mountain views. Upon arrival at Humantay Lagoon, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of its mesmerizing turquoise waters set against the glacier of Humantay Mountain. Here, your guide will share the cultural and spiritual significance of the lagoon, and you’ll have free time to take photos, rest, or simply soak in the serenity of this high-altitude paradise.
After enjoying the Humantay Lake, we’ll begin the descent back to Soraypampa, where our transport will be waiting. We’ll return to Mollepata for a well-deserved lunch made with fresh local ingredients. After lunch, we’ll head back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM. The full-day Humantay Lagoon tour is ideal for travelers who want a short but unforgettable escape into nature. With Champions Peru Travel, you’ll experience this magical place with comfort, expert guidance, and genuine connection to the land.