Humantay Lake is one of the most photographed spots near Cusco: a bright turquoise lake fed by glacier melt, sitting below the Humantay peak. It is also one of the easiest big landscapes to see on a short trip because it can be done in a single day from the city.
What Humantay Lake Is
The lake lies in the Salkantay mountain area, in the same range as the trek that bears that name. Its color comes from fine mineral sediment carried by glacial meltwater. Many visitors leave small stone offerings, as the mountain is regarded as sacred in Andean tradition.
Who This Trip Is For — and Who It Isn't
✅ Good Fit If You...
- Want a big mountain landscape without camping
- Have one spare day in or near Cusco
- Have already spent a couple of days at altitude
- Can walk uphill steadily with breaks
❌ Consider Something Else If You...
- Have just arrived from sea level
- Have heart or breathing conditions (check with your doctor)
- Dislike long drives
- Want a multi-day trek, see Salkantay
How the Day Works
- 1Early Pickup and Drive
You are collected from your hotel before dawn for a scenic drive toward Mollepata and Soraypampa, with a breakfast stop on the way.
- 2Hike to the Lake
From the trailhead you climb steadily to the lake. Most people take around 1.5 hours with rest stops. You then have time at the shore for photos and quiet.
- 3Lunch and Return
You walk back down, enjoy a hot lunch, and return to Cusco in the late afternoon.
Altitude & Conditions
The dry season, roughly May to September, offers the clearest skies, though mornings are cold. The wet season brings cloud and mud, and the lake color is less vivid. Spend two or more days in Cusco first and read our best time to visit Peru guide. Pack using our packing list for Peru treks. If you prefer a color-rich alternative, compare it with Rainbow Mountain.
What's Included
Full-Day Excursion — From $100 per person
- Professional guide
- Meals and lunch
- Entrance ticket
- Private transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Humantay Lake?
The lake sits at roughly 4,200m (about 13,800 ft), so altitude is the main challenge rather than distance.
How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
From the Soraypampa trailhead it is typically about 1.5 hours up and around an hour down at a relaxed pace, on a steep but clear path.
Is Humantay Lake a good first hike in Peru?
It is better after at least two days in Cusco. Going straight from sea level is not recommended because of the altitude.
Can I combine Humantay with the Salkantay trek?
Yes. The Salkantay trek passes the Humantay turn-off, and many trekkers visit the lake as a side trip on Day 1 or Day 2.
What should I wear?
Layers, waterproof jacket, sun protection and sturdy shoes. See our packing list for Peru treks.