Humantay Lagoon Tour from Cusco | 1-Day Hike
Overview
Discover one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Cusco, Peru, with our spectacular tour to Humantay Lagoon. Located at the foot of the imposing Salkantay mountain, this turquoise gem is formed by the mountain's meltwater, creating an environment of unparalleled beauty.
This excursion is the perfect option for nature lovers and adventure hikers who don't have many days but want to experience the majesty of the Andes during their trip to Cusco. Along the route, we'll pass through picturesque villages, lush valleys, and high mountains, surrounded by wonderful Andean flora and fauna.
Join this unforgettable experience, discover one of Cusco's top tourist attractions, and recharge your energy at the base of one of Peru's most sacred mountains. Secure your spot and experience a great mountain adventure just a few hours from the city!
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Trekking to Humantay Lagoon and Nevado Salkantay
Our tour to the breathtaking Humantay Lagoon begins early in the morning to make the most of the day and the stunning views of the Andes.
Pick-up and Travel to Mollepata
We begin by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:45 and 5:30 a.m. From there, we'll travel northwest of the city to the charming town of Mollepata, nestled in the lush Apurímac River Valley. Here, we'll enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the day.
Arrival at Soraypampa and Hike
We'll continue our journey by transport to the Soraypampa campsite (located at 3900 meters above sea level). After a short rest, we'll begin our adventurous hike to the lagoon. We'll start a continuous ascent of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes through spectacular Andean landscapes.
Exploring Humantay Lagoon
We'll reach our destination at 4200 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, you'll be able to appreciate this marvelous landscape of turquoise waters at the foot of the Salkantay mountain. Our professional guide will provide a full explanation, and you'll have ample free time to explore the area, take memorable photographs, and connect with nature.
Return and Arrival in Cusco
After enjoying this magical natural setting, we'll descend along the same trail back to our campsite in Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch. Afterward, we'll board our transport back to the city of Cusco. The service will conclude with drop-off in the city center (very close to the main Plaza de Armas).
What's Included?
Included
- Hotel pick-up.
- Round-trip tourist transportation.
- Bilingual professional guide (Spanish/English).
- Meals: 1 breakfast and 1 lunch.
- Entrance to Humantay Lagoon.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
Not Included
- Horse transport (optional available during the walk).
- Tips.
- Extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations
- Bring your original passport or national identity card.
- Bring cash (useful for unexpected expenses or if you wish to rent horses).
- Bring a small backpack for your belongings during the trek.
- Wear suitable and comfortable trekking shoes for the mountains.
- Wear warm clothing and a hat or cap for sun protection.
- Use sunscreen and sunglasses at all times.
- Bring any personal medication (if you take any regularly).
- Bring an extra battery for your camera.
- Bring light snacks and water for the ascent.
FAQs
It's a full-day excursion. It starts very early, picking you up between 4:45 and 5:30 in the morning, and ends in the afternoon with a return to the center of Cusco.
The trek up from the Soraypampa camp to the lagoon takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your physical pace.
The highest point of the route is Laguna Humantay itself, which is located 4,200 meters above sea level (masl). The Soraypampa base camp is at 3900 meters above sea level.
Yes, the program is designed for your comfort and includes 1 breakfast in the town of Mollepata and 1 restorative lunch after descending from the lagoon.
If you feel that the ascent on foot is too demanding, you have the option of renting horse transport directly from the local villagers at the start of the trek (this service is not included in the tour price).
The return transport will end its route by dropping you off at a central point in the city, very close to the main Plaza de Armas, to facilitate your return to your accommodation.