Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek 7 Days
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US$ 1,170
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- Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco (Full Day)
Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco (Full Day)
DurationFull day
DifficultyModerate
Max. altitude4,200 m
Group sizeMax 16
- Tour type
- Adventure
- Languages
- EN / ES
- Starts in
- Cusco
- Ends in
- Cusco
Overview
The Full Day Humantay Lagoon Tour is the perfect escape for travelers who dream of mountain air, dramatic scenery, and the kind of natural beauty that feels almost untouched. The journey begins in the early morning as you leave Cusco behind and head into the high Andes, where the landscape opens into wide valleys and snowcapped peaks. By the time the hike begins, the surroundings already feel spectacular.
As you climb toward the lagoon, the experience becomes both energizing and deeply peaceful. The trail leads you higher into the mountains until the bright turquoise water of Humantay suddenly appears beneath towering glaciers, creating one of the most breathtaking scenes in the region. This is the kind of place that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and simply take it all in. The maximum altitude reached during this Full Day Humantay Lagoon Tour is approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a rewarding day in nature.
- Turquoise Humantay Lake at 4,200 m
- Views of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers
- Breakfast in Mollepata and buffet lunch
- Optional horse for the ascent
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day01
Full Day Lagoon Humantay Tour.
The call of the mountain is an early one. We’ll pick you up at 4 am from your hotel for the start of our Lake Humantay tour. Don't worry about breakfast; we drive for a couple of hours to Mollepata then Soraypampa (3,90…
What's included
Included
- Professional English Spanish Speaking Tour Guide
- Full Day Private Transportation
- Lunch For the Day
- Humantay Lagoon Permit
- 1 Breakfast
Not included
- Trekking poles
- Tips are not include for your guide, Chef, Driver (not obligatory)
Packing list and tips
- Original passport
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Layers of clothing and a warm jacket
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Small backpack and water bottle
- Some Peruvian soles in cash
Recommendations
Arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude.
Bring your original passport or a copy for the tour.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
Dress in layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons.
Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho.
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
Bring warm clothing for early morning temperatures.
Stay well hydrated during the hike.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the night before the tour.
Carry a small backpack for personal items and water.
Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for optional expenses.
Walk at your own pace and follow your guide’s instructions.
Respect nature and do not leave trash at the lagoon.
Important information and precautions
- This route goes above 4,000 m: spend at least two nights in Cusco before departure
- Tell us about any medical condition when you book; consult your doctor if you have heart or respiratory problems
- Weather in the high Andes changes quickly: the guide may adapt the route for safety
- Pickup is in the historic centre of Cusco; the exact time is confirmed at the briefing
Route map
- 1Cusco
- 2Mollepata
- 3Soraypampa
- 4Humantay Lake
Frequently asked questions
The Humantay Lake hike is considered moderate. The trail is short but uphill and reaches high altitude, which can make it challenging for some travelers. No technical trekking experience is required, but good physical condition and proper acclimatization in Cusco are recommended. Horses are usually available for rent if you need assistance during the ascent.
The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable and the lake shows its vibrant turquoise color. June, July, and August are the most popular months. March and November are also good options, with fewer visitors and occasional rain.
The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, depending on your pace. The descent usually takes around 1 hour. The total walking distance is short, but the altitude makes the hike more demanding than it appears.
You should bring hiking shoes, warm layered clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A small backpack, water, and snacks are recommended. Trekking poles are optional and can be helpful for stability, especially on the descent.
Yes, altitude sickness can affect some travelers, as Humantay Lake is located at over 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). To reduce the risk, acclimatize in Cusco before the tour, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and walk slowly. Coca tea is commonly offered to help with altitude adjustment.
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