This route is perfect for nature lovers with limited time who still want to experience spectacular landscapes, exotic flora, and native fauna. The hike passes through beautiful valleys and mountains, leading to one of the most sacred lakes and peaks in the region — Humantay Lake.
Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
Our agency, Viajes Puma, will pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 AM, then head toward the town of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a traditional local breakfast.
After breakfast, we continue by bus to Soraypampa, the starting point of our hike. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Andean valleys and ravines.
Once we arrive in Soraypampa, your guide will give you time to prepare your gear — trekking poles, water, and personal backpacks — before beginning the 1.5-hour uphill hike to Humantay Lake, located at 4,250 meters above sea level.
At the lake, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the natural beauty and positive energy that radiates from this sacred place, nestled beneath the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.
Your guide will also share a demonstration of coca leaf offerings and lead a small ceremony to the Apus (sacred mountain spirits), in which you’ll be invited to participate.
After taking in the scenery, we return on foot to Soraypampa, where our bus will be waiting. From there, we drive back to Mollepata for a delicious lunch before returning to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
Get ready for a magical experience at one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders: Humantay Lake. Hidden among the towering peaks of the Andes and fed by the melting glaciers of Mount Salkantay, this turquoise lagoon looks like something out of a dream.
Our tour will take you through spectacular Andean landscapes, where nature displays its full glory. We’ll hike along scenic trails surrounded by mountains, breathe pure air, and finally arrive at this natural treasure — a sacred site for ancient cultures, ideal for reconnecting with the energy of Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Perfect for lovers of adventure, photography, and nature, this journey is an experience you’ll never forget.
We start early with hotel pickup in Cusco to begin our journey into the northern Andes while enjoying the Andean sunrise.
During this 2.5-hour drive, you’ll see spectacular highland landscapes. Upon arrival in Mollepata, we’ll stop to enjoy a hearty breakfast and acclimate to the altitude.
We continue by transport to Soraypampa (3,900 m), the starting point of the hike.
We begin a gradual uphill hike of approximately 1.5 hours with incredible views along the way. Upon arrival at Humantay Lake (4,200 m), you’ll have free time to rest, take photos, and connect with nature.
Enjoy this magical place, surrounded by snowy peaks and turquoise water — perfect for meditation, photography, or simply appreciating the landscape.
We calmly descend back to the transportation point.
Recharge with a traditional Andean lunch.
After lunch, we return to Cusco, with estimated arrival between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. and drop-off at your hotel.
The Humantay Lake full-day tour was an unforgettable journey. The early start was challenging, but the serene beauty of the lake made it all worthwhile. The tour was well-organized, and the guide was both knowledgeable and supportive. A must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Cusco.
