Humantay Lagoon Hike

Geography Humantay Lagoon Hike.

• Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level.
• The Color: Its striking turquoise hue comes from rock flour (fine mineral dust) created by glacial erosion. These particles remain suspended in the water and scatter sunlight, reflecting that vibrant blue-green color.
• Source: The lake is fed entirely by the melting glaciers of the Humantay Mountain. Because of this, the water is freezing (around 5°C / 41°F).

The Hike (Soraypampa to the Lake)

The trek is short but steep, often described as “short and punchy.”

• Distance: Approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) one way.
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours up; about 1 hour down.
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (not due to distance, but due to the thin air and steep incline).
• Pro Tip: If you struggle with the ascent, local community members offer horse rentals at the start of the trail in Soraypampa (approx. 80–100 Soles).

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

In Andean cosmology, the mountains (Apus) are living deities.

• “Head of Gods”: In Quechua, Humantay translates to “The Head of the Gods.”
• Offerings: You will see many apachetas (stone towers) around the lake. These are made by travelers and locals as a “Pagapu” (offering) to the Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus to ask for protection.
• Legend: Local myth says the lake was formed by the tears of the Salkantay mountain during a story of forbidden love between the Salkantay and Ausangate peaks.

Humantay Lagoon Hike – Travel Guide for 2026

Essential Packing List – Humantay Lagoon Hike

• Layers: It can be freezing at sunrise and quite hot during the steep climb.
• Sun Protection: At 4,200m, the UV rays are extremely strong—even on cloudy days.
• Water & Coca Leaves: To help with the altitude.
• Cash: Small bills for the entrance fee, restrooms, and snacks (cards are not accepted).

Humantay Lagoon Hike Tips

• Acclimatize in Cusco for 2–3 days beforehand.
• Bring: Water, snacks, sun protection, rain gear, cash (for toilets, horse rental, tips).
• Watch for altitude sickness. Coca tea and slow pacing help.

HUMANTAY LAGOON HIKE.

In this inspiring spot in the Mollepata district (Anta), the melting snows of Humantay create a fantastic landscape accessible by hiking (it’s part of the Salkantay route). Here, the scenery is breathtaking, allowing you to enjoy and feel the energy of nature. We have many activities to offer in this area.

ITINERARY:

We will pick you up from your hotel at 4:10 a.m. and continue by bus to Mollepata. Here you can have breakfast at a local restaurant, and then we continue for an hour and a half along a dirt road to the Soraypampa campsite (3,800 m.a.s.l.). Here we can appreciate the immensity of two very important mountains for the Andean people: Apu Salkantay (6,200 m.a.s.l.) and Humantay (5,700 m.a.s.l.). We will begin a two-hour uphill hike to reach Humantay Lagoon (4,300 m.a.s.l.), located at the foot of the mountain of the same name.

There you will have ample time to explore the area, take photographs, and participate in a small ceremony of respect to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the mountain. We will return along the same path to the Soraypampa campsite, where we will have lunch and then board our transport back to the city of Cusco. Approximate arrival time: 6:00 p.m.

Recommendation:

• Acclimate in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,200 ft): Spend at least 2 days before the hike to avoid altitude sickness.
• Prep Gear: Warm layers, waterproof jacket, hiking boots, gloves, sunglasses, snacks, coca leaves/candy, water, and sunscreen.
• Book Tour: Choose a reputable tour operator (private or group). Confirm early pickup, breakfast/lunch included, oxygen availability.
• Weather varies: Rain, or fog can obscure the mountain—check forecasts but know it’s unpredictable.

SERVICES INCLUDED:

• Hotel pick-up
• Round-trip tourist transportation: Cusco – Soraypampa – Cusco
• Professional guide service
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Entrance fee to the protected area
• Walking sticks
• Oxygen bottle
• First aid kit
• Vegetarian/special diet options available

NOT INCLUDED:

• Extra Expenses
• Additional costs.
• Tips.

WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING:

• A small backpack
• Thermal clothing
• Hiking shoes
• Sun hat
• Warm jacket
• Gloves, hat, and scarf
• Sunscreen (SPF 70 recommended)
• Rain jacket/poncho (for safety)
• Toiletries

Price: Season 2026

Shared Service:

• Price per person U$. 50
• The approximate group is 15 people

Private & Personalized Service:

• Price per person U$ .150
• Minimum people 02 pax