The Humantay Lagoon Tour 1 Day from Cusco is one of the most popular full-day hiking experiences in Peru. This tour takes you through beautiful Andean landscapes, traditional villages and impressive mountain scenery until reaching the famous turquoise Humantay Lake, located at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level. It is an ideal option for travelers who want a short adventure from Cusco without spending several days on a trek.
Humantay Lagoon, also known as Humantay Lake, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions near Cusco. Its turquoise color, created by minerals from the glaciers, makes it a perfect destination for photography, nature lovers and travelers looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience in the Andes.
What to Expect on the Humantay Lake Day Trip
This humantay lake day trip usually begins early in the morning with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco. After leaving the city, the route continues through the Andean countryside toward the town of Mollepata, where travelers can enjoy breakfast before continuing to the starting point of the hike.
The hike to Humantay Lagoon takes approximately one and a half to two hours, depending on your pace and physical condition. The trail is uphill, so it is recommended to walk slowly, drink water and take short breaks along the way. During the hike, you will enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, valleys and the impressive Salkantay snow-capped peak.
Once you arrive at the lagoon, you will have enough time to rest, take photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonder. Your guide will explain the importance of the area, its connection with the Andean mountains and the local traditions that still remain alive in the region.
Humantay Lagoon Tour from Cusco Itinerary
The humantay lagoon tour from Cusco is designed for travelers who have limited time but still want to experience one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. The tour includes transportation, local guidance and meals, making the experience comfortable and well organized from beginning to end.
Early pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Cusco.
Scenic drive through Andean villages and mountain landscapes.
Breakfast in the Mollepata area.
Transfer to the beginning of the hiking route.
Guided hike to Humantay Lagoon.
Free time to enjoy the views and take photos.
Return hike to the transportation point.
Lunch before returning to Cusco.
Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon or early evening.
Why Visit the Humantay Turquoise Lagoon?
The Humantay Turquoise Lagoon is a must-see destination for travelers visiting Cusco. Unlike longer trekking routes, this full-day tour allows you to experience high mountain landscapes in just one day. It is also a great option before or after visiting Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley or other adventure tours in the region.
The contrast between the turquoise water, the white glaciers and the rugged Andean mountains creates one of the most impressive views in Peru. For many travelers, this tour becomes one of the highlights of their trip to Cusco because it combines hiking, nature, culture and adventure in a single experience.
Recommendations for the Humantay Lagoon Tour
Because the lagoon is located at high altitude, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before taking the tour. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and makes the hike more enjoyable. You should bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, water and a rain jacket, especially during the rainy season.
The Humantay Lagoon Tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level. The hike is not extremely long, but the altitude and uphill trail can make it challenging. Walking at your own pace and following the guide’s recommendations will help you enjoy the experience safely.
Book Your Humantay Lagoon Tour 1 Day
If you are looking for a short and memorable adventure from Cusco, the Humantay Lagoon Tour 1 Day is an excellent choice. With local guidance, organized transportation and beautiful mountain views, this tour offers a complete experience for travelers who want to discover one of the most iconic natural attractions in the Andes.
Duration
1 Day
Type Tour
Moderate
Difficulty
Adventure
Guide
English, Spanish
Group size
02 Min - 15 Max
Maximum altitude
4,200 msnm
Cusco – Tour Laguna Humantay - Cusco
Get ready to visit the wonderful Humantay Turquoise Lagoon, a very popular tourist destination in Cusco!
Begin your adventure in Cusco. Your professional guide and tour guide assigned by Machupicchu Andes Tours will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00–4:30 a.m. (depending on the location of your hotel). You will then take a two-hour drive to the village of Mollepata, where you will have a brief stop to enjoy a buffet breakfast carefully prepared with local ingredients. You will also be able to use the restrooms here.
Afterwards, continue your journey to the community of Soraypampa, where you will begin the hike to the Humantay Glacial Lagoon. Along the way, you will experience the charm of nature: snow-capped mountains, deep valleys formed by small freshwater rivers, and finally, admire the beauty of the colorful Humantay Lagoon, breathe in the fresh air, and take plenty of photographs.
Afterward, take your tour vehicle back to the town of Mollepata and enjoy exquisite Peruvian cuisine. After a satisfying rest, continue your journey back to Cusco. Arrive in Cusco at approximately 6:00 PM.
For the best experience on the Humantay Lagoon 1-Day Tour, we recommend the following:
You must be in Cusco at least two days before the tour for better acclimatization.
Take altitude sickness pills before and upon arrival in Cusco.
Be in excellent physical condition.
Bring appropriate hiking clothing, warm clothing, and rain gear.
How to get there?
Pickup from your hotel or hostel in Cusco between 5:00–5:30 AM. The drive to the trailhead takes approximately 3 hours. Return to Cusco is in the afternoon, usually by 6:00–7:00 PM. Exact pickup time confirmed 24 hours before departure.
Salkantay Trek Reviews from Our Travelers
EXCELLENT
Based on 17 reviews
Posted on Tripadvisor
melany f
Verified
Hermoso
Todo fue muy lindo! Manuel y su esposa muy atentos y amables. La habitación muy cómoda, la cama también, la ducha realmente era con agua caliente (necesario para terminar un día largo del trekkinn)!! La cena y el desayuno fueron riquísimos! El lugar es hermoso, vistas increíbles!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Clara S
Verified
An extraordinary and amazing stay
We had the most incredible experience with our stay here. After a long and arduous day on the salkantay trek, especially going over the pass, arriving at Salkantay Hostel Challuay was the highlight of our day. Manuel greeted us with open arms and a nice smile and brought us to our clean and beautiful rooms with HOT water in the showers and views overlooking the valley right out our window and balconies. The dinner was amazing and delicious, as was breakfast, with spreads of chicken, rice, vegetables and then homemade pancakes and omelettes in the morning. We got the best night of sleep and could not have asked for a better place to stay on the Salkantay trek.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Hailey D
Verified
Perfect balance of independence & support
We are so thankful to Manuel for a wonderful time on the Salkantay Trek! My husband and I did the 4d/ 3n “independent” trek, and it proved to be a perfect balance of independence and support. There are very few “independent” trek options where a hiker can get support with transportation, accommodations, meals, and bag transport, plus a local contact, without having to hike with a group. Salkantay Hostel Peru’s “independent trek” fills this niche perfectly. It’s a fantastic value for what is included. Having completed it, I would happily pay more for the support I received. The planner in me felt a little nervous that I didn’t have a full picture of all the logistics ahead of time, but in time I found that Manuel took care of everything along the way. He seems to have connections all over the sacred valley, and made sure we were taken care of each step of the trek. We were treated with such kindness by each of his contacts in Soraypampa, Lucmabamba, and Hidroelectrica. And when we met Manuel at the hostel in Chaullay, he was so accommodating and kind. He answered all our questions, treated us like special guests, and even arranged for additional transport of our bag when we informed him that we didn’t plan to ride the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. Manuel is well connected in the area, and truly has a servant’s heart, so he will make sure you are happy. His genuineness, attentiveness, hospitality, and generosity made all the difference. We highly value and recommend Manuel and Salkantay Hostel Peru!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Claude R
Verified
Trek dans la cordillère de Vilcabamba, de Yanama à Vitcos
Nous venons de faire un trek dans la cordillère de Vilcabamba en compagnie de Manuel et de Jackie, à qui nous avons confié toute l’organisation et la logistique. Nous avions déjà fait appel à eux en août 2023 pour un trek d’une semaine combinant le Salkantay et Choquequirao. Que dire de Manuel et Jackie ? Leur professionnalisme et leur compétence n’ont d’égal que leur gentillesse. Toujours prêts à rendre service, disponibles, efficaces, responsables, discrets, donnant le meilleur d’eux-mêmes, bref des professionnels ayant véritablement (et naturellement) un sens aigu de la qualité de service tout en étant des personnes bienveillantes et attentionnées, empreintes d’humanité. Nous savons déjà à qui nous confierons l’organisation de notre prochain périple dans cette région extraordinaire qu’est la cordillère de Vilcabamba, et ce sera un grand plaisir de faire à nouveau un bout de chemin à pied avec eux.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Ana Gabriela M
Verified
Excelentes guias y anfitriones, viajarás seguro!
Fue una experiencia sin comparación, única y auténtica. Hemos disfrutado de principio a fin. El profesionalismo y experiencia de Manuel y Jackie hicieron de nuestra expedición un maravilloso recuerdo. Volveremos a confiar en ellos para un siguiente viaje. Los recomiendo!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Elisa H
Verified
The BEST Salkantay a Choquequirao 6d 5n
Hicimos una ruta super especial de Salkantay a Choquequirao 6d 5n , fue el mejor viaje de mi vida, revasaron mis espectativas, la comida fue asombrosa, Manuel lo opero excelentemente, yo y mis amigos ( dentro de ellos un Frances) quedamos más que satisfechos. Los recomiendo mil veces. Manuel fue tan servicial , detallista y muuuuuuuy paciente. Ah y no olvido las bolsas de agua caliente fueron nuestra salvación en las noches frias 👌🏼😊
Posted on Tripadvisor
Leslie P
Verified
Salkantay trek
Todo fue perfecto! Una habitación muy muy cómoda y caliente. La cama es muy confortable y lo mejor es que hay ducha con agua caliente. La cena fue riquísima y el desayuno igual. Le recomiendo este hotel al 100% !
Posted on Tripadvisor
CharleneLct18
Verified
Great experience !
This tour was amazing, we really appreciated all the services included that made our Salkantay trek unforgettable. The team wad very kind !
Posted on Tripadvisor
Alec M
Verified
Fantastic accomodation on the Salkantay Trek!
We stayed at the Chaullay Salkantay hostel during our Salkantay trek. Fantastic accomodation, best we stayed at during the trek. Great food and host. Definitely recommend!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Nicola C
Verified
Servizio etico e straordinario nella sua semplicità
Il trekking del Salkantay ha un percorso facile che non necessita di una guida. A patto di poter godere di un servizio eccezionale, nella sua semplicità, con quello offerto da Salkantay Hostels (Salkantay Way). Dal primo pranzo del primo giorno all’ultimo pranzo del quarto giorno, tutto è incluso. Le sistemazioni in camera più che decenti, forse Soraypampa ha dei limiti, ma comunque un letto con coperte e le suola c’è e si dorme in una struttura vera e propria. Tutte le persone incontrate sono umili e gentili. Gli ingredienti a km 0, si pagano le comunità locali e non le grandi spedizioni che partono da Cusco. Anche questo ha un suo senso etico non da poco per chi ci tiene. Noi non abbiamo voluto usare animali da soma, ma abbiamo usufruito del trasporto in auto di parte del materiale dal secondo giorno. Trekking vario, si passa dal clima freddo e secco dell’alta quota dei primi due giorni (laguna Humantay e passo Salkantay) al clima torrido della giungla del terzo e quarto giorno. Non per tutti, ma il significato, raggiungere Machu Picchu (quinto giorno… ancora a piedi se voleste essere virtuosi) è immenso. Fidatevi di Manuel e delle famiglie che ha raccolto per offrire questo servizio. Una nota di merito alla signora Lucy di Wayrac, che in una poverissima capanna ha messo in piedi un pranzo di tutto rispetto per quattro persone. Grazie di tutto!
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Humantay Lagoon 1 Day
Find answers to the most common questions about our trekking tours, accommodation in Cusco, Salkantay Trek, Machu Picchu and travel services in Peru.
What is the Humantay Lagoon tour from Cusco?
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The Humantay Lagoon 1-day tour from Cusco is a guided day trip to one of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Peruvian Andes. Located at 4,221 meters above sea level at the base of Humantay glacier (5,900 m), the lagoon is famous for its intense turquoise color surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The tour departs from Cusco at 5:30 AM and returns in the evening.
How far is Humantay Lagoon from Cusco?
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Humantay Lagoon is approximately 90 kilometers from Cusco, near the town of Mollepata. The drive from Cusco to the trailhead at Soraypampa takes approximately 3 hours by private transport. The hike from the trailhead to the lagoon takes 1.5–2 hours uphill.
What should I bring to Humantay Lagoon?
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Bring a warm jacket and windproof layer (temperature at the lagoon can be cold), sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable trekking or sports shoes, a 1.5L water bottle and a camera. The entrance ticket (20 PEN) is payable on site and not included in the tour price.
Why visit Humantay Lagoon with Salkantay Hostel Treks?
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Salkantay Hostel Treks owns the hostel at Soraypampa, right at the base of the Humantay trail. Our guides are local experts who have walked this route hundreds of times. We offer small groups, bilingual guides, hot lunch at the refuge and a personal experience that large tour operators cannot match.
How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lagoon?
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The hike to Humantay Lagoon is rated moderate. The trail is approximately 4 km round trip with an elevation gain of about 400 meters over 1.5–2 hours uphill. The main challenge is the altitude — the lagoon sits at 4,221 meters. Travelers who have acclimatized in Cusco for at least 1–2 days find the hike very manageable.
Is Humantay Lagoon on the Salkantay Trek route?
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Yes. Humantay Lagoon is one of the highlights of the Salkantay Trek. On our multi-day Salkantay treks, travelers visit Humantay Lagoon on the afternoon of Day 1. The 1-day Humantay tour offers the same experience for travelers who do not have time for the full Salkantay route.
Is altitude sickness a risk at Humantay Lagoon?
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The lagoon sits at 4,221 meters, which can cause mild altitude symptoms in travelers arriving directly from sea level. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco (3,400 m) for at least 1–2 days before this tour. Coca tea is available at the Soraypampa refuge and helps reduce symptoms. Our guide carries oxygen for emergencies.
Duration
Type Tour
Difficulty
Guide
Group size
Maximum altitude