- Tour
Humantay Lake Day Excursion
- Day Trip
- Turquoise Heights in a Day
Max 16 persons
Medium
Tour
Day Trip
Experience the striking beauty of the Andes in a single day. You’ll travel from Cusco through Andean villages to the trailhead at Soraypampa, then hike up to the turquoise glacial Humantay Lake at 4,200 m. Surrounded by snow‑capped peaks and vibrant landscapes, this journey offers cultural insights, breathtaking photo opportunities, and a thrilling outdoor adventure—balanced with comfort and affordable pricing.
Overview
Highlights
Turquoise Jewel of the Andes: Witness the surreal color of Humantay Lake, formed by glacial melt and revered by locals.
Panoramic Andean Views: Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the towering Salkantay peak.
Local Culture Encounter: Pass through traditional highland communities and observe agricultural life rooted in Andean customs.
Accessible Adventure: A moderate hike suitable for active travelers seeking a rewarding challenge without overnight trekking.
High-Altitude Thrill: Reaching over 4,200 m, this experience offers the perfect day hike to feel the thrill of high-altitude terrain.
Sunrise to Sunset Journey: Witness changing light and dramatic shadows across snowcaps and valleys throughout your journey.
Breakdown Itinerary
04:00–06:30: Pickup and scenic drive through rolling valleys, small villages, and cloud forest.
06:30–07:00: Breakfast at the trailhead—hot drinks, local bread, eggs, and fruit.
07:00–08:30: Guided hike to the lake, including rest stops, Andean flora/fauna insight, and acclimatization breaks.
08:30–11:00: Explore Humantay Lake’s surroundings, ascend optional viewpoint, spiritual offerings for Pachamama.
11:00–12:30: Descent to Soraypampa, slower pace for photos and rest.
12:30–13:30: Buffet lunch at a local guesthouse or restaurant.
13:30–16:00: Return to Cusco with music, scenery, or nap time.
16:00–17:00: Drop-off at hotels.
Best Time to Visit Humantay Lake
The dry season (April through November) provides the most stable conditions for hiking, clear skies for photography, and reduced risk of trail closures due to rain or landslides. July and August see cooler temperatures but also the most dramatic glacier views and best lake coloration. During the rainy season (December to March), the trail can be slippery and the lake’s color subdued due to runoff, but crowd levels are minimal.
Read more at: Best time to visit Humantay Lake
Full Itinerary
Day 1 – Humantay Lake Hike (Full Day)
Your adventure begins before sunrise with a hotel pickup at 4:00 AM. As the city of Cusco sleeps, your group embarks on a picturesque journey toward the Andes, winding past sleepy villages, eucalyptus forests, and terraced valleys. After breakfast in the mountain village of Soraypampa (3,900 m), you’ll begin the gradual climb to the glacial lake. The hike, though steep, offers regular breaks, photo stops, and guidance from your expert local guide. Once at Humantay Lake (4,200 m), bask in the surreal hues of its blue-green waters, perfectly reflecting the surrounding white peaks. Take time to absorb the peaceful energy, offer a coca leaf tribute, or climb a bit higher for a panoramic view. After descending, enjoy a fresh lunch before heading back to Cusco, tired but exhilarated by your day at altitude.
Inclusions
What's Included
Roundtrip transportation in a modern, private van
Professional, English-speaking local trekking guide
Mountain breakfast at Soraypampa
Full buffet lunch after the trek
First aid kit and oxygen supply
Entrance fee to the Humantay Lake area
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
What's Not Included
Tips for guide and driver
Personal snacks or beverages
Trekking poles or horse rental (available on-site)
Rain ponchos or cold-weather clothing
Travel insurance
Prices & Upgrades
Prices for this full-day experience vary depending on group size and level of customization. Shared tours offer the best value at approximately US $40–60 per person, while private tours with added flexibility, comfort, and pace range from US $95–185. Private groups benefit from tailored pacing and photo stops.
Additional items & upgrades
Horse rental for the uphill portion (~US $25)
Trekking pole rental (~US $5)
Private group upgrades (2–8 guests with dedicated guide and van)
Custom meal options (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free upon request)
Pre-trip briefing at hotel the evening before
Professional photography add-on
Packing list
For Traveling
Passport (or copy)
Small backpack
Reusable water bottle (2 liters recommended)
Sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, sun hat
Lip balm with UV protection
Personal hygiene items (hand sanitizer, tissues)
Extra cash for tips or emergencies
For Your Daypack
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Warm fleece or insulated jacket
Gloves and beanie
Comfortable hiking boots (broken-in)
Energy bars, dried fruit, or nuts
Phone/camera with extra battery
Travel Info
Briefings
Optional hotel briefing the night before for private tours; includes Q&A, weather outlook, and gear check.
Health
This hike reaches over 4,200 m. Altitude symptoms (headache, shortness of breath) can occur—hydrate well and avoid alcohol before the trek. Guides carry oxygen and are trained in first response.
Strikes
Occasional road or transport strikes may affect access. In these cases, alternate start times or routes may be arranged.
Travel Insurance
Strongly advised, especially for high-altitude hikes. Should cover emergency evacuation and cancellations.
Weather
Mountain weather shifts quickly. Mornings may be clear and sunny, afternoons cloudy or rainy. Always bring layers and rain gear.
Altitude
Soraypampa is at 3,900 m; the lake sits at 4,200 m. Physical exertion is harder at altitude—pace yourself and stay hydrated.
How to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Spend 2–3 days in Cusco before the hike. Eat light, drink coca tea, and avoid heavy activity the day before. Medications like acetazolamide can help if prescribed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
Will I experience altitude sickness during the tour?
What should I wear for the hike?
Are there restrooms along the trail?
Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Why choose Visit Machu Picchu?
At Visit Machu Picchu (VMP), we take great pride in being a 100% local company, with a team of knowledgeable and experienced locals who are passionate about sharing the beauty of our country with visitors from all over the world. Our commitment to our community and the people who call it home is at the heart of everything we do. When you choose to travel with us, you’re not just experiencing the best of what our country has to offer, you’re also helping to support our local economy and provide job opportunities for the people in our community.
We believe that travel is about more than just sightseeing – it’s about creating meaningful connections with the places and people we encounter along the way. As a locally-owned and operated company, we have deep roots in our community and are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism that gives back as much to our community as it does to our clients. By choosing to travel with Visit Machu Picchu, you’re not just getting a great travel experience – you’re also making a positive impact on the people and places you visit.
