Humantay Lake Peru – Complete Guide for Travelers (Hike, Tips & Prices)
Cusco, surrounded by mountains and glaciers, hides in the heart of the Andes a turquoise gem that amazes many tourists — we are talking about Humantay Lake.
This beautiful water formation is part of one of the most tourist places in Cusco, like the one-day tour to visit Humantay Lake or to hike the Salkantay trail.
This is maybe one of the most “Instagrammable” places in Cusco, so, for you to discover it and know more, we tell you everything about Humantay Lake.
Where is Humantay Lake located?
Humantay Lake is located north of Cusco, in the district of Mollepata, province of Anta. To arrive at this beautiful place, you will have to travel almost 3 hours to Mollepata and from there half an hour more to Soraypampa, which is the starting point of the hike. Humantay Lake rests under the glacier of the same name, the Humantay mountain that holds it in its lap, being part of one of the most impressive places in Cusco.
How to get to Humantay Lake?
Well, as we told you, to arrive you will first have to take transport to Mollepata through the Limatambo route. Once there, you must continue almost 30 minutes to Soraypampa, which is the starting point.
Finally, to appreciate the Lake, you will have to go up little by little to the place for almost 2 hours, and you will have in front of your eyes this beauty of nature.
How is the path to Humantay Lake?
The trail that takes you from Soraypampa to the Lake is rocky, with local vegetation of the highlands and surrounded by mountains.
We recommend that you bring hiking boots to prevent your ankles from twisting.
How much is the entrance fee to Humantay Lake?
This is a common question from many travelers, because there is not much information and many think it is even free. However, the entrance fee is 30 soles for foreign visitors and 20 soles for Peruvians. With this ticket you will have access to stay almost all day in the area (we say almost all day because it is recommended to leave due to strong winds before 1 pm).
What is the itinerary to visit Humantay Lake?
There are many ways to visit Humantay Lake. However, we share with you the best itinerary so you can enjoy your visit, in case you have a tour booked:
The pick-up time is around 4 am and the first stop will be Mollepata, located almost 2 hours and 45 minutes from Cusco. When arriving, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast in a local restaurant before continuing.
Once your energy is recharged, you will continue almost 30 minutes to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. The ascent is steep for most of the way until reaching Humantay Lake. As we mentioned before, the trail is rocky and with a lot of dirt, surrounded by mountains and beautiful views of the Andes.
Once you reach the viewpoint, you will have the most beautiful turquoise mirror of water with the Humantay glacier in the background. After a small ritual with your guide and the group, it will be time to return. You will take the same downhill path, with an approximate time of 1 hour and a half.
Finally, you will board the car back to Mollepata to have lunch and then return to Cusco, arriving around 5 pm.
Can I get to Humantay on my own?
Yes, it is definitely possible to arrive at Humantay Lake on your own. Here we tell you the steps to follow:
- You must take public transport that goes to Mollepata. This terminal is in Arcopata and the cars usually cost between 15 to 20 soles.
- When you arrive, you can take a shared taxi to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike (it takes between 30–40 minutes). The cost will be 10 soles maximum.
- If you don’t find a shared taxi, you will have to take a private car that costs almost 50 soles.
- When arriving in Soraypampa, you can follow the only trail to Humantay Lake for almost 2 hours up and 1 hour and a half down.
- To return, follow the same path.
What is the best season to visit Humantay Lake?
Well, in the Andes, it is very common not to have 4 marked seasons, because we only have:
- Rainy Season: From October to March. In the area and in the city, it is rainy most of the day. Sometimes you can find sunny days, but you always have to be prepared for rain. The path becomes muddy and the views cloudy.
- Dry Season: From April to September. The days are clear, there is a lot of sun, and walking is easier than in the rain. However, it is a season with many tourists.
In conclusion, the best season to visit, talking about the weather, is from April to September. However, if you want to walk with fewer tourists, you should go from October to March.
Packing list for Humantay Lake
WHAT TO BRING FOR A DAY HIKE
- A lightweight, waterproof day pack
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm clothes and hiking pants, not jeans
- Layers of clothes for variable temperatures
- Camera with extra film and batteries
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
- Thermals, wool socks, gloves, scarf, wool hat in cold season
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof clothing and/or a rain poncho
- Water bottles
- Personal medical kit with a simple whistle
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips
- Walking sticks if needed (rentable)
- Favorite snacks
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Passport
And if I get tired… how can I arrive?
If you feel worried about what to do if you can’t make it, don’t worry — in Humantay Lake you will find at the start of the path the following options:
• Horses, an option to rent from 100 soles per section. Local people rent this type of transport for travelers who want to save the hike.
• Motorbikes, a faster option but also more expensive.
Is there medical assistance in the area?
Yes, if you feel sick or your health condition is serious, certified guides can help you or the help of a local clinic in the area can assist you with your discomforts.
This one-day tour, without any doubt, will steal more than one sigh from you. Get excited and discover with us the natural mirror hike of Humantay Lake.
Are you ready?
