Laguna Humantay (Peru): How to Visit from Cusco?

How to Get to Humantay Lake from Cusco + Tips for Hiking the Trail

Planning a trip to Cusco, Peru and dreaming of a breathtaking hike? You’re in the right place.

Tucked high in the Andes, the stunning Laguna Humantay (also known as Humantay Lake) is famous for its glowing turquoise waters, fed by the glaciers of Mount Humantay (17,955 ft) and the majestic Salkantay (20,570 ft).

Perched at an altitude of 13,780 feet (4,200 meters), it offers an unforgettable trekking experience, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, herds of llamas, and sweeping Andean landscapes.

Originally a hidden spot on the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, Laguna Humantay can now be visited easily as a day trip from Cusco—similar to Rainbow Mountain or the less-visited Palccoyo Mountain.

In this guide, you’ll find all the practical tips you need to plan your visit to Humantay Lagoon—whether you go on your own or with an organized tour—including advice on altitude, hiking conditions, and how to make the most of your adventure.

Ready to discover the magic of Laguna Humantay?

Let’s get started!

1. Where is Laguna Humantay and how do you get there from Cusco?

The Laguna Humantay (also called Humantay Lake) is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range, in the district of Mollepata, Anta Province, about 75 miles northeast of Cusco, Peru.

It sits at an altitude of 13,779 feet (4,200 meters) and can be reached after an hour and a half hike from the community of Soraypampa.

If you want to get there on your own, you’ll need to take a bus from Cusco’s Arcopata Terminal to Mollepata and then a cab to Soraypampa.

However, the easiest and most convenient option is to book a tour to Laguna Humantay that includes transportation, a guide, meals, and entrance fees.

2. Is it better to go on your own or with a tour?

It depends on your travel style: if you’re looking for comfort and everything arranged, a tour is the best option; if you prefer flexibility and exploring at your own pace, going on your own might suit you better.

Here’s how to get to Humantay Lake from Cusco with or without an agency:

2.1 On your own (without an agency)

• From Cusco, take a bus to Mollepata from the Arcopata terminal (1h40–2h, about 15 soles).
• From Mollepata, take a cab to Soraypampa (45 min–1h, around 70 soles one way — price can be shared if other travelers join).
• From Soraypampa, it’s a 1.5 to 2-hour hike to reach Laguna Humantay

2.2 With a tour

The biggest advantage of taking a guided tour to Humantay is that you don’t have to worry about transportation, since it usually includes pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.

This is the ideal option if you’re short on time and want to make sure you complete the round trip in a single day without stress.

I recommend this affordable Humantay tour, with hotel pick-up, breakfast, lunch, and entrance to the lake included.

Book the tour here:

3. How long does it take to get there and how long is the hike?

The drive from Cusco to Soraypampa takes about 3 hours.

From Soraypampa, the hike to Laguna Humantay usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on your physical condition and acclimatization.
The return hike typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

4. How difficult is the hike?

The hike to Laguna Humantay is of moderate difficulty, but the altitude makes it a challenge. The ascent from Soraypampa (12,795 foot) to the lake (13,780 foot) involves a 985-foot drop, which can be a challenge for those who are not used to walking at altitude.

Therefore, it is essential to have spent at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimatize properly.

The trail is well marked and not technical, but includes steep sections with loose stones and slippery areas, especially if it has rained. For this reason, I recommend using hiking shoes with good grip for a safer and more comfortable experience.

5. Is it possible to rent a horse to go up?

If you do not feel prepared for the hike, you can rent a horse in Soraypampa for about 80-90 soles that will drop you off 5 min from the lake

It is a practical option to enjoy the scenery without so much effort. Of course, the service is only for the ascent: the return trip must be done by foot.

6. At what altitude is Laguna Humantay?

• The Humantay trek starts at 12,710 foot (Soraypampa)
• The halfway resting place is at 13,530 foot
• Humantay lake is at 13,713 foot above sea level
• The viewpoint of the lake is at 13,780 foot above sea level

7. Is there a risk of altitude sickness in Humantay?

Yes, it is very likely to experience altitude sickness when visiting Humantay Lake, located at 13,780 foot above sea level.

If you have not taken one or Two Days in Cusco to acclimatize, it is common to feel fatigue, headache or shortness of breath.

Therefore, I recommend walking at your own pace, without haste, and listen to your body: at this altitude, any effort is felt more than at sea level.

8. How much does it cost to visit Laguna Humantay?

The cost to visit Laguna Humantay varies depending on how you decide to get there.

If you choose a tour from Cusco, prices vary depending on the services included (meals, pick up at the hotel, etc).

On your own, consider transportation costs (approx. one way: bus 15 soles + cab 70 soles, the latter can be divided if there are other passengers) and food.

The entrance to Laguna Humantay costs 10 soles for foreigners and 5 soles for Peruvians.

9. What to see in Humantay?

The road is as beautiful as the destination, as you will pass through a beautiful landscape typical of the Andes between hills, high mountains, llamas, alpacas and vicuñas.

The climb is not easy, but the reward is a fantastic view of the turquoise lake that contrasts with the snow of the glaciers.

Around the lake you will see small stone towers: these are the apachetas in honor of the lake and the mountains that are considered sacred by the local communities.

Offerings to Pachamama are also made here, often with three coca leaves, a set called Kintu that represents the three worlds of Inca mythology.

10. Can you swim in the Humantay Lake?

No, it’s not allowed to swim in Laguna Humantaybecause it’s a source of water for the surrounding communities.

You can drink the water if you have a filter, but otherwise, I don’t recommend it — it’s natural, but there’s still a risk of upset stomach.

11. Can you camp near the Humantay Lake?

Yes, it’s possible to camp near the lake

However, it gets very cold at night, so you’ll need the right equipment and warm clothing to stay comfortable.

12. Best time to visit the Humantay Lake

The best time to visit Humantay is between May and November, during the dry season, when the skies are clear and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.

Try to avoid visiting during the rainy season (January to March), when the trail can be muddy and visibility is poor.

13. What to pack for the Humantay hike

• Warm and waterproof clothing: Weather changes quickly, and it can get very cold at the top.
• Trekking shoes: The trail is steep and sometimes slippery — good shoes make all the difference.
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Even on cloudy days, the sun at altitude is strong.
• Water and snacks: You can buy some at Soraypampa, but it’s cheaper and better to bring your own from Cusco.
• Cash: You’ll need it for toilets, snacks, transport — there are no ATMs and cards are not accepted.
• Camera or fully charged phone: The views are worth it!
• Toilet paper and antibacterial gel: Facilities along the way are very basic.

14. Are there restrooms on the trail?

There are restrooms available at the start of the hike in Soraypampa (use costs 1 sol).

However, during the trek and at the Humantay Lake, there are no restroom facilities, so I recommend stopping before you begin the ascent!

15. Useful tips for visiting the Humantay Lake

• Acclimatize in Cusco: Spend at least 1–2 days in Cusco before visiting Humantay to help your body adapt to the altitude. Drinking coca tea can help.
• Go early: If you’re going on your own, start your trip early to have enough time for the hike and avoid missing the return transportation.
• Consider a tour: If you prefer a practical and stress-free experience, an organized tour is the most comfortable and affordable option, especially if you’re short on time.
• Pack well: Bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, and good trekking shoes — the weather can change quickly and the trail can be slippery.
• Hydration and snacks: You can buy food at Soraypampa, but it’s better to bring your own water and snacks for the hike.
• Cash: Only cash is accepted. Bring coins and small bills to pay for toilets (1 sol), snacks, souvenirs, or a cab if needed.

Book the tour to Laguna Humantay here:

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