Hiking Humantay Lake: A Perfect Day Trip from Cusco

The Humantay Lake Tour is a must and amazing hike in single day. This Humantay Lake is surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains on the most beautiful spots in Peru.

If you’re ready for a bit of adventure and some seriously mountain views, here’s everything you need to know about hiking to Humantay Lake Peru on a Humantay Lake Day Tour.

Table of Contents

Getting to Humantay Lake from Cusco

The adventure begins early, so be prepared for a pre-dawn start. Humantay Lake Tour from Cusco options will pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 AM. The drive takes about 3-4 hours, winding through scenic valleys and small Andean villages until you reach Soraypampa, the starting point of the Lake Humantay 1 Day Hike.

The Humantay Lake Hike Itself

Once you arrive in Soraypampa (3,900 masl or 12,795 fasl), The trail is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) round-trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you—it’s a steep climb! The hike on a Humantay Lake Tour 1 Day typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace and how well you’ve acclimatized to the altitude.

You’ll notice the air getting thinner, and the climb can feel a bit tough. Don’t rush it—take breaks, stay hydrated, and enjoy the incredible scenery around you. The views just get better and better.

Reaching the Humantay Lake

You’ll reach Humantay Lake Peru, and trust me, it’s a sight that will take your breath away. The turquoise waters of the lake are so vivid they almost look unreal, and with the towering Humantay Glacier in the background, it’s truly a photographer’s dream.

Take your time here—relax, enjoy the view, and snap as many photos as you like. You earned it! This is what makes the 1 Day Humantay Lake Tours so special and worth the effort.

What to Bring to Humantay Lake

Hiking to Humantay Lake means being prepared for changing weather and high altitude, so here’s a quick checklist of essentials to bring:

Layers of clothing: Mornings can be cold, but it warms up as you hike. Pack a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, but also be ready to peel off layers as the day goes on.
Sturdy hiking shoes: The trail can be rocky and uneven, so make sure you have solid footwear with good grip.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: The high altitude means you’re closer to the sun, and those rays can be intense!
Water and snacks: Staying hydrated is key at this altitude, and you’ll want a little fuel for the hike.
Walking stick: If you’re worried about the steepness, a walking stick can help with balance and stability.

Acclimatizing and Staying Safe

Remember, Humantay Lake sits at a whopping 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level, so it’s important to acclimatize properly before attempting the hike. Spend a couple of days in Cusco or another high-altitude area to let your body adjust. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so don’t underestimate it. If you start feeling dizzy or unwell, slow down and listen to your body.

Final Thoughts

The hike to Humantay Lake Peru may be challenging, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth every step. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a memorable day trip from Cusco, a Humantay Lake Full Day adventure is one you won’t want to miss. The views are breathtaking, the journey is fulfilling, and you’ll leave with some incredible memories (and photos!). Whether you’re booking a Humantay Lake Tour Full Day or planning your own Lake Humantay 1 Day Hike, you’ll experience the magic of this hidden gem. So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on one of the most incredible 1 Day Humantay Lake Tours Peru has to offer!