This is a very popular and easy one-day hike from Cusco, ideal for those who don’t have much time for longer treks but still want to experience the beautiful landscapes that only this region can offer. The total trekking time is about 3 hours, a short walk accessible to everyone who has acclimatized a bit.

Tour Summary:

DEPARTURE/RETURN PLACE: Pick up and drop off at your hotel

DURATION: Full day 4:00 – 17:00

DISTANCE: 7 km (4.4 miles) round trip

ELEVATION: 3,869 m (12,690 ft) / 4,200 m (13,779 ft)

GOOD FOR: Those with a sense of adventure and good walking fitness, and nature lovers.

Private Groups: Enjoy personalized service with small groups (1-4 people) and a guide.

Safety Commitment: We provide oxygen and a first aid kit to prevent altitude sickness (trekking poles included).

Extra Equipment: Trekking poles are included.

Comfortable Transport: Private, comfortable transportation in a car or van depending on the number of participants, with air conditioning and heating.

Itinerary

04:00 am – Pickup:

We depart for a small town called Mollepata (2,803 m / 9,186 feet), about 2 hours by car. Here we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast to prepare for the hike. 09:00 am – 12:00 pm:

After breakfast, we continue for another hour to the local community of Soraypampa (3,800 m / 12,467 feet). After a brief informational session and preparations, we’ll start our hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 feet), passing through breathtaking landscapes. The hike takes about 1.5 hours and is of low to moderate difficulty, but it will be incredibly rewarding once we reach this natural beauty. Horses are available for rent if you prefer not to hike. Once at the lake, we’ll have plenty of time to take photos. 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm:

After some free time and rest, we’ll begin our descent back to Soraypampa, which takes about 1.5 hours and is much easier than the ascent. From Soraypampa, we’ll head back to Mollepata for a well-deserved buffet lunch. After some rest, we’ll start our return journey to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 pm.

Humantay Lake

Humantay Lagoon is located at an altitude of over 4,200 meters above sea level, at the foot of the imposing Nevado de Humantay, a sacred mountain for the Andean people. The surrounding landscape is absolutely spectacular: snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear waterfalls, and a clear sky that reflects the stunning turquoise color of the water. The contrast between the lagoon's waters and the snow-capped mountains creates an unforgettable view.

Salkantay

Located at the foot of the majestic Nevado Salkantay, one of the highest and most sacred mountains in the Andes, the Salkantay Lagoon is a hidden paradise that attracts adventurers and nature lovers. This dream destination is located more than 4,200 meters above sea level, in a remote region of the Salkantay Trail, and is an ideal place for those seeking a unique trekking experience in the Andes.

PACKING LIST

- Long-sleeved shirt

- Hiking shoes

- Waterproof jackets

- Waterproof hiking pants

- Wool gloves

- Hat

- Sunglasses and sunscreen

- Cash for extras