1 Day Humantay Lake Tour - Orange Nation Peru
Lake Humantay - Orange Nation Peru

1 Day Humantay Lake Tour

1 Days

From

70

/ Per Person

This full-day trek will take you to the 100% glacial fed lake of Humantay, nestled below Humantay Mountain with the famous Salkantay Mountain towering behind it. Hike to one of Peru’s most magical lakes and be surrounded by the impressive Salkantay and Humantay Peaks. Enjoy a hot breakfast upon arrival at the trailhead, snacks along the way, a gourmet lunch prepared by our chef, private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and a fluent English-speaking guide. Humantay Lake Tour hikes to one of Peru’s most magical lakes while gazing at unbelievable turquoise water. The views are breathtaking!

 

Service Level:

Exclusive modern vehicles with private driver. Breakfast and lunch cooked by a private chef.

Difficulty:

Short hike, but mostly on a steep incline. Important to properly acclimate. There are horses for rental if the steep hike is not for you.

Travel Style:

Hiking, trekking, horseback riding

Group Size

Small group experience; Max 12, Avg 5..

The turquoise gem in Cusco: Humantay Lake trek

Did you know that in Cusco we have a precious natural turquoise mirror?

Full Itinerary

Rise and shine, it’s a fantastic day to visit the stunning Humantay Lake! Your guide will pick you up at 04:30am from your hotel. We will have a 3 hour journey by van to Soraypampa, located in the lush valley of the Apurimac River. Here, breakfast will be served to ensure you are fueled up for this hike.

We will begin ascending along a beautiful trail called the Camino Real. On this trail we will gradually gain altitude, before passing through a small village. Once we reach the village, the real work begins.

Here, the uphill begins. This section of the route is tough, but unavoidable. We climb for roughly an hour before reaching a slightly flatter section of path. It’s not long now until we are facing the final push for the summit.

Once we reach that summit, all the hard work is forgotten. The beautiful turquoise lake that stretches out in front of you, cradled between the Salkantay and Humantay mountains and glaciers, is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. You might see Apachetas on the lakeshore- small piles of rocks that are left as offerings to the gods.

We make our way to the lakeshore, where we relax, admire the landscape, have a snack and if time permits hike around the adjoining hill for a better view of the lake.

After you have had your fill of the stunning lake views, we descend back to Soraypampa. Here, lunch is served, surrounded by breathtaking views in all directions of the panoramic landscape of Salkantay.

After lunch, we drive back to Cusco arriving back at your hotel at approximately 6:30 pm.

USEFUL INFORMATION
  • The earlier you leave Cusco, the better the trip. This is because you will arrive at the lake before anyone else.
  • Humantay lake is actually the third most visited place in Cusco after Machu Picchu and Rainbow mountain.
  • Swimming is not allowed in the lake.
  • We recommend you to visit on a sunny day when the colors are the most vivid. The color of the lake can be different depending on the season, the weather, etc. It varies from blue to green.
  • There are horses and mules to rent from the locals for s./ 80 one way. We recommend asking your guide to negotiate the price on your behalf.
  • Do not forget that health and safety always comes first. If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, get a headache or feel tired during the trek, do not continue and get back to a lower altitude as soon as possible.
  • Soraypampa camp houses several campgrounds, with popular geodesic dome tents offering tourist views of the starry sky all night long.
  • The terrain can get quite rough with a few loose stones. It’s recommended to wear a pair of hiking shoes with good ankle support.

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

  • Hot breakfast & lunch prepared by our chef
  • Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco
  • Fluent English & Spanish speaking expert trekking guide
  • Fees to access private land
  • First aid kit & oxygen for emergencies
  • Small group experience (maximum 12 guests)

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

  • Water: please bring at least 1L per person
  • Tips for guide, driver and cook
  • Horses or  mules to rent  (s./ 80 to s./ 120 from the local community)
  • Hotels before and after the trek
  • Flights
  • Walking Poles: $10 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)

***We run our trips daily with a 2 person minimum. We take only small groups & private trips, to enhance the experience by giving you the full attention of our guides and staff.

We just require a minimum of 2 people to start a group for the Humantay Lake Tour.

No. OF PEOPLE PRICE
2 people  $ 117 USD per person
3 people $ 99 USD per person
4 people $ 87 USD per person
5 people $ 77 USD per person
6 people or more $ 70 USD per person

WHAT TO BRING FOR HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR:

  • A lightweight, waterproof day pack
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm clothes and hiking pants
  • Layers of clothes for variable temperatures
  • Camera
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
  • Rain poncho.
  • Drinking water
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips, etc
  • Walking sticks if needed (rent from ORANGE NATION)
  • Snacks like energy bars, dried fruit or chocolate bars
  • Toilet paper
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1 Day Humantay Lake Tour
From

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/ Per Person
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Why travel with Orange Nation Peru?

We have become the leaders in small group adventure travel over the past three decades by consistently listening to our travelers and delivering what they desire: adaptable itineraries, the freedom to explore, smaller group sizes, safety and peace of mind, and knowledgeable local guides who provide unique insights into the destination that would be missed through any other means of travel.

Authentic and personalized experiences

Customization

We design unique tours through Peru, tailored just for you.

Leadership with real-world experience

Track Record

Our team understands service from the ground up to excellence.

Small groups, deeper connection

Connection

Small groups for closer and safer attention.

Personalized attention at all times

Commitment

We take care of every detail before, during, and after your trip.

Excellent quality at the best price

Value

We offer exceptional service and unforgettable experiences without overpaying.

Design Your Ideal Adventure

Forget generic tours. With Orange Nation, you can create a tailor-made itinerary with the level of adventure, culture, or relaxation you choose.

Create my adventure

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Welcome

Our Reviews

Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.

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Jaffet hasan c

The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.

Written June 22, 2025

Friends

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Glen

We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.

Written July 14, 2025

Family

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Kendall C

Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.

From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is

Written July 8, 2025

Couples

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