The Humantay Lagoon, why it’s worth visiting

The Humantay Lagoon

The Humantay Lagoon (“Head of God”) is a beautiful glacial lake formed by a glacier, boasting a stunning turquoise or soft blue color. Humantay is a spectacular and magnificent place. In one single panoramic view, you can see glaciers, waterfalls, and a breathtaking lagoon. If you are seeking spectacular landscapes and only have one day, this is a fantastic alternative.

Location

This fascinating glacial lake is nestled in the Vilcabamba mountain range at the foot of Mount Humantay (5,473 masl), 3 hours by bus from Cusco plus a 1.5-hour hike. This lagoon is a destination that captivates travelers with its sheer immensity, contours, and vibrant landscape colors, making it one of the must-see attractions deep in the Peruvian Andes.

Temperature

The temperature at the lagoon can reach up to 5°C during the daytime and drop down to 0°C.

Altitude

The lagoon sits at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level (masl), which gives it a unique alpine climate and temperature.

When is the best time to take the excursion

The best time to take the excursion is during the dry season, between May and October. May is particularly recommended because the landscape is still lush and green following the rainy season. Please keep in mind that June is typically the coldest month.

Itinerary Information

This is the standard itinerary operated by most tour agencies:
05:00 Departure from Cusco toward Mollepata (Breakfast)
09:00 Arrival at Soraypampa – start of the Salkantay trail located at 3,880 meters above sea level.
09:30 Start of the hike toward the lagoon (3 km).
10:30 Arrival at Humantay Lagoon.
12:00 Return hike down to Soraypampa.
13:00 Lunch.
14:30 Return by vehicle to Cusco.
17:00 Arrival in Cusco.

How to get there on your own

To travel independently from Cusco, take a shared minibus (colectivo) from Av. Arcopata at the colectivo terminal heading to Mollepata (fare prices vary, check official website), which takes about 2 hours along the Cusco-Abancay road. Mollepata is located a few kilometers from the town of Limatambo. From there, you can catch a tourist van with available seats heading up to Soraypampa (prices vary, check official website). Another alternative is taking a shared taxi along the same route. You can also negotiate a private charter and group together with other travelers to split the cost. Spending the night in Mollepata is a great option, though the entire trip can easily be done in a single day.

How to walk from the Plaza de Armas of Cusco to the colectivo stop for Mollepata

From Mollepata to Soraypampa, the road is unpaved, offering dramatic views of the deep valley to your right. Ahead, the snow-capped peak of Mount Salkantay is constantly in sight, often framed by drifting clouds. Soraypampa is the starting trailhead for the classic Salkantay Trek, and it also serves as the base trail to Humantay Lagoon. The lagoon trip is a full-day round-trip excursion from Cusco.

From here, you begin a 1.5-hour hike. The trail from Soraypampa up to the lagoon is steep, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended. You can buy bottled water for the trek here, and restrooms are also available. The local people are very friendly, as everywhere in Cusco.

How to get to Humantay Lagoon by car

Where to Eat

There are no restaurants at the lagoon itself; the nearest dining options are in the town of Mollepata, 24 kilometers from Soraypampa.

Casa Salkantay
Vía a Mollepata, Ayacucho 13170
949 769 474
Opens at 06:00

Refugios Mollepata
refugiossalkantay.com
984 372 258
Opens at 07:00

Map of restaurants near Humantay Lagoon

Where to Stay

The nearest accommodations are found in the town of Mollepata

View map of Accommodations near Humantay

Hike Difficulty

The hike to Humantay Lake has a moderate difficulty rating. You set off early, around 5:00 am toward Mollepata, which marks the start of the trek. Depending on the season, the temperature can drop as you approach snow-capped Mount Salkantay, making warm layers essential for protection. The path is rocky and firm; given the incline, trekking poles are highly recommended. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours uphill and about the same on the descent.

Why it’s worth going

A highly recommended trip that no one should miss. Despite the high altitude of 4,200 masl, it is well worth every effort. The climb is not as exhausting as it might seem; while the steep ascent requires taking steady breaks, it is completely achievable. If the hike proves too challenging, horse rentals are readily available on site (cost per horse: prices vary, check official website) to assist with the ascent.

The motivation to reach the summit is immense, as the snow-capped mountain stands directly before you throughout the climb and looks spectacular. The sheer beauty of this lagoon is worthy of every effort. Once you arrive at the top, the hours of climbing fade into pure wonder.

The peace and silence of the high mountains are deeply moving. It is pure harmony and untouched nature. Visiting this natural wonder is truly an unforgettable experience. The crisp blue sky, the massive glaciers in the background, and the shimmering hues of the water shifting with the sunlight make it breathtaking. IT IS GORGEOUS. You simply will not want to leave! It is definitely worth the journey.

Recommendations and Tips

• Ensure you have at least two full days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude, drink plenty of water, and get a restful night of sleep before the excursion.
• Sunscreen and sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are essential for the climb. We recommend wearing layers: a light sweater and a warmer jacket, rain gear, and a high-quality camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Similarly, traveling with a reliable tour agency is advisable for guidance and safety, especially since high altitude affects travelers differently.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol the day before the hike. This is an essential travel tip: minimizing toxins in your body makes a huge difference, as altitude sickness can feel heavier than carrying a 30 kg backpack.
• Wear comfortable trekking clothes and proper hiking boots; trekking poles can provide helpful support during the steep ascent.
• Please note that walking onto the glacier is prohibited and swimming in the lagoon is strictly forbidden.
• If visiting between December and April, bring a waterproof poncho or suitable rain jacket for the wet season.

CC Photo by Nicolas Rénac

Your experience when booking: “Humantay Lagoon Excursion”

Ascend above 4,000 meters in altitude to marvel at the gorgeous Humantay Lagoon, a breathtaking spectacle of nature nestled in the Andes Mountains. A truly unique trekking experience in Peru!