How to get from Cusco to Humantay Lake?

The wonder of Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake, a famous natural wonder with crystal clear, emerald-colored waters, is a true mirror of water where you can connect with nature and observe different beautiful landscapes while enjoying the flora and fauna, surrounded by imposing glaciers that are part of the Andes Mountains. You will feel a sense of peace and tranquility thanks to the natural beauty you will witness.

Where is Humantay Lake located?
It is located in the town of Mollepata, in the province of Anta, 30 minutes from the city of Cusco within the Vilcabamba mountain range.

What is its altitude?
It has an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level.

What is the climate like?
The climate is cold, and the temperature can drop as you approach the snow-capped Salkantay mountain.

How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake in Cusco?
It is a constant and rugged climb, depending on the season.

How can I get to Humantay Lake on my own from Cusco?
If you want to get to Humantay Lake in Cusco on your own, here are the step-by-step instructions:

Travel to Mollepata: From the city of Cusco, you must take a bus or minivan to the town of Mollepata. This journey takes approximately 3 hours. You can find these means of transportation at the Cusco Transportation Terminal.
Mollepata to Soraypampa: From Mollepata, you will need to take local transportation or hire a taxi to get to Soraypampa. The trip takes approximately 1.5 hours. Soraypampa is the starting point for the hike to Humantay Lake.
Hike to Humantay Lake: From Soraypampa, you will begin the hike to Humantay Lake. The trail is steep and can be challenging, so a good level of physical fitness is recommended. The hike takes an average of 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and the stops you make.
Enjoy Humantay Lake: Upon arriving at Humantay Lake, you can enjoy the breathtaking views and natural beauty of the place. Take some time to relax, take pictures, and appreciate the surroundings. Keep in mind that the water in the lake is very cold, so swimming is not recommended.
Return to Soraypampa and Mollepata: After enjoying the lake, return along the same trail to Soraypampa. From there, take transportation back to Mollepata and then to Cusco.

It is important to note that the hike to Humantay Lake requires good physical preparation and acclimatization to the altitude, as the lake is located at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level. In addition, it is advisable to bring enough water, sunscreen, appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as some food and snacks for the trail.

Prices

First, you will need to travel from Cusco to Mollepata. The bus terminal in Arcopata will provide this service (S/.15.00).
Upon arrival, you will need to find a place to have breakfast (S/.7.00).
For the transfer from Mollepata to Soraypampa, you will need to hire a taxi, which will cost approximately S/.70.00.
Then you will have to pay the entrance fee to Humantay Lake (S/.20.00).
Upon arrival in Soraypampa, you will have to walk for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Humantay Lake.

How to get there with our travel agency?
If you decide to visit Humantay Lake through an agency, here is a general idea of what the experience might be like:

1. Book with an agency: Find a reputable agency in Cusco that offers tours to Humantay Lake. You can research online, read reviews, and compare prices and services before making your choice. Here is a travel agency in Cusco that you can visit: CHULLOS TRAVEL PERU.
2. Pickup at your hotel: Chullos Travel will arrange for pickup at your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 AM in a private vehicle or in a group, depending on the options available. Transportation will take you to the starting point of the hike.
3. Trip to Mollepata: The agency will take you from Cusco to Mollepata in a private vehicle or in a group. The trip takes approximately 2:30 hours, where we will have breakfast.
4. Hike to Humantay Lake: From Mollepata, we will go to Soraypampa, where we will begin the hike to Humantay Lake. The agency will provide you with an expert guide who will accompany you during the tour and provide you with information about the local flora, fauna, and culture. They will also provide you with basic hiking equipment, such as walking sticks and water bottles.
5. Arrival at Humantay Lake: Upon arrival at the lake, you will have time to enjoy the scenery, take pictures, and relax. The guide will be available to answer your questions and provide additional information about the place.
6. Lunch: We will then descend to Soraypampa to take transportation to Mollepata, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch.
7. Return from Mollepata to Cusco: After enjoying a delicious lunch, you will be taken back to Cusco and dropped off at your hotel at approximately 5:00 pm.

Throughout the tour, the agency will take care of logistics, such as coordinating transportation, entrance to Humantay Lake, and customer service. They will also ensure your safety and comfort during the hike.

It is important to note that specific services and details may vary depending on the agency you choose. Before booking, be sure to read and understand the terms and conditions, as well as the inclusions and exclusions of the tour offered by the selected agency.

Avoid certain foods
such as apples and beans in the days leading up to your visit to Lake Humantay.

Altitude sickness in cold weather.
This is the body’s inability to adapt to high altitudes and all the symptoms it causes in the body, and it is likely to occur during this hike to Humantay.

Symptoms of altitude sickness or soroche.
Severe headache, fatigue or physical exhaustion, excessive sleepiness, nausea and vomiting, agitation, digestive disorders, loss of appetite.

Essential advice for the hike to Humantay Lake

Travel light; the less luggage you carry, the better, so you can climb to the lake without complications.
Bring at least one liter of water for the hike. Stay hydrated by taking small sips of water along the way; water contains oxygen that will help you on the ascent.
Wear hiking boots, which will protect you as the path is uneven.
Bring warm clothing (jacket, gloves, hats or chullos, thick socks, warm pants). With constant temperature changes, don’t take off your warm clothes as this will make altitude sickness much worse.
Apply sunscreen at least every 2 hours.
Use trekking poles, which will be a great help on the trail.
Get a good night’s sleep the day before, as the tour starts very early.
Bring snacks, such as nuts or energy bars, to help you keep your strength up along the way.
Take altitude sickness pills (if necessary) and always carry coca leaves with you.
Do not bathe in Lake Humantay, as the villages that live on the shores of the lake use this water for consumption.
Optionally, you can bring trekking poles to help you along the way.