Humantay Blue Lagoon Full Day Hike

The Humantay Blue Lagoon Tour from Cusco is the perfect way to experience one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This full-day adventure takes you on a scenic hike to the stunning Humantay Blue Lagoon, located in the Salkantay Mountain region. Nestled in the heart of the Andes at an altitude of 4,200 meters, the lake dazzles with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and awe-inspiring mountain views.

Your journey begins early in the morning with a drive from Cusco to Soraypampa, the starting point of the hike. Our knowledgeable guides will accompany you throughout the ascent, providing support and sharing fascinating insights about the region. Once at the lake, you'll have time to rest, take incredible photos, and soak in the serene Andean landscape.

After your visit, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch made with local ingredients at a nearby restaurant before returning to Cusco.

Ideal for nature lovers seeking a moderate physical challenge and unforgettable views—all in a single day.
 

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. Pick-up is available from any hotel located near the city center. From there, we’ll drive approximately two hours to the town of Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

After breakfast, we’ll continue for about an hour to reach Soraypampa, the trailhead of our hike. Here, your guide will give you time to get ready, use the facilities, and warm up before beginning the trek.

The hike starts off gently before becoming steeper as we approach Humantay Blue Lagoon. After roughly two hours of hiking through stunning Andean landscapes, we’ll arrive at the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Blue Lagoon, located at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), just below the majestic Humantay Mountain. You’ll have time to explore the area, take photos, relax, and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

After enjoying the peaceful surroundings, we’ll begin our two-hour descent back to the trailhead. From there, we’ll drive back to Mollepata for a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll also have a bit of time to enjoy the views around Mollepata before boarding the van for the final two-hour journey back to Cusco. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel around 6:00 p.m.

Optional Upgrade: On request, you can book an exclusive version of the tour that includes gourmet picnic meals prepared by our trekking chefs and served in a private tent setup by our support team. This premium experience is available for a minimum of two travelers. For larger groups, please contact us for a special rate.

Throughout the day, we’ll provide warm blankets for the early morning drive and trekking poles to assist you during the hike.

Included:

• Round-trip transportation from Cusco
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
• Professional, English-speaking tour guide
•  Entrance fee to Humantay Lake
•  Oxygen tank, first aid kit, and satellite phone for safety
•  Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
• Extra blankets for the early morning drive
• Trekking poles for the hike

Not Included:

• Optional horse rental
• Travel insurance
   

What to Bring

To fully enjoy your full-day Humantay Blue Lagoon tour from Cusco, it's important to come prepared with the right gear. Below is a detailed list of recommended items to ensure a safe and comfortable experience:

Passport: Not required for the hike, but we recommend bringing it and keeping it in a safe place.
Hiking Shoes: Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are essential. The trail can be steep and slippery, especially if wet.
Fleece or Down Jacket: Mornings can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). A warm, lightweight jacket is highly recommended.
Gloves: Hiking gloves are useful, especially in the early hours. You can also purchase inexpensive gloves in Cusco (10–15 soles).
Hat or Beanie: A warm hat or beanie will help protect you from the cold during the early morning hours.
Rain Gear: A rain jacket and a poncho are essential, as the weather in the Andes can change rapidly. Avoid umbrellas due to possible strong winds.
Sunscreen: UV rays at high altitudes are strong, even on cloudy days. Bring high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.
Water: Bring around 2 liters of water. Insulated bottles are recommended to keep your drink warm or cool.
Snacks: Energy bars, granola, chocolate, or candies are great for keeping your energy up during the hike.
Extra Cash: Carry approximately 300 soles in cash for souvenirs, snacks, or unexpected expenses.
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack with enough space for your essentials.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, altitude sickness medication, motion sickness pills, and pain relievers.
Camera: A good-quality camera or a fully charged phone with extra batteries or a power bank.
Trekking Poles: Provided as part of the tour, but you may bring your own if preferred.
Binoculars: Optional, but great for spotting wildlife and enjoying distant mountain views.

Note: Weather in the Andes is unpredictable and can change quickly. Always be prepared for a variety of conditions, from strong sun to sudden rain and chilly winds.
 

Location

Humantay Blue Lagoon is located high in the Peruvian Andes, approximately a 3-hour drive from the city of Cusco followed by a 2-hour hike. Sitting at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet), it is one of the highest lakes in Peru. The lake is surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the towering Humantay Mountain, which rises to 5,917 meters (19,427 feet).

History

Humantay Blue Lagoon is a glacial lake situated in the Cusco Region of Peru, nestled between the mountains of Salkantay and Humantay. Fed by glacial meltwater, the lake is known for its striking turquoise color, caused by sunlight reflecting off fine mineral sediments at the bottom.

For centuries, the area has been home to indigenous communities, and the lake holds deep spiritual significance. It is still used today for traditional Andean ceremonies and rituals. In recent years, Humantay Lake has become a popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and cultural depth, with several hiking trails offering access to spectacular viewpoints.

Altitude

Humantay Blue Lagoon is located at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level, in the Cordillera Vilcabamba range of the Andes. The high altitude is a key factor to consider when preparing for the hike, as it can affect physical performance and increase the risk of altitude sickness.

Weather

Weather at Humantay Blue Lagoon can vary significantly depending on the season:

Dry Season (May to September): Typically sunny with clear skies during the day, but mornings and evenings are cold. This is the best time to visit.
Rainy Season (October to April): Conditions can be misty, cloudy, and rainy, with reduced visibility and colder temperatures.

Due to rapid changes in mountain weather, visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for both sun and rain.

Difficulty

The hike to Humantay Blue Lagoon is considered moderate to challenging. The trail features a steep incline and rocky terrain, but the most demanding factor is the altitude. At over 4,200 meters, the oxygen is thinner, making it harder to breathe and increasing the chance of altitude sickness.

To make the hike more manageable, it's important to:

• Walk at a steady pace
• Take regular breaks
• Stay well-hydrated
• Acclimate in Cusco for a couple of days beforehand

While the journey is physically demanding, the reward is truly spectacular—turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks in a serene Andean setting.

Tips for Visiting Humantay Blue Lagoon

If you’re dreaming of visiting a pristine turquoise lake in Peru, Humantay is a top choice. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Best Time to Visit: May to September, during the dry season, when weather conditions are most favorable.
Getting There: Plan for a 3-hour drive from Cusco followed by a 2-hour uphill hike.
Wear Proper Gear: Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes are a must due to uneven and steep terrain.
Stay Hydrated: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush—pace yourself, especially on the ascent.
Enjoy the Moment: Once at the lake, take time to rest, take photos, and soak in the incredible views.
Descend Slowly: Allow plenty of time for the return hike to avoid fatigue or injury.
 

Why Book with Quinoa Expeditions?

Choosing Quinoa Expeditions for your Humantay Blue Lagoon Full Day Hike adventure means choosing a truly authentic and high-quality experience. Here's why Quinoa Expeditions stands out from the rest:

Local Experts You Can Trust
Quinoa Expeditions is a 100% locally owned Peruvian company, committed to providing the most authentic, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible tours. Booking with us means you're supporting the local economy while getting the best service at the best price, with no middlemen involved.

Professional and Passionate Tour Guides.
Our tour guides are highly trained professionals, fluent in English and full of knowledge about the history and natural environment of the Humantay Blue Lagoon Full Day Hike . They’re also trained in First Aid and Mountain Rescue, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey. More than guides, they are storytellers and caretakers of Inca heritage.