Important Information

What does Humantay mean?

Humantay means "Head of the Gods," due to its location on the slopes leading to the high jungle.

Location and Altitude of Humantay Lagoon

Humantay Lagoon is situated at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level.

It is located 128 kilometers from the city of Cusco, in the district of Mollepata, Anta Province.

Best Time to Visit Humantay

The best time to visit Humantay Lagoon is from May to November due to the favorable sunny climate, which is ideal for taking impressive photographs and walking comfortably without any rain-related issues, allowing you to enjoy nature freely.

Humantay Lagoon December – April

During this time of year, the climate is temperate with occasional light rainfall, which can be bothersome during the hike. If you decide to travel during this period, it is advisable to come prepared.

Humantay Lagoon May – November (Best Time to Visit)

This time of year is considered by many to be the best time to visit Humantay Lagoon. Despite the cold climate, the days are usually sunny. We particularly recommend visiting when the weather is milder with little rain.

Distance from Cusco to Humantay Lagoon

Humantay Lagoon is 128 kilometers from Cusco city, approximately a 3-hour and 30-minute drive.
There are no public transport options to reach the lagoon, so it is best to take a tour agency or travel by private transport.

How to Visit Humantay Lagoon on Your Own?

You will need to take a bus from Cusco to Mollepata from the Arcopata bus terminal (S/ 15.00) for about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival in Mollepata, find a place to have breakfast (S/ 5.00). After breakfast, hire a taxi to take you to Soraypampa, which will cost around S/ 20.00.
You will also need to pay an entrance fee to Humantay Lagoon (S/ 10.00).
From Soraypampa, it's a 2-hour hike to reach the lagoon. There is also an option to rent horses if you prefer not to walk. The first 30 minutes of the hike are semi-flat, and the rest is uphill.
You might not find transportation for the return trip, so it's advisable to arrange for the taxi to wait for you or return to pick you up. If necessary, you can negotiate prices with the driver. Alternatively, there are accommodations available from S/ 20 to S/ 40, and camping areas (bring your tent) where you can stay overnight. If camping, ensure you have warm clothing as nights are very cold.

Visiting Humantay Lagoon with a Travel Agency

The agency will pick you up from your hotel between 4:00 am and 4:30 am with tourist transportation.
The hike to the beautiful Humantay Lagoon will take 1:30 to 2:00 hours.
You will appreciate the stunning scenery and the majestic views of the Humantay and Salkantay glaciers. After a brief rest and taking photos, you will return along the same route to Soraypampa.
You will then take transportation back to Mollepata, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Cusco.
The tour ends one block from Plaza de Armas (Plaza Regocijo).

Included

• Expert local driver
• 1 breakfast and 1 lunch with vegetarian options
• Entrance to Mollepata village
• First aid kit
• Professional guide
• Transportation Cusco – Mollepata – Cusco

If you love nature and trekking, this place is perfect. Humantay is a snow-capped mountain part of the Andes, giving rise to this stunning turquoise lagoon, captivating both international and local visitors.
The hike will offer tranquility and serenity as you experience the natural magnificence.
With an otherworldly atmosphere, the lagoon is visited by shamans and tourists from around the world who leave offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) to ensure a safe journey and express gratitude.
According to locals, Humantay is the youngest child of Apu Salkantay, responsible for providing and distributing water from its snow to the populations living at the foot of these great snowy mountains.

Where to Stay?

In Limatambo and Mollepata, there are lodging options ranging from S/ 20.00 to S/ 45.00.

• Hostal Inti Killa
• Hotel Casona Mollepata
• Señor de Huanca Lodge

Where to Eat?

In Mollepata, you can find restaurants and local cafés.

• Restaurante La Herradura Salkantay
• Restaurante Refugios Salkantay
• Restaurante Casa Salkantay
• Restaurante Julio Mollepata

Recommendations

• It is recommended to visit the lagoon in the morning to avoid disturbing the ducks' arrival.
• For the hike, bring open clothing, sunscreen, umbrellas, a hat or cap, and a walking stick.
• If you plan to visit Humantay Lagoon on your own, hiring a travel agency is advisable for a more economical experience.

Map to Humantay Lagoon

Photos of Humantay