High above the Sacred Valley, where glacier peaks rise above wide alpine plains, Humantay Lake Tour rests beneath the towering presence of the Salkantay massif. This full-day experience offers travelers the opportunity to step into one of the most iconic mountain environments in the Peruvian Andes — the same landscapes that define the Salkantay Trek and the Sky Dome Camps experience.
Designed for those seeking meaningful mountain immersion without overnight commitment, this journey combines scenic travel, guided hiking, and time to connect with the raw beauty of the high Andes in a single unforgettable day.
From Cusco to Soraypampa, and onward to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, every stage of the experience reveals why this region has become one of Peru’s most celebrated alpine destinations.
Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Cusco
Early morning pickup takes you from your hotel in Cusco toward the Anta plains and the village of Mollepata, where a nourishing breakfast prepares the group for the day ahead.
Continuing deeper into the Andes, the road climbs toward Soraypampa at 3,900 meters, surrounded by towering mountains and expansive alpine landscapes. This location marks the starting point of the hike and introduces travelers to the same high-altitude ecosystem experienced during Salkantay trekking expeditions.
The guided hike to Humantay Lake begins with a steady uphill ascent along mountain paths used by local communities and trekking groups alike. While challenging due to altitude, the route rewards every step with increasingly dramatic views.
Upon reaching Humantay Lake, travelers are welcomed by intensely colored glacial waters framed by steep rock faces and hanging ice fields descending from Humantay Mountain. Your guide shares insight into local traditions, mountain ecology, and the spiritual importance these peaks hold within Andean culture.
After time to explore and absorb the surroundings, the group descends to Soraypampa for a well-earned lunch before beginning the scenic return to Cusco, arriving in the early evening.
Daily Expedition Stats
Transportation & Logistics
Access & Expertise
Porterage & Safety
To customize your expedition, the following services and equipment can be added to your booking:
The hike to Humantay Lake is considered moderate, mainly due to the altitude rather than the distance.
You don’t need prior trekking experience, but you should feel comfortable walking uphill for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The final section is the most challenging, with a steady incline at high elevation.
If you prefer, horse rentals are available on-site for part of the ascent (paid directly to local handlers).
For a smooth and comfortable experience, we recommend packing light but smart:
Optional but recommended: trekking poles for the uphill section.
Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This allows for a more personalized experience, better pacing during the hike, and direct attention from your guide throughout the day.
Humantay Lake sits at over 4,200 meters (13,780 ft), so proper acclimatization is key.
We strongly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the tour. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and makes the hike far more enjoyable.
Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding alcohol the day before also make a noticeable difference.
Yes—SkyDome Camps operates fully legally and with all required permits.
As part of the Sam Travel Corporation, we meet all official regulations to operate tours in the region. Our team combines years of on-the-ground experience with a strong focus on safety, organization, and high-quality service.
That’s what allows us to consistently deliver a smooth and well-managed experience, even in high-altitude environments like Humantay.
YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE.
Guest Reviews
Real experiences from travelers who slept under the Andean sky
I never thought I could sleep in a luxury bed while staring at the Milky Way through a transparent dome. The Salkantay glacier right in front of you at sunrise — absolutely unreal. Worth every penny.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky DomeWe did the full Salkantay Trek and stayed at the dome on night two. After a hard day of hiking, coming back to a real bed, hot shower and that view of the mountain? Nothing compares to that.
SkyDomeCamps - Salkantay TrekI have camped across Patagonia and Nepal but nothing matched this. The dome is warm, beautifully designed and the silence at 4,600m is something else entirely. I woke up at 3am just to stare at the stars.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky Dome
