Humantay Lake on Horseback
Full Day
Up to 8 travelers
4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Moderate
Overview
This option reduces much of the uphill walking while preserving the mountain experience. After breakfast in Mollepata, the route continues to Soraypampa, where local horse handlers provide instructions before the ascent.
Humantay Lake on Horseback: what to expect
Horses travel only along the permitted section of the trail. The final approach is completed on foot, allowing time to appreciate the glacial landscape and the cultural meaning of the lake before descending and returning to Cusco.
Highlights of the route
- Cusco to Soraypampa: Early pickup, breakfast in Mollepata and onward drive to the trailhead beneath the Salkantay range.
- Horseback ascent: Meet the local horse handler and ride the approved uphill section at a controlled pace.
- Lake visit and return: Complete the final approach on foot, visit the lake, descend for lunch and return to Cusco.
Itinerary
Cusco to Soraypampa
Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa
Early pickup, breakfast in Mollepata and onward drive to the trailhead beneath the Salkantay range.
Horseback ascent
Soraypampa – Humantay trail
Meet the local horse handler and ride the approved uphill section at a controlled pace.
Lake visit and return
Humantay Lake – Mollepata – Cusco
Complete the final approach on foot, visit the lake, descend for lunch and return to Cusco.
What's Included
- Pre-tour coordination
- Professional bilingual guide
- Round-trip tourist transport
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Small-group assistance
- Horse and local horse handler on the authorized trail section
- Breakfast and lunch
- Tourist entrance fees unless expressly stated
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and tips
- Services or activities not described in the itinerary
What Should You Bring?
- Passport or ID
- Water
- Sun protection
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm layers
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Small amount of cash