Highlight of the day: Rise to a high mountain lagoon located under the snowy Humantay.

Departure from Cusco

The Peceros Agency Travel team will pass through your hotel during the early morning.

We will board the tourist transport to leave Cusco in a northwesterly direction. During the first part of the journey we will cross urban areas and later agricultural sectors of the province of Anta.

The weather within Cusco can feel cold at that time.

Breakfast in Mollepata

We’ll get to Mollepata in the morning. There we will make a stop for breakfast and prepare the body before the walk.

Breakfast usually includes hot drinks, bread, fruit, eggs, cereals or other foods available in the selected restaurant. The composition can change depending on the establishment and the season.

We do not recommend overeating. Heavy feeding before climbing can cause discomfort, especially when the body still adapts to height.

Before proceeding, you can use the hygienic services and buy water, coca leaves, snacks or other personal items.

Mollepata – Soraypampa

After breakfast we will continue by transport to Soraypampa.

The road gains height and has curves, narrow sectors and unpaved sections. In dry season there may be dust; during rains mud, small stones or maintenance delays may appear.

As we approach Soraypampa, the mountains occupy much of the horizon. The air becomes colder and the presence of vegetation decreases.

When you get out of the vehicle you will feel the change of height. Some people notice tiredness before they start, even if they have not walked yet. It does not necessarily mean that they cannot complete the route, but they will need to move forward calmly.

Ascent of Soraypampa to the Humantay Lagoon

The guide will provide an explanation of the route, the pace of travel and the signs related to the height. It will also indicate where the horses run by local gunmen are located.

The first part allows you to enter rhythm. Then the slope becomes more marked and short curves, steps of earth and loose stone appear.

The ascent is not technically complex, but it is done above 3,800 meters. The air contains less oxygen than in Cusco, so trying to walk too fast usually ends in exhaustion.

Use short steps. Breathe regularly. Don’t compete with other travelers.

During the dry season, the soil can be firm and dusty. During the rainy months, some sectors have mud, puddles and slippery stones. Canes help maintain balance and discharge some of the effort from the knees.

Sometimes the cold changes quickly. There may be sun in Soraypampa and cold wind near the lagoon. It carries a warm coat even though the sky seems clear.

Stay in the Humantay Lagoon

At the end of the climb, the lagoon will appear under the walls of the snowy Humantay.

The guide will explain the importance of the Apus within Andean thought and will give indications to stay in place without affecting the environment.

You will have time for photographs and rest before the descent. the place usually receives several groups during the day. In private service we try to arrive before the most influx strip, but it is not possible to guarantee that the lagoon is completely empty.

It is not allowed to enter the water. Nor should they leave residues, uproot plants, feed animals or lift stone mounds without authorization.

Descent to Soraypampa

We will begin the return by the same path.

Descent requires less breathing effort, but increases pressure on knees and ankles. Loose soil can cause slips, especially when trying to get down too quickly.

The canes are especially useful in this part. Keep a distance with the person in front and avoid cutting their way down the slopes.

When the soil is moist, the guide can change the rhythm or ask that the group use a different path.

Lunch in Mollepata

After we meet the group again, we will return by vehicle to Mollepata.

Lunch allows you to regain energy after the walk. It is usually served in buffet or menu, depending on the restaurant assigned.

You can find soups, rice, potatoes, pasta, vegetables, meats and meatless alternatives. Vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-associated options should be ordered prior to departure.

After lunch you will have a few minutes to use the hygienic services and organize your belongings.

Return to Cusco

In the afternoon we will board the transport to return to Cusco.

The journey can take several hours. The arrival time depends on traffic, road conditions, group pace and lunch duration.

In shared service, the return can end near the center of Cusco. In private service, the transfer to the hotel is made when there is vehicular access.

Technical Details

• Transportation: Van, minibus or private vehicle
• Route: Cusco to Mollepata
• Approximate duration: Between 2 and 3 hours, according to traffic and road
• Track type: Asphalt road with climbing sections
• Arrival Altitude: Approximately 3,850 meters / 12,631 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate to demanding
• Food: It is not recommended to eat near the edge