In short
- Rent directly from local muleteers at the Soraypampa base camp.
- Expect to pay around 160 PEN ($53 USD) in cash for a round trip.
- Horses cover 80% of the trail; you must hike the final rocky section.
In this article
The hike to Laguna Humantay climbs fast at high altitude. The trail gains up to 400 meters (1,200 feet) from the start. If you struggle with the incline or the thin air, hiring a local horse is a practical option. Here is what you need to know before you get in the saddle.
Can you hire a horse for the Humantay Lake hike?
Yes, local muleteers rent horses at the start of the trail.
The horses help you conserve energy during the steep ascent. The climb covers 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) round trip. Renting a horse is popular for visitors feeling the effects of the 3,900-meter starting altitude.
Where do you rent a horse for Humantay Lake?
You hire horses at the Soraypampa Trailhead parking lot.
Tour buses and taxis drop you off in a wide valley at 3,900 meters. Near the vehicle parking and base camp, you will see a designated horse rental station. Local guides wait here with their animals.
How much does a Humantay Lake horse rental cost?
A round-trip horse rental costs approximately 160 PEN ($53 USD).
You must pay in cash directly to the muleteer. Bring Peruvian Soles, as cards are not accepted on the mountain. Some tours help arrange the rental, but you still pay the local owner directly.
| Service | Approximate Cost | Currency |
|---|---|---|
| Round-trip horse rental | 160 | PEN |
| Round-trip USD equivalent | $53 | USD |
Do horses take you all the way to the lake?
No, horses only carry you about 80 percent of the way up.
The final section of the trail is too steep and rocky for horses to navigate safely. You must dismount and walk the rest of the way to the lake at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
Do you need to book a horse in advance?
No, you hire horses on arrival at the trailhead.
There is no online booking system for local horses. Simply walk up to the station at Soraypampa. If you book an organized tour, your guide can usually help translate and secure a horse for you.
Is the hike still hard if you use a horse?
The final 20 percent of the hike remains demanding.
Because you are already at high altitude, walking the last rocky incline requires effort. You still need to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before attempting the trip. Drink plenty of water and rest often on the final steps.
Questions travellers ask
Can I pay for a horse with a credit card?
No, you must bring cash in Peruvian Soles. Credit cards are not accepted by the local muleteers at the trail.
What else should I pack if I ride a horse?
Bring warm layers like a fleece or down jacket. Early mornings at Soraypampa are freezing, and you will not generate as much body heat while riding as you would hiking.
Are there bathrooms near the horse rental?
Yes, there are basic restrooms at the Soraypampa parking lot. They cost 1 to 2 Soles in cash. There are no facilities further up the trail.
