The Magical Humantay Lake: Expert Guide to Peru's Turquoise Gem

Where is Humantay Lake?

The turquoise-blue Humantay Lake is located in the Cusco region of Peru[cite: 210]. It is found northwest of the City of Cusco, high up on the side of the great snowy Humantay Mountain, close to the Soraypampa community in the Mollepata district within the Anta province[cite: 211]. While you need to embark on a proper Humantay Lake hike to reach this location, it’s one of the most impressive, breathtaking locations you will ever visit[cite: 212]. It feels like something out of a sci-fi movie, a serene location from a distant planet[cite: 57].

 

Ice caps Melting

 

Facts and Geology of The Lake

There is not a lot of information about the geology of this lagoon, but geologists tell us that it is certainly of glacial origin[cite: 214]. At some time in the past, snow and ice came down and covered the lower parts of the mountain, carving out depressions on its sides[cite: 215]. When the ice melted, the beautiful Humantay Lagoon was formed[cite: 216]. Without a doubt, the turquoise color of the water is due to the purity of the glacial meltwater and to specific species of algae called Microcystis aeruginosa and Osborne[cite: 217]. To help you understand the scale and technical details of this natural wonder, here are the essential metrics[cite: 218]:

Note: The name could possibly be because the lake is located at a dominant high point right above the Amazon jungle valley[cite: 220].

 

The Mules from Mollepata

 

Why is Humantay so Special?

Humantay Lake is not only a place of incredible colors and panoramic views or a place where one can feel the magic of the amazing landscape[cite: 222]. It is also a sacred and mystical spot where you can witness the fragility of the terrestrial ecosystem and view the effects of climate change firsthand[cite: 223]. Certainly, those intrepid travelers who come to Humantay and witness these delicate interconnections between air, earth, and water will return to their homes at lower elevations and act as goodwill ambassadors who have seen personally the effects of global warming[cite: 224]. This unique awareness makes it a standout choice among various holiday types - cultural and environmental journeys in Peru[cite: 47].

 

The Lagoon

 

The Cultural Significance of The Lake

According to Andean tradition, Apu Humantay was the youngest son of Apu Salkantay[cite: 226]. Both were revered as celestial guardians responsible for distributing water that flows down from the eternal snow above to the villages and farms located on the sides of these great peaks[cite: 227]. Therefore, these Apus are revered by the local people, and they are recognized as sacred representatives of Pachamama[cite: 228]. This is why you will be able to see apachetas (man-made piles of rocks) in the area[cite: 229]. These are mounds of stones placed one on top of the other by local people or by travelers as an offering of thanks to Pachamama, or of gratitude for having made it safely to this sacred lagoon[cite: 230]. Legend holds that the lake's intense color reflects the profound sorrow of the Apu[cite: 231].

 

Humantay Picnic

 

What to Expect on the Humantay Lake Hike

Trekking to Humantay Lake has to be one of the best day trips from Cusco, Peru. [cite: 233] The striking turquoise waters offer exceptional opportunities for landscape photography, and the hike that leads to it gets well-deserved attention among travelers[cite: 234]. This trail perfectly complements other premium routes across the country, such as the legendary Classic Inca Trail, offering an elite alpine challenge[cite: 133]. The one-day Humantay Lake tour starts early in the morning when a transport van picks you up at your hotel[cite: 235]. It takes three hours to get to the trailhead by road, so you will spend about six hours in transport that day, which, together with the hike itself, guarantees a long day on the road[cite: 236]. The reward, however, is well worth it[cite: 237].

 

Hiker at The Lake

 

The Trail Experience

The trail begins with a demanding incline[cite: 239]. The path winds around curves with quite a few loose rocks, and the final section features a short descent where you can look down and see the peaceful, clear water[cite: 239]. It is important to know that the valley and the lake area are often foggy[cite: 240]. While cloud cover can occasionally obscure the peaks, the mountain fog is precisely the type of weather that gives Humantay Lake its sought-after mysterious atmosphere[cite: 241]. If you have time, it is worth walking around the lake's shore a bit, taking photos from different angles, and capturing the shifting light across the water[cite: 242].

 

Humantay Lagoon

 

Local Horse Rentals

If the steepness or the thin air proves too challenging during the climb, local community members at Soraypampa offer horse rentals[cite: 244]. The cost is approximately 80 to 100 Peruvian Soles (22 - 27 USD) for the uphill trek[cite: 245]. Please note that horses can only carry you up most of the steep incline; the final rocky stretch near the ridge must be walked on foot for safety reasons[cite: 246, 247].

 

Magical Humantay

 

How Difficult is the Trek and How to Prepare?

The Humantay Lake hike route can be quite challenging[cite: 249]. While the path itself is easy to follow, you will encounter stones that protrude from the ground, and the trail can be slippery or muddy in some locations[cite: 249]. The difficulty level of the trek is officially classed as moderate, but the high elevation is the main factor that adds to the challenge[cite: 250]. If you are eager to conquer this region, you might also consider checking out other iconic options from our list of destinations across the Andes[cite: 16, 26].

Acclimatization Tips

This hike takes you up to over 4,200 meters (13,780 ft)[cite: 252]. This elevation poses a legitimate challenge, underscoring the importance of traveling with a professional, fully equipped outfitter[cite: 253]. To avoid altitude sickness, do not schedule this trek for your first day in Peru[cite: 254]. Spend at least 48 hours adjusting to the altitude in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, drink plenty of local coca tea, and stay hydrated[cite: 255].

Essential Packing

Apart from dealing with the loose stones and the high elevation, wearing the right gear makes it a relatively easy hike[cite: 257]. We highly recommend bringing[cite: 258]:

• Sturdy hiking boots with good traction to manage the slippery and rocky paths[cite: 259].
• Trekking poles to assist with balance on the steep incline[cite: 260].
• Layered clothing, as temperatures drop significantly when the mountain fog rolls in[cite: 261].
• Cash in small Soles denominations for horse rentals or local facilities[cite: 262].

 

Starting the Trek

 

Visit Humantay as part of The Salkantay Trek

It is also possible to visit Humantay Lake as part of the multi-day Salkantay Trek that leads from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and, consequently, to Machu Picchu[cite: 264]. If you plan on hiking Salkantay Trek anyway, including this short detour to Humantay Lake is an excellent option as it saves you time and money[cite: 265]. Combining the lake with the Salkantay trek has the distinct advantage of arriving at the water when the day trippers have already left, giving you a much more private and magical experience[cite: 266].

 

Humantay Lake

 

FAQs About Humantay Lake

Can you swim in Humantay Lake?

No, swimming is strictly prohibited[cite: 269]. The lagoon is a pristine glacial water source for the local communities living down the valley[cite: 269]. Additionally, the water is near freezing, making swimming highly dangerous due to hypothermia risks[cite: 270].

When is the best time of year to visit Humantay Lake Peru?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when days are sunny and the mountain views are clearest[cite: 272]. The rainy season runs from November to April, making the trails muddier and increasing the presence of heavy fog[cite: 273]. This seasonality information is vital for planning comprehensive itineraries that encompass the best of Peru[cite: 193].

Are there bathrooms along the trail?

Basic toilet facilities are available at the main Soraypampa campsite and parking area at the start of the trek[cite: 275]. There are no public restrooms along the mountain path or near the lake summit, so plan ahead before starting the climb[cite: 276].

 

Salkantay Trek

 

Ready to Experience the Andes?

If you want to visit the Humantay Lake on a day trip or combine the Humantay Trek with The Salkantay Trek to see this magical and mythical lagoon, let our local team manage every detail[cite: 278]. At Valencia Travel, our expert guides ensure your high-altitude mountain journey is safe, seamless, and deeply authentic[cite: 279]. Contact us here for more information and start planning your perfect Peruvian adventure or a scenic getaway to Puno! [cite: 18, 280]

 

Cloudy Salkantay Peak