Highlights

• We will have an unforgettable day walking among gigantic snow-capped mountains.
• Explore the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay.
• Enjoy nutritious picnics with local products.

What to Bring

To take a complete tour to Lake Humantay from Cusco, it is important to have the necessary equipment to fully enjoy this incredible place. Below is a detailed list of what you should bring when visiting Humantay Lagoon.

• Passport: It is not mandatory, but we recommend taking it with you in a safe place.
• Walking Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes, the terrain is steep and sleepy when wet.
• Fleece or down jacket: Morning temperatures can be below 0° C, wear a light and warm jacket.
• Gloves: You can bring hiking gloves or buy them on the streets of Cusco for 10 to 15 soles.
• It can be cold early in the morning, make sure you always have warm clothes.
• Bring a raincoat and rain poncho, avoid umbrellas due to strong winds.
• Protect yourself with good sun protection
• We recommend about 2 liters of water.
• Some low sugar snacks
• Bring about 300 soles in cash for souvenirs and unexpected expenses.
• Light and comfortable backpack for hiking
• Basic first aid kit
• A good camera or your fully charged phone and extra batteries
• Hiking poles: We include you
• Binoculars: Take them with you if you have one.

You always have to keep in mind that the weather in the Peruvian Andes can be quite unpredictable. Therefore, it is advisable to be well prepared for different weather conditions when planning a trip to Humantay Lagoon

Prices

Prices for Humantay Lake Tour

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Faqs

Travel Guide

Location

Lake Humantay is located in the Andes, about a 3-hour drive from Cusco and a two-hour walk from the lake. The lake is located at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 ft), one of the highest lakes in Peru. The lake is surrounded by mountains, including the snow-capped Humantay, which is 5,917 meters (19,427 ft) high.

History

The lake is located on the hill between the Salkantay and Humantay mountains. The lake is fed by meltwater from nearby glaciers and is turquoise due to light reflected from sediment at the bottom of the lake. In the surroundings of the lagoon, we can see local residents in their daily activities

The lake has spiritual meaning for Andean people and is used for ceremonies and rituals. In recent years Lake Humantay has become a popular tourist destination.

Altitude of Humantay lagoon

Lake Humantay is located at 4,200 meters above sea level and is located in the Vilcabamba mountains in the Andes of Cusco.

The climate in the Humantay lagoon

The climate varies depending on the season of the year. During the rainy season, the lake is usually covered in fog and on cloudy or rainy days it can be quite cold.

Although in the dry season the lake is mostly sunny and warm during the day, but very cold at night or early in the morning. You should be prepared for both weather conditions when planning your hike to Humantay Lagoon.

Difficulty of the Humantay hike

The hike is moderate to difficult as it has steep slopes and rocky terrain.

But the real difficulty is in the altitude since it is located at more than 4,200 meters above sea level, oxygen is rare and it is not easy to breathe deeply. This can make walking even more difficult and it is important to take breaks to catch your breath.

Lake Humantay vs. Rainbow Mountain

These two main hiking routes lead to stunning viewpoints in the Cusco region: Lake Humantay and Arco Iris Mountain. Both hikes are relatively difficult, but offer incredible views, so which hike should you choose?

Humantay Lake is the shortest at only 4 miles round trip. The start is on the outskirts of the town of Soraypampa and the walk can be completed in half a day. The path is somewhat steep and rocky in places, but accessible for most travelers. The reward for your efforts is a beautiful turquoise lake located.

Rainbow Mountain is a longer and more difficult hike. The starting point is about 4 hours from Cusco and the walk will take you about 4 hours. The first part of the hike is relatively easy, but it becomes much more difficult as you reach the upper valley. This hike is not recommended for small children, the elderly, or people with serious heart or respiratory problems; always consult with your family doctor

If you are short on time or don’t want a challenge, Laguna Humantay is the best option. But if you’re up for an adventure and want to see some truly stunning scenery, Rainbow Mountain is worth the extra effort.

Recommendations for visiting Humantay Lagoon

• If you are looking for a beautiful turquoise lake to visit in Peru, Humantay is the best. Here we give you some tips to better enjoy the walk.
• The best time to visit Humantay Lake is between May and September
• The transportation will take us from Cusco to the beginning of the walk for three hours from the city of Cusco.
• The trail is not very difficult, but you should wear comfortable shoes and plenty of water.
• Once you reach the lake, take time to enjoy the view and maybe even swim. However, be aware that the water can be quite cold.
• If you want to spend the night near the lake, we have the option of camping on our tour in the private service mode.
• To return, do it calmly, you can walk calmly so as not to get too tired.