Humantay Lake has rapidly gained fame as one of the most breathtaking destinations in Cusco. Known for its striking turquoise waters, the lake is fed by the glacier of the majestic Humantay Mountain, part of the Salkantay mountain range—the second highest peak in the Cusco region and a sacred site revered by local communities. The crystal-clear, glacial water of Humantay Lake is not only a natural wonder but also serves an important role in the region, as locals use it for agricultural purposes. Situated high in the Andes, this awe-inspiring lake is a must-visit on any trip to Cusco, making it one of the top destinations in the area.
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Where is Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake is located in the Mollepata district province of Anta province in the Cusco region, at an elevation of 4200 m this turquoise lake became famous because of its location and the color of the lake it is a one-day tour from Cusco highly recommended if you have a spare day in Cusco.
How to get to Humantay Lake?
Getting to this incredible Humantay Lake is quite easy since it is a full-day tour if you go with a tour company they will pick you up from your hotel and drop you off in the same place the price varies depending on the type of tour you can go on a private tour just families or friends or in a group service in a group service ask for the pick place usually the group can be bigger than 20 so they don’t pick up from your hotel they have a meeting place.
From Cusco, the bus passes by Anta, Limatambo, Mollepata, and Soraypampa this place is the end of the bus road Soraypamapa is a well-established campsite of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu in this place you will start hiking to the Humantay lake the hike is steep for about 2 hours depending of your level of fitness and 1 hour to come back all downhill then you will back by bus taking the same route to Cusco.
Can I get to the lake on my own?
Yes, you can, there are two options the first one and the cheapest one is taking public transportation but for this, you will need to speak a bit of Spanish otherwise will be hard to communicate with local people to ask the directions.
In Cusco, you have to go to Curahuasi bus station which is located in Arcopata close to the Hilton Garden hotel you can walk from the main plaza walking distance of 15 minutes once you take the vans you will drive for 2 hours and get off at Limatambo here you have to find taxis or minivans going to Mollepata district here you have to hire another taxi to the trailhead Soraypampa which is the starting point of the trek to Humantay lake and come back the same way.
The second option is hiring a private taxi from Cusco for the round trip!
And the third option would be going with a travel agency that includes round trip transportation service on a tourist bus with a licensed and English-speaking tour guide tour as well they include breakfast and lunch so you can enjoy better the lake without worrying about how to get to this incredible lake.
How much does a taxi to Humantay lagoon cost?
A private taxi from Cusco to Humantay Lake costs round trip 300 soles just the transportation without a guiding service and most of the drivers don’t speak English.
Where does the Humantay Lake hike start?
It will depend on it you are doing a day tour you have to start at Soraypampa which is the official campsite of the Salkantay trek from this place you will cover 2 kilometers to the Lake is all uphill and will take you 2 hours approx. once you arrive you will have time to explore yourself there are plenty of places to climb more if you want to have different views of Lake Humantay and the Glacier as the higher you are the better the view you have and like one hour to come back all downhill.
The second option is starting the hike in Marko Q’asa here you can start your hike from this place you will hike to Soraypampa for about 5 hours once you arrive at Sorapampa you can spend a night and hike the following day to the lake early in the morning without people so quiet and relaxing you can enjoy the incredible lake.
How to get with a Travel Agency?
The best way is to contact us because we are the best local travel and tour operator in Cusco.
Get now your Humantay Hike Tour.
When is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The climate around Humantay Lake and the Andes is unpredictable, with two main seasons—dry and wet. The dry season, considered the high season, runs from mid-April to mid-October. During this period, you can expect sunny days, clear skies, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers that make Humantay Lake so magical.
The rainy season, from October to April, brings occasional showers, which can sometimes make for foggy and overcast conditions. However, Humantay Lake remains open year-round, and visiting during the rainy season offers the advantage of fewer crowds and the possibility of witnessing the lake’s beauty in a more serene atmosphere. While the weather may be unpredictable, you may still experience clear days with breathtaking views, making it possible to enjoy the lake regardless of the season.
Read: Best time to visit Humantay Lake.
What is the hike like to the lake?
The hike to the lake is not long only 2 kilometers but very steep and very high elevation the hike starts at an elevation of 3900 meters and you will hike up to 4200 meters it is highly recommended to get used to the altitude before you hike to Humantay lake otherwise you can suffer altitude sickness.
FAQ: for humantay lake
1. What is Humantay Lake?
Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay) is a stunning turquoise glacial lake located in the Peruvian Andes, near the Salkantay Mountain. It is a popular day-trip destination from Cusco, renowned for its breathtaking views and natural beauty.
2. Where is Humantay Lake located?
Humantay Lake is situated in the Cusco region of Peru, at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). It lies near the base of the Humantay Mountain, a part of the Vilcabamba range.
3. How do I get to Humantay lagoon?
The most common way to visit Humantay Lake is through a guided tour from Cusco. Tours typically include transportation to the trailhead at Soraypampa, a hike to the lake, and a return to Cusco. Independent travelers can hire a private taxi or drive to Soraypampa to start the hike.
4. How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike is considered moderate, covering about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) round trip. The ascent is steep and can be challenging due to the high altitude. Proper acclimatization is recommended.
5. How long does it take to hike to Humantay Lake?
The hike to the lake usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, with an additional hour to descend.
6. What should I pack for a trip to Humantay Lake?
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm layers and a waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Water and snacks
- Walking sticks (optional but helpful)
- A small backpack for essentials
7. What is the weather like at Humantay Lake?
Weather can vary greatly. Mornings are usually clear, while afternoons may bring rain or snow. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) during the day but can drop below freezing at night.
8. When is the best time to visit Humantay Lake?
The dry season, from May to September, is the best time to visit. During this period, you’re more likely to experience clear skies and pleasant hiking conditions.
9. Is altitude sickness a concern at Humantay Lake?
Yes, altitude sickness can be an issue due to the lake’s high elevation. To minimize the risk, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before your visit, stay hydrated, and consider using coca leaves or altitude sickness medication.
10. Are there any entry fees for Humantay Lake?
Yes, there is a small entry fee of approximately 10 PEN (Peruvian Soles) per person, which is usually included in guided tour packages.
11. Can I swim in Humantay lagoon?
No, swimming in the lake is discouraged as it is considered sacred by local communities and is also extremely cold due to its glacial origins.
12. Are guided tours necessary to visit Humantay Lake?
While not mandatory, guided tours are highly recommended for convenience, safety, and insights into the lake’s cultural and natural significance.
13. Are there restrooms or facilities near the lake?
Basic restrooms are available at the Soraypampa trailhead, but facilities are limited. It’s advisable to bring your own supplies such as tissues or hand sanitizer.
14. Is Humantay lagoon family-friendly?
Yes, but the hike may be challenging for young children or those who are not used to high-altitude trekking. Families should assess their fitness levels before attempting the hike.
15. Is Humantay lagoon worth visiting?
Absolutely! The stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, make Humantay Lake a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
I am Carlos, founder of Machu Picchu Soul, a local tour operator and travel agency based in Cusco, Peru. My journey in tourism began as a porter on the iconic Inca Trail, where I developed a deep connection with the land and its history. After years of dedication, I became a professional tour guide, honing my skills to deliver exceptional experiences. With over 15 years of expertise, I decided to establish Machu Picchu Soul to combine my passion for authentic travel with a commitment to supporting local communities and creating unforgettable adventures for our guests.
