HUMANTAY LAKE

laguna humantay a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.

Humantay Lagoon is located in the Cusco region, specifically in the community of Soraypampa, Mollepata district, Anta province. It is nestled in the Andes Mountains at the foot of the Humantay snow-capped mountain. The lagoon’s altitude is approximately 4,200 meters above sea level (masl).

The characteristic turquoise color is due to a combination of natural factors. Primarily, it is due to the presence of fine mineral sediments (known as «glacial flour») that are carried by the melting snow and remain suspended in the water. These minerals, along with microalgae and the way they reflect sunlight, create that intense and striking color

Yes, it is a sacred place within the Andean worldview. The lagoon and the surrounding mountains (the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay) are considered Apus, or protective spirits. It is common for visitors to make offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth) by building small «apachetas» (piles of stones) as a sign of respect and gratitude for allowing their visit.

The hike is considered moderately difficult. Although the distance is not long (approximately 1.5 to 3 kilometers from Soraypampa), the main challenge is the steep and constant incline combined with the high altitude, which can make the effort feel more intense.

The ascent from Soraypampa to the lagoon usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on each person’s pace and level of acclimatization. The descent is faster, generally around an hour. The complete tour, from departure to return to Cusco, lasts a full day (approximately from 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.).

Yes, local residents offer horse rentals starting in Soraypampa. This allows you to cover most of the distance on horseback, although the last stretch is usually done on foot. The cost is approximately S/ 80.00 soles or $25 USD.

Yes, it’s possible to visit independently, but it requires more planning. You must take public transportation from Cusco to Mollepata and then a taxi to Soraypampa, carefully coordinating your return trip. The most comfortable and popular option is to book a tour in Cusco, which includes transportation, a guide, meals, and the entrance fee.

The best time is during the dry season, which runs from April to October (with more stable months between May and September). During these months, there is less rain, and the skies are usually clearer, allowing you to better appreciate the lagoon’s color and enjoy a safer hike. The rainy season (November to March) also has its charm with greener landscapes, but the weather is more unpredictable.

Altitude (4,200 meters above sea level) can cause symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, fatigue, or dizziness. The main recommendation is to acclimatize in Cusco (3,400 meters above sea level) for at least one or two days before the hike. During the ascent, it is essential to walk slowly, stay well hydrated, and avoid heavy meals.

The key is to dress in layers to adapt to the temperature changes. Bring:

• Footwear: Hiking boots with good grip.
• Clothing: Thermal underwear, a warm jacket (fleece or down), a windbreaker or waterproof jacket, a hat, and gloves.
• Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat, as the radiation is very intense at this altitude.
• Other: Water, energy snacks, cash in soles (for expenses such as horse rentals or tips), and your camera.

Entrance: The entrance fee to the lagoon usually costs 20 soles for foreign tourists and 10 soles for Peruvian nationals.

No, swimming in the lagoon is prohibited. The main reason is to preserve the purity of the water and protect the ecosystem, as it is a water source for nearby communities. Additionally, the water temperature is extremely cold.

It is not recommended, especially for children under 8 to 10 years old. The physical exertion of the hike, the altitude, and the intense cold can be very demanding for them. If traveling with teenagers, they must be under the supervision and responsibility of an adult, and it is recommended to consider the option of horseback riding to facilitate the ascent.

In Soraypampa (the starting point of the hike) there are basic restroom facilities. As for internet, the signal is practically nonexistent during the hike. In Soraypampa, some residents offer satellite internet access for a fee (around 20 to 30 soles per hour), but the connection is not very good due to the remoteness.