Humantay Lake is located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, at an elevation of 4,250 meters (13,944 feet). The lake was formed several thousand years ago by a melting glacier and it is believed to have been created as a source of water for the Incas. The stunning views from the lake are complimented by it’s vibrant turquoise waters and surrounding snow capped mountains.
Experience the beauty of the Peruvian mountains with a visit to Humantay Lake. This guide will help you create the perfect getaway.
Humantay Lake in Perú
Humantay Lake is a beautiful turquoise-colored lake located in the Peruvian Andes, near the town of Soraypampa. Laguna Humantay is a breathtakingly beautiful lake that sits at an elevation of over 13,000 feet. Its turquoise waters, framed by imposing mountains and glacial peaks, attract visitors from all over the world in search of adventure, peace and connection with nature.
Hiking to the Beautiful Laguna Humantay
The hike to Laguna Humantay is a challenging one, but well worth the effort. As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. As you near the lake, you’ll see the water’s vibrant blue-green color shining like a jewel in the rugged landscape.
While the hike to Laguna Humantay is challenging, it is an experience that will stay with you forever. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply seeking a connection to nature, the lake’s stunning beauty and spiritual significance make it a must-see destination in Peru. Plan your trip to the Humantay Lake today and discover the magic of Laguna Humantay for yourself.
How to Get to Humantay Lake in Cusco Perú
Getting to Humantay Lake in Cusco, Peru requires a bit of planning and preparation, but the stunning views and natural beauty of the lake make it worth the effort. Here are the most common ways to get to Humantay Lake:.
One of the easiest ways to get to Humantay Lake is to join a tour or take a private tour from Cusco to Humanatay Lake. Many tour operators in Cusco offer day trips to Humantay Lake that include transportation, a guide, and meals. This could be a good option for those who want to take the stress out of planning and logistics.
For those on a budget, it is possible to take public transportation to Soraypampa. From Cusco, take a bus to Mollepata, and from there take a shared taxi to Soraypampa town. This is the most affordable option, but it can be time-consuming and requires more planning and flexibility.
No matter which option you choose, it’s important to acclimate to the high altitude of Cusco before attempting the hike to Humantay Lake. Make sure to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take it slow and steady on the hike.
Humantay Lake Hike Difficulty
The hike to Humantay Lake in Peru is considered to be a moderately difficult trek. It requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina due to the high altitude and steep terrain.
The difficulty of the hike can be affected by factors such as the altitude, weather conditions, and individual fitness level. It is important to take your time and acclimatize to the altitude before beginning the hike, as altitude sickness can be a serious issue at high elevations.
The terrain of the hike is hilly and steep in some parts, with loose gravel and uneven terrain. Hiking poles can be helpful to maintain balance and reduce impact on knees and legs. Appropriate footwear with good traction and ankle support is also recommended.
When to Go to Humantay Lake
This depends on the experience you are looking to have, There are two distinct trekking seasons. The best months to trek to Humantay Lake areApril, May, June, July, August, September and October. You can trek to Huamantay Lake from from December to January except in February since the weather conditions can be more challenging in these winter months making the trek even more difficult.
Can you swim in Humantay Lake?
Currently, it is not allowed to enter the Humantay Lagoon because the water is used for the consumption of the people who live in the area and also because human contact could alter the natural color of the lagoon. In addition, the water temperature is not recommended for visitors because it is very cold. The idea is to preserve the color of the water as long as possible, so every disruption to the current ecosystem is prohibited.
Is Humantay Lake harder than Rainbow Mountain?
The hikes to Humantay Lake and Rainbow Mountain in Peru are both considered to be moderately difficult treks, but they do have some differences in terms of their level of difficulty.
The hike to Humantay Lake is shorter in distance (approximately 5.5 miles round trip) than the hike to Rainbow Mountain (approximately 7 miles round trip). However, the elevation gain to reach Humantay Lake is greater (around 1,640 feet) than the elevation gain to reach Rainbow Mountain (around 1,300 feet).
Are there fish in Humantay Lake?
There are no fish in Humantay Lake. The lake is located in a high-altitude environment, and its water is sourced from melting glaciers and snow. Therefore, the water is often too cold and has too little nutrients to support fish or other aquatic life.
What makes the Humantay Lake the stunning blue colours
The stunning blue color of Humantay Lake is due to its unique location and composition. The lake is fed by glacial meltwater, which contains finely ground rock particles, known as glacial flour, that are suspended in the water. These tiny particles scatter sunlight, creating a beautiful turquoise-blue color.
In addition to the glacial flour, the depth and clarity of the lake also contribute to its striking color. The water in Humantay Lake is exceptionally clear, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into the lake and reflect off the bottom. This gives the lake a vibrant, almost ethereal appearance.
The color of the lake can also vary depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. In the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low in the sky, the lake can take on a deeper, richer blue color. During the middle of the day, when the sun is directly overhead, the lake can appear more turquoise or green.
How much does it cost to take a tour to Humantay Lake, Cusco
the tour to Humantay Lagoon at Come See Peru Tours costs from 99 dollars per person includes private transportation, private local guide, breakfast, lunch and entrance fees.
Humantay lake day trip from the Sacred Valley? believe it or not if you are in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo we can pick you up from there, we just need you to make the reservation at least 2 days in advance, for this you just have to request it and contact one of our specialists.
Which is better the hike to the humantay lagoon or Rainbow Mountain?
If you don’t have much time and don’t know yet which of these incredible places to visit we suggest you read our article on Humantay Lake vs Rainbow Mountain
