Humantay Lake Trek




It’s hard to overstate the beauty of Humantay Lake, one of the true hidden gems of the Peruvian highlands. Located at 4,200 meters above sea level (13,779 ft), the lake is nestled between snowcapped mountains and an imposing glacier, and its emerald waters are dazzling in their color. It’s no surprise that the lake was sacred to the Incas, and is still visited by shamans today. It’s also common to leave an offering, known as an apacheta, on the banks of the lake – something that your guide can explain in more detail.
It’s a relatively short but quite challenging trek to reach Humantay Lake, passing through ruggedly beautiful landscapes at high altitude. It’s also only accessible (safely, at least) from below. That, however, is part of the adventure: You’ll only see this spectacular lake when you make it up there!
We began our full-day Humantay Lake hike early in the morning when we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at around 4 a.m. You’ll then travel by private transport with your guide and driver, first stopping at Mollepata where we’ll have a hearty breakfast to give us the energy for our trek. We’ll then continue on to Soraypampa, at 3,920 m/ 12,860 ft. where the trailhead is found. Here you will have the opportunity to see the Sky Camp with its domed accommodation in front of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains.
After a short rest, we’ll get ready to start the Laguna Humantay hike. Setting off, we’ll have an uphill trek for about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through wonderful landscapes surrounded by stunning mountains. While the trekking time is short, it’s nonetheless a tough hike, as we rise for a total of 350 meters before reaching our destination: Humantay Lake at a height of 4,200 meters above sea level.
Arriving at the lake and seeing it spread out before you is a majestic experience. Its emerald waters are mesmerizing, and it sits surrounded by a massive glacier and craggy, snowcapped mountains. You’ll have plenty of time at the lake to enjoy the scenery and take pictures, and to trek around the lake and the immediate surrounding area. If you’re feeling brave, you can even go for a paddle in the icy waters.
When we’re all ready to leave this wonderful location, we’ll head back down to Soraypampa where a very tasty and well-deserved lunch will be waiting for us. After lunch, we’ll board our transport and return to Cusco, arriving at around 5 p.m.
Hiking Time: 2 – 3 hours approx.
Hiking Distance: 5 Km / 3.10 miles.
Highest Point: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.
Lowest Point: 3,920 m/ 12,860 ft.
Would you like this tour as a private service?



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