Humantay Lake is located at 4,200 meters above sea level, on the slopes of the Humantay snow-capped mountain. This glacial lake stands out for its intense turquoise color, the result of the minerals carried by glacier meltwater. It has become one of the most visited full-day trekking destinations from Cusco, with easier access than other high-altitude lakes in the region.
The water maintains a temperature close to 0°C throughout the year. The lake is approximately 400 meters in diameter and is surrounded by mountains over 5,000 meters high. The changing light throughout the day creates different tones in the water, from greenish-blue to bright turquoise.
What is Humantay Lake and Why Visit It
Humantay Lake is a glacial body of water formed by the melt of the Humantay snow peak (5,473 masl). It is located in the district of Mollepata, Anta province, approximately 120 kilometers from Cusco. Its characteristic turquoise color comes from suspended mineral sediments in the water, known as “glacial milk,” which reflect sunlight in a unique way.
Unlike other high mountain destinations in the region, Humantay allows for a full-day experience without the need for multi-day trekking. The hike from the starting point to the lake takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on pace and acclimatization.
The lake is part of the route toward the Salkantay Trek, one of the alternative paths to reach Machu Picchu. Many trekkers doing this multi-day route pass by Humantay on their first day.
The landscape includes puna vegetation, ichu (high Andean grass), and small wildflowers during the rainy season. On clear days, several snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range can be seen from the main viewpoint.
How to Get to Humantay Lake from Cusco
The trip from Cusco to the starting point of the hike takes between 3 and 3.5 hours by vehicle. The route follows the road toward Abancay, passing through the towns of Izcuchaca and Limatambo until reaching Mollepata. From there, the road continues along a dirt track up to Soraypampa (3,900 masl), which is the starting point of the trek.
Transportation options:
- Organized tours from Cusco include shared transportation departing between 4:00 and 5:00 am
- Private transportation allows flexible schedules, though the cost is considerably higher
- Public transportation to Mollepata is available, but from there you need to take a local taxi to Soraypampa
The road is paved up to Mollepata. The final stretch from Mollepata to Soraypampa is a dirt road that can be in poor condition during the rainy season (December to March). Off-road vehicles are recommended during these months.
From Soraypampa, the ascent hike begins. The distance is approximately 2 kilometers with an elevation gain of 300 meters. The trail is well-marked, though it may have mud and loose rocks in some sections.
There is an option to rent horses in Soraypampa to ride up close to the lake. The cost ranges from 70–90 soles per ride. Horses leave you about 15–20 minutes walking from the lake, as the final stretch is too steep for them.
Best Time to Visit Humantay Lake
The dry season runs from April to October. During these months, the chances of clear skies are higher, especially from June to August. Daytime temperatures range between 10°C and 15°C, but early mornings can be close to 0°C.
April to May: The landscape remains green from the rains, with fewer visitors than in high season. The weather becomes progressively more stable.
June to August: High season with more visitors. Days are usually clear, but nights are very cold. It’s common to find 100–200 people at the lake during peak hours (10:00 am – 12:00 pm).
September to October: A good balance of stable weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures begin to rise slightly.
November to March: Rainy season. Rain is frequent, especially in the afternoon. The lake may have more water volume, but visibility is often reduced due to clouds and fog. Trails become slippery. Some tours get canceled due to adverse weather, especially in January and February.
Sundays usually have fewer visitors than Saturdays. If you want fewer crowds, visit between Tuesday and Thursday.
Hike Difficulty and Necessary Preparation
The hike is classified as moderate to difficult, mainly due to the altitude. The physical effort itself is not extreme, but the lack of oxygen at 4,200 meters significantly affects performance.
Difficulty factors:
- Altitude: The highest point is 4,200 masl. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, extreme fatigue, and shortness of breath.
- Incline: The trail has steep sections, especially in the last third before reaching the lake.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours uphill, approximately 1 hour downhill.
- Terrain: Rocky and uneven in several parts, with possible mud or ice in the mornings.
Recommended preparation:
Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days before doing the hike. This time allows your body to begin adapting to Cusco’s altitude of 3,400 meters. During these days, avoid intense physical activity and stay hydrated.
Horse option for the ascent
In Soraypampa, you can rent horses to ride up close to the lake. The cost ranges from 70–90 soles per ride (one-way or round-trip). Local horsemen handle the animals, so no riding experience is needed.
Horses leave you about 15–20 minutes walking from the lake because the last stretch is very steep and rocky. This option is useful for people with physical limitations, knee problems, older adults, or those heavily affected by altitude sickness.
Keep in mind that riding a horse at this altitude also requires physical effort. It is not a complete solution to altitude sickness, but it significantly reduces physical strain. Horses move slowly, and the ride takes about 45 minutes.
It is recommended to hire the horse directly in Soraypampa with local horsemen rather than reserving from Cusco, as this directly supports local families.
What to Bring for the Humantay Lake Hike
Clothing (layering system):
- Thermal or synthetic base layer (avoid cotton)
- Fleece or lightweight down jacket
- Waterproof or windproof jacket
- Trekking pants (quick-dry)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Light gloves (mornings are very cold)
- Scarf or buff
Footwear:
Trekking boots with good grip are ideal. Trail running shoes also work if they fit well. Footwear should be broken in to avoid blisters. Avoid new shoes or sandals.
Backpack with:
- 2–3 liters of water minimum
- Energy snacks (bars, nuts, chocolate)
- SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Trekking poles (optional but useful for downhill)
- Toilet paper and a trash bag
- ID or passport
- Cash in soles (for entrance and services)
Basic medications:
- Pain relievers for headaches
- Altitude sickness pills (if prescribed)
- Band-aids and elastic bandages
Do not bring:
- Large backpacks or heavy luggage (leave unnecessary items in Cusco)
- Excess valuables
- Food that generates too much trash
Mountain weather changes quickly. Even if you leave with sunshine, always carry your waterproof jacket.
Tours to Humantay Lake: Options and Prices
Standard 1-day tour (shared service):
- Price: 80–120 soles per person (approximately USD 22–32)
- Includes: Transportation from Cusco, basic breakfast, lunch, English/Spanish guide, entrance
- Schedule: Pickup 4:00–4:30 am, return to Cusco 6:00–7:00 pm
- Group size: Around 10–20 people
These tours depart daily. Agencies pick up passengers from hotels in downtown Cusco. Breakfast is usually in Mollepata (coffee, bread, eggs), and lunch is served after returning from the hike. The lake entrance fee (10 soles) is included in most packages, but verify before booking.
Private tour:
- Price: 400–600 soles for small groups (2–4 people)
- Includes: Private transportation, personalized meals, private guide, flexible schedule
- Advantage: You can choose your pace and time at the lake
Private tours allow for later departures (6:00–7:00 am) to avoid the crowds that hike between 8:00–10:00 am. You can also combine the visit with other places such as the Maras salt mines or the archaeological site of Tarawasi on the return.
2-day tour with camping:
- Price: 250–350 soles per person
- Includes: Transportation, all meals, camping equipment, guide
- Itinerary: Day 1 visit to Humantay and camping in Soraypampa, Day 2 return with optional activities
This option is less common but allows you to enjoy sunset and sunrise in the area. Ideal if you want a quieter experience away from daytime crowds.
What to check before booking:
- If the 20-sole entrance is included
- Type of meals (some agencies offer very basic food)
- Group size
- Guide experience with first aid and altitude sickness
- Weather cancellation policy
- If trekking poles are included or have an extra cost
You can book tours directly in Cusco, where they are often cheaper than booking online, but with fewer guarantees of quality. Established agencies charge slightly more but offer better service.
Spiritual Significance of Humantay Lake
For the local Andean communities, Humantay Lake is a sacred place connected to the Apus (mountain spirits). The Humantay snow peak and its lake are considered providers of water and fertility for the agricultural lands of the lower valleys.
Traditionally, locals performed offerings to the earth before starting agricultural work or long journeys. These ceremonies include coca leaves, chicha de jora, flowers, and other natural elements. The practice continues today, though less frequently due to mass tourism.
Some local guides perform small thanksgiving ceremonies at the lake, inviting visitors to participate. This generally involves blowing coca leaves toward the mountain as a sign of respect.
The lake’s water is not considered ordinary water but sacred water connecting the upper world (Hanan Pacha) with the earthly world (Kay Pacha) in the Andean cosmovision. For this reason, locals avoid swimming in or contaminating the lake.
Visitors should respect these beliefs. Actions such as shouting, throwing stones into the water, or leaving trash are considered serious disrespect by local communities. Many locals work as horsemen or sell snacks in Soraypampa, and tourism has brought income but also concern for preserving their sacred places.
If you participate in a ceremony or offering, do so respectfully. It is not a tourist show but a cultural practice with deep meaning for those who perform it.
Things to Do Near Humantay Lake
Salkantay Trek (3–5 days):
The lake is the starting point for this trekking route toward Machu Picchu. If you have more time, this hike crosses various ecological zones, from glaciers to high jungle. It is an alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
Explore Soraypampa:
Soraypampa is the base camp for several trekking routes. You can walk around the area, observe puna landscapes, and enjoy views of surrounding snow peaks. Some travelers camp here to enjoy sunrise and sunset with views of Salkantay and Humantay.
Hike to the Salkantay viewpoint:
From Soraypampa, there are trails leading to closer viewpoints of the Salkantay snow peak. These hikes are longer than Humantay and require a full day but offer landscapes without crowds.
Mollepata:
The town of Mollepata offers a genuine view of rural Andean life. It is not a developed tourist destination, but some travelers stay overnight here to depart early for Humantay. There are basic lodgings and simple restaurants offering local dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Humantay Lake
Can I visit Humantay on my own without a tour?
Yes, it is possible. You need to take public transportation to Mollepata (3 hours, 15–20 soles) and from there a local taxi to Soraypampa (30–40 soles per vehicle). Access to the trail is open, and you only need to pay the entrance fee of 10 soles at Soraypampa. However, going on your own requires leaving Cusco very early and returning transportation may be difficult to find in the afternoon.
Can children do the hike?
It depends on the child’s age and physical condition. Children over 10 years old who are acclimatized usually complete the hike with frequent breaks. For younger children, horse options are available. However, altitude affects children more, so it should be evaluated case by case.
Are there bathrooms along the trail?
There are basic bathrooms in Soraypampa (1 sol). There are no bathrooms along the hike. Near the lake, there is a rustic bathroom, but it is generally in poor condition. It is recommended to go before starting the hike.
Can I camp at Humantay?
Camping is not allowed directly at the lake. In Soraypampa, there are permitted camping areas with payment to the local community. Several operators offer tours with camping in this area.
Is there cellphone signal?
In Soraypampa, there is intermittent signal from some carriers. During the hike and at the lake, the signal is very limited or nonexistent. Do not count on connectivity during the activity.
Can I swim in the lake?
It is not recommended. The water is around 0°C year-round. Additionally, for local communities, it is a sacred lake, and swimming in it is considered disrespectful. It is also physically unsafe due to the extreme temperature.
What if the weather is bad on my tour day?
Tours depart even with light rain. If there is a severe storm or dangerous conditions, agencies may cancel or reschedule. Ask about the cancellation policy when booking. During the rainy season, this risk increases.
How much time can I spend at the lake?
Standard tours allow 30–45 minutes at the lake. If you go on your own or take a private tour, you can stay longer. Remember that the descent takes about 1 hour.
Is it necessary to hire a guide?
It is not legally required, but it is recommended. A good guide knows the right pace for the altitude, can assist with altitude sickness, and provides information about the site. If hiking alone, be sure you are well acclimatized and carry everything necessary for emergencies.
How much cash should I bring?
Besides the cost of the tour, bring an additional 50–100 soles for: tips (10–20 soles for guide/driver), hiking pole rental if not included (10 soles), horse rental if needed (70–90 soles), extra snacks or drinks (10–20 soles), and any unexpected expenses. There are no ATMs after leaving Cusco.
