Discover the breathtaking beauty of Humantay Lake, a turquoise glacial lake nestled high in the majestic Peruvian Andes. Situated near the iconic Salkantay Mountain, this stunning natural wonder offers visitors a serene escape with crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain vistas, and unparalleled hiking opportunities.
Perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, Humantay Lake is a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich landscapes of Peru. Plan your visit to Humantay Lake and immerse yourself in its magical tranquility. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Peru!
For foreign tourists seeking a unique getaway, Humantay Lagoon offers a unique experience. Its vibrant turquoise waters, framed by the peaks of Mount Humantay, feel almost surreal, like something out of a dream.
At the edge of this glacial paradise, the silence of the Andes envelops you, offering an exceptional moment of peace and wonder. It’s not just a hike; it’s a trip worth taking to this unique destination in Peru. A true hidden gem that leaves every visitor breathless.
Humantay Lake is a one-day hike to visit the beautiful turquoise lake at the base of the glacial mountain of Humantay, located in the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Enjoy nature at its most spectacular! The special algae in the lake, combined with the reflection of the surrounding greenery, the blue sky, and the splendor of the Andean sun, create a deep shade of turquoise blue that is very rare indeed.
Humantay Lake is a breathtaking getaway nestled in the Peruvian highlands. Just a stone’s throw from Cusco, this glacial treasure offers so much more than just a hike; it’s a deep dive into the soul of the Andes. With its striking turquoise waters and the peaceful embrace of the surrounding mountains, it’s truly an ideal spot to unwind.
You will have a through briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Humantay Lake. Your guide will meet you in your hotel and you can take this opportunity to ask questions and make any final preparations.
We will pick you up at 4:00 a.m. directly from your hotel in Cusco. We will then head to the quiet village of Mollepata, where we will visit this picturesque place and enjoy our delicious comforting breakfast, an energizing start to the adventure that lies ahead.
After breakfast, our journey continues to Challacancha, located at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet). The air is fresher here, the scenery more spectacular. Towering glaciers appear, their icy surfaces gleaming in the daylight, captivatingly beautiful and deeply sacred to the local communities.
In Soraypampa, your experienced guide will offer a brief orientation. Then, we will begin the two-hour hike to the jewel of the Andes: Laguna Humantay. The trail ascends steadily over rugged, rocky terrain, so the use of walking sticks is recommended. At this altitude, the key is to take your time: move slowly, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.
As you ascend, the landscape transforms. The higher you go, the more stunning the views. Finally, the turquoise waters of Lake Humantay appear: calm, pristine, and perfectly cradled beneath the glacier that feeds them. The setting feels almost otherworldly.
Take some time to walk around the lake, rest on a rock, or climb a little higher for a panoramic view. Higher viewpoints reveal deeper blues and greens in the water, along with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. It’s a perfect moment to take photographs, reflect, or simply enjoy the experience.
At the lake, your guide will lead a traditional Andean ceremony with coca leaves, an offering of gratitude to the Apus, the mountain spirits revered by the local culture. This ritual adds a spiritual touch to an already moving experience.
After a long time at the lake, we begin the descent back to Soraypampa. The descent takes approximately an hour and a half and offers one last opportunity to appreciate the wonderful Andean landscape. On the way back to Mollepata, a delicious lunch awaits us at our restaurant.
Finally, we’ll board our transport and begin the return trip to Cusco. We expect to arrive around 6:30 p.m., tired but excited, with unforgettable memories and stunning photos of an unforgettable day.
Hiking to humantay lake is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:
The Humantay Lake tour runs daily from March to January. We pause operations in February due to rain and trail maintenance.
Daily Departure |
U$D 45.00 |
Per person |
Private tours are available and priced by party size.
Numbers |
Price Per Person |
*02 people |
U$D 169.00 |
*03 people |
U$D 139.00 |
*04 – 05 people |
U$D 89.00 |
*06- 08 people |
U$D 69.00 |
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