Humantay Lake: Hiking to Cusco’s Turquoise High-Alpine Jewel
A high-altitude day hike where the Andes test your lungs and reward your camera.
The day begins in the blue hour, when Cusco’s cobbles are still cold and quiet. A van threads out of the city, crossing the dark seam of the Apurímac River and rising toward the switchbacks of Limatambo. Dawn stalks the ridgelines as the Andes wake, one by one, and Salkantay’s white shoulder catches first light. By the time you step out at Soraypampa—trailhead, pasture, portal—you feel the air thin and sharpen. The mountain is polite but direct: breathe slowly, move steadily, and it will let you in.
Trail Wisdom
Acclimatize First
Spend 48 hours in Cusco before hiking. Even fit travelers feel the altitude at 4,200 m (13,780 ft).
Start Before the Crowds
Early departures mean cooler temps, calmer winds, and fewer hikers at the shore for cleaner photos.
Pace, Don’t Race
Use a slow, steady cadence on the steeper switchbacks. Small steps and controlled breathing prevent burnout.
Footwear Matters
Wear lugged, broken-in hiking boots. The trail is rocky and can be slick in the wet season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the shoreline clockwise to find a quieter perch beneath the moraine wall
- •Pause by the lower viewpoint mid-climb for a dramatic layered shot of the valley behind you
Wildlife
Vizcacha, Andean goose
Conservation Note
Glaciers feeding Humantay are receding; stay on established paths, pack out all trash, and avoid building new cairns or stepping on fragile alpine vegetation.
Humantay sits along traditional highland routes used by herders and traders and overlaps the first day of the Salkantay Trek, a long-standing alternative to the Inca Trail.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Wildflower accents
Challenges: Variable rain, Windy afternoons
September–November brings shoulder-season calm with a mix of clear mornings and unsettled afternoons.
summer
Best for: Lush landscapes, Dramatic cloudscapes
Challenges: Frequent showers, Muddy, slippery trail
December–February is the wet season—expect rain, softer ground, and shifting visibility.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Crisp air
Challenges: Strong UV, Cold mornings
March–May is a transition to dry season; mornings are clear and the trail firms up.
winter
Best for: Dry trails, Consistent views
Challenges: Cold, gusty winds, Crowds at peak times
June–August is prime dry season with bluebird skies and busy paths—start early to beat the rush.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof/Windproof ShellEssential
Mountain weather swings fast; a shell blocks wind off Salkantay and sheds sudden showers.
Sun Protection KitEssential
High UV at altitude demands a brimmed hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Trekking Poles
Poles aid rhythm on steep grades and reduce knee strain on the descent.
Insulating MidlayerEssential
A fleece or light puffy keeps you warm during rest stops and windy lake-side breaks.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Humantay Lake?
Plan for 7 km (4–4.5 miles) round-trip with 400–460 m (1,300–1,500 ft) of elevation gain; 1.5–2.5 hours up depending on fitness and acclimatization.
Do I need to acclimatize in Cusco beforehand?
Yes. Spend at least 48 hours in Cusco to reduce the risk of altitude sickness; hydrate well and avoid alcohol the night before.
Are there restrooms on the trail?
There are basic facilities at Mollepata and Soraypampa for a small fee; there are no toilets on the trail itself.
Can I rent a horse for part of the climb?
Yes, local arrieros offer horses on the steeper section from Soraypampa; bring cash and confirm the route and price before starting.
What’s included with guided tours?
Most tours include round-trip transport from Cusco, a simple breakfast, guided hiking, and a hot lunch after the descent. Check inclusions when booking.
Are drones permitted at Humantay Lake?
Drone policies vary and may be restricted; respect local rules and other visitors, and always ask your guide or local authorities before flying.
What to Pack
Layered clothing for rapid weather changes; 2 liters of water in reusable bottles to stay hydrated at altitude; trekking poles to steady steep sections and protect knees; high-SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for intense UV exposure.
Did You Know
Humantay Lake lies below Apu Salkantay, a 6,271 m (20,574 ft) peak—one of the highest in the Cusco region—and its vivid turquoise color comes from suspended glacial silt refracting sunlight.
Quick Travel Tips
Bring small cash for restrooms and community fees; Sit on the left side of the van heading out for sunrise views over the valleys; Keep a light snack handy for the high point when appetite can wane at altitude; Download offline maps—cell service drops past Limatambo.
Local Flavor
Back in Cusco, refuel in San Blas at Pachapapa for wood-fired Andean trout and quinoa soup, or sample regional dishes at the San Pedro Market’s lunch stalls. For a celebratory pint, Cervecería del Valle Sagrado’s Cusco taproom pours Andean-inspired ales; for a refined meal, Chicha by Gastón Acurio highlights local ingredients with modern technique.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Alejandro Velasco Astete International (CUZ). Trailhead: Soraypampa (via Mollepata), about 3.5 hours from Cusco by road. Cell service: limited to none after Limatambo. Fees: small community/entrance fees at Mollepata/Soraypampa—carry cash. No special permits required for the day hike.
Sustainability Note
This high-alpine basin is fed by vulnerable glaciers—stay on designated paths, avoid swimming or washing in the lake, and pack out every scrap, including fruit peels and tissues.