Turquoise at Altitude: Hiking to Humantay Lagoon
A short, high-altitude hike to a glacial-fed turquoise lake—perfect for photographers and acclimatizing trekkers.
You feel altitude before you see the color. The first breath on the trail—thin and slightly metallic—tells you this is not sea level. Then the path opens and the lagoon arrives like an impossible jewel cupped in a bowl of rock: a startling turquoise that seems to have been painted into the Andes. Humantay Lagoon doesn’t announce itself with a roar; it persuades you with light. The sun slides across a face of snow and the lake answers in brilliant teal.
Trail Wisdom
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend at least 24–48 hours in Cusco or a similar elevation to reduce altitude sickness risk; hydrate and avoid heavy exertion the first day.
Start early
Morning light brings calm water and clearer skies; leaving before dawn also reduces traffic on the trail and gives you better photos.
Bring cash and coins
Small vendors sell snacks, coca tea, and souvenirs at the trailhead—cash makes quick purchases easier and supports local sellers.
Use a trekking pole
A single pole helps steady heavy breathing on the ascent and protects knees on the steep descent.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short ridgelines above the lagoon for panoramic compositions and fewer people.
- •Stop in Mollepata after the hike to try local trout (trucha) and market potatoes sold by the community.
Wildlife
Andean condor (occasionally soaring above ridgelines), Vizcacha and small Andean rodents on rocky ledges
Conservation Note
The high-Andean puna is ecologically fragile; choose operators that minimize waste, avoid single-use plastics, and contribute to local conservation or community funds.
The Humantay area is part of an ancient Andean landscape where Quechua communities have lived for centuries; the mountains are regarded as sacred apus in local cosmology.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer tourists, Crisp clear mornings
Challenges: Unpredictable showers, Cold nights
Spring (Southern Hemisphere spring: Sept–Nov) can be pleasant with fewer crowds, but afternoons may bring showers and the temperature range is wide.
summer
Best for: Lush views, Warmer afternoons
Challenges: Peak rainy season with muddy trails, Limited visibility during storms
Summer (Dec–Mar) is the wet season—trails get muddy and afternoon storms are common, which can discolor the lake and reduce visibility.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Clear skies
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Shorter daylight hours
Fall (Apr–May) offers a transitional window with generally steady weather and beautiful late-afternoon light—good for photography.
winter
Best for: Dry, clear conditions, Brilliant turquoise water
Challenges: Very cold mornings, Snow at the highest elevations possible
Winter (Jun–Sep) is the dry season—best overall for visiting: clear skies and the most reliable lake color, but come prepared for cold.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Provide ankle support and traction on steep, rocky sections of the trail.
Insulating midlayer and windproof shellEssential
Keep you warm on cold mornings and block sharp mountain winds at the lake.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)Essential
High-altitude UV is intense—even cold days can burn; protect skin and eyes.
Water reservoir or bottles (1–2 liters)Essential
Hydration helps mitigate altitude symptoms and maintain energy on the steep climb.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Humantay Lagoon?
The trail is about 3–3.5 km round-trip with roughly 350–450 m of elevation gain; plan 1–1.5 hours to climb and 40–60 minutes to descend depending on pace.
Do I need to be acclimatized before doing this tour?
Yes—because the lake sits around 4,200 m, spending 24–48 hours in Cusco or similar elevation before the hike reduces the risk of altitude sickness.
Is the trail suitable for children or older adults?
The trail is well maintained but steep; many families and older hikers complete it with careful pacing and rest, but individual fitness and altitude tolerance vary.
Can I visit Humantay Lagoon independently or do I need a guide?
Independent visits are possible, but many travelers use guided tours for logistics (transport, breakfast/lunch, and local knowledge) and safety at altitude.
What is the best time of day to photograph the lagoon?
Early morning provides calm water and clear light; late afternoon can also be beautiful but wind often increases and disturbs the lake surface.
Are there facilities at the trailhead or lagoon?
Basic facilities and vendors (snacks, tea, hats) exist at Soraypampa; there are no restroom facilities at the lake itself—plan accordingly.
What to Pack
1) Water (1–2 L) to avoid dehydration at altitude; 2) Warm layers (insulating midlayer + wind shell) for cold at the lake; 3) Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF) because UV is strong at high elevation; 4) Cash and snacks to support local vendors and fuel your hike.
Did You Know
Humantay Lagoon’s vivid turquoise color comes from glacial 'rock flour'—very fine sediment suspended in the water that scatters light, a common feature of glacial-fed lakes.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ) and stay 24–48 hours in Cusco before the hike; 2) Expect a 2.5–3.5 hour drive to the trailhead depending on traffic and route; 3) Cell service is spotty—download maps and emergency contacts beforehand; 4) No special permits are required but go with a reputable guide for safety and to support local communities.
Local Flavor
After the hike, stop in Mollepata for freshly grilled trout and a warming bowl of quinoa soup, or head back to Cusco’s San Blas neighborhood for craft beer and alpaca stew. Pick up locally woven hats or a small bundle of coca leaves from vendors—both support community livelihoods.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ); Trailhead: Soraypampa (transfer ~2.5–3.5 hours from Cusco depending on pickup route); Cell service: intermittent on route, limited near the lagoon; Permits: none required for day visits but guided tours recommended.
Sustainability Note
This fragile high-Andean environment is sensitive to erosion and waste—pack out all trash, avoid walking on fragile vegetation, and favor local operators who contribute to trail maintenance and community projects.