Humantay Lagoon Jewel of the Andes

The hike has a MODERATE difficulty level, suitable for most people in regular physical condition.

Key hike facts:

• Ascent duration: 1.5 hours (approx.)
• Descent duration: 1 hour (approx.)
• Distance: 4 km (one way) / 8 km total
• Starting altitude: 3,800 masl (Soraypampa)
• Final altitude: 4,200 masl (Humantay Lake)
• Elevation gain: 400 meters of ascent
• Terrain: Steep and rocky trail

Recommendations:

• It is essential to arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before to acclimatize to the altitude
• Bring coca leaves or candy for altitude sickness
• Stay hydrated constantly before and during the hike
• If you have heart or respiratory problems, consult your doctor before taking the tour

Yes, horses are available for rent! This is an excellent option if you don't feel fit enough to walk the 1.5 hours uphill.

Rental details:

• Cost: $15.00 USD additional per person
• Availability: At the starting point of the hike (Soraypampa)
• Route: They take you approximately to 20 minutes before the lake (the last section is very steep and horses cannot go up)
• Includes: A local guide who handles the horse

Rental recommendations:

• Bring cash in soles (they don't accept cards on site)
• The rental is paid directly to the wrangler at the starting point
• If you decide to walk, horses are also available for emergencies

Note: The last 20-minute stretch you must walk no matter what, but it's worth the effort!

Humantay Lake can be visited all year round, but the experience varies by season.

Dry season (April - October):

• ✓ Best time: Sunny days, clear skies
• ✓ Lake color: Intense and spectacular turquoise
• ✓ Temperature: Warm days, very cold nights
• ⚠️ Recommendation: Book in advance, this is the busiest season

Rainy season (November - March):

• 🌧️ Weather: Frequent rains, especially in the afternoons
• 🌫️ Visibility: Can be cloudy, the snow-capped mountain sometimes not visible
• 🌈 Lake color: Still beautiful, but less intense
• ✅ Advantage: Fewer tourists, greener landscapes
• ⚠️ Caution: Trail can be slippery

Personal recommendation: The months of May, June, September and October offer the best balance between good weather and fewer tourists.

Documents:

• Original passport (mandatory)
• Immigration card (TAM)

Clothing and footwear:

• Layered clothing (thermal shirt + fleece + waterproof jacket)
• Trekking shoes or boots with good grip (mandatory, the terrain is rocky)
• Comfortable pants (preferably trekking pants)
• Gloves and wool hat (it's cold at the top)

Sun protection:

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+, the sun burns even on cloudy days)
• Hat or wide-brimmed hat
• Sunglasses

Important accessories:

• Water (minimum 1.5 liters)
• Energy snacks (bars, dried fruit, chocolate)
• Waterproof rain poncho (mandatory, even in dry season)
• Camera
• Cash in soles (for horse rental $15, trekking poles $5, tips)
• Toilet paper (bathrooms along the way are basic)

Optional but recommended:

• Trekking poles (reduce impact on knees)
• Altitude sickness medication (if you use it)
• Trash bags (leave no trace)

NO, swimming in Humantay Lake is prohibited. It is a sacred lake for Andean communities and a fragile ecosystem that must be protected.

Reasons why you cannot swim:

• 🏔️ Sacred significance: The lake is considered an "Apu" (protective spirit) by local communities
• 🌡️ Extreme temperature: The water is near freezing (0°C)
• 🦋 Fragile ecosystem: The lake is home to unique microorganisms that would be affected
• 📜 Regulations: The Ministry of Culture and communities have banned swimming to preserve the site

What can you do at the lake?

• Take spectacular photographs
• Meditate and connect with nature
• Enjoy the view of the Humantay snow-capped mountain
• Make an offering to Pachamama (coca leaves, flowers)

Alternative: If you want to enjoy hot springs, you can visit the Cconoc or Lares hot springs (other tours available).

Remember: "Leave only footprints, take only photos." Let's protect this beautiful place!