Humantay Lake

Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Humantay Lake captivates adventurers with its striking azure waters and breathtaking backdrop of towering glaciers. This high-altitude oasis, situated at over 13,800 feet, rewards trekkers with a moderate hike and panoramic vistas of the surrounding Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Beyond its natural splendor, the lake holds deep spiritual significance for the local Quechua people, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy both the physical and cultural wonders of the region. Discovering the secrets and stories that lie within this enchanting landscape, however, is just the beginning.

Good To Know

• Humantay Lake is situated in the Cusco region of Peru, surrounded by the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers, offering stunning natural beauty.

• The lake sits at an altitude of over 4,200 meters and holds spiritual significance as the youngest son of the Apu Salkantay mountain deity.

• The tour package includes roundtrip transport, meals, and gratuities, providing a convenient and inclusive experience for visitors.

• A moderate fitness level is required for the 5-kilometer hike to the lagoon, with an elevation gain of 600 meters.

• Humantay Lake receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5.0 rating and a 100% recommendation rate for its organization and guide professionalism.

Tour Overview

Situated in the Cusco region of Peru, Humantay Lake offers visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Andes.

The tour includes views of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers, two of the region’s most impressive natural wonders. According to local beliefs, the lake is the youngest son of Apu Salkantay, the mountain spirit responsible for distributing water from the peaks.

Travelers can expect roundtrip tourist transport, breakfast, lunch, and gratuities as part of the package.

While a moderate fitness level is required, the stunning vistas and knowledgeable guides make the journey well worth the effort.

Location

Nestled in the heart of the Cusco region in Peru, Humantay Lake is a breathtaking destination that captivates visitors with its dramatic natural surroundings. Located at an altitude of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), the lake is situated between the majestic Salkantay and Humantay glaciers, offering a stunning contrast of pristine blue waters and towering snow-capped peaks.

Glacier	Elevation (meters)	Elevation (feet)
Salkantay	6,271	20,574
Humantay	5,473	17,943

Villagers believe that Humantay Lake is the youngest son of Apu Salkantay, the revered mountain deity responsible for water distribution in the region. This spiritual connection adds to the lake’s allure and enchantment for visitors seeking a profound connection with the Andean landscape.

Tour Inclusions

The Humantay Lake tour includes a roundtrip tourist transport to the site, providing convenient access for visitors.

Breakfast and lunch are also provided, ensuring travelers are well-fed throughout the experience.

Gratuities are included, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

Admission to the stunning Humantay Lagoon is also part of the package.

For those who prefer not to hike the entire way, horse rental is available for an additional 80 soles.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour provides pickup options to accommodate travelers’ needs.

Pickup is available from either hostels or the main square, Plaza Mayor de Cusco. The tour starts early at 4:30 am, ensuring ample time to reach the breathtaking Humantay Lake.

At the end of the excursion, the group is dropped off back at the original meeting point. This convenient pickup and drop-off service allows participants to focus on the stunning natural wonders without worrying about transportation logistics.

Whether you’re staying in a hostel or at the central plaza, the tour makes it easy to join this unforgettable adventure to Humantay Lake.

Physical Requirements

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for the Humantay Lake tour. The hike to the lagoon involves a steady ascent of about 5 kilometers with an elevation gain of 600 meters.

Travelers should be able to walk for several hours at a moderate pace. The trail can be steep and rocky in parts, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with serious medical conditions or pregnant women, as the high altitude can be challenging. Infant seats are available, but the hike may not be appropriate for young children.

Admission Ticket

Admission to the Humantay Lagoon isn’t included in the tour package. Travelers will need to purchase a separate entrance ticket to access the lagoon.

The cost of the ticket isn’t specified in the tour information provided. It’s recommended that visitors check the current pricing and purchase the admission ticket in advance to avoid any delays or issues on the day of the tour.

Bringing cash is advised, as card payments may not be accepted at the lagoon entrance.

While the tour includes many amenities, the admission to this stunning natural attraction is an additional expense travelers will need to factor into their overall costs.

Reviews and Ratings

What do the reviews and ratings say about the Humantay Lake tour? Overwhelmingly positive, with a 5.0 overall rating from 7 reviews.

100% of travelers recommend the tour, praising its organization, the professionalism of the guides, and the overall experience.

Reviewers mention the stunning views and helpful guides, who ensure a memorable journey. The tour seems to consistently deliver on its promises, leaving visitors highly satisfied.

While not suitable for those with limited mobility or certain medical conditions, the Humantay Lake tour appears to be an excellent choice for travelers seeking a breathtaking adventure in the Andes.

Traverse to Lagoon

As travelers set out on the Humantay Lake tour, they embark on a captivating journey that challenges their physical abilities.

The trek to the stunning glacial lake involves a 3-4 hour hike, climbing nearly 1,200 meters in elevation. The trail winds through lush meadows and past cascading streams, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes mountains.

Hikers must be prepared for the steep and sometimes rocky terrain, which can be strenuous at high altitudes. But the effort is well worth it, as the ethereal blue waters of Humantay Lake come into view, framed by the towering Salkantay and Humantay glaciers.

Travelers are rewarded with a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, the package includes breakfast and lunch. Guests can bring their own food and drinks, but it’s not necessary as the tour provides meals. Specific dietary requirements should be communicated when booking the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The Humantay Lake tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for infants or pregnant travelers due to the moderate physical fitness level required. Infant seats are available for younger children.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Humantay Lake?

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season from April to October. This offers clear skies and fewer crowds, providing the optimal conditions to enjoy the stunning glacial lake and surrounding mountain views.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Visitors should take precautions for the high altitude trek, like wearing proper hiking gear, staying hydrated, and pacing themselves. The tour provider can advise on safety measures to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Nearby Attractions?

While the tour focuses on Humantay Lake, you can often extend the excursion to visit nearby attractions like the Salkantay Glacier or Machu Picchu with advanced planning. However, this may incur additional costs and require more time.

The Sum Up

Humantay Lake is a magnificent natural wonder nestled in the Andes of Peru. The moderate hike rewards trekkers with stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and landscapes. With its spiritual significance and enchanting beauty, Humantay Lake is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. The journey to this breathtaking lagoon is sure to create a memorable experience.