How to Trek to Laguna Huamantay from Cusco

Humantay Lake, located in the Peruvian Andes, is one of the most popular trekking destinations for adventurers visiting Cusco. Famous for its turquoise waters, this lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, including the Humantay glacier, making it a natural gem worth discovering. For many, trekking to the lake is a unique experience, full of challenges and stunning visual rewards.

In this article, I’ll share advice and recommendations based on my personal experience to help you have the best possible time on your trek to Humantay Lake. From preparing for the hike to what to expect on the way up, you’ll find everything you need to fully enjoy this adventure.

What is Humantay Lake and Why Visit?

Humantay Lake sits at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level, at the foot of the imposing Humantay Glacier, which rises to 5,473 meters. This glacial lake owes its turquoise color to the minerals released by the melting glacier, creating an otherworldly landscape.

For the Incas, both the glacier and the lake were sacred, and they viewed this place as a spiritual connection to nature. Today, that connection remains for many visitors who find in this trek not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to reflect and enjoy the untouched beauty of the surroundings.

Visiting Humantay Lake is an excellent option for those seeking outdoor adventure and cultural significance. Plus, it’s one of the best alternatives if you’re short on time, as the trek can be completed in a single day starting from Cusco.

From Cusco, the journey to Humantay Lake begins with a three-hour drive to the trailhead at Soraypampa. Most tours leave early in the morning, around 4:30 a.m., and many agencies include minivan transport, making logistics much easier.

In my case, I booked the tour through Airbnb, which cost 592 Mexican pesos (approximately $32 USD). The tour included transportation, meals, and trekking poles. If you decide to go on your own, you can take private or public transport to Mollepata and then on to Soraypampa.

Essential Gear and Trekking Tips for Laguna de Humantay

1. Sunscreen: In Cusco, UV radiation is high due to the altitude, so reapply multiple times during the day.
2. Layered clothing: The weather in the mountains can vary drastically; mornings can be cold, but you’ll sweat during the ascent, so it’s best to dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed.
3. Hat and gloves: Even though the day can get warm, mornings and summits can be chilly, so these accessories will be useful.
4. Trekking poles: Some tours include them, but if not, I recommend renting them. They’re especially helpful on the steeper sections where you need more support.

Taking an anti-nausea pill before the drive was key to avoiding motion sickness, as the roads are full of curves, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers.

How to Physically Prepare for Laguna de Humantay?

The ascent to Humantay Lake can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to high altitudes or hiking. The trek from the starting point takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on your pace. It’s a steady climb with some quite steep sections, so being physically prepared is essential.

Along the way, you’ll find two stops where you can use the bathrooms (remember to bring coins, as they charge 1 sol). You also have the option to rent a horse for the ascent for 80 soles, which several of my fellow travelers did to reduce physical strain.

My recommendation is to spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand and to drink plenty of water during the hike. The streams we crossed added a special touch to the journey, but the steep and rocky path made it a tough challenge.

What People Say About the Tour to Laguna de Humantay

During the trek, something I didn’t expect was that my guide was the same one I had on my previous hike to the Rainbow Mountain—quite a coincidence! I remembered how important it was to be well-prepared, and how I had learned from my previous experience. Fortunately, I didn’t get motion sickness this time, thanks to the precautions I took, such as taking an anti-nausea pill.

The landscape during the ascent is breathtaking. The view of the snow-capped mountains and the changing terrain from grasslands to rocky paths made every step worthwhile. The ascent was tough, but I made it after one hour and ten minutes, just as the first horses were returning from the summit.

When I arrived at the lake, all the effort faded away. The peace of the place and the imposing Humantay Glacier behind the lake left me speechless. The scenery is so stunning that, for a moment, I forgot all the fatigue. This is a place you must visit at least once in your lifetime.

What You Can’t Miss: Key Stops and Views Along the Way

On the way to Humantay Lake, there are several points where you can stop and take in the views. One of the highlights is the first stop, where you can see luxury glampings with an unbeatable view of the glacier. Although I didn’t stay there, the guide mentioned that these accommodations cost about $800 USD per night.

Additionally, when you reach the lake, there’s a designated “Instagram spot” for taking photos, and if you enjoy photography, this location offers one of the best views to capture the lake with the Humantay Glacier in the background. Remember that flying drones and swimming in the lake are prohibited to preserve the purity of the water.

Best Time to Visit Humantay Lake

The best time to do the trek is during the dry season, from May to October, when the chances of rain are lower and the trail conditions are better. During the rainy season (from November to April), the trail can be slippery and more difficult to navigate.

Final Recommendations: How to Make Your Trek Unforgettable

1. Start early: Tours begin around 4:30 a.m., which is ideal to avoid the heat and crowds.
2. Prepare for the altitude: Acclimatize in Cusco before the hike.
3. Respect nature: Don’t leave any trash and follow the site’s rules. This is a sacred and natural place we must preserve for future generations.

FAQs about Tips for the Perfect Trekking Experience

How long does the trek to Humantay Lake take?

The trek usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on your pace. It’s a steep climb, so it’s advisable to be in good physical condition and acclimated to the altitude.

What’s the best time to visit Humantay Lake?

The best time to visit Humantay Lake is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, the weather is more favorable, and trail conditions are better for hiking.

Do I need to book a tour to visit Humantay Lake?

While it’s not mandatory, booking a tour is highly recommended, as it includes transportation, experienced guides, and often essential equipment like trekking poles. Additionally, the trails can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

What should I bring for the Humantay Lake trek?

It’s essential to bring layered clothing, sunscreen, hat, gloves, and trekking poles (if not included in your tour). Also, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the hike.

Can I rent horses to climb to Humantay Lake?

Yes, you can rent horses for the ascent. The cost is around 80 soles for the climb. The descent must be done on foot, as horses are not available for the way down.