There aren’t many places as naturally beautiful as Humantay Lake in Cusco. If you’re looking for places to visit in Peru, this is a must. You can visit on a day trip or as part of the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. 

The turquoise lake sits in front of the towering snowy mountains, and the view you get when you reach the top is as if it’s from a dream. So, without further ado, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know about this wonderful place and how to plan a trip there, whether it be with us or not. 

About Humantay Lake

Humantay Lake is at 4,200masl and can only be reached on foot. It’s set right in the middle of Peruvian Andes, which was an essential place in the time of the Incas. The civilisation worshiped the surrounding mountains.

It was common back then and many locals nowadays still head up to the lake to leave offerings. You’ll see piles of stones that have been left for this purpose to Mother Earth, or Pachamama as she was known to the Incas. 

How to Get There

Depending on your preference, you can either join a tour group, head to the lake on your own, or go on a trek. 

One Day Tour

If you choose to go on a tour, you’ll have all the transport included as well as a helpful guide to give you all the information you need to know about the area.

By Yourself

If you decide to go it alone, you’ll have to arrange your own transport and then navigate your way up the hill to the lake at the top, although it’s relatively straightforward. You’ll need to take food for the day as it won’t be included and there aren’t places to get a proper meal there. 

The Salkantay Trek

The other way to make sure you see the lake is by taking the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu. You’ll be camping at Soraypampa, so will trek up to the site on the first afternoon. A great way to start your adventure to Machu Picchu. 

The hike from Soraypampa, at the base, to Humantay Lake takes around an hour and your final destination sits at 4,200masl. Take your time to enjoy the view and get some great photos before heading back down. 

When to Visit

You can visit the lake year-round, but there are certain times when it’s best to go. We recommend going between March and October. This is because it’s the dry season and the tracks are safer. You can, of course, go during the wet season, but it will be a little harder, so just keep that in mind. 

You need to be aware, though, that June and July are particularly cold at this altitude, so make sure you are well prepared with the right clothing. 

If you are in Cusco during the wet season and are determined to get to see the wonderful Humantay Lake, you’ll need boots with excellent grip and plenty of waterproofs to keep you as dry as possible. 

What to Do There

Most visitors to the lake tend to enjoy sitting back and relaxing in the peace and quiet with just the sounds of nature to accompany them. If you’ve still got plenty of energy, you could take a walk around to the other side for a different view. 

It’s also a top spot for photography. You’ll be able to get some amazing pictures to remember your trip by and to frame back home. 

Recommendations

As with any tour, there are certain things to keep in mind to make sure you enjoy your day to the fullest. Here are our top tips for visiting Humantay Lake. 

• Prepare for the sun – Even though you might feel a little chilly at the top, it’s often sunny. Remember that you’re at a very high altitude so are closer to the sun’s rays. For this reason, we suggest you use a high factor sun cream and take a hat to protect you even further. 
• Take snacks and water – When you go with a tour group, you will have food included, but it’s always a good idea to take an extra supply of snacks like nuts and fruit. At high altitude, your metabolism works faster and you need more energy, so these energy boosts along with plenty of water will keep you going. 
• Take food for the day if travelling alone – If you go by yourself, you won’t have all the meals prepared by the tour company. You will need to take enough to stop you from being hungry throughout the day. Snacks, water, and perhaps a sandwich or something more filling is a good idea. The last place on the route to buy snacks from is Soraypampa before you head up to the lake. 
• Think about first aid – The tour company you use will always take preventative measures in case of an emergency. Still, if you are travelling alone or require specific medications, you need to make sure you’re prepared and have everything you might need. You’ll be a few hours away from the closest clinic or hospital, so this is a must. 
• Type of clothing – As we mentioned, it can get freezing at the top, so we recommend lots of thin layers you can take off and put on quickly. We always suggest waterproofs, just in case, and be prepared for the sun. 

Plan Your Trip Today

Whichever way you decide to visit, Humantay Lake should be on your list of to-dos. We’re sure it will be a highlight during your holidays in Peru, and it will undoubtedly be one of the most magnificent sights you’ll ever witness.