There are certain destinations that get lodged in your mind and simply refuse to leave. For me, Humantay Lagoon is one of those places—a surreal splash of turquoise I’m desperate to see with my own eyes. It’s been firmly at the top of my bucket list for what feels like forever. This full-day trek in the Cusco region of Peru leads to a stunning glacial lake, created by the meltwater of the snow-capped Humantay mountain. It sits at a breathtaking 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) in the Andes mountain range, a natural jewel that’s part of the same epic landscape as the legendary Salkantay glacier, one of the highest in the area.
Located northeast of the city of Cusco—which sits at an elevation of 3,350 meters (10,990 feet)—in the province of Anta, the lagoon was once a hidden gem known only to those undertaking the multi-day Salkantay trek. Now, it has rightfully nudged its way into the spotlight, becoming one of the most sought-after experiences for travelers. The sheer, almost unnatural beauty of the place makes it a unique trekking adventure, and I honestly can’t wait to finally answer its call.
My plan is to kick things off with the Humantay Lagoon Tour, an adventure designed to lead you straight to one of the region’s most stunning sights. The day starts incredibly early, with a 4:30 a.m. pick-up from my hotel in Cusco. From there, it’s a scenic two-hour drive to Mollepata, a town at an altitude of 2,790 meters (9,153 feet), where a hearty breakfast will be waiting to fuel the day’s efforts.
After a quick registration and entry fee payment for the Salkantay route, the journey continues toward Soraypampa (3,910 meters / 12,828 feet), the perfect starting point to admire the majestic Salkantay and Humantay peaks. I imagine this hour-long drive on a rural road will be an incredible preview of what’s to come, with mountain landscapes and dramatic ravines unfolding at every turn.
From Soraypampa, the trek I’m so excited about begins: a roughly one-hour ascent to Humantay Lagoon. The trail itself is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, with the panoramic view of the Apu Salkantay accompanying every step. The real payoff, I’m told, is reaching the lagoon itself at 4,300 meters (14,108 feet). I can just picture the moment—seeing the vibrant, turquoise water for the first time, guarded by the immense, snow-dusted Humantay mountain.
There will be nearly two hours to explore this magical place, take endless photos, and maybe even take a brave, refreshing dip in the lagoon’s icy waters. A guide will be on hand to provide valuable context about the history and culture of this natural wonder, which I’m keen to absorb.
After soaking it all in, the descent begins, heading back to Mollepata for a well-earned lunch around 2:00 p.m. With energy restored, it’s time for the return trip to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m., no doubt tired but completely mesmerized.
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Travel Guide
In recent years, Humantay Lagoon has become a favorite destination for visitors to Cusco. Before the full-day tour became widely known, this beautiful spot was primarily visited by those on the 4- or 5-day Salkantay trek. Today, it is enjoyed by many visitors on a single-day excursion.
Where is Humantay Lagoon located?
The turquoise lagoon is situated in the Cusco Region, specifically in the Anta Province and Mollepata District. Access involves a 25-kilometer journey on an unpaved road to the small community of Soraypampa, followed by a 1.5-hour hike to reach the lagoon.
What is the altitude of Humantay Lagoon?
This beautiful lagoon lies at the foot of the Humantay Mountain, on an elevation of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). It is fed by the glaciers of both Humantay Mountain and the larger Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters / 20,574 feet).
What is the altitude of Humantay Mountain?
The imposing Humantay Mountain stands at a height of 5,473 meters (17,956 feet). Its melting snow and ice are the source that creates the stunning Humantay Lagoon.
How difficult is the hike?
Travelers who have ventured to the lagoon generally classify the hike as moderate. Acclimatization is very important. It is highly recommended to spend a couple of days in Cusco to adjust to the altitude before undertaking this trek.
When is the best time to visit?
The best season to visit this beautiful lagoon is during the dry season (April to September). This period offers sunny days, clear skies, and beautiful panoramic views with almost no rain. The rainy season (October to March) brings cloudy skies, changing weather, and rain, but also incredibly green and vibrant landscapes.
What is the climate like in the Cusco Region?
During the high season, daytime temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), dropping to near 0°C (32°F) at night. In the low season, daytime temperatures are around 21°C (70°F), with nights dropping to about 1°C (34°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to Humantay Lagoon?
The only access is through the district of Mollepata. From there, you take a dirt road to the community of Soraypampa, which is the end of the road for vehicles. At this point, you begin the approximately 1.5-hour uphill hike to reach Humantay Lagoon.
What is the best season to do the Humantay Lagoon Tour?
The best season is the dry season, between April and October. During the rainy season, the views can be obscured by clouds, and the trail becomes more challenging.
How do I book?
You can contact us through our various channels to book your tour. Pricing is detailed in the “Tour Pricing” section above. Just let us know your desired date for the activity.
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