Explore Humantay Lake via IncaRail: Peru’s Hidden Gem in the Andes

Key Takeaways

• Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise alpine lake nestled at 4,200 meters in Peru's Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Nevado Humantay glacier (5,470m).


• IncaRail's full-day tour ($53) includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, bilingual guides, meals, and safety equipment for the 7km trek to this hidden gem.


• Proper altitude acclimatization (2-3 days in Cusco) is essential before attempting this high-altitude hike to fully enjoy the experience.


• The journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours of hiking each way through spectacular Andean landscapes with small groups of maximum 15 people.


• With 15 years of experience in the region, IncaRail provides comprehensive safety measures including satellite phones, first aid kits, and oxygen for this challenging but rewarding adventure.

Experience Peru's Hidden Turquoise Gem at 4,200 Meters

Hidden away in the towering Andes of Peru lies a jewel so stunning it seems almost unreal. Humantay Lake, with its brilliant turquoise waters, sits cradled beneath the imposing Nevado Humantay glacier at a breathtaking 4,200 meters above sea level. With IncaRail's expertly guided full-day tour, this natural wonder becomes accessible to adventurous travelers seeking to see Peru beyond the familiar sites of Machu Picchu.

The lake's vibrant color, created by mineral deposits from the surrounding glaciers, provides a striking contrast against the snow-capped mountains that stand guard over this sacred place. Unlike the crowds that flock to better-known Peruvian destinations, Humantay offers a more intimate communion with the majestic Andean landscape – if you're willing to undertake the journey to reach it.

The Journey to Humantay Lake

1. Pre-Dawn Departure from Cusco (4:00-4:30 AM)

Your adventure begins while the city of Cusco still sleeps. Between 4:00 and 4:30 AM, an IncaRail representative will pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco's historic center. This early departure maximizes daylight hours at the lake and ensures you have enough time to complete the journey comfortably. As you leave the sleeping colonial city behind, you'll begin to witness the Andean landscape transform in the first light of dawn.

2. Breakfast in Mollepata Village

After a scenic drive northwest of Cusco, you'll arrive at the peaceful mountain village of Mollepata. Here, before the physical demands of the trek begin, you'll enjoy a hearty, energizing breakfast that combines traditional Andean ingredients with familiar breakfast staples. This meal provides the energy needed for the upcoming hike at altitude. The stop in Mollepata also offers your first glimpse into rural Andean life, far removed from the tourist centers.

3. 7km Trek Through Andean Landscapes

The real adventure begins at Soraypampa (3,900 meters), the trailhead for your 7-kilometer round-trip journey to Humantay Lake. As you start climbing, the path winds through breathtaking high-mountain terrain with sweeping vistas of the sacred Salkantay mountain range. The trail gradually ascends approximately 300 vertical meters, with each step revealing more spectacular panoramas. Though challenging due to the altitude, the well-maintained path doesn't require technical hiking skills—just steady determination and proper acclimatization.

4. Arrival at the Turquoise Lake

After approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of hiking (depending on your pace and the group's rhythm), you'll crest the final ridge and be rewarded with the awe-inspiring sight of Humantay Lake. The brilliant turquoise waters reflect the surrounding peaks and glaciers in a display that justifies every step of the journey. Here, you'll have time to rest, take photos, and simply absorb the tranquility of this sacred natural wonder. Many visitors describe this moment as spiritually moving, as the lake has significant importance in Andean cosmology.

5. Return Journey with Traditional Lunch

After soaking in the majesty of Humantay Lake, you'll begin the descent back to Soraypampa. The downhill trek typically takes less time than the ascent, with gravity working in your favor. Upon returning to Mollepata, a delicious traditional Andean lunch awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to refuel and reflect on the morning's achievement with your fellow travelers. Following lunch and some time to rest, you'll board transportation back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel between 17:45 and 18:00, completing a truly unforgettable 12-hour adventure.

What Makes Humantay Lake a Must-Visit Destination

1. Glacier-Fed Turquoise Waters

The most immediately striking feature of Humantay Lake is its otherworldly turquoise color. This extraordinary hue comes from glacial flour—fine rock particles created by glacial erosion—suspended in the meltwater from the surrounding ice fields. As sunlight penetrates the water, these mineral particles reflect back primarily blue-green wavelengths, creating the lake's signature color. Unlike artificially colored bodies of water, Humantay's color shifts subtly throughout the day as the angle of sunlight changes, offering photographers endless opportunities for the perfect shot.

2. Panoramic Views of Nevado Humantay (5,470m)

Towering above the lake, the snow-capped peak of Nevado Humantay stands at an impressive 5,470 meters above sea level. This mountain isn't just a scenic backdrop—it's an active participant in the landscape, with its glaciers constantly feeding the lake below. On clear days, the contrast between the white snow, the blue sky, and the turquoise water creates a natural color palette that seems almost too perfect to be real. The mountain is part of the Vilcabamba Range, which the Incas considered to be deities or "apus" worthy of profound respect and offerings.

3. Connection to Sacred Salkantay Mountain

From the lake area, visitors can also appreciate views of Apu Salkantay, one of the most revered mountains in Inca cosmology. At 6,271 meters, Salkantay is the highest peak in the Vilcabamba Range and was considered one of the principal deities controlling weather and fertility in the region. The name Salkantay comes from the Quechua word "salka," meaning wild or uncivilized, a testament to the mountain's imposing and untamed nature. Hiking in the shadow of these sacred peaks connects modern travelers to centuries of Andean spiritual tradition and offers insight into why these landscapes were so central to Inca religious beliefs.

IncaRail Tour Essentials

1. All-Inclusive Package ($53 per person)

IncaRail's Humantay Lake tour represents exceptional value at just $53 per person, making this breathtaking natural wonder accessible to a wide range of travelers. This price point stands out considering the comprehensive nature of the package. Unlike many budget tours that advertise a low base price but then add multiple surcharges, IncaRail's fee is genuinely all-inclusive, covering transportation, meals, guide services, and all entrance fees. This transparent pricing structure allows travelers to budget accurately without worrying about unexpected costs arising during the experience.

2. Bilingual Guides and Safety Equipment

A standout feature of the IncaRail Humantay Lake experience is the quality of their guides and safety preparations. Every tour is led by professional bilingual guides who are not only fluent in English and Spanish but also deeply knowledgeable about the region's geography, ecology, and cultural significance. These guides adjust the pace according to group needs and provide fascinating context that enhances your appreciation of the landscape.

Safety is clearly a priority for IncaRail, as shown by their comprehensive emergency equipment. Each tour travels with satellite phones for communication in remote areas without cellular coverage, two-way radios for guide coordination, professionally stocked first aid kits, and supplemental oxygen—a crucial precaution for high-altitude excursions. This preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about potential emergencies.

3. Small Group Experience (15 Max)

While some tour operators pack as many travelers as possible into their excursions, IncaRail maintains a maximum group size of 15 people for the Humantay Lake trek. This limitation reduces environmental impact on the fragile alpine ecosystem, ensures each participant receives personal attention from the guides, and preserves the sense of tranquility that makes Humantay Lake so special. The smaller group size also allows for a more flexible pace, accommodating both enthusiastic hikers and those who prefer to take their time, especially at high altitude.

4. Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

The convenience of door-to-door service cannot be overstated when preparing for a pre-dawn departure. IncaRail's service includes pickup directly from your hotel in Cusco's historic center between 4:00 and 4:30 AM, eliminating the stress of finding transportation in the early morning darkness. Similarly, at the end of what will inevitably be a physically demanding day, you'll be returned directly to your accommodation between 17:45 and 18:00, allowing you to relax and reflect on your adventure rather than navigating public transportation while exhausted.

Preparing for Your Humantay Lake Trek

1. Altitude Acclimatization (Spend 2-3 Days in Cusco First)

The most crucial preparation for your Humantay Lake adventure is proper altitude acclimatization. Cusco itself sits at approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, while Humantay Lake is located at around 4,200 meters. At these elevations, the reduced oxygen levels can cause altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness or AMS) in unprepared visitors, with symptoms ranging from headaches and nausea to more serious conditions.

The golden rule for high-altitude destinations is to ascend slowly. Spend at least 2-3 full days in Cusco before attempting the Humantay trek, allowing your body to adjust to the thinner air. During this acclimatization period, stay well-hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and consider local remedies like coca tea, which many Andean people use to mitigate altitude effects. If you've recently arrived from sea level, consider visiting lower-elevation sites like the Sacred Valley (2,900 meters) before tackling higher destinations.

2. Essential Gear (Comfortable Shoes, Sun Protection, Layers)

Proper equipment can make the difference between a challenging but enjoyable trek and a miserable experience. Start with sturdy, broken-in hiking shoes or boots with good ankle support and traction—the trail includes steep, sometimes slippery sections. Layers are necessary in the Andes, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer (fleece or lightweight down), and a windproof/waterproof outer layer.

Sun protection is non-negotiable at high altitudes, where the thinner atmosphere filters less UV radiation. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen (apply frequently), UV-blocking sunglasses, and consider sun-protective clothing. Don't forget a daypack to carry these essentials, along with your water and any personal items.

3. Physical Conditioning for a 3.5-Hour High-Altitude Hike

While the Humantay Lake trek doesn't require technical mountaineering skills, it does demand reasonable physical fitness, especially considering the altitude challenge. In the weeks before your trip, incorporate cardiovascular exercise into your routine—activities like hiking, stair climbing, or inclined treadmill walking specifically target the muscle groups you'll use on the trek.

Hiking at altitude feels significantly more strenuous than the same activity at sea level. Even if you're typically active, expect to move more slowly and require more frequent rest breaks than you might anticipate. The total hiking time is approximately 3.5 hours round trip, but the stunning surroundings make each step worthwhile.

4. Hydration and Energy Snacks

Proper hydration is crucial at high altitudes, where your body loses moisture more rapidly through increased respiration and typically drier air. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, and sip regularly throughout the trek rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. Some experienced high-altitude travelers add electrolyte tablets to their water to replace minerals lost through exertion.

While IncaRail provides breakfast and lunch, packing energy-dense snacks is wise for maintaining stamina during the hike. Good options include:

• Trail mix with nuts and dried fruits


• Energy or protein bars


• Dark chocolate


• Whole grain crackers


• Fresh or dried fruit

Book Your Andean Adventure with IncaRail's 15 Years of Expertise

Beyond Machu Picchu lies a Peru waiting to be found by those willing to venture off the standard tourist path. Humantay Lake represents the perfect balance of accessibility and authenticity—challenging enough to feel like a genuine adventure, yet attainable for reasonably fit travelers with proper preparation. With 15 years of experience guiding visitors through the sacred landscapes of the Andes, IncaRail has refined their Humantay Lake tour to offer the perfect combination of natural wonder, cultural insight, and visitor comfort.

Experience the magical turquoise waters of Humantay Lake with Inca Rail, Peru's specialists in creating unforgettable Andean adventures that connect travelers with the authentic heart of the Andes.

Inca Rail
City: Cusco
Address: 105 Portal de Panes
Website: https://incarail.com/