Humantay Lake also known as Laguna Humantay is a beautiful galacial lake in the Humantay Mountains located in the Cusco region of Peru. Its crystal clear water is fed by the snow-covered Nevado Humantay Mountains. In the Incas era, this lake was considered as sacred and few people still make offerings here. Offerings in the form of mounds of stacked stones are visible surrounding the lake. These offerings are referred as Apachetas by the locals.

The Humantay Lake Hike

Duration: 1.5 hours

Ideal time to start: 7 AM. You will reach the hiking start point by 10 - 10:30 AM. then you will reach Humantay Lake by 12 - 12:30 PM. This time is less crowded and peaceful.

Difficulty: Medium. Hike is bit steeper and slippery.

Best time to visit:
In the dry season from April to November.

How to get to Humantay Lake

Tour Operators: There are plenty in Tour Operators in Plaza de Armas. Such tours cost approx 80 Soles including pickup and Drop-off to your hotel. These tours are best if you need a guided experience. If you are a photographer and need to stop in between you can hire your own taxi or hike.

By Taxi: Cost around 250 Soles. They will wait for your hike to complete and take you back to Cusco. A group of 2-3 can hire a Taxi rather than go in a crowded group through tour operators.