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Lagoon · Cusco, Cusco
Laguna Humantay
Turquoise-water lagoon at about 4,200 m, at the foot of the Humantay snow peak, in the Vilcabamba range. The day tour leaves Cusco at dawn and includes a hike of about 1½ hours.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Laguna Humantay
The Laguna Humantay is located at the foot of the Humantay snow peak, in the Vilcabamba range, northwest of Cusco, near the Salkantay trail route. The lagoon, at about 4,200 meters altitude, is fed by glacier melt, and the water usually has an intense turquoise color on sunny days, with the mountain's white face behind it.
The day tour leaves Cusco at dawn and follows the road to Limatambo to the village of Mollepata and then by dirt road to Soraypampa, at about 3,900 meters. From there you hike along a roughly 3 km zigzag trail, 1 to 1½ hours, to the edge of the lagoon.
The lagoon is sacred to the communities of the region, who make offerings there to Pachamama and to the apus, the spirits of the mountains. Small piles of stones stacked by visitors appear on the shores. From the top of the moraine, to the left of the lagoon, you have the widest view.
As with any hike above 4,000 meters, go slowly and at your own pace, preferably after a few days in Cusco. Bring layered clothing, a hat, gloves, sunscreen and water. The communities offer horses for part of the ascent.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
The day tour takes 12 to 14 hours from Cusco; the hike is 2½ to 3 hours round trip, with time at the lagoon.
Best time
In the dry season, which usually runs from May to September, there's a greater chance of clear skies and of seeing the water's turquoise color. From December to March it usually rains and the trail becomes slippery. The light is better in the morning; clouds tend to arrive in the afternoon.
How to get there
It's about 120 km from Cusco by road, passing through Limatambo and Mollepata, with the final stretch on dirt road to Soraypampa. Cusco agencies sell the tour with transport and meals.
Tip
Leave Humantay for after a few days at altitude and alternate it with an easier day. Climb to the top of the moraine beside the lagoon for the view from above.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Laguna Humantay
Is the climb to Humantay difficult?
It's about 3 km of steep ascent, taking 1 to 1.5 hours, starting from around 3,900 meters. The trail is not technical, but the altitude takes its toll. There are horses for part of the route.
Why is the water turquoise?
The lake is fed by meltwater from the Humantay glacier, and fine rock particles in the water reflect the light. On cloudy days the color becomes darker.
Humantay or Vinicunca: which to choose?
Both require a full day and hiking at high altitude. Humantay has a lake and glacier; Vinicunca has the colored stripes. Those with time do both on separate days.