Humantay Lake Trek From Cusco: A Detailed Guide & Review

So, you’re thinking about hiking to Humantay Lake from Cusco, huh? That’s great! Believe me, that almost unreal turquoise lake nestled high in the Peruvian Andes is totally worth the effort it takes to get there. Now, before you lace up those boots, it’s pretty useful to have a good sense of what’s involved. This guide breaks down what to expect, how to prepare, and also whether the trip actually lives up to the hype. Let’s jump right in.

What is Humantay Lake All About, Anyway?

Alright, let’s begin. Humantay Lake is that brilliant, strikingly blue lake near Cusco in Peru. That unbelievable color you see in photos? Is actually real, pretty real. That unique hue comes from the glacial melt that feeds into the lake, combined with minerals from the surrounding rocks, so you get that unbelievable turquoise color that looks like something out of a painting.

Too, this lake isn’t just pretty, by the way; the locals actually hold it sacred. The mountains around Humantay, like Apu Humantay itself (a word, Apu, which is Quechua for “mountain god”), are really revered. People often leave offerings of coca leaves to show their respect. What that means, is that while you’re enjoying the views, try to be aware that you’re in a place of big spiritual importance.

Plus, Humantay Lake is getting extremely famous with travelers. It is that Instagrammable appeal combined with it only needing a day trip from Cusco, which means loads of folks add it to their Peru plans. This has benefits: there is pretty decent access and plenty of tour options. Very, very occasionally that many visitors can change that somewhat isolated mountain feel, so going prepared is that much better.

Is That Hike Up to Humantay Lake Really That Hard?

Okay, let’s speak honestly: the hike could be pretty challenging, very challenging for some. People, particularly people from lower altitudes, can find that air really thin. It typically starts around 12,700 feet (3,870 meters) and climbs to almost 13,900 feet (4,200 meters) where the lake actually is. You are basically walking uphill for some time, that path could be steep, and you can feel it in your lungs very fast.

Plus, a lot that affects how tough the hike feels depends on how adjusted you are to the altitude. If you’ve just hopped off the plane and gone straight from sea level to Cusco (11,200 feet/3,400 meters), that hike would feel significantly harder. You ideally want to spend a few days in Cusco acclimatizing before trying that hike.

That terrain itself also has an impact. That path is that combination of dirt, rocks and that occasional patch of ice depending when you are going. Sturdy hiking boots can actually make a big difference. Moreover, there is a little industry where local people provide horses for riding up a section of that trail. If you’re truly struggling, that could be an option to consider.

Moreover, pace yourself! Too many individuals try to rush, and they gas out fast. You have to go slowly, stay well-hydrated and then listen to the body of yours. What this means is taking rests whenever you are feeling breathless or lightheaded. Better take longer and then enjoy it compared to pushing too hard and making yourself unhappy.

Choosing Your Tour: What to Consider So?

Clearly, there are loads of tour companies in Cusco offering Humantay Lake treks, which could feel totally overwhelming whenever you’re attempting to choose one. Don’t worry, it’s very common.

That very first thing is thinking about group size. Several folks prefer larger groups because they are that more budget friendly, however, that means there’s much less personalized attention. Also, that means waiting a while to let other individuals catch up and things move a little slower. Very, very small groups are rather more expensive but frequently give that better experience.

Plus, look closely at what exactly is included. A bunch of tours offer the standard: transport, a guide, and possibly lunch. Check whether lunch actually sounds appetizing (some are better compared to others) plus if things like hiking poles, oxygen or snacks are provided. A few operators will offer extras like that earlier start to beat those crowds, that, is in fact, well worth it.

Anyway, what about reviews? Go on travel websites, or on social media groups and find what past tourists have to say about various agencies. Search for trends: Is the guide knowledgable? Is transport on time and safe? Does that tour company have ethical and sustainable business practices?

That Perfect Packing List for Humantay Lake?

Alright, what do you actually need to carry along with you on that trek? Here’s a checklist to start you off. It all is determined by what type of traveler you’re, too, but this is a solid baseline:

Good Hiking Boots: Very important, very important. Those should be broken-in already to prevent blisters.
Layers: Those mountains have shifting conditions. That, can be really hot at midday, so intensely freezing first thing. Take a thermal base layer, a fleece, plus a windbreaker/waterproof jacket.
Hat and Gloves: Even when it’s sunny, that wind is cold.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: At that altitude, sun’s intensity is incredibly high.
Water: Bring far more than you believe you’d need. Altitude dries you out.
Snacks: Bring some to boost your energy: power bars, nuts, dried fruit and also that occasional coca candy (which helps with altitude).
Small Backpack: Carry all of it in something comfortable.
Coca Leaves/Candy: That is an accepted local remedy for altitude sickness.
Cash: For those souvenirs, snacks and possible horse ride.
Camera: Definitely, you shouldn’t miss capturing those stunning views.
Personal Medications & First-Aid: Carry any medications you regularly take and basics such as blister treatment.

Beating That Altitude: Tips and Tricks.

Dealing with the effects of the altitude, might be the trickiest part of this. You don’t wish that to ruin that trip.

Too, as pointed out, spend several days in Cusco prior to doing any serious hiking. That offers the body of yours to adjust progressively to the lower oxygen levels.

Likewise, hydration’s very important. Consume lots of water even before you set off on that trek. Carry water with you, too. Abstain from alcohol and excessive caffeine at least for that couple of days beforehand because they dehydrate you.

As a matter of fact, consider consulting with your doctor regarding altitude sickness medications. Acetazolamide (Diamox) might help that body acclimatize quicker. Should you opt to use it, begin taking it some days before you ascend.

Similarly, consume easily digestible meals, and prevent that heavy, greasy foods. Plus, local remedies can actually work: coca tea is provided extensively in Cusco for helping alleviate the signs and symptoms of altitude.

Okay, if you begin feeling ill during that hike—dizziness, heavy breath, intense headache—then halt, tell your guide, and go back down. Pushing on might lead to more serious conditions such as pulmonary or cerebral edema, which could actually be life threatening. Listen to what the body says and then value safety above finishing that hike.

Is Humantay Lake Really “Worth It”?

I mean, that’s that million-dollar question, right? When it comes to putting in some physical effort, handling those crowds, and, of course, that effect on your bank account of tours plus transport: is viewing Humantay Lake genuinely worth the price of admission? Basically, yes, most individuals believe that it actually is, it really is, however that depends totally on your private preferences and tolerance.

Likewise, those pros are glaring: that landscape is completely stunning. If seeing this incredible glacial lake surrounded by sharp snow-capped mountains is something you are going to enjoy, you absolutely should. Also, it is an amazing photographic opportunity, and getting to see such natural wonder is the type of experience which lasts a very long time after that physical trip has ended.

Also, be conscious of that popularity it currently has: Humantay Lake, very sadly, it isn’t some hidden gem now. At peak times, that gets rather busy. Very, very many visitors are there taking selfies, that really lessens that sense of wild peacefulness. If you are visualizing that solitary experience, be prepared to manage your expectations and potentially think of an earlier start or off-season visit.

Yet, consider alternate choices. Are you into putting in a several day effort? Then it may actually be a more fulfilling experience going hiking the famous Inca Trail. Not pretty fussed concerning bright-colored lagoons and you are able to give that pass? Potentially investigating that Sacred Valley could offer that better ratio regarding beauty for your effort.

Responsible Travel Tips Near Humantay Lake.

Anyhow, it’s crucial we give some thought to eco-friendly travel, not just savor the destinations.

Follow that “Leave No Trace” concept Keep that area clear. Take everything you brought in; even orange peels and those “organic” scraps may disrupt this vulnerable habitat.
Honor Residents: Purchase crafts right from townspeople plus local shops to benefit all those folks economically. Respect their standards for that environment as well as heritage. Do bargain courteously.
Stay on Established Paths: Do stray away and you might negatively affect plants plus lead off land disintegration.
Cut Plastic Use: Carry bottles that’s refillable coupled having water filter so as to decrease reliance on all those plastic drinks. Reject single usage plastic containers wherever viable.