Humantay Lake is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Cusco.
Located at 4,200 meters above sea level, its turquoise waters
surrounded by snow-capped mountains will take your breath away.
💎 WHY VISIT HUMANTAY LAKE?
✔ Stunning turquoise glacial waters
✔ Spectacular views of Salkantay mountain
✔ Less crowded than Rainbow Mountain
✔ Sacred lake for local Andean communities
✔ Perfect for photography
📍 LOCATION
Located 130km west of Cusco near the Salkantay mountain (6,271m).
The lake sits at 4,200 meters above sea level.
⏰ ITINERARY
4:00am — Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
7:30am — Breakfast at local restaurant
8:30am — Start of the hike (1.5 hours up)
11:45am — Arrive at the lake — photos and free time
1:30pm — Buffet lunch
4:00pm — Return to Cusco
🥾 DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Moderate — suitable for most fitness levels.
The hike is 3km each way with some steep sections.
💡 TIPS FOR HUMANTAY LAKE
✔ Acclimatize in Cusco for 2 days before
✔ Start early to avoid afternoon clouds
✔ Bring warm layers — very cold at the top
✔ Wear comfortable hiking boots
✔ Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
✔ Stay hydrated throughout the hike
✔ Respect the sacred lake — no swimming
✅ WHAT IS INCLUDED
✔ Private transport from Cusco
✔ Breakfast buffet
✔ Lunch buffet
✔ Professional bilingual guide
✔ First aid kit and oxygen
✔ Walking sticks and blankets
❌ NOT INCLUDED
✘ Entrance ticket S/.25.00
✘ Horse rental (optional)
✘ Water and snacks
✘ Personal expenses
✘ Tips
🌟 HUMANTAY LAKE VS RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
Both are amazing but different experiences:
Humantay Lake
✔ More peaceful and spiritual
✔ Beautiful turquoise lake
✔ Less crowded
✔ Shorter hike
Rainbow Mountain
✔ More colorful and dramatic
✔ Higher altitude (5,020m)
✔ More popular on social media
✔ Longer hike
🎒 BOOK YOUR HUMANTAY LAKE TOUR
TripCusco is your local expert agency in Cusco since 2018.
Small groups and private tours available daily.
📞 WhatsApp: +51 973 309 975
🌐 www.tripcusco.com