Humantay Lake is a stunning turquoise jewel cradled beneath the massive Humantay and Salkantay mountains. In Inca culture, this lake was considered a sacred body of water, acting as a mirror to the stars and a vital source of life for the communities below. Even today, many visitors and locals leave apachetas (small stone towers) as offerings to the Apus, or mountain spirits, to show respect and gratitude for a safe journey.
The lake is famous for its vibrant, emerald-green and turquoise colors, which are created by the purity of the melting glacial water and the presence of specific minerals at the bottom. Surrounded by hanging glaciers and snowy peaks, the scenery offers a perfect example of the “high Andean” ecosystem. Because the colors change depending on the light, arriving in the morning is usually best to see the water at its most brilliant.
For travelers, the hike is short but very steep, starting at Soraypampa. While the walk only takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, the altitude is the real challenge, as the lake sits at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). It is highly recommended to do this trek only after you have spent a few days acclimatizing in Cusco. Bringing trekking poles and walking at a slow, steady pace will help you manage the thin air and reach the summit comfortably.