So you're thinking of hiking to that famous bright blue lake in Peru that's all over Instagram lately? The one with the crisp turquoise waters perfectly reflecting the snow-capped Andes peaks? You've definitely got to add the Humantay Lake trek to your Peru adventure bucket list.
Located in the Cusco region, just a few hours from the ancient Incan capital itself, Laguna Humantay has been turning heads and dropping jaws with its brilliant azure hues. Thanks to its relative accessibility compared to some other high-altitude treks in Peru, this stunning glacial lake has quickly become one of the hottest hiking destinations in South America.
Planning the Trek
But before you lace up those boots, you'll need to map out how to get to the trailhead for this bad boy. If you're starting from Cusco, you can book affordable transport to the small village of Soraypampa which serves as the jumping off point. Or if you want to get straight to business, join a tour from Mollepata that drives you most of the way to where the hike begins.
No matter which route you take to get there, be sure to give yourself a couple days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize to the elevation. At around 4200m (13,800 ft) above sea level, the altitude can be a real kick in the pants if you're not prepared.
The good news is the best time to hike is during Peru's dry season between April and October, with a higher chance of clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Just pack the essentials: broken-in hiking boots, warm layers, a rain jacket, nutritious snacks, and plenty of H2O. Oh, and don't forget that camera - you'll want it for this one.
The Hiking Trail
Alright, enough planning - let's hit the trail! Right from the start, you'll feel those lungs working harder as you ascend the rocky path lined with classic Andean vegetation like ichu pampas grass. Take it slow and steady, stopping to admire glimpses of colossal peaks and potentially spot some wildlife like bulls, cows, or even the occasional alpaca.
After passing through a couple of small villages where friendly Quechua residents will likely greet you with a "Buenos días", the real climb begins. This is where walking poles could really come in handy as the grade gets seriously steep.
But don't fret, you'll have plenty of excuses to stop and catch your breath. Those sweeping panoramic views across the Andes will have your jaw dropping in between gasps. The payoff comes after about 2 hours of trekking when you round one final bend and there she is - Humantay Lake in all her surreal, azure glory.
Arriving at Humantay Lake
Framed by the snow-dusted peaks of Salkantay and Humantay, the brilliant blue hue of the lake's waters is almost unreal. You half expect it to be some sort of trick photography, but that vivid color is no filter - blame the crazy mineral deposits and glacial sediments.
Even if clouds start to roll in, the ethereal scene is mesmerizing to behold. Make sure to wander around the stony lakeshore and higher vantage points to capture the vista from different angles. The adventurous types can keep hiking up another hour to reach the very source of the lake tucked beneath the glaciers.
Before you know it, a couple hours will fly by just sitting, staring, and soaking in that unbelievable Andean backdrop. But all good things must come to an end, and soon it'll be time to retrace those very steps back down the trail.
Returning from the Trek
The hardest part of the return journey is getting those legs to cooperate after all that uphill climbing. But a few hours later you'll stumble back into Soraypampa, sore but fulfilled. At this point, you may want to spring for that touristy horse ride to give the tootsies a break on the final few miles.
Once you've made it back to Cusco, you'll have earned an indulgent meal and Pisco Sour...or three. Your body and soul will be swimming in that sublime alpine scenery from Humantay Lake for a long time. You might even have a new Andean-sized addiction to chase the ultimate natural high of trekking in Peru.
In the end, the Humantay Lake hike lets you immerse yourself in the rugged, untamed beauty of the Andes like few other adventures can. From passing through centuries-old Andean villages to gasping at the turquoise pool surrounded by glaciated peaks, the entire experience connects you to the wild heart of Peru's mountain paradise. Just get those hiking permits and bring your stamina - the rest will be an unforgettable journey you'll want to rehash over and over.