Humantay Lake is one of the most visited destinations near Cusco, and for good reason: its turquoise waters at the foot of a snow-capped mountain create an unforgettable view. But before booking, almost everyone asks the same question: how difficult is the hike to get there? Here we explain it with clear information, without exaggerating or downplaying the difficulty, so you know exactly what to expect.
The Difficulty in a Few Words
Level: moderate.
It is not a technical trek and you do not need mountain experience, but it is not an easy walk either. The distance is short, but what makes it challenging is the combination of altitude and incline. You gain a lot of elevation over a short distance, and there is less oxygen in the air. With a normal level of fitness, you can complete it without major problems as long as you go at your own pace.
Who Is It Suitable For?
It is suitable for most healthy people, even those who do not exercise regularly, as long as they take their time. Older children and older adults who walk regularly also do the hike. It is not recommended if you have serious heart or respiratory problems without first consulting a doctor, or if you have just arrived at high altitude without any time to acclimatize. If you are unsure about your physical condition, you can ride a horse for much of the way up.
Key Facts
Distance and Time
The uphill hike is about 3 km. Most people take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on their pace and acclimatization. The descent is much faster, taking around one hour. It is not a long day of hiking.
Altitude
The lake is at about 4,200 meters above sea level. The starting point is close to 3,900 meters. This altitude is what makes things more difficult: your body works harder and you get tired sooner.
Elevation Gain
You climb approximately 300 meters. It may not sound like much, but when it is concentrated over a short distance and at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, you feel it. The incline is constant, with almost no flat sections to catch your breath.
What Makes It Difficult
Altitude and Altitude Sickness
The biggest challenge is the altitude. Above 3,500 meters, the body receives less oxygen and altitude sickness can appear: headache, fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath. It does not depend on how well trained you are. Even people in good physical condition can feel it if they have not acclimatized. The best option is to spend a few days in Cusco beforehand.
The Incline
The trail climbs continuously from the very beginning. There are no technical or dangerous sections, but the incline is constant and the ground is uneven. This combination of incline and lower oxygen levels makes many people stop several times to catch their breath. This is normal.
The Weather
It is cold for much of the year, especially early in the morning when tours usually depart. There can be strong sunshine and cold temperatures at the same time, and the weather changes quickly. Dressing warmly helps a lot.
What the Hike Is Like
Starting in Soraypampa
This is where transportation drops you off. From the starting point, you can already see the mountains. It is time to adjust your backpack, put on warm clothing, and start slowly.
The Ascent
This is the most demanding section. The trail zigzags uphill without giving you much of a break. This is where you really feel the altitude. It is best to go slowly, breathe calmly, and stop whenever necessary. Those who push too hard at the beginning usually end up more exhausted.
Arrival
When you reach the top of the final section, the lake appears, with its intense turquoise color at the foot of the snow-capped mountain. The view makes you forget the tiredness immediately. Rest, take photos, and enjoy it, but do not stay still for too long because of the cold. Many people take a short walk along the shore before heading back down.
How to Prepare
Acclimatization
The most useful advice: spend at least one or two days in Cusco beforehand. Cusco is at about 3,400 meters above sea level, and those days help your body adjust. Arriving and doing the hike the next day is the quickest way to feel the effects of altitude sickness.
Physical Preparation
You do not need special training, but being in good shape helps. Walking regularly, climbing stairs, or doing some cardio in the weeks before the trip makes the incline easier to handle.
Tips to Make the Climb Easier
Start slowly and maintain a steady pace. Breathe calmly, drink water little by little, and bring something that provides quick energy, such as chocolate or nuts. Coca tea before starting helps many people. If the fatigue becomes too much, do not hesitate to take a horse.
What to Bring
- Warm clothing in layers
- Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
- Hiking shoes or closed-toe footwear with good soles
- Hat, gloves, and something to protect your neck
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap
- Trekking poles (they help a lot)
- Water and energy snacks
- Coca leaves or coca candies
- Cash for entrance fees and expenses
Options to Make It Easier
Going Up on Horseback
In Soraypampa, you can hire a horse that takes you up most of the ascent. It does not reach the shore of the lake, but it leaves you nearby, and you only have a short section left to walk. Many people use this option.
Going With a Tour
The most comfortable option is to go with an organized tour: transportation from Cusco, a guide, and all the logistics arranged. A popular option is to combine this hike with Rainbow Mountain on a two-day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you do it without mountain experience? Yes. It is not technical. With a normal level of fitness and going at your own pace, you can complete it. The most important thing is acclimatization.
How long does it take to climb? Between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and acclimatization. The descent takes around one hour.
What should I do if I get altitude sickness? Stop, rest, hydrate, and tell your guide. In most cases, slowing down is enough. That is why acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand is recommended.
Can I take a horse if I cannot continue? Yes. In Soraypampa, you can hire horses that cover much of the ascent and leave you close to the lake.
Can children and older adults do the hike? Yes, if they are healthy and go at their own pace. Many complete it without problems, and the horse option makes it accessible to almost everyone.
