What Makes Laguna Humantay So Special?

Laguna Humantay sits high in the majestic Andes Mountains of Peru near Cusco and is a beautiful glacial lake that is well-known for its unique bright turquoise color and stunning natural beauty. Laguna Humantay is fed by melting snow from the Humantay Glacier (located just above the lake) and sits at approximately 13,780 feet above sea level; it is an incredible location for a one-day hiking trip with amazing views as far as the eye can see.

So what happens to the turquoise color of Laguna Humantay during the rainy season? In this blog post, we'll talk about a typical day tour to Laguna Humantay, how the color of the lake changes throughout the year, and provide you with some tips on how to make your trip even more enjoyable. All of the above information is from reputable travel websites.

What Makes Laguna Humantay So Special?

A glacier-melt lake, Lago Humantay (or Lake Humantay) was created when glaciers melted and filled the space behind the moraines to form this large body of water. The blue color is due to the presence of glacial flour in the water, which causes light to be scattered differently depending on climate conditions (like wind, time of year, and position of the sun). Therefore, depending on these factors, the lake can have different shades of turquoise. These are similar to many other famous lakes around the world (e.g., Moraine Lake in Canada).
Surrounding Lago Humantay, you will find the majestic snow-covered peaks of the Humantay and Salkantay Mountains, lush valleys during the wet season, and a sacredness that accompanies many Andean beliefs. The local communities consider Lago Humantay a religious location, and they regularly leave offerings behind to Pachamama, the great goddess of Mother Earth.

Planning Your One-Day Tour from Cusco

If you do not have time to take an extended tour, you can enjoy a one-day trip to Laguna Humantay in the Andes Mountains. Most tours will leave Cusco between 4-5 am to avoid crowds and unfavorable conditions. A typical itinerary will include?

• Pickup and Drive: You'll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven about 3 hours to the trailhead in Soraypampa (around 12,690 feet). The road winds through scenic valleys and small villages.
• Breakfast Stop: Many tours include a quick breakfast in Mollepata, a quaint town en route.
• The Hike: From Soraypampa, it's a 1-2 hour uphill trek (about 1.2 miles) to the lake. The path is steep but well-maintained, gaining around 1,300 feet in elevation. Horses are often available for rent if needed.
• Time at the Lake: Spend 1-2 hours exploring, taking photos, and soaking in the views. Some tours include a guided explanation of the area's geology and culture.
• Return and Lunch: Hike back down (easier and faster), enjoy lunch in Mollepata, and head back to Cusco by late afternoon (around 5-6 PM).

Costs typically range from $30-60 USD per person, including transport, meals, and a guide. Book through reputable operators to ensure safety and sustainability. Altitude sickness is a risk, so acclimate in Cusco first and bring coca tea or meds.

Imagen

Why Does the Color Change in the Rainy Season?

Laguna Humantay is much fuller and brighter during Peru's rainy season, which lasts from November through April, due to an increase in the amount of meltwater coming from the glacier and greater overall precipitation across the Andes. An increase in the amount of water in the lake, due to rain and glacier melt, can dilute or intensify the snow and rocks contained in the lake (the "mineral suspension") resulting in a color range of pure turquoise to a more intense emerald green or a milky blue color when the weather is more grey and cloudy.

The reason is that rainwater accelerates the melting of glaciers, thereby washing more sediment into the lake. This "glacial flour" enhances the scattering of light in the lake, making the color appear more vibrant under diffused (cloudy) light conditions. However, during periods of heavy rainfall, the turbid sediments can be resuspended in the water column, and the lake's colors can be muted until the sediments settle to the bottom. The presence of clouds in the sky also affects the appearance of the lake; less direct light results in softer reflections, which can make the lake have a deeper coloration tone. Visitors often report more vibrant colors during the rainy season because the colors of the lake contrast with the lush, green landscape.

On the other hand, while the dry season (May - October) provides clear skies and consistent turquoise lake colors, the water level of the lake may be lower than during the rainy season. If you are visiting during the rainy season, be sure to pack waterproof clothing. The good news is that there will be fewer tourists during this time of year and the landscape will be very green and dramatic!

Imagen

Tips for Your Rainy Season Visit

• Weather Prep: Expect afternoon showers; bring rain ponchos, sturdy boots, and layers. Temperatures hover around 40-60°F.
• Best Time: Early mornings often have better visibility before clouds roll in.
• Photography: Cloudy days provide soft light for epic shots—focus on the color contrasts.
• Sustainability: Stick to trails, pack out trash, and respect local customs.
• Alternatives: If rain deters you, consider combining with a Salkantay Trek for a multi-day option.

Laguna Humantay, constantly shifting in its color scheme, serves as an example of how beautiful nature really is. Whether you want that beautiful Turquoise colour or would prefer to see how bright everything looks in the rainy season, you can experience the most breathtaking day's worth of touring by joining us! Are you ready to secure your spot? Make your way to Cusco and let the Andes capture your heart!