Humantay Lake

Humantay Lake (Laguna Humantay) is a striking turquoise glacial lake at the foot of the snow-capped Salkantay Massif in the Peruvian Andes and ranks among the most spectacular natural attractions in the Cusco region. Reached via a challenging but rewarding day hike from Soraypampa, it is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery and vivid blue-green waters. The same trailhead is also the starting point of the typically five-day Salkantay Trek, the most popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Crossing the approximately 4,650-meter-high Salkantay Pass, the route traverses glaciers, cloud forests, and subtropical valleys before reaching the area surrounding Machu Picchu. Together, Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Trek offer some of Peru's most memorable hiking and nature experiences.