Cusco undoubtedly does not cease to amaze us because in it are the most curious and unusual landscapes sometimes we can even say almost interplanetary landscapes like the mountain of colors that you can find here that is the mountain of colors
The Humantay lake is formed as a melting product of a large snowy mountain that in turn forms part of a mountain range called Cordillera de Vilcabamba.
What makes the Humantay Lagoon distinctive is the natural color that it possesses since it does not have much marine flora in its waters. It has an indescribable color in words, but understandable to the eyes, forming a unique landscape when travelers seek to capture the ideal moment with his cameras that he has so much desire to capture landscapes experiences and moments all this and more make it an ideal place that you must visit if you travel to Cusco Peru.
However, the geographical environment of this lagoon is also unique since it serves as the first camp on the Salkantay tour.
Humantay means "Head of the Gods", this is said to be in the head of the slope of the High Jungle.
This beautiful turquoise water mirror that presents the Humantay Lagoon is due to the crystallinity of the water and the green microalgae possibly of the species Microcystis aeruginosa and Oscillatoria, and to the reflection of the blue sky plus the reflection of the sun. This would be the factor that would give this beautiful color to the Humantay Lagoon making it a magical
The Humantay lagoon is located in the province of Anta, near the Salkantay mountain in the Andes Mountains of Cusco Peru and is located at an altitude of around 4,200 meters above sea level.
The temperature in Humantay lagoon can vary depending on the time of year. But it is well known that, during the day, temperatures usually range between 10°C and 15°C, while at night they can drop to values close to 0°C.
The hike along the Salkantay Trek route 5 days 4 nights allows you to get to know the Humantay Lagoon, it is one of the best adventure trekking routes that will allow you to visit the Inka citadel of Machu Picchu. The first day of the Salkantay Trek Lake, you can take advantage of the afternoon to visit the Humantay Lagoon (4200 masl), 2 hs uphill and 1 h downhill to the Soraypampa Camp (3850 masl) and spend the night there after our dinner.
In the morning I pick up from the hotel at 4:30 a.m. approximately. From the city of Cusco we will transfer by bus to the village Mollepata where we will have a delicious breakfast, then continue with the trip until we reach Soraypampa, where we will have a short break, and then start with our walk of 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Laguna Humantay that is located at 4200 meters above sea level (Those who do not wish to walk can rent a horse at the beginning of the walk). On the way we can appreciate the impressive snowy Salkantay and Humantay. Once we arrive at Laguna Humantay we will have free time to take pictures or relax. After our visit we will start the way back to Soraypampa, where our bus will be waiting for us to go to Mollepata where we will have our lunch, then we will return to Cusco arriving approximately 6:00 p.m.
The trip to Humantay Lagoon is an unparalleled experience that you can do on your own. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is a demanding hike and it is advisable to have a good level of physical fitness and hiking experience.
In addition, you can reach the lagoon by following a marked route from the town of Soraypampa, and the total round trip can take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the walking pace; What's more, the climate of the area must be taken into account, as conditions can change quickly, so it is essential to bring appropriate clothing, provisions and water.
The one day hike to the Humantay lagoon has an average difficulty. We leave early, at approximately 5:00 am in a tourist van to Mollepata, the town that marks the beginning of the trek.
The terrain is hard and with small stones. Depending on the season, the temperature can drop by half to the snowy Salkantay, so it is necessary to take some shelter as protection.
Salkantay Lake in Cusco offers a large number of tourist attractions in its surroundings. One of them is the impressive trekking to Lake Salkantay, a route that crosses spectacular landscapes and allows you to enjoy nature; Likewise, you can observe a wide variety of species of flora and fauna in the area. In addition, there are other tourist activities available, such as visiting nearby towns, where you can learn about the culture and traditions of the Cusco region.
Trekking to Lake Salkantay is an unforgettable experience for adventurers, since the route crosses imposing mountains, green valleys and crystalline rivers, offering spectacular panoramic views at every step of the way. Likewise, during trekking, you can enjoy the tranquility and peace that is breathed in the area, as well as the beauty of Lake Salkantay, surrounded by imposing snow-capped mountains.
The surroundings of Lake Salkantay are home to a diversity of flora and fauna species. Therefore, visitors can observe birds such as the Andean condor, the hawk, the Andean partridge and the hummingbird, as well as mammals such as vicuñas, alpacas and llamas. Additionally, the area has a wide variety of plants and trees, including orchids, bromeliads and a variety of native tree species.
