The Humantay lagoon is one of the most beautiful destinations in the visual aspect with the city of Cusco, this lagoon of turquoise waters offers a charming landscape for any traveler. But the trip is usually complicated by the altitude and the hike, so if you want to visit this place here are some recommendations and information that you should take into account.
HUMANTAY LAGOON INFORMATION
- This lagoon is the result of the thawing of the Nevado Humantay Nevado Humantay from which it receives its name.
- The Humantay mountain belongs to the Vilcabamba mountain range.
CURIOUS FACT
Vilcabamba was the last place of Inca resistance against the Spaniards, with the last Inca Túpac Amaru I (fire serpent), after several fights and with his death, the Spanish conquest officially ended and the Viceroyalty era began;
- It is at an altitude of 4300 meters above sea level (the city of Cusco is at 3300 meters above sea level).
- It is located west of the city of Cusco in the district of Mollepata (Anta), can be reached by a 2-hour walk from the community of Soraypampa about three hours from the city of Cusco by car.
- What makes the lagoon characteristic is that natural coloration, in a more technical aspect this color is the result of the mixing of the blue and red color spectra, thanks to these would form the turquoise color.
But this is not the only thing that helps the Humantay lagoon to have such a characteristic color and pleasing to the eye, also influences the same environment, the flora under the surface, altitude of the lagoon and its temperature.
ACCLIMATIZATION
To make the excursion to the Humantay Lagoon it is advisable to spend a couple of days in the city of Cusco at 3300 meters above sea level to adapt the body to the altitude, the environment and food, so that the change does not affect us.
As a recommendation you can also take infusions of muña and coca leaf or if you want you can see this blog of How to combat altitude sickness.
APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
They are advised to wear comfortable clothing that will not hinder them on the walk, such as :
- Sportswear
- Trekking shoes
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- t-shirts
- Warm jackets (in case you stay at the campsite)
PROFESSIONAL GUIDE
The hike to the Humantay Lagoon is a hilly route and you can easily wander away from the group so it is advisable to have a professional guide or a travel agency to make your excursion safer and more enjoyable.
THE POLES
The poles will be very helpful when climbing up to the lagoon, it will help you to make the route easier and more comfortable.
ONE DAY BEFORE
Avoid smoking and/or drinking alcoholic beverages, or engaging in physically strenuous activities. This is always recommended so that on the day of the walk you have all the energy you need and so that it does not become heavy.
CARRY SMALL BACKPACK
Since the tour is only one day, it is recommended that you do not bring too many things, just the necessary items such as: snacks, sun block, medicines, camera, extra batteries and a sweater for the cold.
FOR CAMPERS
If you plan to camp at the lagoon, you should bring a warm sleeping bag (feather sleeping bag) in your luggage because you will be at an altitude of more than 3000 m.a.s.l. and at night the temperature can drop a lot (reports down to -10 C°).
They are also advised to protect their electronic equipment, as these devices tend to stop working or have system failures due to low temperatures.
HOW TO GET THERE?
You will have to hire a travel agency and they will give you all the corresponding indications. They will organize your pick up, your food, your guide, safety measures such as oxygen tanks and you will only have to worry about enjoying the scenery and taking lots of pictures;
LOCATION DATA
- HEIGHT: 4300 masl (14,107 ft.)
- COORDINATES: South latitude: 13°24’41.72″ and West longitude: 72°37’2.43″.
- EXTENSION:.620 meters long and 165 meters wide.