The Humantay Lake tour is easily one of the best ways to spend a day outside of Cusco. You get a massive payoff for a relatively short trip, specifically a bright turquoise lake sitting right at the base of a towering glacier. The water gets its color from the melting ice, and pictures don’t really do it justice.
The hike starts from the flats of Soraypampa. It’s short, but it’s steep. You’re climbing up to 4,200 meters, so you will definitely feel the elevation in your lungs. It’s a solid challenge, but completely doable if you take your time and pace yourself.
You’re surrounded by the massive peaks of the Salkantay range the entire time. It’s raw, cold, and incredibly quiet up there. If you want to see the classic, dramatic side of the Andes without committing to a multi-day trek, this is the one to do.