Are you planning to visit Humantay Lagoon but don’t know when to go? The weather in this area can completely transform your experience: from clear days with intense turquoise water to rain that obscures the landscape. In this guide, we explain the best time to go, what to expect during each season, and why choosing the right time can make all the difference to your trip.

• Best time to visit Humantay Lagoon
• Dry season vs. rainy season
• How does the weather affect the trip?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Observing the Humantay Lagoon

Best time to visit Humantay Lagoon

What is the best time to visit Humantay Lagoon?

The best time to visit Humantay Lagoon is between April and October, when the weather is drier, the days are sunny, and the skies are clear. This allows for a better appreciation of the lagoon’s intense colors and the stunning surrounding landscape. The trail is also more comfortable to walk on, as there is less mud and more stable conditions.

During this time of year, there’s also less risk of heavy rain or landslides, making it a safer option for trekking and taking good photos without being ruined by fog or rain. However, since it’s peak season, there are more visitors, so it’s recommended to leave very early if you want to avoid crowds.

What months are ideal for hiking to Humantay?

The best months to hike to Humantay Lagoon are May, June, July, and August, as the rains almost disappear during this period and the trails are dry, making the journey easier and safer. The days are also generally sunny, improving visibility and enhancing the landscape.

It’s important to keep in mind that these months are also the coldest, especially in the mornings and evenings, so even if it’s sunny, it’s important to wear warm clothing. Still, the effort is worth it because the trekking is more peaceful and less interrupted by bad weather.

Note: Traveler, it’s important to always wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as they’ll help you during the hike, preventing you from limiting your mobility and protecting you from the sun and cold. It’s also essential to wear good footwear; you don’t want to get injured, right?

What is the weather like in Humantay Lagoon throughout the year?

The weather at Humantay Lagoon varies greatly depending on the season. November through March is the rainy season, with cloudy skies, frequent downpours, and slippery roads; although the vegetation appears greener, visibility is poorer, and the road is more dangerous due to mud and potential landslides.

On the other hand, April through October is the dry season, when the weather is more stable and the days are sunny, although mornings and nights are very cold, with temperatures that can drop to zero degrees. This time offers the best conditions for visiting the lagoon, enjoying the scenery, and taking photographs without the hassle of rain.

This is the path up to the Humantay Lagoon

Dry season vs. rainy season

Is it advisable to go to Humantay during the dry season?

It’s highly recommended to go during the dry season, which runs from April to October, as the weather is more stable during these months, with less rain, and generally clear skies. This allows for better trail conditions and more comfortable walking. Furthermore, the views of the lagoon are clearer and more colorful thanks to the good weather.

It’s also easier to organize the trip, as routes don’t usually close due to bad weather. Although peak season brings in more visitors, you can avoid the crowds by leaving early. In general, traveling during the dry season is a great option to make the most of your experience.

Is it advisable to go during the rainy season?

It’s not recommended to go during the rainy season, which runs from November to March, as rainfall is frequent and the trail can become slippery or muddy, making the hike difficult. Fog and clouds often obscure the view and make it difficult to see the lagoon.

Despite this, some people choose to go because there are fewer tourists and the landscape is greener. However, you should be well prepared with waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear.

Differences between the dry season vs. the rainy season

How does the weather affect the trip?

What clothes to wear according to the season?

During the dry season (April to October), it’s best to wear light clothing during the day and warm clothing for the morning and evening. It’s recommended to wear a windbreaker, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing for walking, such as sweatpants and breathable t-shirts. Even when it’s not raining, the lagoon is bitterly cold, so a thick coat is also necessary.

During the rainy season (November to March), the most important thing is to be prepared for getting wet. Bring a waterproof jacket, rain poncho, waterproof hiking boots, and a change of clothes. It’s also recommended to bring gloves, a thermal hat, and extra socks in case you get wet during the hike. The weather is very changeable, so it’s best to be prepared.

Is it dangerous to go to Humantay during the rainy season?

Yes, it can be dangerous to go to Humantay during the rainy season, especially if you’re not well prepared, as the trail can become slippery and there are areas with puddles or mud, which increases the risk of falls. Additionally, heavy rains can cause landslides or temporarily close access to the lagoon.

It’s also important to consider that the weather is unpredictable during this season, and fog often covers the trail and visibility is very low, making orientation difficult. Although some people go during this time, they do so with experienced guides and the appropriate equipment; it is not recommended for those inexperienced in trekking in the rain.

Visibility of the lagoon on cloudy or rainy days

On cloudy or rainy days, visibility at Humantay Lagoon is significantly reduced. Fog often covers much of the landscape and, in some cases, obscures the turquoise color of the water. This can make the experience less impressive than on a clear day, especially if you’re hoping to enjoy the full view.

Additionally, the lack of sunlight makes colors look dull and photos less clear, so if you’re looking for stunning views and striking photos, it’s best to go on a sunny day. Still, some people find a special kind of beauty in cloudy conditions, though this depends largely on the traveler’s tastes and expectations.

View of the Humantay Lagoon with a bit of fog

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) How difficult is the hike to Humantay Lagoon?

  The hike is moderately to challenging, especially due to the altitude. It’s about 2 kilometers uphill and can take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is steep and can cause fatigue, especially if you’re not acclimatized.

• 2) Where does the tour to Humantay start?

  Tours start in the city of Cusco, generally between 4:00 and 5:00 am. From there you travel by bus to the town of Soraypampa, which is the starting point of the hike to the lagoon.

• 3) How much does the tour to Humantay Lagoon cost?

  The average tour price ranges from 70 to 120 soles per person, depending on the agency. It includes transportation, a guide, breakfast, and lunch, and some also include walking sticks or admission.

• 4) Can I go on my own without a tour?

  Yes, you can go on your own, but you’ll need to arrange everything: transportation to Soraypampa (a combination of buses and taxis), paying the entrance fee, and bringing your own food. It’s cheaper, but requires more planning.

• 5) Is it dangerous to visit the Humantay Lagoon?

  It’s not dangerous if you’re prepared. The main risk is altitude sickness, as the lagoon is at over 4,200 meters above sea level. You should also be careful with the weather and avoid walking on the shore to avoid accidents.

• 6) Are there bathrooms near the lagoon?

  Yes, there are restrooms in the Soraypampa area, before starting the hike. There are no restrooms at the lagoon itself, so it’s recommended to use the ones at the trailhead.

• 7) What to bring for the tour to Humantay?

  Bring warm clothing, a windbreaker, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, snacks, and, if possible, trekking poles. It’s also helpful to bring altitude sickness pills.

• 8) Is there cell phone or internet signal?

  There’s no cell phone or internet service along most of the road and at the lagoon. Some areas of Soraypampa may have weak signal, depending on the operator.

• 9) Can you camp at Humantay Lagoon?

  Camping is not permitted near the lagoon. However, you can camp in Soraypampa, about a 30-minute hike away, in designated areas designated by tour operators.

• 10) Is it advisable to go with children?

  It depends on age and physical condition, as it is not recommended for young children; however, if they are used to walking and well acclimatized, it is possible, so it is important to proceed with caution and wear warm clothing.

Advice from people who have been there

Humantay Lagoon

By: Fiorela R.

“Humantay Lagoon“

“When I visited this lagoon, I was impressed by its beauty, a great experience after having walked for a long time and adding to that my trip to Machu Picchu was the best of all.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, June 18, 2025