{"id":8539,"date":"2026-03-09T19:22:58","date_gmt":"2026-03-10T00:22:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/?p=8539"},"modified":"2026-03-09T22:36:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T03:36:39","slug":"humantay-lake-vs-7-ausangate-lakes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/humantay-lake-vs-7-ausangate-lakes","title":{"rendered":"Humantay Lake vs 7 Ausangate Lakes: Which Trek Should You Choose?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"498\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8554 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Humantay Lake vs 7 Ausangate Lakes turquoise glacial lake in the Peruvian Andes compared with the colorful high altitude lakes near Ausangate mountain.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1260\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-300x148.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-768x378.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-600x295.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-1536x756.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-2048x1008.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-vs-7-Ausangate-Lakes-560x276.webp 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><strong data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"223\">Humantay Lake vs 7 Ausangate Lakes<\/strong> is a key comparison for travelers visiting <strong data-start=\"267\" data-end=\"308\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Cusco<\/span><\/span><\/strong>. Both hikes offer stunning high-altitude scenery, turquoise lagoons, and unforgettable trekking above 4,000 meters, but they differ in difficulty, landscape variety, and overall experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"500\" data-end=\"838\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The hike to <strong data-start=\"512\" data-end=\"553\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Humantay Lake<\/span><\/span><\/strong> is shorter, steeper, and ideal for a quick yet dramatic glacier-view trek. In contrast, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/ausangate-7-lakes-hike\"><strong data-start=\"646\" data-end=\"687\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">7 Lakes of Ausangate<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/a> route is longer, with multiple lagoons, remote valleys, and panoramic mountain views, perfect for travelers seeking a more immersive Andean adventure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"840\" data-end=\"1025\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">This guide helps you choose the trek that best fits your schedule, fitness level, and desire for either a quick iconic hike or a full-day exploration of Andean lagoons and landscapes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"fi8mto\" data-start=\"812\" data-end=\"862\"><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Overview of Humantay Lake and 7 Ausangate Lakes<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake.webp\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8550 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake.webp\" alt=\"Humantay Lake turquoise glacial lake in the Peruvian Andes near Salkantay Trek\" width=\"1880\" height=\"1008\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake.webp 1880w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-300x161.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-768x412.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-600x322.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-1536x824.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-560x300.webp 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1880px) 100vw, 1880px\" \/><\/a><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Both <strong data-start=\"869\" data-end=\"886\">Humantay Lake<\/strong> and the <strong data-start=\"895\" data-end=\"919\">7 Lakes of Ausangate<\/strong> are typically visited on full-day tours departing early from Cusco. These excursions let travelers experience some of the most spectacular alpine landscapes in the Andes without committing to a multi-day trek.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1133\" data-end=\"1299\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Although the treks share similar altitudes and mountain environments, the overall experience is quite different in terms of trail length, scenery, and visitor crowds.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1c1xoja\" data-start=\"1306\" data-end=\"1323\"><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Humantay Lake<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1551\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/humantay-lake\"><strong data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1366\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Humantay Lake<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/a> is a stunning glacial lagoon located at the base of <strong data-start=\"1419\" data-end=\"1460\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Humantay Mountain<\/span><\/span><\/strong>, which lies along the route toward the famous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/salkantay-trek-to-machu-picchu-5-days-4-nights\"><strong data-start=\"1507\" data-end=\"1548\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Salkantay Trek<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1553\" data-end=\"1654\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The hike begins at Soraypampa, a high-altitude starting point commonly used for the Salkantay Trek.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5 data-start=\"1656\" data-end=\"1692\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt;\"><strong data-start=\"1656\" data-end=\"1690\">Key facts about Humantay Lake:<\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"1695\" data-end=\"1726\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft)<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1729\" data-end=\"1757\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Distance: ~5 km round trip<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1760\" data-end=\"1793\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Hiking time: 1.5\u20132 hours uphill<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1796\" data-end=\"1838\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Difficulty: Moderate due to steep ascent<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1841\" data-end=\"1895\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Popularity: Very high, especially during peak season<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1897\" data-end=\"2144\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The lake\u2019s brilliant turquoise color, created by glacial minerals, makes it one of the most photographed natural attractions near Cusco. Its steep but short climb is manageable for most travelers who spend a day or two acclimatizing in the city.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1897\" data-end=\"2144\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/humantay-lake\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8546 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour.jpeg 1920w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour-300x63.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour-768x160.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour-600x125.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour-1536x320.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Humantay-Lake-Tour-560x117.jpeg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1l0won\" data-start=\"2151\" data-end=\"2175\"><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">7 Lakes of Ausangate<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2177\" data-end=\"2337\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The <strong data-start=\"2181\" data-end=\"2222\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">7 Lakes of Ausangate<\/span><\/span><\/strong> trek is located near the sacred <strong data-start=\"2255\" data-end=\"2296\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Ausangate Mountain<\/span><\/span><\/strong>, the highest peak in the Cusco region.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2339\" data-end=\"2500\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The hike starts in the traditional Andean community of <strong data-start=\"2394\" data-end=\"2435\"><span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">Pacchanta<\/span><\/span><\/strong>, known for its natural hot springs and alpaca herding culture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2502\" data-end=\"2561\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Hikers visit multiple colorful alpine lagoons, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"2564\" data-end=\"2575\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Azulcocha<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2593\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Orco Otorongo<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2596\" data-end=\"2612\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>China Otorongo<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2626\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Pucacocha<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2629\" data-end=\"2640\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Patacocha<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2643\" data-end=\"2654\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Alqacocha<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2657\" data-end=\"2669\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Qomercocha<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5 data-start=\"2671\" data-end=\"2709\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt;\"><strong data-start=\"2671\" data-end=\"2707\">Key facts about Ausangate Lakes:<\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"2712\" data-end=\"2737\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Altitude: 4,200\u20134,600 m<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2740\" data-end=\"2772\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Distance: ~10\u201312 km round trip<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2775\" data-end=\"2799\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Hiking time: 4\u20135 hours<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2802\" data-end=\"2855\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to altitude<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2858\" data-end=\"2892\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Crowds: Much lower than Humantay<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"2894\" data-end=\"3076\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">This trek offers varied landscapes, glacier views, wildlife sightings, and a much more remote Andean atmosphere. Pacchanta hot springs are a relaxing reward at the end of the hike.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"w2453i\" data-start=\"3083\" data-end=\"3138\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Quick Comparison: Humantay Lake vs 7 Ausangate Lakes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-8551 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes.webp\" alt=\"7 Ausangate Lakes turquoise glacial lakes hike in the Andes\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1390\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes.webp 2560w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-300x163.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-768x417.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-600x326.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-1536x834.webp 1536w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-2048x1112.webp 2048w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/7-Ausangate-Lakes-560x304.webp 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"TyagGW_tableContainer\">\n<div class=\"group TyagGW_tableWrapper flex flex-col-reverse w-fit\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<table class=\"w-fit min-w-(--thread-content-width)\" data-start=\"3140\" data-end=\"3565\">\n<thead data-start=\"3140\" data-end=\"3187\">\n<tr data-start=\"3140\" data-end=\"3187\">\n<th class=\"\" data-start=\"3140\" data-end=\"3150\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\n<h5><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt;\">Feature<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"\" data-start=\"3150\" data-end=\"3166\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\n<h5><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt;\">Humantay Lake<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"\" data-start=\"3166\" data-end=\"3187\" data-col-size=\"sm\">\n<h5><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000; font-size: 14pt;\">7 Ausangate Lakes<\/span><\/h5>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody data-start=\"3202\" data-end=\"3565\">\n<tr data-start=\"3202\" data-end=\"3242\">\n<td data-start=\"3202\" data-end=\"3221\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Maximum altitude<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3221\" data-end=\"3231\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">4,200 m<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3231\" data-end=\"3242\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">4,600 m<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3282\">\n<td data-start=\"3243\" data-end=\"3261\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Hiking distance<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3261\" data-end=\"3269\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">~5 km<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3269\" data-end=\"3282\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">~10\u201312 km<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3283\" data-end=\"3322\">\n<td data-start=\"3283\" data-end=\"3297\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Hiking time<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3297\" data-end=\"3309\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">2\u20133 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3309\" data-end=\"3322\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">4\u20135 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3323\" data-end=\"3378\">\n<td data-start=\"3323\" data-end=\"3342\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Trail difficulty<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3342\" data-end=\"3356\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Steep climb<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3356\" data-end=\"3378\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Gradual but longer<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3379\" data-end=\"3463\">\n<td data-start=\"3379\" data-end=\"3397\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Main attraction<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3397\" data-end=\"3420\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">One turquoise lagoon<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3420\" data-end=\"3463\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Multiple colorful lagoons + hot springs<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3464\" data-end=\"3487\">\n<td data-start=\"3464\" data-end=\"3473\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Crowds<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3473\" data-end=\"3480\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">High<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3480\" data-end=\"3487\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Low<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"3488\" data-end=\"3565\">\n<td data-start=\"3488\" data-end=\"3508\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Extra experiences<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3508\" data-end=\"3524\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Glacier views<\/span><\/td>\n<td data-start=\"3524\" data-end=\"3565\" data-col-size=\"sm\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Wildlife, hot springs, remote valleys<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"677xrw\" data-start=\"3572\" data-end=\"3615\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Trekking Difficulty and Trail Conditions<\/span><\/h3>\n<h5 data-section-id=\"nl8dj\" data-start=\"3617\" data-end=\"3644\"><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Hiking to Humantay Lake<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<p data-start=\"3645\" data-end=\"3772\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The trail to Humantay Lake is steep and short, climbing about 400 meters in elevation from Soraypampa. Hikers may experience:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"3775\" data-end=\"3817\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Shortness of breath due to high altitude<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3820\" data-end=\"3853\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Muscle fatigue from the incline<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3856\" data-end=\"3885\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Cold winds near the glacier<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3887\" data-end=\"4023\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Despite the steep ascent, the trail is well-marked and suitable for beginners who have spent at least 1\u20132 days acclimatizing in Cusco.<\/span><\/p>\n<h5 data-section-id=\"1yvsutr\" data-start=\"4025\" data-end=\"4056\"><span style=\"font-size: 14pt;\"><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Hiking to 7 Ausangate Lakes<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n<p data-start=\"4057\" data-end=\"4197\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The 7 Lakes trek is longer, less steep, but more physically demanding due to sustained elevation above 4,500 meters. Hikers should expect:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"4200\" data-end=\"4245\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Longer exposure to high-altitude conditions<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4248\" data-end=\"4280\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>Cold and unpredictable weather<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4283\" data-end=\"4325\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em>More remote terrain with fewer amenities<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"4327\" data-end=\"4467\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">The reward is a diverse Andean landscape with multiple lagoons, wildlife, and the chance to enjoy hot springs at Pacchanta after the hike.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4327\" data-end=\"4467\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/ausangate-7-lakes-hike\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8547 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike.jpeg 1920w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike-300x63.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike-768x160.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike-600x125.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike-1536x320.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Ausangate-7-Lake-Hike-560x117.jpeg 560w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"mnw8w9\" data-start=\"4474\" data-end=\"4504\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Alternative Multi-Day Treks<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"4508\" data-end=\"4686\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em><strong data-start=\"4508\" data-end=\"4527\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/packages\/salkantay-trek\">Salkantay Trek<\/a>:<\/strong> 3\u20135 days, passes near Humantay Lake on the first day. Includes Salkantay Pass (4,630 m), glacier views, and transitions from high mountains to cloud forest.<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4689\" data-end=\"4873\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em><strong data-start=\"4689\" data-end=\"4708\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/packages\/ausangate-trek\">Ausangate Trek<\/a>:<\/strong> 3\u20136 days, circumnavigates Ausangate Mountain, passes near the 7 Lakes, includes remote passes above 5,000 m, traditional Quechua villages, and glacier landscapes.<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"1vk6zqw\" data-start=\"4880\" data-end=\"4912\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">Which Trek Should You Choose?<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"4916\" data-end=\"5009\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em><strong data-start=\"4916\" data-end=\"4945\">Short on time \/ Beginner:<\/strong> Humantay Lake is perfect for a quick, iconic hike in one day.<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5012\" data-end=\"5124\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em><strong data-start=\"5012\" data-end=\"5051\">Intermediate \/ Acclimatized hikers<span style=\"color: #000000;\">:<\/span><\/strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> <a style=\"color: #000000;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.infomachupicchu.com\/cusco-day-tours\/ausangate-7-lakes-trek\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">7 Ausangate Lakes<\/a> offers a longer, more scenic trek with fewer c<\/span>rowds.<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5127\" data-end=\"5275\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\"><em><strong data-start=\"5127\" data-end=\"5154\">Full Andean experience:<\/strong> Combine Humantay and Ausangate in multi-day trips for glacier views, multiple lagoons, and remote mountain landscapes.<\/em><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-section-id=\"c3atp8\" data-start=\"5282\" data-end=\"5313\"><span style=\"font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; color: #000000;\">FAQs\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"su-accordion su-u-trim\">\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Which trek is more difficult?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nThe 7 Ausangate Lakes trek is more challenging due to its higher altitude and longer distance, although it is less steep than Humantay. Humantay is steep but short, suitable for travelers with limited time.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>How long do these tours last?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nHumantay Lake tours take approximately 10\u201311 hours including transportation from Cusco. The 7 Ausangate Lakes tour lasts around 10\u201312 hours including transport, trekking, and hot springs.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Do I need acclimatization?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nYes. Spend 1\u20132 days in Cusco before Humantay. For Ausangate, 2+ days are recommended due to higher altitude and longer trekking distances.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Are these hikes suitable for families?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nHumantay is more family-friendly because of its short distance, while Ausangate is better suited for fit adults or experienced trekkers.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>What should I bring?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nLayered clothing, trekking boots, poles, water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, and cash for hot springs or emergencies. For Ausangate, thermal socks and additional warm layers are recommended.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Are there hot springs?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nYes, the Pacchanta hot springs are included in the Ausangate Lakes tour, providing a relaxing end to a long day of trekking.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Which hike is better for photography?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nHumantay offers one iconic turquoise lagoon and glacier backdrop. Ausangate has seven lagoons, varied landscapes, wildlife, and panoramic mountain views \u2014 perfect for extended photography sessions.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Can these treks be combined with multi-day adventures?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nYes. Humantay is part of the Salkantay Trek, and Ausangate Lakes is part of the Ausangate Trek, allowing travelers to extend their exploration over several days.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>How crowded are the trails?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nHumantay can see 300\u2013500 people per day during peak season. Ausangate remains quiet with around 50 visitors, offering a more peaceful experience.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-default su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Are guides necessary?<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">\nGuides are highly recommended for safety, navigation, and cultural insights on both treks. They also enhance your experience by explaining local traditions and wildlife.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"7220\" data-end=\"7391\"><div class=\"su-button-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/contact-us\" class=\"su-button su-button-style-soft\" style=\"color:#FFFFFF;background-color:#166534;border-color:#12512a;border-radius:5px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"color:#FFFFFF;padding:8px 26px;font-size:20px;line-height:30px;border-color:#5c9471;border-radius:5px;text-shadow:0px 0px 0px #000000\"><i class=\"sui sui-send-o\" style=\"font-size:20px;color:#FFFFFF\"><\/i> Contact Our Travel Experts<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Humantay Lake vs 7 Ausangate Lakes is a key comparison for travelers visiting Cusco. Both hikes offer stunning high-altitude scenery, turquoise lagoons, and unforgettable trekking above 4,000 meters, but they differ in difficulty, landscape variety, and overall experience. The hike to Humantay Lake is shorter, steeper, and ideal for a quick yet dramatic glacier-view trek. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8554,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[86],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8539","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tours-in-cusco"],"views":916,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8539","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8539"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8539\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8555,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8539\/revisions\/8555"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8554"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8539"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8539"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8539"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}