Cusco is a true paradise for nature and trekking lovers. Among its most impressive gems, two routes are drawing more and more attention from travelers: Humantay Lake and the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek. Both are spectacular, yes, but very different from each other. And if you’re here, you’re probably asking yourself the million-dollar question: Which one should I visit?
In this blog, we’ll clear up that doubt like removing a pebble from your hiking boot. We’ll explain the key differences between Humantay and Ausangate 7 Lakes, their pros and cons, what type of traveler would enjoy each one more, and give you honest, useful info to help you make the best decision. Spoiler: both are mind-blowing experiences!
1. Location and Accessibility: Opposite Directions
Let’s start with the basics: location.
- Humantay Lake is located northeast of Cusco, on the way to the Salkantay snow peak.
- Ausangate and its 7 Lakes are southeast, in the Vilcanota mountain range, a much less visited area.
This means that, although both are full-day tours (around 12 to 13 hours total), you can’t visit both on the same day. They’re in completely different directions and require separate tours.
👉 If you only have one day for hiking in Cusco, you’ll have to choose one. But if you can stay longer… stick around because by the end of this blog, you might want to do both.
2. The Hike: Duration, Difficulty, and Altitude
Here’s what every active traveler wants to know: how hard is the trek?
🏞️ Humantay Lake
- Hiking time: 1.5 to 2 hours (one way)
- Terrain: steep
- Altitude: from 3,800 m to 4,200 m
- Difficulty: moderate
The hike to Humantay is short but steep. Once you arrive at Soraypampa, the slope begins—and it doesn’t hold back. That said, the views and the reward at the top—a stunning turquoise lake beneath the snow-capped Humantay peak—make it all worth it.
🏔️ Ausangate 7 Lakes
- Hiking time: 3 to 3.5 hours (round trip)
- Terrain: mostly flat or gentle slopes
- Altitude: from 4,200 m to 4,600 m
- Difficulty: moderate
Although the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike is longer, it’s not as steep. It’s a gradual incline, and the main challenge comes from the altitude. Perfect for those who prefer long, scenic walks over steep climbs.
3. The Views: One Lake or Seven?
Now here’s a major factor: what you’ll see at the end of the hike.
📸 Humantay Lake: A Turquoise Gem Under a Glacier
Humantay has gone viral on social media—and for good reason. It’s a stunning turquoise lake at the foot of the Humantay glacier. The contrast of the water’s blue, the glacier’s white, and the green mountains is absolutely hypnotic.
Best for:
- Travelers seeking that iconic photo.
- Those short on time in Cusco.
- Hikers who want a quick but dramatic trek.
🪷 Ausangate 7 Lakes: A Natural Color Palette
Meanwhile, on the Ausangate trek, you won’t see just one but seven lakes, each with its own shade: turquoise, deep blue, light blue, emerald… it looks like nature’s painting. And it’s all framed by the mighty Ausangate snow peak, the fifth-highest in Peru.
And the cherry on top? You get to soak in hot springs with mountain views at the end. Need we say more?
Best for:
- Landscape photography lovers.
- Travelers seeking a less touristy experience.
- Those wanting a deeper connection with nature.
4. Crowds and Overall Experience
This could make or break your experience, depending on your travel style.
👥 Humantay: The Instagram Star
Thanks to its beauty and accessibility, Humantay Lake has become very popular. During high season (May to October), you’ll find lots of tourists, lines for photos, and dozens of tour groups.
If crowds aren’t your thing, this may not be your favorite—unless you go super early or book with a tour operator that avoids peak hours (like us!).
🌄 Ausangate: The Hidden Gem
In contrast, Ausangate is much less crowded. Not because it’s less beautiful, but because it’s less publicized and slightly harder to reach. That’s a massive plus: you can enjoy the lakes in peace, connect with nature, and often have entire lagoons to yourself.
5. Weather and Best Time to Visit
Weather in both places can be unpredictable, especially because of the altitude. But there are some key differences:
- Humantay tends to have more clouds in the early morning. For the best views, go as early as possible.
- Ausangate, being more open and higher, usually has drier weather in the dry season, but it’s colder, especially if you plan to dip in the hot springs.
Best time for both hikes:
- May to October (dry season)
- Avoid December to March (heavy rains)
6. Services and Logistics: What’s Included in the Tour?
With us, both experiences come fully loaded. We’re not fans of half-hearted adventures.
Both tours include:
- Round-trip transport from Cusco
- Local breakfast
- Buffet lunch
- Entry tickets
- Professional guide
- Oxygen tank and first aid kit
For Ausangate, we also include access to the hot springs, and you can rent towels or swimsuits if needed.
7. Which Is More Photogenic?
Let’s get real: both are incredibly photogenic, but in different ways.
- Humantay: gives you that instant “wow” shot. It’s the kind of picture you use as your profile banner or Instagram highlight.
- Ausangate: offers variety and depth. You’ll have dozens of completely different photo opportunities—each lake, a new masterpiece.
8. Which Route Is Right for You?
Let’s make it crystal clear:
| Type of Traveler | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Short on time in Cusco | Humantay Lake |
| Want a quick, intense hike | Humantay Lake |
| Prefer remote, authentic experiences | Ausangate 7 Lakes |
| Want more variety of landscapes | Ausangate 7 Lakes |
| Traveling with kids or older adults | Humantay (with support) |
| Want hot springs after trekking | Ausangate 7 Lakes |
| Dislike crowds | Ausangate 7 Lakes |
9. Conclusion: Humantay or Ausangate?
Both experiences are absolutely worth it. Humantay offers a direct, powerful visual punch. Ausangate offers a slower, richer immersion in nature—with the bonus of hot springs.
Your final choice depends on your travel style, your time in Cusco, and the kind of memory you want to take home.
But if you’ve got more than one free day in Cusco… why not do both? Each reveals a different, incredible face of the Andean landscape.
10. Book Your Adventure with Get In Peru
At Get In Peru, we make sure your experience is smooth, safe, and unforgettable. Our local expert guides, delicious meals, private transport, and full logistics let you focus on the views, the journey, and that inner voice going, “Wow.”
Contact us for more info, availability, and special pricing. You can even customize your tour with early departures, private service, or bundle it with other amazing destinations.
👉 So, which one will you choose? WhatsApp us and let’s make it happen!