Complete guide to Humantay Lake weather: dry and rainy seasons, monthly temperatures, what to bring, and the best months to visit this stunning glacial lake.
Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 masl in the Peruvian Andes (Cusco department), has a high-mountain climate that varies significantly by season. It is essential to be prepared for sudden temperature changes, as you can experience intense sun, freezing wind, and rain all in the same day.
Best time to visit Humantay Lake
The dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit Humantay Lake. Clear skies allow you to appreciate the turquoise water color and the Humantay glacier in all its splendor. June, July, and August are the most popular months, though also the coldest.
Dry season (April to October)
The dry season is ideal for trekking and photography:
- Stable, sunny weather with clear skies most of the day
- Warm days with temperatures between 15°C and 18°C at midday
- Very cold nights, with temperatures dropping below 0°C, especially in June, July, and August
- Little to no rain, dry and firm trails
- Excellent visibility for photography of the glacier and lake
May, June, and September are the best months: good weather without the crowds of July and August.
Rainy season (November to March)
It is possible to visit the lake in rainy season, but with precautions:
- Intermittent rain and cloudy skies, especially in the afternoons
- Muddy trails and fuller rivers, making the hike more difficult
- Pleasant days with temperatures between 15°C and 16°C, but colder, humid nights
- Fewer tourists, which can be an advantage if you seek tranquility
- Greener vegetation, creating a different but equally beautiful landscape
Average temperatures by month at Humantay Lake
| Month | Min temp | Max temp | Rain | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 11°C | 16°C | High | Bring waterproof gear |
| February | 11°C | 16°C | High | Bring waterproof gear |
| March | 11°C | 16°C | Moderate | Possible afternoon rain |
| April | 11°C | 17°C | Low | Good month to visit |
| May | 9°C | 17°C | Very low | Excellent to visit |
| June | 8°C | 16°C | None | Ideal, very cold at night |
| July | 7°C | 15°C | None | Ideal, coldest month |
| August | 9°C | 17°C | None | Ideal for photography |
| September | 11°C | 15°C | Very low | Excellent, fewer tourists |
| October | 12°C | 18°C | Low | Good month, rains beginning |
| November | 12°C | 18°C | Moderate | Bring rain poncho |
| December | 12°C | 17°C | High | Bring waterproof gear |
What to bring
- Layered warm clothing — Temperature varies greatly between sun and shade
- Waterproof clothing — Even in dry season, brief rain is possible
- Sun protection — At 4,200 masl UV radiation is intense. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Trekking boots — Essential for the 2 km trail
- Water and snacks — Altitude increases dehydration. Bring at least 1 liter of water
How much does it cost to visit Humantay Lake?
At Ready to Travel Peru we offer the Humantay Lake tour from $35 USD per person, including transport, bilingual guide, breakfast, and entrance fee. It is one of the most popular tours from Cusco.
Humantay Lake is magical in any season. In dry season it shines with intense turquoise under blue skies; in rainy season, the mist gives it a mystical atmosphere that seems straight out of an Andean tale.
