UBCNews - Business - Explore Humantay Lake via IncaRail: Peru’s Hidden Gem in the Andes

Episode Date: November 17, 2025

Hey everyone! You won't believe what I recently stumbled upon! A stunning turquoise jewel high in Peru's Andes Mountains — Humantay Lake. Can you imagine standing at 4,200 meters, enveloped by glaciers and waters so blue they seem surreal? Inca Rail City: Cusco Address: 105 Portal de Panes Website: https://incarail.com/

Hey everyone, you won't believe what I recently stumbled upon. A stunning turquoise jewel high in Peru's Andes Mountains, Humante Lake. Can you imagine standing at 4,200 meters, enveloped by glaciers and waters so blue they seem surreal? Oh man, you're talking about one of my favorite spots in Peru. The contrast between that turquoise water and the snow cap Nevada Humantay at 5470 meters is just, um, breathtaking. literally and figuratively. I mean, getting there is quite the adventure, right? You've got to start super early.

Absolutely. The adventure kicks off around 4.9 a.m. from Kusko. But you know what they say? The best experiences start before dawn. And honestly, seeing the Andean scenery change in the first light of day is worth every minute of lost sleep. Tell me about the actual trek. I've heard it can be pretty challenging.

Well, it's a 7-kilometer round trip that takes about 3.5 hours total. You're looking at climbing about 300 vertical meters, which might not sound like much, but at that altitude, who? Every step counts. That's a great point. We'll come back to that in just a moment. But first, a quick word from our sponsor. Interested in a memorable adventure through the Peruvian Andes, choose Inca Rail as your guide, with 15 years of experience leading excursions in the Sacred Valley, we guarantee your safety and comfort while discovering Peru's

hidden wonders. From expert bilingual guides to top-notch safety equipment, we provide everything you need. Visit us at htps, Incarail.com to begin your Andean experience today. You know, speaking of preparation, I understand acclimatization is super important before attempting this trek. Oh my gosh, yes. That's like rule number one, two, and three. You really need to spend at least two to three days in Kusko first. The lake sits at 4,200 meters. That's no joke with regard to altitude. What about the cost?

Is this the kind of adventure that breaks the bank? That's actually one of the most surprising things about it. Through Inca Rail, it's just 53 dwellers per person, and I mean everything's included. Transportation, meals, guides, safety equipment. And get this. They keep the group small, maximum, 15 people. I've heard the views are absolutely incredible. What makes it so special? Three things that make it truly unique. The surreal turquoise water created by glacial

minerals, those panoramic views of Nevada Humantei and the connection to sacred Salcante Mountain. The Inca's considered these peaks to be deities. They called them Apus. What would you say to someone who's thinking about making this trek? First, definitely acclimat acclimate properly. Second, bring layers. The temperature can change dramatically. And third, don't forget sun protection. That high altitude sun is intense, but most importantly, prepare to have your mind blown. And what about equipment? What should people bring? You'll want comfortable hiking shoes, definitely broken in, a good day pack, and at least two liters of water per person. Oh, and don't forget your camera, you're going to want to capture those

views. It sounds like a truly magical experience. Any final tips for our listeners? Yeah, definitely bring some energy snacks, even though breakfast and lunch are included. And you know what? Just take your time. It's not a race. Stop, breathe, look around. You're in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. That's fantastic advice. For our listeners who want to learn more about this incredible adventure, you can visit https inkorail.com. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise with us today. Thanks for having me. And remember everyone, sometimes the most amazing destinations are the ones that make you work a little harder to reach.