The Journey Begins: A Long and Winding Road

As the first rays of dawn broke over Cusco, I found myself bundled into a private vehicle, ready to embark on an adventure that promised breathtaking views and a communion with nature. The destination? The ethereal Humantay Lake, nestled high in the Andes. The journey, however, was not for the faint-hearted. The car ride stretched nearly four hours each way, with the last leg of the journey resembling an off-road expedition through the rugged mountains. For those prone to motion sickness, this part of the trip could be quite challenging.

Despite the bumpy ride, the anticipation of what lay ahead kept my spirits high. The landscape unfolded like a living painting, with towering peaks and verdant valleys. As we approached Soraypampa, the starting point of our trek, the air was crisp and the altitude palpable. At 12,000 feet, I could feel the thinness of the air, a gentle reminder of the heights we were about to scale.

The Ascent: A Test of Endurance

The trek to Humantay Lake was described as an easy hike, but as I stood at the trailhead, I realized that this was a misnomer. The path wound its way up the mountain, a steep ascent that challenged even the most seasoned hikers. I was grateful for my hiking boots, sun hat, and raincoat, essentials for navigating the unpredictable mountain weather.

As we began our climb, the effects of the altitude became more pronounced. Each step felt like a small victory, and I found myself pausing frequently to catch my breath. Our guide, Hayme, was a beacon of encouragement, his presence a comforting reminder that I was not alone in this endeavor. Yet, the sight of horses being used to ferry tourists up the mountain was disheartening. The animals seemed weary, and the thought of contributing to their burden was unsettling.

Despite the challenges, the camaraderie among fellow trekkers was palpable. We were a diverse group, united by a shared goal and the determination to reach the lake. As I climbed, I marveled at the resilience of those around me, each person pushing their limits in pursuit of the sublime beauty that awaited us.

The Reward: A Glacial Jewel

Reaching the summit was a moment of triumph. The sight of Humantay Lake, cradled by the imposing Snowy Salkantay, was a reward beyond measure. The water shimmered in shades of turquoise and emerald, a glacial jewel set against the stark backdrop of the mountains. It was a scene that defied description, a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of nature.

For those who made it to the lake, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. My husband, a fit and adventurous soul, had forged ahead and stood at the water’s edge, his face alight with pride. Though I had not completed the trek, the experience was no less profound. I had found my own peace in the valley below, surrounded by the majesty of the Andes.

As we made our way back to Cusco, the journey felt like a pilgrimage, a reminder of the power and beauty of the natural world. The Humantay Lake trek is not for everyone, but for those who dare to undertake it, the rewards are immeasurable. It is a journey that challenges the body and uplifts the spirit, a testament to the enduring allure of adventure.