Top 6 Photo Spots on Your Humantay Lake Day Trip

The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco is not just a trek—it's a photographer’s dream come true. Nestled in the Andes of Peru, Humantay Lake (or Laguna Humantay) stuns visitors with its dazzling turquoise waters, snow-capped peaks, and surreal landscapes. Whether you’re an avid travel photographer or an Instagram enthusiast, this guide breaks down the top 6 photo spots on your Humantay Lake Peru day trip so you can capture unforgettable moments.

1. The Trailhead: Where the Journey Begins

The very start of your Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco offers your first opportunity for epic photography. The trailhead is typically located near the village of Soraypampa, at about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level. Early morning light casts a golden hue over the valley, with surrounding mountains softly illuminated.

What to Capture:

Panoramic shots of the Andean valley

Early morning mist rising off the ground

Locals with alpacas—perfect for adding cultural context to your images

Pro Tip:

Use a wide-angle lens to encompass the dramatic mountain backdrop and the winding path ahead. Morning light is best between 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM.

2. The Mid-Hike Plateau: Andean Majesty Unfolds

Roughly halfway to Humantay Lake, the trail opens up to a vast plateau, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountain ranges. This is one of the most underappreciated yet beautiful photography spots on the trek.

What to Capture:

Rolling green hills against stark, rocky mountains

Wildflowers and native vegetation

Horses and hikers in motion, showing scale and experience

Pro Tip:

Shoot with a polarizing filter to reduce glare and bring out natural colors. This spot is also ideal for taking candid group or solo hiker shots with breathtaking backgrounds.

3. First Glimpse of Humantay Lake: Awe at First Sight

As you near the summit, you'll come upon a bend where the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake peek through the mountain pass. This is often the first real “wow” moment, where the anticipation meets raw natural beauty.

What to Capture:

The lake framed naturally by mountain edges

Tourists’ first reactions to seeing the lake

Vertical compositions for Instagram Stories or Pinterest

Pro Tip:

Use a telephoto lens to compress the lake and the backdrop into a surreal, painterly scene. Capture both wide and tight compositions to tell a full story.

4. The Classic Lake Viewpoint: Postcard Perfection

Once you reach the lake, head to the iconic elevated viewpoint situated on a small ridge to the right. This is where many of the most famous photos of Humantay Lake Peru day trip are taken.

What to Capture:

Full panoramic shots of Humantay Lake’s shimmering blue-green waters

Snow-covered Humantay Mountain reflected in the lake

Symmetrical compositions for professional-grade landscape shots

Pro Tip:

Arrive early or wait for a clear patch when the wind dies down. Still water gives you stunning mirror-like reflections. A drone here can produce spectacular aerial imagery—just be mindful of regulations and other trekkers.

5. The Lake Shoreline: Crystal Clarity Up Close

Move down to the edge of the lake for an entirely different photographic perspective. The water here is so clear you can see rocks and aquatic vegetation beneath the surface.

What to Capture:

Macro shots of water ripples and natural textures

Feet or hands touching the water for relatable lifestyle imagery

Reflections of clouds or the nearby peaks in close-up detail

Pro Tip:

Use a lower f-stop to create a shallow depth of field, focusing on unique textures like the mossy rocks or water droplets. This adds an artistic, intimate feel to your travel story.

6. Above the Lake: The Hidden Trail View

Few venture beyond the lake’s immediate surroundings, but those who do are rewarded with an almost aerial view of Humantay Lake that few tourists see. A narrow, steep trail to the left leads to a lesser-known lookout point.

What to Capture:

Birds-eye view of the entire lake

Sweeping compositions showing the full glacier bowl cradling the lake

Isolation shots with just one or two hikers in frame

Pro Tip:

Climb with care and bring a zoom lens. From here, you can capture the lake, glacier, and valley in a single epic shot.

Final Thoughts:

The Humantay Lake day trip from Cusco is more than a physical journey—it’s a photographer’s paradise. By knowing exactly where to stop and what to shoot, you’ll return with not only memories but stunning visuals that truly encapsulate the majesty of this hidden Andean gem.

Whether you're shooting on a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone, these top 6 photo spots offer diverse scenes, lighting opportunities, and compositions that will elevate your travel photography portfolio.