Humantay Lake weather

Humantay Lake Weather: What to Expect

Humantay Lake, or “Laguna Humantay” in Spanish, is a breathtaking turquoise gem nestled high in the Peruvian Andes. Its beauty draws visitors year-round, but the weather plays a big role in shaping your experience. Understanding the climate will help you plan your visit and ensure you’re prepared for the journey.

The climate at High Altitude

Humantay Lake sits at a high altitude of around 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. This means the weather can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Temperatures during the day can feel warm under the sun, but they drop significantly in the early mornings, evenings, and especially at night. It’s important to bring warm clothing to stay comfortable, as the temperature can dip below freezing at higher elevations.

The Best Time to Visit Humantay Lake

The dry season runs from May to September and is considered the best time to visit Humantay Lake. During these months, you can expect mostly clear skies, with plenty of sunshine, making the hike more enjoyable. Daytime temperatures hover around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), but as always in the Peruvian Andes, mornings and nights can be cold. The dry season is also the peak season for tourism, so you may encounter more fellow hikers on the trail.

Rainy Season: Prepare for Wet Weather

The rainy season spans from October to April, with the wettest months being December to March. During this time, weather forecasts often predict rain showers, especially in the afternoons. While it can still be a good time to visit, be prepared for muddy and slippery trails. Hiking in the rainy season means packing rain gear and being cautious about the weather conditions. Daytime temperatures in the rainy season can still reach around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but it feels much colder when wet.

Time to Visit: Holy Week and Shoulder Seasons

If you’re planning a trip to Humantay Lake, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April and October. These months sit between the rainy and dry seasons, offering more moderate weather conditions. During Holy Week, the trail can get busy due to local celebrations, so if you’re visiting in April, plan ahead.

Humantay Lake Weather by Month:

Humantay Lake in January

• Season: Rainy
• Weather: This month is part of the rainy season, with heavy rainfall most days.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C, but it can feel much colder due to the humidity and wind.
• Tip: Bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for muddy and slippery paths.

Humantay Lake in February

• Season: Rainy
• Weather: February is the wettest month, with frequent heavy rains. Clouds may obscure the views.
• Temperature: Similar to January, with temperatures from 10°C to 15°C, but nights can get colder.
• Tip: You may want to delay your trip if you prefer to avoid strong rains.

Humantay Lake in March

• Season: Rainy
• Weather: The rains continue, but they tend to be less intense than in February.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C.
• Tip: March marks the transition towards the end of the rainy season, but the trails remain wet and slippery.

Humantay Lake in April

• Season: Transition (beginning of the dry season)
• Weather: The rains begin to subside. While it’s still part of the rainy season, the weather is drier compared to previous months.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C.
• Tip: This month is ideal if you’re looking for fewer tourists and more moderate weather.

Humantay Lake in May

• Season: Dry
• Weather: One of the best months to visit. Clear skies and sunny days are typical.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, but it gets much colder at night.
• Tip: Bring warm clothing for the mornings and evenings, but you’ll enjoy fairly stable weather during the day.

Humantay Lake in June

• Season: Dry
• Weather: Dry and sunny weather. Very little chance of rain.
• Temperature: 15°C to 20°C during the day, but nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
• Tip: Perfect for avoiding rain, but be prepared for cold nights.

Humantay Lake in July

• Season: Dry
• Weather: Blue skies and sunny days, but with extremely cold mornings and nights.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, but it can drop to -5°C at night.
• Tip: Wear multiple layers and bring a heavy jacket for the freezing nights.

Humantay Lake in August

• Season: Dry
• Weather: Similar to July, with sunny days and cold nights.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, and nights can drop below freezing.
• Tip: Ideal for those who want to avoid rain, but you’ll need to prepare for cold temperatures.

Humantay Lake in September

• Season: Dry
• Weather: Light rains may start toward the end of the month, but it’s still part of the dry season.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 14°C to 19°C.
• Tip: A perfect month for a rain-free hike, with warmer weather than in July or August.

Humantay Lake in October

• Season: Transition (beginning of the rainy season)
• Weather: Light rains begin, especially in the afternoons.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C.
• Tip: You can still enjoy the lake without heavy rain, but be ready for occasional showers.

Humantay Lake in November

• Season: Rainy
• Weather: Rain becomes more frequent, though not as heavy as in January and February.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C.
• Tip: November is a transitional month with a higher chance of rain, so bring waterproof gear.

Humantay Lake in December

• Season: Rainy
• Weather: Rains intensify, especially in the afternoon.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C.
• Tip: The landscape is lush and green this month due to the rains, but the trails may be muddy and harder to navigate.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Hiking to Humantay Lake is a moderate trek that takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. The trail is steep, and the high altitude can make it feel more challenging, so take it slow and acclimatize if necessary. Although swimming is not allowed, simply standing by the lagoon and admiring its beauty makes the trip worth it.

In summary, Humantay Lake is a stunning destination, but weather can greatly affect your visit. Whether you come during the dry season for clear skies or the rainy season for a lush landscape, be prepared with the right gear, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience