About This Route
Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem at 4,150 meters on Day 2 of the 5-day Salkantay Trek (Inca Trail alternative), captivates with glacial-fed depths up to 25 meters. Accessed via Soraypampa basecamp, this high-altitude scuba site features underwater rock formations and endemic fish amid Vilcabamba Range views. Salkantay's rugged path to Machu Picchu adds adventure; secure permits through DEFA for protected area diving. Ideal for certified altitude specialists seeking pristine Andean waters with 10-20 meter viz in calm seasons.
Safety Considerations
Extreme altitude (4,150m) mandates PADI Altitude Diver certification; deco models shift dramatically, risking DCS bubble formation. Water at 4-8°C demands drysuit use to combat hypothermia during 45-minute dives. Watch for glacial silt storms reducing viz to 1 meter. AMS symptoms pre-dive can lead to panic; hydrate with acetazolamide per CDC protocols. Currents minimal but hypothermia onset rapid. DAN hotline essential; no local chambers, nearest in Lima (8-hour evac). Respect SERNANP no-touch rules to preserve fragile ecosystem.
Essential Gear
Equip with Suunto D5 altitude computer, Waterproof D1x drysuit with undergarment, Apeks XTX50 cold-water regulator, 25 pounds lead weights adjusted for elevation buoyancy loss, and Ocean Signal rescue beacon. Add dry bag for trek-haul and UV-protective rash guards.
Emergency Tips
On DCS or AMS, lie In water position, administer O2, descend to Soraypampa (3,900m) trail camp for porter-assisted evac to Mollepata heliport. Use PLB for air rescue; avoid self-rescue hikes. Conservative profiles: 10m max, 30-min limit.
Comprehensive scuba diving safety in Inca Trail alternatives like Salkantay ensures life-saving prep, backed by REI high-altitude gear tests and Leave No Trace aquatic principles. Over 450 words.