The mystical lagoon is visited by shamans and tourists from around the world to leave offerings to the Pachamama, a deity representing Mother Earth in Inca culture. By placing stones (apachetas), an offering is made to the Pachamama, thanking her for allowing visitors to reach the lagoon safely, and asking her to accompany them on their journey.

According to local residents, the snowy Humantay is the youngest son of the Apu Salkantay, and they would be in charge of rationalizing.