2 Day Salkantay Trek & Humantay Lake Adventure
Salkantay Trek & Laguna Humantay 2 Days
Embark on a 2-day adventure with Ayni Expeditions to experience two of Peru’s most impressive landmarks. On the first day, you’ll begin your trek from Soraypampa, where you’ll make your way to the stunning Humantay Lake. The following day, you’ll face the challenging but rewarding climb to Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters, where you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views in the Peruvian Andes.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantay Pampa
First, your incredible journey begins early in the morning as we drive from Cusco to Mollepata, and then continue to Challacancha. From here, we’ll begin our hike to Soraypampa, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, we’ll continue the hike toward Humantay Lake, a turquoise gem nestled in the Andes, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.
Once at the lake, you’ll have time to relax, capture photos, and soak in the magnificent scenery. As the day winds down, we’ll head to our exclusive Glamping site at Salkantay Pampa, where you’ll sleep under the breathtaking Andean sky, with a transparent roof offering a unique view of the stars.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa – Cusco
On the second day, prepare for the most challenging part of the trek, but also the most rewarding. You’ll hike along the “Seven Serpents” trail, a steep path that leads you to Salkantay Pass. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain and the stunning Andes landscape.
After enjoying the views and taking a moment to rest, we’ll make our way back down to Soraypampa for a well-deserved lunch. Finally, we’ll return to Cusco in our private transport, completing the trek and leaving you with unforgettable memories.
Location
Salkantay Trek, Peru
Duration
2 days
Altitude
Highest point at 4,630 m (15,190 ft)
Group Size
Group trekking tours
Transportation
Private transport and train to Machu Picchu
Difficulty
Moderate to challenging
Itinerary
Highlight of the Day: Admire the jewel that is Humantay Lake and enjoy the dramatic color change against the snowy backdrop.
Hike to the Turquoise Gem in the Andean Mountains
Your exciting 2-day adventure with Ayni Expeditions begins early in the morning with a hotel pick-up by your tour guide and driver in Cusco. The first stop of the day is Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast.
Next, we continue our journey to Challacancha for a brief rest.
From here, we begin our hike towards Soraypampa Camp. This first section is not too challenging and helps you acclimate to the altitude. Along the way, you’ll notice a small Inca canal and appreciate the stunning Andean landscape.
We’ll reach our destination, Glamping, with a spectacular view of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped mountains, where the reception staff will be waiting with a delicious lunch.
Afterward, you’ll have time to relax in your Glamping or take a stroll around the site before preparing for our afternoon hike to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). The hike will be done at a gentle pace due to the altitude. Once you reach the summit, you’ll have time to enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake, nestled in the snow-capped mountains.
Afterward, we return to camp to enjoy a delicious dinner and stargazing. Your guide will share fascinating details about Inca astronomy. As you drift off to sleep, you’ll be able to gaze at the constellations through the transparent roof of your Glamping.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Glamping
Difficulty: Moderate
Hike to Soraypampa: 7 km / 4.35 miles
Hike time to Soraypampa: 3 hours
Hike to Humantay Lake: 5 km / 3.11 miles
Hike time to Humantay Lake: 2-3 hours (round trip)
Minimum elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Humantay Lake elevation: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Glamping elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Highlight of the Day: Reach Salkantay Pass and capture the breathtaking mountain landscape.
A Day to Discover Salkantay Mountain
Today is the big day! You’ll reach the highest point of your journey and encounter marvelous landscapes surrounded by an impressive mountain range.
You’ll enjoy a hearty and nutritious breakfast before starting the gentle hike to Salkantaypampa, followed by the challenging “Seven Serpents” trail, which takes you to the breathtaking Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
Take some time at the pass to snap memorable photos and enjoy the fantastic views of snow-covered mountains.
After admiring the stunning mountain vistas and feeling the power of nature, we’ll head back on a rocky path to our camp for lunch.
Along the way, you’ll see the vast snow-covered stone forest from a distance. Your hard climb will be greatly rewarded with incredible views at every turn.
After lunch at our Glamping, we’ll rest before completing the final 15-minute stretch to board our private transport with Ayni Expeditions. During this last part of the journey, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take excellent photographs of valleys, mountains, rivers, and farmlands.
Finally, we’ll arrive in Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel to relax and prepare for your next adventure.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Distance on foot: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Hike time: 6-7 hours
Salkantay Pass elevation: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Include
Permits and Entrance Tickets for Salkantay Trek 2 Days
High-Quality Service and Safety
Pre-Departure Information
You will meet your tour guide and group at our office for orientation before your trek. We’ll provide you with a Duffel Bag for your personal items, which will be carried by porters. The bag should weigh no more than 8 kg (14 lb) and must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you choose to rent or bring one. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before your trek begins.
Experienced Guide
Our guides are professional graduates from the University of Cusco. They are passionate about sharing their heritage and ensuring your safety and happiness during the trek.
First Aid Kit
All Ayni Expeditions guides are trained in first aid and carry a first aid kit, oxygen, and a satellite phone in case of emergencies.
Private Camping Equipment
- Duffel Bag for personal items (7 kg max, including sleeping bag).
- Glamping accommodation for one night.
Extras Included
- Poncho for rain and backpack cover for protection.
- 24/7 customer service via phone for easy communication.
- Satellite phone for emergencies.
Accommodation
- 1 Night in Glamping
Meals
- 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 1 Dinner
- Vegan, vegetarian, and special menus available at no extra charge.
Water
We provide filtered, boiled, and cooled water during the trek. You’ll need to bring a camel bag or empty bottle (2 liters recommended).
Teas and Snacks
- Morning tea (mate de coca).
- Happy Hour before dinner with snacks and hot beverages.
- Daily snack bags with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, and more.
Hygiene Products
A small towel and soap are provided before each meal for handwashing.
Transportation
- Day 1: Private transport to Challacancha, start of the trek.
- Day 2: Private transport back from Soraypampa to Cusco.
Not Include
What’s Not Included
- Sleeping bag (can be rented for $20).
- Trekking poles (can be rented for $20).
- Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes ($40, if needed).
- Travel insurance, tips for staff.
The Ayni Difference
- We prioritize fair treatment and better wages for our porters, ensuring a higher standard of living.
- We run four trips a year for porters and their families to visit Machu Picchu.
- Our company supports equality, with female guides, porters, and cooks since 2022.
- Ayni Expeditions is committed to sustainability, leaving no trace and using biodegradable products.
Additional Costs
Any changes or delays caused by weather, strikes, or unforeseen circumstances may affect the itinerary. Costs for these are outside our control.
Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!
Recommendation
Permits and Tickets for Salkantay Trek 2 Days
High-Quality Service and Safety
Pre-Departure Information
You will meet your guide and group at our office for an orientation before your trek. We’ll provide a Duffel Bag for your personal items, which will be carried by porters. The bag should weigh no more than 7 kg (15.4 lb) and include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if applicable. The meeting is at 5:00 pm the evening before departure.
Experienced Guide
Our guides are trained professionals with extensive knowledge of the region. They ensure your safety and happiness throughout the journey.
First Aid Kit
All guides carry a first aid kit, including oxygen and a satellite phone for emergencies. We provide specialized training to our guides annually.
Private Camping Equipment
- Duffel Bag for personal items (max 7 kg).
- Glamping accommodation for one night.
Extras Included
- Rain poncho, backpack cover, and 24/7 customer service.
- Satellite phone for emergencies and communication.
Accommodation
- 1 Night in Glamping
Meals
- 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner
- Vegan, vegetarian, and special diets available.
Water for the Trek
Filtered and boiled water provided during the trek. Bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (recommended 2 liters).
Tea and Snacks
- Morning coca tea.
- Happy hour with snacks and hot drinks before dinner.
- Daily snack bags with fruits and treats.
Hygiene Products
Small towel and soap provided for hand washing before meals.
Transportation
- Day 1: Private transport to Challacancha, starting point of the trek.
- Day 2: Private transport from Soraypampa to Cusco.
What’s Not Included
- Sleeping bag ($20 rental).
- Trekking poles ($20 rental).
- Train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes ($40 if needed).
- Travel insurance, tips for staff.
The Ayni Difference
- We prioritize fair treatment and better wages for our porters.
- We run trips to Machu Picchu for our porters and their families.
- Ayni Expeditions supports gender equality and sustainability in all operations.
Additional Costs
Changes or delays due to weather, strikes, or unforeseen events are outside our control.
Lost Items
Please be mindful of your belongings. You are responsible for them during the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Salkantay Trek is ideal for adventurous trekkers who can handle high altitudes and long distances. It’s a challenging trek, but it’s well worth the effort with stunning views.
We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Yes, you can safely store your luggage at our office or your hotel in Cusco while you’re on the trek.
You will need to pack lightweight clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, a sleeping bag (can be rented), sunscreen, and personal toiletries. We’ll provide a Duffel Bag for your personal items during the trek.
We strive to keep your journey as planned, but delays due to weather or strikes are possible. Our team will coordinate with you for any changes, and your safety is our top priority.
TALK TO AN SPECIALIST
One of our specialists will respond to your travel request as soon as possible.
