This 2-day trek from Cusco combines Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass into a short high-mountain route. The first day begins with a transfer to Challacancha and a hike to Soraypampa, followed by the ascent to Humantay Lake at 4,200 m. After spending the night at Sky Camp, the second day continues on to Salkantay Pass—the highest point of the route at 4,630 m—before descending and returning to Cusco. It’s a great option for travelers who want to experience two of the Salkantay region’s most iconic landscapes without undertaking the full trek to Machu Picchu.
Overview
This two-day trek takes in two of the most iconic sites in the Salkantay region. The first day combines the hike from Challacancha to Soraypampa with the ascent to Humantay Lake, while the second day is dedicated to the most challenging section: the climb to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m.
The entire trek takes place in high-altitude mountain terrain. Although the distances are shorter than on the traditional multi-day Salkantay Trek, the altitude makes this a physically demanding hike. For this reason, we recommend completing it only after proper acclimatization in Cusco.
The program includes one night at Sky Camp, meals during the trek, transportation to and from Cusco, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a duffel bag with a capacity of up to 7 kg, as specified in the program.
Highlights
- Hike to Humantay Lake at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.
- Reach Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft, the highest point of the trek.
- Walk approximately 26 km / 16 mi over two days.
- Spend one night at Sky Camp in Soraypampa.
- Hike the challenging Trail of the Seven Snakes toward Salkantay Pass.
- Enjoy views of the Humantay and Salkantay glaciers and surrounding high-Andean landscapes.
- Meals, sleeping bag, trekking poles, duffle bag and transportation included.
- Important: This is a high-altitude hike that climbs to 4,630 m / 15,190 feet at the Salkantay Pass, so it is strongly recommended that you acclimate in Cusco beforehand. The two-day trek returns to Cusco after the Salkantay Pass and doesn't continue on to Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp
Hike to the Turquoise Jewel in the Andean Mountains Your exciting 2-day adventure starts early in the morning with a pickup by your tour guide and driver from your accommodation in Cusco. The day’s first stop will be in Mollepata to have a nourishing breakfast. Then, we’ll continue our journey until we reach Challacancha for a short rest.
From here, we’ll begin our walk toward our camp in Soraypampa. This first stretch isn’t too challenging and will help you adjust to the altitude. You’ll notice you follow a small Inca canal most of the way as you take in the impressive Andean scenery.
We will arrive at our destination, Sky Camp, in front of the majestic and snowy Salkantay and Humantay mountains, where the reception staff will be waiting for you with an exquisite lunch. Afterward, you’ll have time to rest in your igloo or wander around the site before we prepare for our afternoon hike.
We’ll climb uphill to Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), taking it easy due to the altitude. Once you reach the top, you’ll have time to take in the breathtaking view of the jewel-like lake among the snowy, white backdrop.
You’ll then return to our Sky Camp for a delightful dinner and star-gazing. Your guide will tell you all about Inca astronomy. When you head to bed, you’ll be able to stare out of the roof of your igloo and let the constellations send you off to sleep.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Walking Distance To Soraypampa: 7 Km / 3 Hours
- Walking Distance To Humantay Lake: 5 Km / 2-3 Hours (Round-Trip)
- Starting Elevation: 3,800 M / 12,467 Ft
- Humantay Lake Elevation: 4,200 M / 13,780 Ft
- Campsite Elevation: 3,900 M / 12,795 F
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Overnight: Sky Camp
Day 2: Sky Camp | Salkantaypampa - Salkantay Pass - Soyrococha - Soraypampa – Cusco
Defeat the Trail of the Seven Snakes Today’s the grand day because you’ll reach the highest point of the trip; you’ll come across marvelous landscapes bordered by an impressive complex of mountains.
We’ll enjoy a filling and nutritious breakfast before we gradually ascend to Salkantaypampa and then through a challenging path known as “The Trail of the 7 Snakes” until we get to the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. You’ll spend some time at the pass to take memorable photos and enjoy the fantastic landscape.
After taking in the breathtaking views of the snow capped mountains and feeling the power of nature, we’ll pass through a unique rocky terrain and descend to our campsite for lunch. On the way, we’ll catch a glimpse of the vast forest of snow-covered stones from a distance. Your hard work will be greatly rewarded with incredible views everywhere you look.
After lunch at our Sky Camp, we’ll have a break before heading out on the last stretch for 30 minutes to board the transport. Along this last part of the journey, you’ll get plenty of opportunities for great photos of valleys, mountains, rivers, and farming fields.
We’ll finally reach Cusco and drop you off for some well-deserved rest at your accommodation.
- Difficulty: Moderate To Challenging
- Walking Distance: 14 Km
- Walking Time: 7 Hours
- Salkantay Pass Elevation: 4,630 M / 15,190 Ft
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Overnight: hotel in Cusco (not included)
Included
What's Included
- Entry to the Salkantay Trek
- Experienced Tour Guide
- One Duffle Bag
- For the trek, you’ll receive a duffle bag to pack your personal belongings up to a
- Maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).
- Sleeping Bag
- Trekking Poles
- Medical Kit or First AID Kit
24/7 Customer Service - Accommodation in our exclusive Sky Camp
- 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 1 Dinner (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost).
- Water on the trail
- Wake up tea (You’ll wake up with a cup of hot coca tea! It’ll be brought to your tent so you can )
- Tea Time or Happy Hour
- The first afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won’t have to wait until dinner to relax, warm up, and enjoy a bite!
- Transportation ( All transportation is included in this tour. We’ll pick you up from your hotel, and after the end of the trip, we’ll drop you back at the door of your hotel in Cusco )
Not Included
- Day 2 Dinner
- Horse from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake nor Salkantay Pass (optional)
- Personal Hiking Gear
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for our staff (Tipping is usual on any excursion to Peru ) Although we pay good salaries to our team, something extra is always welcome.
What to Bring
- Original passport or ID
- Small daypack
- Warm clothing in layers
- Thermal base layer for the night
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Comfortable hiking boots with good grip
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Personal toiletries
- Personal medication
- Snacks
- Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses or an optional horse
- Headlamp
- Camera or phone
- Portable charger / power bank
Prices
FAQ's
1. How difficult is the Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass 2-day trek?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. The main difficulty comes from the high altitude and the ascent to Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. Travelers should be comfortable hiking several hours per day and should acclimatize before starting the trek.
2. How far do you hike during the 2-day trek?
The current itinerary covers approximately 26 km / 16 miles in total. Day 1 includes about 7 km to Soraypampa plus a 5 km round-trip hike to Humantay Lake, while Day 2 covers approximately 14 km.
3. What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. It is reached on Day 2 after ascending from the Sky Camp area.
4. Does the 2-day Salkantay trek go to Machu Picchu?
No. This 2-day itinerary focuses on Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass and returns to Cusco after completing the trek. Travelers who want to continue toward Machu Picchu should choose one of the longer Salkantay trekking itineraries.
5. Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes. Because the route spends both days at high altitude and reaches more than 4,600 m, we strongly recommend spending time in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before beginning the trek.
6. Where do I sleep during the 2-day Salkantay trek?
You spend the night at Sky Camp in Soraypampa, at approximately 3,900 m / 12,795 ft. The current program uses dome-style accommodation with views of the surrounding Humantay and Salkantay mountains.
7. Are meals included during the trek?
Yes. The current program includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner. Vegetarian, vegan and other special menus can be requested according to the tour conditions.
8. Can I rent or use a horse if the hike becomes too difficult?
Horses may be available locally for sections such as the Humantay Lake or Salkantay Pass route, subject to availability and an additional fee. Horse service is not included in the current tour price.
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