Duration

2D/1N

Package Type

Trekking

Activity Level

Moderate to Challenging

Price From
$45 - $125

Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek (4,600m) – 2 Days / 1 Night

Tour Details

Group Size
Up to 12 people
Max Altitude
4,630 m.s.n.m (15,190 ft)
Difficulty
Duration
2D/1N

Tour Description

This alternative hike is basically for travelers who already been in Machu Picchu, and seeking to explore more than a majestic Peruvian Andes surrounding, this hike itself will take through breathtaking landscapes filled with snow-capped mountain, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers that come down from the snowy mountain, awe-inspiring glaciers, and the majestic iconic Humantay lake, and the higher salkantay pass. The most of the highlights during the trek is the overnight stay at the beautiful campsite of Soraypampa from where you will can enjoy the spectacular of Salkantay glacier, surrounded by nature and the starry sky-an experience that blends comfort, serenity, and deep connection with the mountains. The 2-Day tour to Humantay Lake (approx. 4,200m/13,779ft) , and cross the Salkantay Pass (4,630m/15,190ft) usually combines a hike to the turquoise lagoon with a visit to the Salkantay Pass or nearby glacier, starting from Cusco. These, often private, tours include transport, meals, and specialized camping (e.g., Sky Camp or glass cabins), offering a high-altitude Andean experience. The hike to Humantay Lake is considered moderately difficult, primarily due to the high altitude and steep, rocky terrain, the hike itself has a moderate to challenging difficulty. The ascent is steep, which can make breathing difficult. While the distance isn’t extreme (about 1.5 miles one way), the thin air and elevation gain can make it very challenging, requiring careful pacing and acclimatization. Options like hiring horses are available for those who need assistance.

Private: A private tour throutoughtut at each destinations offers a more personalized experience everywhere. You’ll visit the unique so many places no mentioned in our itineraries, and without any additional costs, you will visit many local people known for its traditional textiles and Incan-influenced culture. A private tour allows for a flexible schedule and pace, catering to your specific interests and preferences.

Key aspects of a private tours:

  • Explore the fascinating sites constructed by the Incas, and learn about the culture and traditions of each destination
  • Enjoy the best scenic, known for its stunning views, terraced landscapes, and vibrant textiles.
  • Flexibility and Customization: A private tour allows you to tailor the itinerary, duration, and activities to your liking, whether you prefer a relaxed pace or a more active exploration.
  • Personalized Service: Enjoy the undivided attention of your guide, who can provide in-depth insights into the history, culture, and daily life in each excursion.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Private tours often include comfortable transportations, with Air-conditioning, fully equipped and we offer hotel pick-up and drop-off as part of our itineraries.
  • Potential for Enhanced Cultural Immersion: With a private tour, you may have more opportunities to interact with locals, participate in cultural demonstrations, and enjoy a more authentic experience.

Key Details for 2-Day Humantay Tour

Short Itinerary:

Day 1 usually involves transport from Cusco to Soraypampa, followed by a hike to the Humantay Lagoon, and overnight in a nearby camp. Day 2 often focuses on exploring higher, such as the Salkantay Pass (4,638m/15,213ft) or a closer look at the glaciers, before returning to Cusco.
  • Experience Level: Moderate to challenging due to rapid altitude gain; hikers should be acclimated.
  • Accommodations: Most 2-day treks feature “Camping ” or “Sky Lodge” for stargazing, which are located in Soraypampa or nearby.
  • What’s Included: Private transport, professional guide, meals, and lodging.
  • What to Bring: Cold-weather gear, comfortable hiking boots, sunscreen, and a camera

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

  • Day 1: Pick up from Cusco early (around 4-5 AM), drive to Mollepata/Challacancha, hike to Humantay Lake, and spend the night in specialized camping in Soraypampa.
  • Day 2: Hike towards the Salkantay Pass (4,638 m) to see the glacier, then return to Soraypampa for transport back to Cusco

Important Tips

  • Acclimatization: It is highly recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before attempting this, as the maximum altitude reaches over 4,600m.
  • Restrictions: Swimming is not permitted in the Humantay Lagoon, and drones are forbidden.

What to bring / Carry

  • Small Day backpack
  • Waterproof jacket/poncho
  • warm clothing (fleece/down jacket) for cold nights, scarf, gloves etc
  • A 2–3-liter water bottle / headlamp / insect repellent / sunscreen
  • Personal medications / and a blister treatment kit
  • Trekking and non-slip shoes
  • Personal hygiene products (towel, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
  • Cash in soles

Price per Person:

Number of Passengers 2 – 4 5 – 7 8 – Up
USD 350-295 280-265 250-235 ( Maximum group size 12 Paxs )
Day 1 –

Cusco / Mollepata / Challacancha / Humantay Lake / Soraypampa , spend night here ( L&D)

In the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 or 5:00am, and then we will travel during 2 hours of drive straight till MOLLEPATA village where we will enjoy our delicious breakfast, and free time to use the restroom and make the last shopping at little stores. At the appropriate time, we will continue with our trip to Challacancha, which is the starting point of the hike to HUMANTAY lake and SALKANTAY trek. Our first part of the journey takes about 3 hours to reach Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), where we’ll have our delicious lunch surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. After our lunch, we’ll begin the ascent to the beautiful Humantay lake, located at 4,200 m.a.s.l. The hike takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to get the lake from where, you’ll enjoy one of the most impressive views of the trip, with the turquoise lake at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay mountain, perfect for taking photographs. After spent a prudent time, we’ll return to SORAYPAMPA, where we’ll have dinner and spend the night in camping, sky-lodge or dormitories.

Important info:

  • Departure time : 4 or 5:00am
  • Pick up from : Cusco or Sacred valley
  • Hiking time : 5 to 6 hours Approx.
  • Weather : Cool with some presence of windy
  • Distance : 11 Km
  • Altitude : Minimun 3350 – 10990.81 ft / Maximum : Humantay Lake 4,200 masl – 13,780 ft
  • Accommodation : Overnight at available Camping / sky-lodge / dormitories
Day 2 –

Soraypampa / Salkantay Pass ( 4,600masl-15190ft ) Cusco

Today also is one of the most glorious and challenge day, but rewarding since we will hike up to the highest pass to Salkantay (4,600 masl ) we will wake up at 5:00am with a warm cup of coca tea , followed by our nice breakfast , time to get ready and finally we will begins our ascent to the Salkantay Pass which rises to an impressive pass 4,630 masl / 15190ft . The hike itself takes around 3 to 4 hours, and you will be able to hike at your own pace. In the middle of the hike, we will also walk up a zig zag trail that climbs “7 serpents” which is very interesting hike. After a well-deserved rest and taking unforgettable photographs, we’ll begin the 2-hour and 30-minute descent to Soraypampa, where we’ll have lunch before boarding our transport back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 p.m.

Important info:

  • Departure time : 6:00am
  • Pick up from : Soraypampa
  • Hiking time : 6 – 7 hours Approx.
  • Weather : Cool with some presence of windy
  • Distance : 12 Km
  • Altitude : Minimun 3900 – 12795.28 ft / Maximum : Salkantay ( 4,600masl-15190ft )

Tour Details

Group Size
Up to 12 people
Max Altitude
4,630 m.s.n.m (15,190 ft)
Difficulty
Duration
2D/1N

Price per Person:

Number of Passengers 2 – 4 5 – 7 8 – Up
USD 350-295 280-265 250-235 ( Maximum group size 12 Paxs )

  • Destination:
  • Duration:
    2D/1N
  • What included:
    Pre-Information a night prior of the hike by our tour guide
    Cmpletely private transport from Cusco / Mollepata / Soraypampa / Cusco ( R/T )
    Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English / Portugues)
    Meals : Lunch & D ( Day 1 ) Breakfast & L ( Day02 ) (vegetarian options or special diets available)
    01 Night of accommodation in Soraypampa ( Camping / Sky Lodge or Dormitories )
    Boiled and cold water to refill water bottles
    A large tank of Oxygen, it will be able available at all the time
    Entrances to Mollepata which is 20 each ( you should pay at the time , bring in soles )
    Entrances to Humantay lake which is 25 to 30 soles each ( you should pay at the time , bring in soles )
    Travel insurange
    Sleeping bags if you would to camp
  • What is not included:
    Breakfast since you will be provided by your hotel ( take away )
    Entrance to the Lake park ( 20-30 )
    Extra expenses such as for biscuit or mineral water
    Horseback riding rental ( you can hike at the beggining of the hike )
    Tips for the whole crew such as guide and driver

⚠️ Important: Check Entry Availability First

Before booking your tour to Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail, please check the availability of entry tickets for your preferred dates. Entry is limited and often sells out in advance — especially during high season. Make sure your chosen date has available spots to ensure access.

Availability Machu Picchu

Availability Inca Trail 4 days

Availability Inca Trail 2 days

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