2-Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek

This 2-day trek through the Peruvian Andes offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, physical challenge, and authentic local experience. Starting from Cusco, you’ll visit Humantay Lake with its glacier backdrop and hike over the Salkantay Pass, one of the highest points on the route, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The tour includes overnight camping at the Sooretama Sky Camp, giving you a chance to rest in simple but comfortable facilities amidst the mountain wilderness. Priced at $380 per person, this tour is well-suited for active travelers who want more than just a day trip—it’s a true adventure that rewards your effort with spectacular views and genuine experiences.

What we really love about this trek is the attention to scenic detail—each stop offers unique vistas and photo opportunities, especially the glacier-view of Humantay Lake and the snowy summits at Salkantay Pass. Plus, the expert guides and well-organized logistics make it easier to focus on the experience rather than worry about the nuts and bolts. A notable highlight is the delicious meals served amidst breathtaking scenery, adding a culinary touch to the adventure.

However, it’s worth considering that this is a challenging hike—the altitude, steep paths, and long hours on your feet mean you need to be in good physical shape. If you’re not accustomed to vigorous trekking, this might be a strenuous experience. Nonetheless, for those who thrive on physical activity and love mountain scenery, this tour offers a memorable and fulfilling experience.

This trek is ideal for adventure seekers with some hiking experience, altitude acclimatization, and a desire to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic high-altitude trek that combines stunning scenery with cultural insights, this tour will deliver.

Key Points

• Stunning vistas of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and mountain scenery
• Well-organized logistics including transportation, camping, and meals
• Guides with local knowledge that add depth and context to the experience
• Challenging terrain requiring good physical condition
• Authentic camping experience at the Sky Camp amid nature
• Delicious food served in scenic settings

Exploring the 2-Day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek

When we think about trekking in Peru, especially around Cusco, the images that often come to mind are Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain. But this 2-day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek offers something more intimate and rugged—an immersive taste of the high Andes that’s perfect for adventure lovers craving spectacular scenery and a touch of challenge.

The First Day: From Cusco to Humantay Lake

The journey begins early, with a roughly 2-hour drive from Cusco. The first stop is at the lively village of Mollepata for a hearty breakfast, fueling you up for the day ahead. From Challacancha, the trail kicks off; here, you step onto a scenic path that winds alongside a canyon valley, teasing glimpses of Humantay Peak.

The highlight of the morning is definitely the hike to Humantay Lake—a glacial jewel cradled in the mountains. It’s a steep, invigorating climb of about 1-2 hours, but the reward is worth every step. The crystal-clear lake, with its icy blue waters and towering glacier backdrop, makes for stunning photos. We loved how the guide explained the significance of the surroundings, connecting the landscape to local traditions and beliefs.

Lunchtime is served at the Sky Camp, a simple yet comfortable base where you can relax and prepare for the night. After lunch, a short but steep hike takes you up to Humanta Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Later, as evening falls, you’ll settle into cozy igloos—imagine sleeping inside a transparent dome with mountain vistas overhead. It’s an experience that’s both fun and a bit surreal, perfect for stargazing.

The Second Day: Over the Salkantay Pass

Day two is the most physically demanding, but also the most rewarding in terms of scenery. Early breakfast fuels you for the hike up the Trail of the 7 Snakes—a route that winds toward the Salkantay Pass. Reaching this high point, at over 15,000 feet, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of snowy peaks and the deep valleys below.

This part of the trek offers a good mix of challenge and awe. The guide shared fascinating stories about Salkantay Mountain, which holds spiritual significance beyond its icy summit. We appreciated the way the group stopped frequently to rest, take photos, and absorb the landscape—these moments are what make this trek special.

Descending from the pass, the trail leads you back to camp for a well-earned lunch. The return drive to Cusco offers more scenery, a chance to reflect on the journey, and maybe some last-minute photos of the rugged landscapes.

Logistics and Practicalities

This tour is priced at $380 per person, a fair deal considering the included amenities—private transport, overnight camping with equipment, meals, and guidance from experienced professionals. The small group size, capped at 12 travelers, ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The tour kicks off very early, with a 4:30 am pickup, which means you’ll need to be prepared for a long day right from the start. The physical demands are significant—hikers should be in good shape and accustomed to altitude. The tour explicitly notes that arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before is recommended to help with acclimatization.

One thing to keep in mind is the challenging nature of the trek—steep paths, high altitude, and long hours on your feet. The tour does include hiking poles and a rain poncho to help manage the terrain, which we found quite helpful.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are meals, water, snacks, guides, camping gear, and transportation. The dinner on Day 2 isn’t included, giving you flexibility to explore Cusco’s dining scene afterward. Optional extras like horse assistance are available but at an extra cost. Tips are not included but are customary if you’re pleased with the service.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Many travelers emphasize the expertise of their guides. One reviewer raved about Jordan (possibly the same guide we’d hope to get)—”Our guide Jordan made everything go super smoothly, even with a delayed arrival in Cusco.” Such attentiveness can turn a tough trek into a memorable adventure.

Scenery is, unsurprisingly, the star. One traveler called it a “tour of a lifetime,” praising the organization and the “amazing views” of the mountains. The delicious food served during the trip was also repeatedly highlighted, which is not always expected on camping treks.

A less positive note from one reviewer pointed out organizational hiccups and a somewhat self-centered guide, but overall, the consensus is that this tour offers authentic, beautiful landscapes and professional guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves challenging hikes, mountain scenery, and authentic camping experiences, this trek is likely to be a highlight of your Cusco trip. It’s perfect for travelers who are physically fit, enjoy outdoor adventure, and want to avoid the crowds of more popular sites like Machu Picchu.

On the other hand, if you’re prone to altitude sickness or prefer easier, less strenuous tours, this might be a tough fit. The long hours and steep climbs demand good physical preparation and a sense of adventure.

This tour offers incredible value—combining spectacular views, local insights, and authentic camping—making it a memorable highlight for those seeking a genuine high-altitude adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This is a challenging trek requiring good physical condition. Beginners with some hiking experience and high altitude acclimatization should be able to participate, but those with health issues or low fitness levels might find it tough.

What is the maximum altitude reached?
You’ll reach the Salkantay Pass, which is over 15,000 feet high. The altitude is a key part of the adventure, but it can cause discomfort if you’re not well-acclimated.

Are meals provided during the trek?
Yes, you’ll receive 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Meals are included in the price and are designed to keep your energy up for the demanding hikes.

What should I bring?
Bring good hiking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, a hat, sunscreen, water bottles, personal medications, and a sense of adventure. The tour supplies a sleeping bag, hiking poles, and a rain poncho.

Can I sleep inside a tent instead of the igloo?
The tour includes overnight accommodation at the Sky Camp, which features private camping facilities. Specific sleeping arrangements are not detailed as tents, but the Sky Camp provides a comfortable and unique overnight experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off plus private transport during the tour are part of the package, ensuring smooth logistics.

How long is the total trekking time each day?
Day 1 involves about 5 hours of walking, including the hike to Humantay Lake. Day 2’s trek over the Salkantay Pass takes approximately 6 hours round-trip.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 12 travelers, creating a more personalized experience.

Whether you’re craving a true test of your stamina, breathtaking mountain panoramas, or a chance to see a side of Peru less traveled, this 2-day Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek is a superb choice. It’s an adventure that rewards effort with unforgettable views, cultural insights, and the satisfaction of conquering one of the world’s most stunning mountain landscapes.