“Glamping Dome” Laguna Humantay and Salkantay 2 Days 1 Night

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s Andes through a unique 2-day adventure that combines stunning mountain vistas, cultural insights, and the thrill of outdoor camping. For $350 per person, this tour offers a comfortable yet authentic way to enjoy two of the region’s most admired sites: Laguna Humantay and the Salkantay Pass. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll trek through spectacular scenery, learn about Incan astronomy, and sleep under the stars in a cozy igloo.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the carefully curated balance of adventure and comfort — with private camping equipment and the chance to stargaze from your glamping dome, it’s a memorable experience without sacrificing convenience. Plus, the small group size (limited to 15 participants) means you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate connection with the landscape.

A potential consideration is the altitude, reaching over 4,600 meters (around 15,000 feet) at Salkantay Pass. While the itinerary includes gentle acclimatization, travelers with certain health conditions or altitude sensitivities should prepare accordingly.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a quick yet immersive experience of Peru’s highlands, especially those who enjoy a mix of physical activity, cultural learning, and a touch of luxury with your outdoor sleepover. If you’re short on time but craving genuine mountain scenery and an active journey, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Short but intense: A 2-day trek that packs in some of the best sights in the Andes.
• Comfortable camping: Sleep in innovative glamping domes with views of the stars.
• Expert guidance: Guides share insights about local culture and Incan astronomy.
• Stunning scenery: From Laguna Humantay’s shimmering waters to Salkantay’s towering peaks.
• Altitude considerations: Involves trekking at over 4,600 meters; suitable for active travelers prepared for the altitude.
• All-inclusive value: Permits, meals, equipment, and transportation are included, making logistics straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and First Day Highlights

The adventure kicks off in Cusco, where you’ll be picked up and transported to your starting point, offering a seamless beginning to your journey. After a nutritious breakfast in Mollepata, the group makes a short stop at Challacancha, a small but important gateway into the mountains. From there, the trek begins with a gentle hike to Soraypampa, which introduces you to the altitude and stunning mountain scenery along an Inca canal route.

Soraypampa acts as the base camp for your first night, where you’ll be greeted with a hearty lunch and the sensation of being surrounded by towering peaks — including the formidable Salkantay. The camp is a perfect spot to relax, while the evening activity—an hike to Lake Humantay—gives an early taste of the high-altitude beauty to come.

The walk up to Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) is a gentle, moderate ascent. Even if you’re not a seasoned hiker, the soft trail and gradual elevation increase make it manageable. The reward? A jewel-like lake, with crystalline waters reflecting the snowy peaks, is arguably one of the most striking sights in the region. Many reviews mention how surreal the view is, with one noting, “You can’t help but be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop.”

Stargazing and Night in the Igloo

After dinner, the tour transforms from a physical challenge into a magical experience. The evening’s highlight is stargazing from your igloo, with guides sharing stories about Inca astronomy and celestial navigation. Sleeping in a glamping dome is surprisingly comfortable, especially given the altitude, allowing you to rest under the expansive Andean sky. The rooftop viewing platform offers an unmatched opportunity to observe constellations, making it a highlight for night sky enthusiasts.

Day Two: Conquering Salkantay Pass

The following day is dedicated to reaching the Salkantay Pass at 4,630 meters — a tough but exhilarating climb along the “Trail of the 7 Snakes”. As you ascend, you’ll witness a changing landscape of rocky terrain, alpine flora, and distant snow-covered peaks. Many travelers find the ascent humbling, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. The guides encourage taking plenty of photos at this point, as the scene is truly spectacular, with jagged mountains and endless valleys stretching below.

After soaking in the scenery, you descend through dramatic rocky landscapes to a second camp for lunch. The route continues to impress with rock formations and distant views of snow-dusted boulders that seem to defy gravity.

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The Final Stretch and Return to Cusco

Post-lunch, the trek eases into a scenic descent through lush valleys, rivers, and farmland. The last leg involves a short shuttle ride, which is a nice way to rest tired legs and enjoy the changing scenery. The final views of the valleys and mountains make for ideal photo opportunities before returning to Cusco.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers almost everything you need for a smooth experience — permits, entrance fees, expert guides, private camping gear, and all meals in the itinerary. The exclusive Sky Camp provides a cozy and memorable overnight stay with all the comforts of a proper campsite, yet with the novelty of sleeping in a dome with star views.

However, travelers should note that the tour does not include a duffle bag, horseback riding (optional from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake or Salkantay Pass), or hiking clothing. This means you’ll need to bring appropriate gear if you want to maximize comfort and safety at high altitudes.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ knowledge of Incan astronomy and local traditions. Many reviews mention how guides share stories that deepen the understanding of the cultural significance of the stars and mountains.

Transportation is well-organized, ensuring a relaxed start to the adventure, and small group sizes (max 15) foster a friendly, personal atmosphere. The included snacks, tea or happy hour, and hygiene products add to the overall value, making the tour feel well thought out.

The Value of This Experience

At $350, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions, personalized guidance, and the unique overnight experience. The combination of active trekking, cultural storytelling, and comfortable camping makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want a quick but authentic taste of the Peruvian highlands.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits active travelers ready for altitude, eager to see some of Peru’s most stunning mountain scenery, and interested in learning about Inca astronomy and traditions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of physical challenge and comfort, with an overnight in a cozy dome to unwind and stargaze. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful highland adventure, this tour hits all the right notes.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Glamping Dome tour offers an exciting and visually stunning way to experience the Peruvian Andes. You’ll witness the shimmering waters of Laguna Humantay, conquer the Salkantay Pass with spectacular views, and sleep under the stars in a cozy dome — all while gaining cultural insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural discovery.

While the altitude and physical effort can be demanding, the carefully planned itinerary and inclusive amenities help make the experience accessible and rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an adventurous traveler seeking a taste of highland magic, this tour promises unforgettable views and authentic moments in one of South America’s most breathtaking landscapes.

For those who want a quick, well-organized, and genuinely memorable mountain adventure — with some of the best scenery the Andes have to offer — this is a fantastic choice. Just prepare for the altitude, bring suitable gear, and get ready for a journey that combines physical challenge with awe-inspiring beauty.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation from Cusco to Challacancha and back is included, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a small group of up to 15 participants, ensuring more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What meals are provided?
You’ll enjoy 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, along with daily snacks and tea or happy hour in the evening.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced hiker?
While the trek involves high altitudes and some challenging ascents, the gradual climbs and guided support make it manageable for most active travelers, especially those prepared for altitude.

What gear should I bring?
Hiking clothing suitable for mountain weather, a duffle bag for personal gear, and layers for warmth are recommended. The tour supplies trekking poles and hygiene products, but personal gear is up to you.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the altitude and physical demands, it’s best suited for healthy, active adults. Elderly travelers or children should consult with their doctor and consider their altitude tolerance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning mountain vistas, cultural storytelling, and the unique experience of sleeping in a star-viewing dome makes this tour truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby