Experience the Magnificence of Humantay Lake and Salkantay Lagoon in Two Days
If you’re looking for a short escape into the wild beauty of the Peruvian Andes, this 2-day excursion from Cusco is a fantastic choice. For $190 per person, you’ll visit the renowned Humantay Lagoon and the impressive Salkantay Lagoon, with a focus on breathtaking mountain views, cultural insights, and some decent trekking. The tour balances adventure with comfort, offering a night in a cozy geodesic wooden dome—a unique lodging experience that adds a special touch to the trip.
We particularly appreciate how this tour combines stunning scenery with authentic cultural moments—like the small Andean ritual for mountain gods—and how it keeps the group intimate, with only up to 10 participants. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the mountains and local traditions that deepen the experience.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the second day involves quite a bit of uphill trekking, topping out at over 4,600 meters (around 15,100 feet). If you’re not accustomed to high altitudes or strenuous walks, this could be a challenge. But for those who love mountain landscapes and a bit of physical activity, that’s part of the charm.
This experience suits active travelers eager to see iconic Peruvian natural sights without committing to a longer trek. It’s perfect for those with limited time but who still want authentic views, local flavor, and a touch of adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Stunning Mountain Views: See snow-capped peaks like Salkantay and Humantay and enjoy panoramic vistas from the Salkantay viewpoint.
- Authentic Cultural Elements: Experience local traditions, such as a small ritual honoring mountain gods.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Spend a night in a geodesic wooden dome, adding a cozy and distinctive lodging experience.
- Guided Expertise: Guides speak both English and Spanish, offering cultural insights and safety during the hikes.
- Balanced Itinerary: Includes both challenging uphill hikes and relaxing exploration, like free time at the lakes.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) mean more personalized attention and camaraderie.
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In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience
Day 1: From Cusco to Humantay Lake and Quiswarniyoc Camp
The day starts early—around 5:45 a.m.—with a comfortable ride from Cusco to Mollepata, a scenic two-hour drive. We liked the efficiency here; a smooth start to a full day. Upon arrival in Mollepata, we stop for a hearty breakfast and pay a small entrance fee of 10 soles. These minor costs are typical but worth planning for.
From there, the journey continues to Soraypampa, about an hour away by car. Here, we meet the muleteers and horses that will carry all supplies and our personal belongings (up to 7 kilos). The fact that all luggage is transported separately means we can trek light and enjoy the scenery without heavy packs—a huge advantage.
The trek from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake is about two hours uphill. The trail is steep but rewarding. We loved the way the guide explained the lake’s significance—this isn’t just a pretty spot but a place of spiritual importance for the local Andean communities. Once at the top, you’ll have ample time to walk around, snap photos, and soak up the surreal views of the turquoise waters against snow-capped mountains.
After a couple of hours exploring the lake, we descend to Quiswarniyoc camp for a well-deserved, healthy lunch—about two hours downhill. The camp is a private space, away from the crowds, which makes the experience more intimate. There’s also free time here; some hikers choose to go up to the Salkantay viewpoint for a sweeping vista, a highlight for those who love panoramic scenery.
Day 2: The High Point and Return to Cusco
The second day is more demanding, with a 3-4 hour uphill trek to the highest point of the Salkantay trail—at 4,630 meters (around 15,200 feet). You’ll be waking early again, around 5 a.m., with coca tea to help with acclimatization. This altitude can be tough, but the effort is worthwhile for the views and the sense of achievement.
Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular mountain scenery, including views of Salkantay, one of Peru’s highest peaks. Here, the guide shares stories of mountain gods and leads a small ritual—adding cultural depth to the adventure. You’ll have time for photos and to simply breathe in the crisp mountain air.
The descent back to Soraypampa takes about two and a half hours, mostly downhill, allowing us to appreciate the changing landscape. After a quick lunch in Mollepata, the tour concludes with the return drive to Cusco, arriving around 6 p.m.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation and Guides
The round-trip transportation from Cusco is smooth and reliable, taking you through some of the most scenic parts of the region. The guides are bilingual, offering insights in both English and Spanish, which enriches the experience. Small group size keeps the atmosphere friendly and allows for more personalized attention.
Lodging and Meals
Staying in the geodesic wooden dome was one of the most memorable parts. It’s a cozy, eco-friendly way to rest after the day’s hike, and it adds an element of adventure. Meals—two lunches, one dinner, and one breakfast—are included, and the food is nourishing to fuel your climbs. Extra expenses like souvenirs or additional drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.
What Travelers Say
Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the trek both informative and fun. One quoted that the guide “explained all the significance of the lakes and mountains, making the trip richer and more meaningful.” The stunning views are a consistent praise—“the scenery is absolutely breathtaking,” one traveler noted. The intimate group size and unique lodging also get high marks for making the experience feel special.
Some mention the challenging altitude and uphill climbs, emphasizing the importance of being prepared physically and acclimatized. Others appreciate the flexibility in free time at the lakes, allowing for personal exploration or rest.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
If you’re an active traveler craving spectacular mountain scenery and cultural moments in a manageable two-day format, this trip is a solid choice. It balances adventure with comfort: scenic hikes, a cozy night in a geodesic dome, and insightful guides make for a memorable experience. Be prepared for the altitude and some steep climbs, but know that the views and the sense of achievement are well worth it.
This tour suits those with limited time but a desire for authentic, off-the-beaten-path scenery. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and culturally curious travelers will find plenty to love. If you enjoy a bit of physical challenge combined with natural beauty and local traditions, this is an adventure perfectly suited for you.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from Cusco to Soraypampa and back is included, making logistics one less thing to worry about.
What is the cost of the tour? The price is $190 per person, which covers most meals, guide, lodging, and transportation—offering good value given the scenic payoff.
How much luggage can I bring? Each hiker can carry up to 7 kilos of personal belongings in a duffel bag, transported separately so you can trek light.
Are meals included? Yes, the tour includes two lunches, one dinner, and one breakfast. Additional expenses like souvenirs are not included.
What is the lodging like? You’ll stay in a geodesic wooden dome, which is cozy and adds a memorable touch to the trip.
Is this tour suitable for beginners? The hikes involve significant uphill sections at high altitude, so some physical fitness and acclimatization are recommended.
How long is the trek on Day 1? The hike from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake is about two hours uphill; the descent and exploration are flexible.
What about Day 2’s high-altitude climb? You’ll ascend over 4,600 meters, a challenging but rewarding part of the trip, with guide support and pacing.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if needed.
This 2-day adventure from Cusco offers a wonderful blend of mountain scenery, cultural insights, and cozy overnighting in the Andes. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to experience some of Peru’s most iconic sights without a long trek, but do prepare for the altitude and physical effort. If you’re seeking a meaningful, scenic, and authentic highland experience, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of the stunning Peruvian landscape.
You can check availability for your dates here: