The Best Night in the Andes, Under the Stars
If you’re visiting Cusco and like the idea of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a couple of days and venturing to some of the most incredible scenery in the mountains, look no further than our 2-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass hike.
Visit two of the most imposing sites in the Cusco region of Peru, Humantay Lake and Salkantay Mountain. You’ll also get to spend the night in our exclusive Sky Camp under the Andean starry sky and learn all about the constellations that were very significant in the Inca period. Join like-minded travelers on this epic 2-day trip.
Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass Trek 2 Days Map
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Before You Go
- Packing List
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a larger group, you can join us any day of the week on this incredible 2-day tour in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. You can escape the busy city and connect with Mother Nature in the most picturesque setting imaginable.
You’ll get to visit two of Peru's most impressive sights. On day 1, you’ll hike up to Humantay Lake, which looks like a glistening gem against the white mountainous backdrop. On the second day, you’ll trek up the Trail of the 7 Snakes to reach the Salkantay Pass, where you’ll get some truly astounding views of the snowy Andean mountain peaks.
If that’s not enough, you can enjoy the unique experience of sleeping in our Sky Camp. There, you’ll spend the night under the Andean starry sky and look through the glass roof of your igloo.
So, what are you waiting for? Join us on this amazing trip that’ll give you an experience you’ll never forget.
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day 01
Cusco | Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp
We’ll pick you up in Cusco and head to Challacancha to start the trek. With our guide, hike to Soraypampa, visit Humantay Lake in the afternoon and spend the night at our Sky Camp under the stars.
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Day 02
Sky Camp |Salkantaypampa - Salkantay Pass - Soyrococha - Soraypampa - Cusco
Hike up to Salkantay Pass via the Trail of the Seven Snakes this morning and enjoy breathtaking views before lunch. Enjoy the ride as you return to Cusco on our company vehicle.
What's it like
Highlights
- Escape the city for two unforgettable days, immersed in the serene beauty of Mother Nature.
- Trek through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes, surrounded by some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
- Ascend to the dazzling Humantay Lake and marvel at its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Unwind at our exclusive Sky Camp, where you’ll spend a magical night under a canopy of stars, learning about constellations and their Andean significance.
- Conquer the challenging Salkantay Pass and take in the awe-inspiring views of Salkantay Mountain. Along the way, reconnect with yourself and feel a profound connection with the breathtaking surroundings.
- Explore the rich diversity of Andean flora and fauna, guided by the expertise of your knowledgeable guide.
Why Travel with us
Cusco | Challacancha - Soraypampa - Humantay Lake - Sky Camp
Highlight of the day: Looking out over the gem, Humantay Lake and enjoying the drastic change of color against the white backdrop.
Hike to the Turquoise Jewel in the Andean Mountains
We’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco and travel to Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast. From there, we’ll continue to Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the starting point of our trek. The morning will be spent hiking to our Sky Camp in Soraypampa (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and have time to settle in before our next adventure.
In the afternoon, we’ll hike to the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a breathtaking turquoise gem framed by a snowy, white backdrop. At the top, you’ll have time to soak in the views and capture unforgettable photos before returning to Soraypampa. The day will conclude with a delightful dinner, stargazing, and a much-deserved rest.
Your exciting 2-day adventure begins bright and early with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco by your tour guide and driver. Our first stop will be in Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a nourishing breakfast to kickstart your journey. From there, we’ll continue to Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the official starting point of our trek.
From Challacancha, we’ll set off on a scenic walk toward our camp in Soraypampa. This initial section is not too strenuous, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude gradually. Along the way, you’ll follow a charming Inca canal, surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes that set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Our destination is the incredible Sky Camp (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), located beneath the towering, snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our reception team and treated to an exquisite lunch. Afterward, you can unwind in your cozy igloo or explore the site before we gear up for an afternoon hike.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a gradual ascent to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). The hike will be paced to accommodate the altitude, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise lake, cradled by the snow-dusted Andes—a true natural wonder.
As night falls, we’ll return to Sky Camp for a delightful dinner under a canopy of stars. Your guide will share captivating stories about Inca astronomy, adding a touch of mysticism to the evening. When it’s time to rest, you’ll drift off while gazing at the constellations through the transparent roof of your igloo—a perfect end to an extraordinary day.
Sky Camp |Salkantaypampa - Salkantay Pass - Soyrococha - Soraypampa - Cusco
Highlight of the day: Reaching the Salkantay Pass and taking in the amazing mountain scenery.
Defeat the Trail of the Seven Snakes
Wake up bright and early for a nourishing breakfast before we set out on our hike up the Trail of the 7 Snakes to the Salkantay Pass. Once you reach the peak, you’ll have lots of time to rest and soak up the astounding views of Salkantay Mountain and the snow-capped peaks. Then, we’ll descend to our lunch spot in Soraypampa, our Sky Camp.
After lunch, we’ll rest a little before walking another 30 minutes to board our transport. Enjoy the last scenic views out of the window as we take you back to your accommodation in Cusco.
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.
At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
What Is Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Day 1: Entry Ticket to Humantay Lake & the Salkantay Trek
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing - The day before the trip, at 5:00 pm you will meet your trekking guide.
You'll meet with your guide for an orientation the evening before the trek. The meeting will take place at 5:00 p.m. at our main office in Cusco.
Experienced Tour Guide
Our official tour guides speak English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified in safety and quality service. Chosen for their experience, responsibility, and passion for exploration, they take pride in sharing our culture and history. With their guidance, you’ll stay informed, safe, and comfortable, ensuring a worry-free adventure and an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
One Duffle Bag
For the trek, you’ll receive a duffel bag to pack your personal belongings, with a maximum weight limit of 5 kg (11 lb), which will be carried by our staff.
Sleeping Bag
Our sleeping bags are durable and designed to keep you warm in temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They feature a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner for added warmth. Each bag is thoroughly cleaned and carefully maintained after every use.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles enhance stability on hard terrain while minimizing impact on joints.
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
All Salkantay Trekking guides have specialized first aid training and attend mandatory training sessions every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit and oxygen to handle basic emergencies (altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.). If needed, we will evacuate you from the trail as quickly as possible and ensure you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Backpack Cover & Rain Poncho
Our attention to detail sets us apart. You'll receive a cover to protect your backpack and a poncho for extra comfort and protection along the way.
Professional long-range walkie-talkies
Walkie-talkies optimize communication, ensuring quick response and coordination in key situations and locations.
Accommodation
Accommodation in our Exclusive Sky Camp
Nestled between the majestic Humantay and Salkantay peaks, our exclusive SKY CAMP offers a unique connection to the mountains. It's not about traditional luxury, but about experiencing nature in a truly special way. Spend the night surrounded by breathtaking views and fall asleep under a sky full of stars—an unforgettable moment of peace and wonder.
Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 1 Dinner
We cover all diets and restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost).
Water on the trail - You will need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle for us to give you boiled, filtered and refrigerated water.
We’ll provide boiled, warm water after each meal. Be sure to bring an empty water bottle or camel bag, which you can refill during meals (we recommend a 2-liter capacity).
Wake up tea - Every morning at campig we will provide you with hot coca tea.
On the second day, you'll wake up to a hot cup of coca tea, delivered straight to your igloo—perfect for warming up before you start the day.
Tea Time or Happy Hour - Every evening, before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, tea, hot water, etc.
Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, 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 to eat!
Daily snacks on the trail
Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.
One cloth snack bag per person
We’ll provide you with a cloth bag for your snacks—perfect for storing wrappers and keeping the environment clean. Feel free to use it throughout your trek!
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.
What Is Not Included?
Dinner in Cusco (Day 2)
Optional Horseback Ride from Soraypampa to Humantay Lake (Day 1)
Optional Horseback Ride from Soraypampa to Salkantay Pass (Day 2)
Personal Hiking Clothes and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
While our team receives fair salaries, any additional gesture is always appreciated.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.
You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.
Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:
Briefing or Informative Meeting
All briefing meetings are held at 6:00 p.m. in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) the day before the tour. The meeting lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you'll need to arrange a different time by email, phone, or by visiting the Salkantay Trekking office.
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Pick up of guests
Please note:
- All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
- Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
- Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.
Group Tours
Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Lost objects
Please pay attention to where you leave your belongings and remember to take everything once you leave a place or a transport. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
ESSENTIAL
CLOTHING
EQUIPMENT
RECOMMENDED
"Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass Trek" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.
2025 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 280.00 per person
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Notice that PayPal charges a fee of 5%, which we ask the client to cover since it's due to the use of its service. This tax is just for online deposits so that you will pay the remaining in cash (the briefing day in Cusco) without charges.
Extensions & Deals
There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure. The promotional prices only apply to confirmed departures, otherwise the normal price will be applied. You can enhance your Peru Adventure with a variety of optional extensions. Please note that promotional prices are valid only for confirmed departures. For any other dates or changes, the regular price will apply.
- Cusco City Tour: US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00
- Sacred Valley: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Moray & Maras Salt Mines: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Pallay Punchu Rainbow Mountain: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Waqrapukara Tour: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
- Ausangate Seven Lakes: US$ 100.00 US$ 80.00
- Queswachaka Inca Bridge: US$ 120.00 US$ 100.00
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
Note | Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!
Feel free to reach us via email at info@salkantaytrekking.com or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179
Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Triunfo Street 392, Office 212 (2nd Floor), Cusco, Peru
