Experience the highlights of Salkantay in just two days with this premium Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days. Follow a quieter trail on the southern side of Salkantay, visit remote glacier-fed lakes like Qoyllur Lagoon and Salkantay Lake, cross wide-open mountain landscapes, and spend one unforgettable night at our exclusive Salka Glamp Campsite below Salkantay Mountain.
This hike is ideal if you want real Andean trekking, high mountain views, fresh meals prepared by our trekking chef, comfortable glamping experience, and a calmer visit to Humantay Lake later in the day. Our local Peruvian team takes care of every detail, so you can enjoy the trail, the silence, and the wild beauty of the Andes.
Tour Type Group Tour
Duration 2 Days / 1 Night
Average Group Size Up to 16
Hiking Distance 22 km / 13.7 mi
Activities Hiking & Adventure
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation CampingSalkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days - Overview
This Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days is made for travelers who want a short, scenic, and premium high-altitude adventure in Cusco. Instead of following the usual crowded route, this itinerary takes you along a quieter side of the Salkantay range, with open trails, glacier views, remote lagoons, and wide Andean landscapes.
On the first day, you’ll hike toward the southern side of Salkantay, visit the beautiful Qoyllur Lagoon, continue toward Salkantay Lake, and enjoy one of the most peaceful mountain settings in the region. You’ll spend the night at our exclusive Salka Glamp Campsite in Salkantaypampa, one of the closest and most special campsite locations below Salkantay Mountain.
Salka Glamp is away from the typical crowds and offers a true adventure glamping experience. Guests enjoy clear night skies, views of Salkantay Mountain, comfortable glamping-style tents, warm blankets, fresh meals prepared by our trekking chef, and a calm basecamp atmosphere surrounded by nature.
On the second day, you’ll hike to Humantay Lake, reaching the lake later in the day when it is usually quieter. This gives you more time to enjoy the turquoise water, the glacier views, and the peaceful feeling of the Andes before returning to Cusco.
This tour does not include Machu Picchu. If you want to connect this hike with Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, or another trek to Machu Picchu, contact us and we can help you build the best plan.
Tour Highlights
- Short premium Salkantay experience: Enjoy a powerful 2-day hike without committing to a longer trek.
- Quiet alternative route: Follow a less crowded trail on the southern side of Salkantay.
- Qoyllur Lagoon and Salkantay Lake: Visit remote glacier-fed lakes surrounded by snowy peaks.
- Salka Glamp Campsite: Sleep below Salkantay Mountain in a peaceful glamping-style campsite.
- Humantay Lake: Reach one of the most beautiful turquoise lakes in the Andes at a quieter time of day.
- Fresh trail meals: Enjoy meals prepared by our trekking chef with the care of a local mountain team.
Salkantay and Humantay Lake 2 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Qoyllur Lagoon – Salkantay Lake – Salka Glamp Campsite
Start with hotel pickup in Cusco and travel through the scenic Limatambo Valley. Visit Qoyllur Lagoon, hike toward Waywakunka Pass, enjoy the views of Salkantay Lake, and descend to our exclusive Salka Glamp Campsite for a peaceful night below Salkantay Mountain.
Day 2: Salka Glamp – Humantay Lake – Return to Cusco
Wake up surrounded by the Andes, enjoy breakfast at camp, and hike toward Humantay Lake. Arrive when the lake is usually quieter, take time to enjoy the views, then return to Cusco in the afternoon.
Included
- Safety briefing the day before the tour.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- All transportation during the tour.
- Professional tour guide.
- Entry tickets.
- 1 duffle bag up to 5 kg / 11 lb for your personal belongings.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs.
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
- 1-night glamping accommodation at Salka Glamp Campsite.
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.
- Satellite phone, first-aid kit, and oxygen supply.
Not Included
- Meals not indicated.
- Travel insurance.
- Trekking poles. You can rent them from us.
Optional Extensions
This tour does not include Machu Picchu, but it can be combined with other experiences if you want to extend your trip. You can connect it with a Machu Picchu day trip, the Inca Trail, the full Salkantay Trek, or other tours to Machu Picchu. Contact us and we’ll help you choose the best option based on your dates and travel style.
You can also compare more options in our Salkantay Trek tours.
Salkantay and Humantay Lake Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Qoyllur Lagoon – Salkantay Lake – Salka Glamp Campsite
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and begin the drive through the scenic Limatambo Valley. On the way, we’ll stop at a local restaurant for a hot breakfast before continuing toward Qoyllur Lagoon, a bright-blue lake surrounded by snowy peaks and quiet Andean landscapes.
From the lagoon, we begin the hike toward Waywakunka Pass (4,774 m / 15,663 ft), where the high-mountain adventure starts to feel real. The trail moves gently through open terrain, giving you wide views of the Salkantay range and the remote southern side of the mountain.
After about one hour of hiking, we reach Salkantay Lake, also known as Inkachiriasqa, a glacier-fed lagoon with intense turquoise tones at the base of Salkantay Mountain. This is one of the most special views of the tour: raw, peaceful, and far from the usual crowds.
After enjoying the scenery, we begin a two-hour descent to our Salka Glamp Campsite, located near the mountain in Salkantaypampa. Your glamping-style tent will be ready when you arrive, and our trekking chef will prepare fresh meals for the group. In the afternoon, you can rest, enjoy the views, drink tea or coffee, and feel the quiet power of the Andes.
In the evening, enjoy a warm dinner and a peaceful night under a sky full of stars. This is a short trek, but the setting feels deep, wild, and unforgettable.
- Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8 mi
- Duration: ≈ 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,774 m / 15,663 ft
- Meals: Breakfast at a local restaurant, snacks, lunch, tea, and dinner
- Accommodation: Salka Glamp Campsite
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 2: Salka Glamp – Humantay Lake – Return to Cusco
Wake up with the first light over the Salkantay peaks and enjoy a calm breakfast at camp. This quiet morning is one of the best parts of the experience: fresh air, mountain silence, and views that make the early start completely worth it.
After breakfast, we hike down for about one hour to reach Soraypampa (3,600 m / 11,811 ft). From there, the trail climbs steadily for about two hours toward Humantay Lake, a glacier-fed lagoon famous for its bright turquoise and emerald colors.
We usually reach Humantay Lake later in the day, when the area is calmer and many day-trippers have already left. You’ll have time to rest, take photos, enjoy the silence, and feel the beauty of the lake at your own pace.
After the visit, we hike back down along the same trail for about two hours to meet our vehicle. Then we drive to Mollepata for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Cusco in the afternoon, arriving around 4:00 p.m.
- Hiking Distance: ≈ 8 km / 5 mi
- Duration: ≈ 6 hours hiking + 2-hour drive back to Cusco
- Highest Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days Price and Booking
Join one of our premium small-group departures for the Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days, or choose a private tour if you prefer more flexibility and a more exclusive experience.
Group departures are subject to availability, so please contact us to verify confirmed dates before making your travel plans.
Small-Group Tour:
| Traveler Type | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Adults | From US$ 240 |
Private Tour:
| Number of Participants | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 participant | US$ 980 |
| 2 participants | US$ 540 |
| 3 participants | US$ 460 |
| 4 participants | US$ 380 |
| 5 participants | US$ 320 |
| 6 participants | US$ 290 |
| 7 participants | US$ 270 |
| 8 participants | US$ 250 |
| 9+ participants | Contact us for a special group rate |
Booking and Payment
- You can pay using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. If you prefer another payment method, contact us and we can verify alternative options such as MoneyGram or Western Union.
- Once you submit your booking, our team will review the details, confirm availability, and send you the final tour confirmation with all important information.
- Please inform us in advance of any vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary restrictions so our team can prepare properly.
Optional Trip Extensions
This 2-day hike does not include Machu Picchu. However, we can help you connect this experience with the full Salkantay Trek, the Inca Trail, or a Machu Picchu tour by train. For personalized assistance, contact us and we’ll help you design the best option based on your dates, fitness level, and travel style.
Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike - Packing List
This 2-day Salkantay and Humantay Lake hike takes place at high altitude, so it is important to be well prepared without overpacking. You only need the essentials for a short mountain adventure: warm layers, rain protection, sun protection, and a comfortable daypack.
Essentials
Bring a small daypack 25–30 liters to carry the essentials you’ll need on the trail. Weather can change quickly, so keep your rain jacket, warm layer, water, snacks, sunscreen, and personal medication with you during the day.
What to Wear?
Dress in layers. The route moves through cold high-mountain areas, and mornings and evenings can be very cold. During the day, the sun can feel strong at altitude, so you’ll need both warm clothing and sun protection.
What to Put in the Daypack?
Your daypack stays with you during the hike. Pack light, but make sure you have what you need for changing mountain weather.
What to Put in the Duffel Bag?
TreXperience includes 1 duffle bag for your belongings up to 5 kg / 11 lb, and it goes straight to the campsite. We’ll also provide a sleeping bag and mattress; please pack both inside your duffle bag so everything arrives together.
What We Provide
TreXperience provides the basic camping and safety equipment needed for this short high-altitude trek, so you can travel lighter and focus on the experience.
What Can You Rent with TreXperience?
Forgot something? No problem. You can rent the camping or trekking equipment you need from us before departure.
You can also review our complete Salkantay Trek packing list.
Travel Information - Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days
Here you’ll find useful information to help you prepare for this short but high-altitude Salkantay and Humantay Lake hike. Use this section to understand altitude, weather, difficulty, camping, food, and how this tour can connect with longer trips.
Is this tour connected to Machu Picchu?
No. This 2-day hike does not include Machu Picchu, trains, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain. It is focused on Salkantay Mountain, Qoyllur Lagoon, Salkantay Lake, Salka Glamp, and Humantay Lake.
If you want to continue to Machu Picchu after this hike, we can help you connect it with a Machu Picchu day trip, the Inca Trail, the full Salkantay Trek, or another experience. If Machu Picchu is part of your plan, it is important to understand Machu Picchu tickets and circuits before choosing your dates.
Altitude and Acclimatization
This tour reaches high elevations. The highest point is Waywakunka Pass at 4,774 m / 15,663 ft, and Humantay Lake sits at approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. Even though the tour is short, the altitude makes it demanding.
We recommend spending at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco before the hike. Eat light, drink water, avoid heavy alcohol, and walk slowly during your first days. If you want to understand altitude symptoms and prevention before traveling, review this official high-altitude travel advice.
Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Cusco. Its turquoise color, glacier setting, and location near Salkantay Mountain make it one of the strongest highlights of this 2-day hike.
For more preparation tips, read our Humantay Lake guide. For an official reference, you can also review the MINCETUR Humantay Lake resource.
Weather on the Salkantay Route
Weather in the Salkantay area can change quickly. You may experience strong sun, wind, cold air, rain, and very low temperatures at night. The first day is especially exposed because you hike through open high-mountain terrain.
Pack layers: thermal or base layer, fleece, warm jacket, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a rain cover for your backpack. For more detail, read our Salkantay Trek weather guide.
Difficulty Level
This hike is considered moderate to challenging. The distance is shorter than a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu, but the altitude, uphill sections, and remote terrain make it physically demanding.
You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but you should be comfortable walking several hours at high elevation. Trekking poles are recommended, especially for the uphill and downhill sections.
Salka Glamp Campsite
Our Salka Glamp Campsite is located in Salkantaypampa, below Salkantay Mountain. It is a peaceful and isolated location, away from the typical crowds, and one of the closest campsite areas to the mountain.
Guests enjoy glamping-style tents, warm bedding, clear night skies, fresh meals, and a calm basecamp atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is the perfect place to rest after the first high-altitude hiking day.
Food and Water on the Trail
Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Our team prepares fresh food for the group, and we can accommodate dietary restrictions if you tell us in advance.
Bring a reusable water bottle and personal snacks. Even on a short hike, staying hydrated is very important at altitude.
Responsible Travel and Local Team
TreXperience is a 100% Peruvian local tour operator. We believe a premium mountain experience should also be responsible: respecting the route, supporting local communities, and treating guides, chefs, muleteers, porters when needed, and local staff with dignity.
Please stay on marked trails, avoid single-use plastics, carry out your trash, and respect the silence of the mountains. Responsible travel helps protect the Salkantay and Humantay area for local families and future travelers.
Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2 Days FAQs
Does this 2-day tour include Machu Picchu?
No. This tour does not include Machu Picchu, train tickets, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain. It is a short high-altitude hike focused on Salkantay Mountain, Qoyllur Lagoon, Salkantay Lake, Salka Glamp, and Humantay Lake.
If you want to add Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, or another tour to Machu Picchu, contact us and we can help you create the best itinerary based on your travel dates.
How difficult is this hike?
This is a moderately challenging hike because of the altitude and uphill sections. You’ll walk several hours each day, but the pace is steady and your guide will allow time for rest and photos. If you are reasonably fit and acclimatized, you should be able to enjoy the route.
What is the highest altitude on the route?
The highest point is Waywakunka Pass, located at 4,774 m / 15,663 ft. Humantay Lake sits slightly lower at approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. Because of the altitude, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1 to 2 days before the hike.
What is the weather like in Salkantay?
Weather can change quickly in the Salkantay area. Days can be sunny and bright, but mornings, evenings, and nights are cold, especially near the glacier. Rain is possible even in the dry season, so bring layers and rain gear.
Is camping gear included?
Yes. TreXperience provides the main camping equipment, including glamping-style tents, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, dining tent, tables, and chairs. You just need to bring your clothes and personal items.
Can I rent trekking poles?
Yes. Trekking poles are available for rent. They are optional, but we strongly recommend them for the uphill and downhill sections, especially because the route reaches high altitude.
What if I get altitude sickness?
Altitude can affect anyone, even experienced hikers. Our team carries oxygen and a first-aid kit, and the pace is designed to help you move safely. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1 to 2 days before the hike, drinking water, eating light, and telling your guide early if you feel unwell.
Are there toilets or showers at the campsite?
There are clean, basic toilets at Salka Glamp Campsite, but no showers. We provide warm water for washing up in the morning and evening.
Is Humantay Lake less crowded on this tour?
Yes, that is one of the advantages of this itinerary. Instead of visiting Humantay Lake during the busiest morning hours, we usually arrive later in the day, when the lake is quieter and the experience feels more peaceful.
Can I connect this tour with a longer Salkantay Trek?
Yes. If you want a longer experience, you can compare more options in our Salkantay Trek tours. We can help you choose between a short mountain hike, the full Salkantay route, or a tour that continues to Machu Picchu.
What makes TreXperience different?
TreXperience is a 100% Peruvian local tour operator focused on premium small groups, safety, responsible tourism, expert guides, fresh food, and respectful treatment for the local trekking team. We design the experience so you feel supported from pickup to return.