This short 2-day hike to Salkantay and Humantay Lake takes you to two of the most scenic spots in the Andes. Instead of following the usual route, you’ll take a quieter trail along the southern side of Salkantay, passing through the peaceful Qoyllur lagoon, remote glacier-fed lakes, and wide-open mountain landscapes. You’ll spend one night near the base of Salkantay and hike to Humantay Lake the next afternoon, when it’s usually less crowded.

It’s a tough but manageable adventure, and with meals, camping gear, and transfers all taken care of, it’s a great way to enjoy the Andes without committing to a longer trek.

Salkantay and Humantay 2 Day Hike - Overview

This new alternative Salkantay hike follows a quieter side of the Andes, with open trails and breathtaking views. We take a different path along the southern side of the mountain range. Starting from Cusco, you'll spend the first day hiking toward the impressive Salkantay glacier, stopping at the beautiful Qoyllur Lagoon before joining the classic Salkantay Trek.

Once on the main trail, the scenery opens up—glaciers, wide valleys, and a turquoise lagoon at the base of the mountain, considered sacred in Andean culture. We’ll take time to enjoy the views before heading to our exclusive Salka Glamp campsite (named after the peak), set up right near the mountain, featuring yurt-style tents, warm blankets, and a hot meal to end the day.

On day two, we hike to Humantay Lake on a three-hour climb, and we reach the lake in the late afternoon—quiet, still, and surrounded by glaciers. After the hike, there’s time to relax and eat lunch before heading back to Cusco.

The hike is a bit demanding, but completely worth it. Meals, entrance tickets, and camping are all included, so you can focus on the experience.

You can add Machu Picchu to this trip—ask us for details.

Included

Safety briefing the day before the tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off
All transportation during the tour
Professional Tour Guide
Entry tickets
1-night glamping accommodation
Dining tent with tables and chairs
Sleeping bag, sleeping pad
Meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner)
Satellite phones, first-aid kit, oxygen supply

Not Included

Meals not indicated
Travel insurance
Trekking poles (you can rent them from us)

Optional Extras

You can add Machu Picchu to this trip—Contact us for details.

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 to enjoy a hot breakfast before continuing our journey toward Qoyllur Lagoon. This stunning bright-blue lake, surrounded by snowy peaks, is the perfect place to take your first photos. It takes about an hour to get there.

From the lagoon, we set off toward Waywakunka Pass (4,774 m / 15,663 ft), where our Salkantay hike officially begins. The trail winds gently up and down for about one hour until we reach Salkantay Lake—also known as Inkachiriasqa—a glacial lagoon with intense turquoise tones, nestled at the base of Salkantay Mountain, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region at 6,271 meters.

After soaking in the incredible view, we begin a two-hour descent to reach our Salka Glamp campsite, located near the mountain. Upon arrival, your safari-style tent will be ready and waiting. Meals—picnic lunch, dinner, and breakfast—will be freshly prepared by our chef. After lunch, feel free to rest or explore the area at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner before falling asleep under a sky full of stars.

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 (local restaurant), snacks, lunch, tea, dinner
Accommodation: Salka Glamp Campsite
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 2 – Beat the crowds to Humantay Lake - Return to Cusco

You’ll wake up with the first light hitting the Salkantay peaks—it’s a quiet and beautiful start to the day. After breakfast at camp, you’ll hike down for about an hour to reach Soraypampa (3,600 m). From there, the trail heads uphill. It’s a steady two-hour climb to Humantay Lake, a glacier-fed lagoon with bright emerald water. Once you arrive, you’ll have time to rest, take in the colors, and enjoy the silence.

After the break, you’ll make your way back down the same path—around two hours—to where the vehicle will be waiting. Then it’s a drive to Mollepata for lunch at a local restaurant, and by late afternoon, you’ll be back in Cusco, arriving around 4 p.m.

Hiking Distance: ≈ 8 km / 5 mi
Duration: ≈ 6 hours hiking + 2-hour drive back to Cusco
Highest Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Price - Salkantay and Humantay Lake Tour

Price per person:

Desde US$ 280 - Adults

To book the Salkantay and Humantay Lake Tour, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.

Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike - Packing List

This 2-day hike takes place at high altitude, so it’s important to be well prepared, but also to pack light. You’ll only need the essentials for a short mountain adventure.

TreXperience includes: 1 Duffle Bag for your belongings (up to 5 kg), which goes straight to the campsite. You won’t carry it during the hike, so bring a small backpack for what you’ll need on the trail, accessible at the campsite.

Essentials for the trail:

Backpack (25-30 liters). Light and comfortable.
Passport (required for checkpoints)
Hiking boots (already broken in)
Warm, windproof jacket. Soft-shell or insulated jackets help you stay warm at high altitude.
Trekking poles (optional)
Extra cash for tips and small purchases

What to carry in your daypack

Passport
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
Rain poncho
Snacks
Extra cash for souvenirs
At least 2 liters of water in a reusable bottle

What to pack in the Duffle Bag

Sandals or comfy shoes for the campsite
Your main hiking shoes (if not wearing them). Hiking boots are not strictly necessary, but preferred.
Warm clothing for early mornings and nights. It’s really cold in Cusco and the mountains, especially at the campsite.
Light hiking clothing: Including hiking pants and, if possible, long-sleeved shirts.
Underwear and personal items.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is this hike?

This is a moderately challenging hike due to the altitude and the uphill sections, especially the climb to Humantay Lake. You’ll walk several hours each day, but the pace is steady and there are plenty of breaks. If you're reasonably fit and acclimatized, you'll be just fine.

What is the highest altitude on the route?

The highest point of the trek is Wayra Punku Pass (also known as Waywakunka), which sits at 4,774 m / 15,663 ft above sea level. Humantay Lake sits slightly lower, at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.

What’s the weather like in Salkantay?

The weather can be unpredictable. Days are usually clear and sunny, but mornings and evenings get cold, especially near the glacier. Rain is always a possibility, even in the dry season, so bring layers and rain gear just in case.

Is camping gear included?

Yes! TreXperience provides everything you need: safari-style tents, sleeping pads, warm blankets, and even a duffle bag for your belongings. You just need to bring your clothes and personal items.

Can I rent trekking poles?

Yes, trekking poles are available for rent. While they’re optional, they’re highly recommended—especially for the uphill and downhill sections.

What if I get altitude sickness?

Altitude can affect anyone, even if you’re fit. The team carries oxygen and a first-aid kit at all times, and the pace is designed to help with acclimatization. We also recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the hike to adjust.

Are there toilets or showers at the campsite?

There are clean, basic toilets at the Salka Glamp campsite, but no showers. We do provide warm water for washing up in the morning and evening.