Humantay Lagoon + Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night

No. This version of the Salkantay Trek focuses on Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass before returning to Cusco. If you want to complete the route to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to choose one of the 4 or 5-day Salkantay Trek itineraries.

The main difference is the route. This 2-day trek visits Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass, includes one night in the Sky Domes at Soraypampa and then returns to Cusco. The 4 and 5-day routes continue along the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu and cover a much greater distance. The 2-day option is designed for travelers who want to experience some of the highlights of the Salkantay Trek but don’t have enough time to complete the full route to Machu Picchu.

The 2-day Salkantay Trek is moderately to highly challenging. Although you’ll cover fewer miles than on the 4 or 5-day routes, you’ll be hiking through mountainous terrain and reaching an altitude of approximately 4,600 meters (15,092 ft) at Salkantay Pass. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are recommended.

Previous trekking experience is not required, but you should be in good physical condition and comfortable walking for several hours. The route is not technically difficult, but the elevation gain, mountain terrain and high altitude make it physically demanding. A guide accompanies the group throughout the trek.

We recommend bringing a small backpack, hiking boots with good grip, thermal and quick-drying clothing, a waterproof layer, hat, gloves, sunglasses and sun protection. You should also carry water, some cash and your passport or ID. During the rainy season, waterproof clothing and protection for your backpack are especially important.

Yes. The route reaches approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) at Humantay Lake and 4,600 meters (15,092 ft) at Salkantay Pass, so altitude sickness symptoms can occur, especially if you are not properly acclimatized. We recommend spending some time adjusting to the altitude before the trek, staying hydrated and hiking at a comfortable pace.

Yes. The tour includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner and 2 snacks, as well as tea and water during the trek. You won’t need to bring your main meals, although you can carry additional snacks if you wish.

You’ll spend the night in the Sky Domes at Soraypampa. The domes have prepared beds with bedding, a private bathroom, a hot shower and a terrace, so you don’t need to bring a sleeping bag. Keep in mind that the hot water system uses solar energy and can be affected by weather conditions.

The highest point of the route is Salkantay Pass at approximately 4,600 meters (15,092 ft) above sea level. On the first day, you’ll also visit Humantay Lake at around 4,200 meters (13,780 ft). The high altitude is one of the main factors that makes this trek challenging.

You can add trekking poles as an extra during the booking process. You don’t need to rent or bring a sleeping bag for this trek because the Sky Domes have prepared beds and all the necessary bedding.

Weather conditions around Salkantay can change quickly due to the high altitude. You may experience cold temperatures, wind, strong sun and rain during the trek, so we recommend dressing in layers and carrying a waterproof outer layer, warm clothing and sun protection. During the rainy season, you should also protect your backpack and the equipment inside it from the rain.

On the first day, you’ll hike for approximately 6 hours while completing the route to Humantay Lake and Soraypampa. The second day includes around 5 hours of hiking to Salkantay Pass before returning to camp and starting the journey back to Cusco. Hiking times are approximate and can vary depending on the group’s pace.

Yes, we recommend carrying a small amount of cash. Internet access and card payments are not always available along the route, so cash can be useful for small expenses or services that are not included in the tour.

Yes. The 2-day Salkantay Trek includes a bilingual Spanish and English-speaking guide who accompanies the group throughout the route.