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Humantay Lake Tour 2 days and Salkantay Pass

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$ 120
Physical level

Moderate

Trip style

Hike, Culture, Adventure

Max altitude

4600 meters

Group size

16ppl Max

Embark on a stunning two-day hike Humantay lake tour to experience the beauty of both Humantay and Salkantay Lakes. This trek also includes visits to the remote native villages of Iscuchaca and Limatambo. Located at the base of the majestic Salkantay Mountain Range, Humantay Lake offers breathtaking views. Camp amidst the splendid Andes mountains and hike to the trek’s highest point to take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the snow-capped Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay mountains. Before returning to Cusco, you’ll make a detour to the panoramic and exquisite turquoise Salkantay Lake.

Trip details

2 Days Humantay lake tour trip deatils

Activities: High-Altitude Trekking, Natural Exploration, Mountain Scenery

  • Difficulty Level: 4/5 (Challenging)
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,630 meters above sea level (15,190 feet)
  • Minimum Altitude: 3,800 meters above sea level (12,467 feet)
  • Departure Days: Daily departures

Sites to Visit:

  • Soraypampa: Starting point of the trek at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), located beneath the snowcapped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay. This scenic base camp offers dramatic views of the surrounding Andes.
  • Humantay Lake: A stunning turquoise glacial lake at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), reached via a moderate uphill hike. A sacred site to the Incas, it offers awe-inspiring views and a perfect photo opportunity.
  • Salkantay Pass: The trek’s highest and most iconic point at 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). This high-altitude mountain pass offers panoramic views of the sacred Salkantay peak and surrounding glacial landscapes.
  • Total Hiking Distance: Approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles)
  • Tour Type: Shortened High-Andes Trek, ideal for those seeking a quick yet immersive mountain experience

Important Information:

This 2-day version of the Salkantay Trek is designed for experienced hikers or active travelers short on time but eager to witness Peru’s majestic mountain landscapes. It does not require special permits, allowing for flexible last-minute departures.

The trek includes significant altitude gain and descent in a short time frame—acclimatization is strongly recommended before starting. Horses are available to assist with gear or for those who may need support at higher elevations.

While this version does not include a visit to Machu Picchu, it can be combined with a separate train trip to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu for a more complete experience. Let us know if you’d like to extend your journey!

Please be aware that this trek involves high physical demand. Our guides are well-trained in altitude management and safety, and they’ll ensure you’re supported throughout. Private service is available upon request for a more personalized pace and experience.

Highlights

2 Days Humantay lake tour highlights

Day 1: Cusco to Lake Humantay
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Cusco to Mollepata. Afterward, enjoy a hike to Soraypampa, where you’ll witness the breathtaking Humantay Lake with its turquoise waters, surrounded by majestic mountains. Return to Soraypampa for the night, immersed in the beauty of the Andes.

Day 2: Salkantay Pass & Return to Cusco
Begin your day with a challenging hike to the stunning Salkantay Pass, one of the highest points of the trek at 4,600 meters. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain. After the hike, descend back to Mollepata and return to Cusco, completing your unforgettable 2-day trek through the heart of the Andes.

Itinerary
DAY 1

Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soyroccocha

Our Andean adventure starts early at 5 a.m. with a pickup from your hotel. We’ll drive for 3.5 hours in a private van to Soraypampa, passing through the scenic indigenous villages of Iscuchaca and Limatambo. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the renowned snow-covered Salkantay Mountain and beautiful valleys

At Soraypampa, enjoy some snacks and take in the impressive views of the glaciers at Humantay (5,900m/19,356ft) and Salkantay (6,217m/20,396ft). After donning our hiking boots, we’ll embark on a 1-hour hike to Humantay Lake, soaking in the surrounding beauty. Once at the lake, take time to explore and appreciate its splendor. Afterward, we’ll return to Soraypampa and continue with a 2-hour hike to our campsite at Soyroccocha, where tents will be set up for you. Enjoy hot drinks and appetizers before dinner, and rest early in preparation for the next day’s adventure.

Meals Included: Lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10kms/6 miles
Time: Approximately 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 2

Soyroccocha – Salkantay Pass – Glacial Lake – Cusco

After a hearty gourmet breakfast, prepare for a moderate climb on the second day of the trek. In about an hour, you’ll reach the highest point of the trek at 4,650m/15,367ft. Here, take in the stunning views of the imposing Salkantay (6,217m/20,717ft), Humantay, and Huayanay snow-capped mountains. Admire the glacial rivers and small scenic lakes.

We’ll then take a half-hour side trail to view the panoramic and truly magnificent turquoise Salkantay Lake. Retrace your steps to the trailhead, where we’ll have lunch. Capture a few more photos of the majestic mountains before heading back to Cusco in our van, arriving at your hotel around 6 p.m.

Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch
Distance: 12kms/9 miles
Time: Approximately 7 hours
Difficulty: Challenging

Inclusions

2 Days Humantay lake tour includes

  • Hotel pickup on the morning of the trek
  • Private transport from Cusco to Soraypampa trailhead and back
  • English-speaking, experienced guide
  • Tents: Two person CAMPING TENTS (3-people capacity tent used as doubles – Kayla Doite) 4 season tent Aluminium poles Tents
  • Foam mattresses and pillows
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (vegetarian options available upon request)
  • Camping equipment including dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen, and toilet tent
  • Separate tent for staff
  • First Aid kit, including emergency oxygen
  • Boiled water for drinking and washing
  • Plastic poncho and daypack rain cover

The 2 day Humantay Lake tour does not include

  • Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures of -5°C ($20)
  • Air mattress ($20)
  • Trekking poles ($15)
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook, and porters of INCAS EXPEDITIONS
Pricing

2 Day Humantay Lake tour prices

2-Day Humantay Trek Availability:
Available on any date that suits you.

Group Price:
$120 USD per person

Private Price: Upon Request

$290 USD per person

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag – $15 USD per person per trek (clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress – $10 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles – $10 USD per pair per trek (Professional, extendable poles)
What to bring

What to bring in the 2 Day Humantay Lake tour

  • Original passport (must match the one used for booking)
  • Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (preferably small)
  • Water storage: 2-3L (reusable bottles, not disposable)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (available for rent from INCAS EXPEDITIONS)
  • Headlamp (essential)
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG
At your briefing, you will receive a duffel bag and an additional pack horse to carry up to 7 kg or 14 lbs, including your 2.5 kg sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing.

  • 1 t-shirt
  • At least 1 pair of hiking pants
  • 2 sets of undergarments
  • 2 pairs of hiking socks
  • 2 fleece/thermals (depending on the season)
  • Warm clothing, down jacket (depending on the season)
  • Warm gloves
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quick-dry towel (we provide small towels; you may prefer a larger one)
  • Small bottle of soap (warm water provided daily)
  • Battery charger (no electricity along the trek)
  • Large plastic bags (provided at the office to line your duffel)
  • Sleeping bag (at least -15ºC, available for rent)

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit (band-aids, moleskin, etc.)

WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR BACKPACK
A small backpack (30 to 40L) is recommended for daily hikes. The rest of your belongings will be in your duffel bag carried by the horses.

  • Water (bring your own until the first lunch spot; cold boiled water will be provided at meals)
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp (essential)
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks (chocolate bars, cereal bars, dry fruits)
  • Rain poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Travel guide
Aditional information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Arrival in Cusco
You will be greeted at Cusco airport and transported to your hotel. Please provide your full flight details at least 14 days before the trek. Look for our representative holding an orange INCAS EXPEDITIONS board at the airport exit.

The Briefing
A briefing will occur the night before the trek at 6 p.m. at our office

Luggage Storage
You can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel during the Humantay Lake 2-day Trek.

Booking the Humantay Lake 2-Day Trek
To book, complete our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or use the link provided.

Please have the following information ready for each participant:

  • Full name (as per passport)
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
  • Nationality

A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required. You can make this payment via VISA or PAYPAL on our homepage or booking page.

Balance Payment
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay the balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office. ATMs are available in the historical center. Alternatively, you can pay by VISA or PAYPAL online, with a 5.5% service fee. For PAYPAL payments, use our email address: incasexpeditions@gmail.com.

Changing Departure Dates
If you need to alter your trek date, notify us as soon as possible. Fees may apply based on how close the change is to the departure date.

Passport Requirements
You must bring your original passport, which must match the number provided during booking. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport information. We can update the permit for a fee of $25 USD per person, requiring copies of both your old and new passports. Without both passports, you will need to show both to enter Machu Picchu or board the train.

Weather
Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so dress in layers to adjust to rapidly changing conditions.

Altitude Sickness
Regular exercise and a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley typically help with acclimatization. Remedies for altitude sickness include water, coca tea, and oxygen if needed. Our guides are trained to manage altitude sickness. For more information, visit our link on Altitude Sickness.

Group Size
We limit group sizes to a maximum of 8 people, with typical groups ranging from 2 to 6 participants. INCAS EXPEDITIONS specializes in small, private groups for a personalized experience.

HIKING TO HUMANTAY LAKE
The night before your trek begins, you will receive a small duffel bag for packing your clothing for the next four days. The maximum weight allowance for this bag is 7kg/14lbs. Your duffel will be carried by our team of pack horses, along with the food and camping equipment.

Please note that you won’t have access to your duffel bag until the end of each day, as porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you should have a day backpack capable of holding essentials like a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A 30 to 50L backpack is recommended.

IS THE HUMANTAY LAKE 2-DAY TREK CHALLENGING? DO I NEED TO BE FIT?
The trail poses a challenge, but you don’t need to be an athlete to complete it. Fitness will enhance your enjoyment and ability to appreciate the scenery and Inca ruins. If you don’t engage in regular exercise, it’s advisable to do additional walking, hiking, or aerobic activities leading up to your trek. The difficulty level of this trek ranges from moderate to difficult.

WHAT ABOUT TOILETS ON THE TREK?
Our clients have highly valued the privacy and cleanliness of our toilet facilities. INCAS EXPEDITIONS provides a dedicated tent with a camping toilet and seat. You can view a picture of our setup by following this link: picture of toilet tent. Our toilets are located a comfortable distance from the campsite and are accessible and clean, unlike the government-provided facilities.

WHAT IF I CAN’T COMPLETE THE TREK?
In the unlikely event that you cannot finish the trek due to a health issue, INCAS EXPEDITIONS will assist with transportation to the nearest town for help. We carry oxygen for respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your own expense (travel insurance required). Please note, no refunds will be issued if you are unable to complete the trek.

WILL WE BE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL?
Yes, we will drop you at your hotel on the final day of the trek. If your hotel is located in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will also provide transportation there.

TIPPING
While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated if you are satisfied with the services provided. Although tipping may not be customary in your home country, it is significant for our staff, motivating them to offer excellent service. You are free to tip according to your perception of the quality of service and the length of your trip. Tips should be given for outstanding service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?
Yes, as a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator, we adhere to universal tourism principles: protecting the environment and benefiting local communities while respecting their culture and traditions. Our local staff is trained to understand and respect the places and people we visit.

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