A brisk, two-day private trek from Cusco to the turquoise Humantay Lake and the 4,630 m Salkantay Pass. Expect Sky Dome camping, a local cook, and challenging high‑altitude hiking with sweeping Andean views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the minivan and the air changes—thinner, cooler, a wind that seems to push you uphill before your boots even find the tread. The road from Cusco drops you into Mollepata for breakfast, then climbs to Challacancha where the trailhead unspools toward Soraypampa. By late afternoon the Sky Dome campsite sits on a high meadow; above it, the hulking peak of Salkantay keeps watch while a short, steep path pulls you to Humantay Lake’s turquoise bowl.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days (7–9 hours hiking total)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and prior high‑altitude exposure recommended; able to hike 6–8 hours with elevation gain.
Wildlife
History
Salkantay and surrounding peaks were sacred to the Inca as powerful apus; the route follows ancient Andean trails and sections of original Inca canal paths.
Conservation
High‑altitude wetlands and glacial lakes are fragile—stick to established trails, take out all waste, and respect local grazing areas to limit erosion and contamination.
Reserve your spot on the 2-Days Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass Private Trek from Cusco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before the trek
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco at low activity levels to reduce altitude sickness risk—drink water and avoid heavy exertion on arrival.
Layer for rapid temperature swings
Mornings can be freezing at Soraypampa and warm while hiking; pack a warm insulating layer plus a windproof shell.
Start early for the pass
The Salkantay pass route is longest and steepest—an early start helps avoid afternoon weather and gives more daylight for photos and breaks.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on steep descents from the pass and improve balance on rocky sections.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and grip on rocky, sometimes muddy high‑altitude trails.
Insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Keeps you warm during cold mornings at camp and above treeline.
Sun protection (hat, SPF lip balm, sunglasses)
High UV at altitude makes strong sun protection essential.
Trekking poles
Help on steep ascents/descents and reduce joint strain over long sections.