A compact, high-altitude trek from Cusco to the green-blue bowl of Humantay Lake and up to the Salkantay Pass. Expect steep climbs, raw Andean geology and cold nights at nearly 4,500 m.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A dawn pickup in Cusco, a slow patchwork of village lights and mountain silhouettes, and the road unspooling toward Mollepata set the mood for this short but high-stakes Andes trek. By late morning you pass scrubby puna, then a steep walk climbs to Soraypampa where the trail tightens and the snow-capped bulk of Nevado Salkantay appears—an uncompromising presence. A final heave brings you to Humantay’s green-blue bowl, a startling contrast against granite and glacial moraine.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Regular cardio fitness recommended and prior experience hiking at altitude is helpful; be able to walk 4–6 hours with elevation gain.
Wildlife
History
Salkantay was venerated as an apu (sacred mountain) by pre-Columbian communities; paths in the area link to Inca-era routes toward the Urubamba valley.
Conservation
Stay on marked trails, pack out all waste and use provided portable toilets; fragile puna vegetation recovers slowly from trampling.
Reserve your spot on the Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass 2 days 1 night today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco doing light activity to reduce altitude sickness risk before the trek.
Hydrate continuously
Carry and sip at least 3 liters daily; guides provide water and snacks but start well hydrated.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on the steep descent from Humantay and help with balance on rocky sections.
Pack sun and cold protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a warm hat—temperatures swing between hot sun and freezing nights.
Insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Cold nights at 4,400–4,600 m make a warm midlayer essential.
Waterproof shell jacket
Sudden showers and wind on the pass make a lightweight waterproof shell useful.
Sturdy trekking boots
Support and grip on rocky trails and scree are critical for comfort and safety.
Trekking poles
Poles improve stability on steep ascents and descents and reduce knee impact.