GENERAL INFORMATION
Duration: 2 days/1 night.
Point of departure: Cusco
Point of Return: Cusco
Size of Group: Small group (maximum 10 People).
Travel style: Trekking, it is also archaeological and cultural.
Value of the route: The Salkantay route is considered one of the 25 best hikes in the world.
Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult.
Minimum Height: 2900 m.s.n.m. (Mollepata Village).
Maximum Height: 4630 m.s.n.m. (Salkantay Pass)
Route distance: 23 km.
Departures: Daily departures throughout the year, according to availability
1st Night Accommodation : 01 Night in single or double rooms according to your requirement, in our own and exclusive “Mama Andrea” hostel in Cabanas Andinas, in the Soraypampa area.
Walking to the Humantay Lagoon and Abra Salkantay 2 Day
DETALLES DEL TOUR
Información
INTRODUCTION
This 2-day, 1-night hike covers two of the highest points on the Salkantay circuit: Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass.
Pickup is from your hotel in Cusco (3,350 m.a.s.l.) with departure at 4:00 a.m. The route by transport passes through the town of Mollepata (2,900 m.a.s.l.), where we stop for breakfast, and continues to Challacancha (3,800 m.a.s.l.), the starting point of the hike. From there we walk to Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), where we spend the night at the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge.
On the afternoon of the first day we ascend to Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l. / 13,780 ft), a glacial lake with turquoise waters fed by the meltwater of the Humantay snow-capped peak, part of the Vilcabamba mountain range. The ascent from Soraypampa covers approximately 2.5 km / 1.5 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
On the second day we cover the route to the Salkantay Pass (4,600 m.a.s.l. / 15,092 ft), the highest point of the hike, with direct views of the Salkantay peak (6,271 m.a.s.l. / 20,574 ft), the highest summit of the Vilcabamba mountain range. From the pass we return to the base camp and then travel back to Cusco by transport.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1 day before the hike to acclimatize at 3,400 m.a.s.l. before beginning the ascent.
- Review your personal items in advance to make sure you have everything needed for the hike.
- The day before the hike, visit our office in the historic center of Cusco at 7:00 p.m. for the pre-trek briefing with your guide, where you will receive full information about the route, equipment, and trail conditions.
- If you need to leave luggage during the excursion, free storage is available at our office.
- If you have any questions or would like more information about this Tour, do not hesitate to contact us: Cell phone: +51 984525006 / WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or write to: info@incredibleperutours.com
HIGHLIGHTS
- A 2-day route combining Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass in a single circuit.
- Hike through high-altitude landscapes with views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and rock formations characteristic of the area.
- Suitable for couples, groups of friends, families, and nature travelers.
- Travel with the guidance of a bilingual local guide with expertise on this route.
- Pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Cusco.
- Free luggage storage at our office during the hike.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO CITY – MOLLEPATA VILLAGE – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAGOON
At 5:00 a.m. we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. The journey by tourist transport to the town of Mollepata (2,900 m.a.s.l.) takes approximately 2 hours. In Mollepata we stop for breakfast.
We continue by transport to Challacancha (3,600 m.a.s.l.), arriving at approximately 9:00 a.m. From here we begin the hike toward Soraypampa. The first 25 minutes are uphill to the ancient water channel, which supplies water to the local communities. From this point the trail levels out and offers direct views of the Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped peaks.
The morning hike takes approximately 3 hours to reach Soraypampa (3,900 m.a.s.l.), where we stop for lunch and where the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge is located.
In the afternoon we begin the ascent of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to Humantay Lake (4,200 m.a.s.l. / 13,780 ft), a glacial lake with turquoise waters fed by the meltwater of the Humantay snow-capped peak. After the visit we descend back to the lodge. Dinner is included. If weather conditions allow, the lodge offers views of the night sky with minimal light pollution.
Technical details:
- Hiking time: approximately 5 hours.
- Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles.
- Weather: cool with wind.
- Elevations: Cusco 3,350 m.a.s.l. / Mollepata 2,900 m.a.s.l. / Challacancha 3,600 m.a.s.l. / Soraypampa 3,900 m.a.s.l. / Humantay Lake 4,200 m.a.s.l.
- Accommodation: Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge, cabin in Soraypampa.
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY PASS – SORAYPAMPA
Our cook wakes us up at 6:00 a.m. with coca tea. After breakfast we begin the hike to the highest point of the route, 7 km away, with an estimated ascent time of approximately 4 hours.
We depart from Soraypampa on a gradual uphill for 1 hour and 30 minutes through the valley to Salkantaypampa (4,200 m.a.s.l. / 13,780 ft), where we make a brief stop. We continue through a rocky valley and follow the steep ascent trail known as the “7 Serpientes” for 2 hours and 30 minutes to the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m.a.s.l. / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the route.
From the pass there are direct views of the Salkantay peak (6,271 m.a.s.l. / 20,574 ft), the highest summit of the Vilcabamba mountain range, and the Humantay peak (5,400 m.a.s.l. / 17,716 ft). There is sufficient time to rest and explore the surroundings before beginning the descent.
The descent takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes back to Soraypampa, passing through a section of rock formations characteristic of the area. Upon arriving at the Eco Lodge lunch will be ready. After lunch we board the transport back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at 6:00 p.m.
Technical details:
- Hiking time: approximately 7 hours.
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles.
- Weather: cool with wind.
- Elevations: Soraypampa 3,900 m.a.s.l. / Salkantaypampa 4,200 m.a.s.l. / Salkantay Pass 4,630 m.a.s.l.
Servicios incluídos
THIS TOUR INCLUDES
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before the hike at our office in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and tourist transport to Challacancha (starting point of the hike).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
- Cook for the preparation of all meals.
- All meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.
- 1 afternoon tea service with hot drinks (tea, coffee, coca tea, hot chocolate) and snacks.
- Vegetarian and special diets available at no additional cost.
- Boiled water to refill bottles during the hike.
- Transport of up to 7 kg / 15 lbs of personal luggage.
- Canvas bags provided at the briefing to organize your items.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide.
- Tourist transport back to Cusco.
- 1 night accommodation at the Mamá Andrea Eco Lodge in Soraypampa, in a single or double cabin according to your preference.
- Cabins include beds, pillows, and down blankets, hot water showers, and solar panels for charging electronic devices.
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal articles.
- Entrance ticket to Humantay Lagoon.
NOTE: You do not need to bring a sleeping bag.
Qué debe llevar
LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS TO BRING
Weather at high altitude can change throughout the day, with low temperatures especially at night. Below you will find the list of recommended items for this 2-day hike. If you do not have any of them, you can purchase or rent what you need in Cusco before departure, as the city has a good selection of stores specializing in trekking gear.
Documents
- Original passport
- Student ID, if you are a student
- Travel insurance (some copies)
Essentials
- Day pack.
- Sleeping bag.
- Water bottle.
- Purification or filter tablets
- Some snacks like cookies, candies, chocolates, energy bars.
- Money belt and some cash if you want to buy some souvenirs.
Clothes and shoes
- Shoes and sandals.
- Warm clothing: especially at night such as a thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, wool socks, wool hat for cold nights.
- Waterproof clothing (jacket and poncho)
- Synthetic or cotton clothing (pants, socks, trousers, shorts, 4 hiking shirts)
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat
Pharmaceutical products
- Personal first aid kit with bandages and anti-inflammatory tablets
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen
- Lipstick
Personal hygiene items
- Small towel.
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Body Wash Soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush
- Body spray deodorant
- Toilet paper
Other articles
- Flashlight (headlamp recommended)
- Sunglasses
- Camera with memory cards and additional batteries.
- Rubber tipped hiking pole (optional).
- Pocket knife
- Some plastic bags.
- Prior acclimatization in Cusco City is recommended, for at least 2 days and good general health.
* If you have any Questions or Queries about the Items you should bring to the tour, please contact us at WhatsApp: +51 984 525 006 / +51 984 683 047 or write to: info@incredibleperutours.com
Preguntas Frecuentes
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here you will find the most frequently asked questions from our Clients. Before asking anything, we invite you to carefully read these questions and answers, as well as all our links about this Tour. This will help you obtain information in a simple, fast and practical way.
1. WHAT IS THE MAIN ATTRACTION OF THIS TOUR?
The main attraction of this tour is visiting the impressive Humantay Lake and enjoying the landscapes of the Salkantay snow-capped mountain. During the hike, you will be able to appreciate mountains, Andean valleys, turquoise-colored lakes, and beautiful natural views, ideal for adventure and photography lovers.
2. WHAT IS THE ALTITUDE OF HUMANTAY LAKE AND THE SALKANTAY PASS?
Humantay Lake is located at approximately 4,200 meters above sea level, while the Salkantay Pass reaches around 4,630 meters above sea level. For this reason, it is recommended to acclimate in Cusco before taking the tour.
3. IS TREKKING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED?
Advanced trekking experience is not required, but it is important to have a moderate level of physical fitness. The hike takes place in high-altitude areas, and some sections can be demanding, so we recommend walking at a steady pace, staying well hydrated, and following the guide’s instructions.
4. WHERE DO WE SPEND THE NIGHT DURING THE TOUR?
During the tour, you will spend 1 night in our comfortable Andean cabins, located at our own exclusive lodge, “Mama Andrea,” in the Soraypampa area. Accommodation may be in single or double cabins, depending on your request and availability. This lodging will allow you to rest comfortably in a natural setting surrounded by beautiful Andean landscapes before continuing the hike to the Salkantay Pass.
5. HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP THE GUIDE, COOK AND PORTERS?
Tips are not mandatory, there is no exact amount. Only if you wish, at the end of the tour you can give tips for the tour guides, cooks and porters. As you can see, this is something additional and totally voluntary, really what you consider will be greatly appreciated by our Staff.
6. DO I NEED TO BRING ADDITIONAL MONEY TO MY TOUR?
Yes, only if you want to buy a snack such as cookies, dried fruit, chocolates, etc. or an additional drink such as soda, beer or an energy drink, since it is possible to purchase these products in small commercial stores in the area the first 2 days.
Also, if you want to buy some souvenirs or souvenirs from your trip, you can buy them at the Handicraftl stalls in Soraypampa village. For all this, we recommend that you bring between 150 and 300 Peruvian soles. You may not need to spend any of this money, but in the event of an Emergency, you should make sure you have enough cash.
7. HOW DO I BOOK THIS TOUR?
Booking this Tour with Us will really be very safe, easy and practical, you will also enjoy Payment Facilities such as Paying for the Excursion up to 1 day before the Tour and in 2 Parts:
- You can pay the First Part online from the comfort of your house, by making a Prepayment with any Credit or Debit Card from any Bank, using our safe and reliable money transfer system. Prepayment will be made through a deposit of USD 200 per person. (Click on the Reserve link)
- The Second Part or balance will be paid upon arrival in Cusco City, in person at our Main Office located in the Historic Downtown, up to 1 day before your Tour.
⇒ To Book this TOUR, just follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Fill out the Reservation Form: It is in the Reserve link.
2. Pay the First Installment (Prepayment): We accept all cards. You can use a Credit or Debit Card from any Bank and of any denomination: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, ETC.
3. Print your Travel Coupon (Voucher): We will send it to you immediately after you have made the Prepayment.
⇒ OTHER PAYMENT METHODS: If you want to make the Prepayment by other means such as: PayPal, Western Union, Bank Deposit, Bank Transfer or some other form, please let us know to send you all the necessary information to do so.
8. IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, CAN I CONTACT INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?
f you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
You can do it whenever you want, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will be very happy to assist you, call us at Cell: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or send us an email to: info@incredibleperutours.com. Also check the Contact Us link on this website .
9. WHY SHOULD I BOOK MY TOUR WITH INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?
There are many great reasons to book your excursion with us. Here are some of them:
- Excellent location of our office: We are located in the Historic Center of Cusco, which allows us to provide better coordination and assistance at any time.
- Authorized Peruvian agency: We are a 100% local and authorized Peruvian tourism agency. We have more than 15 years of experience organizing tours to the most incredible destinations in our region.
- Direct operator with no intermediaries: We offer you the best price for your trip, with no hidden fees. As direct operators, we manage costs locally and work with local staff.
- Travel with local experts: We have professional tour guides, cooks, and porters trained to assist families, couples, groups of friends, and travelers who love nature.
- High-quality equipment: We use comfortable and safe equipment for your trip, such as tents, sleeping bags, trekking poles, pillows, and other gear that is constantly renewed.
- Excellent meals included: All meals during the hike are included and prepared with fresh ingredients. We can also accommodate vegetarian options or special diets according to your needs.
- Safe and guaranteed departures: We operate 100% of our treks. Even if there is only one traveler for a scheduled date, the tour will operate with no additional surcharges.
- Good treatment of our staff: We value and care for our team by providing transportation, meals, uniforms, health insurance, and fair wages.
- Social commitment: We support social projects in local communities, especially health and education programs for children.
- Sustainable and responsible tourism: We promote eco-friendly practices, reduce environmental impact, and participate in clean-up campaigns on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Personalized service: We provide direct assistance and personalized support before, during, and after your trip. You can contact us at any time by phone, WhatsApp, or email.
Disponiblidad y precios
IMPORTANT:
- Each confirmed booking by any licensed operator on this route reduces availability immediately, so spots can fill up at any point during the day.
- We suggest securing your place as early as possible.
- If you are interested in doing this route and want to reserve permits, or would like more information, please contact us: Cell phone: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or write to us at: info@incredibleperutours.com
PRICES
| Category | Price | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | USD 150 | Per person |
| Infant | Free | Ages 0 to 3, traveling with parents |
IMPORTANT:
Please note that this is a group tour.
IF you want a PRIVATE TOUR, request a quote via email: info@incredibleperutours.com or WhatsApp: +51 984 525 006
TO CONSIDER:
- Our passion is family travel, so if you are coming with children, contact us to offer our promotions.
- Our company also has promotions and discounts for student groups and groups of friends. Contact us to receive our offers.
- Incredible Peru Tours – IPT for your peace of mind does not have any hidden charges or expenses.
