Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Laguna Humantay and Salkantay Pass – 2 Days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO - MOLLEPATA - CHALLACANCHA - SORAYPAMPA - HUMANTAY LAKE
Off to the turquoise lake at the foot of Humantay mountain.
We leave Cusco before dawn, hike from Challacancha to Soraypampa and, in the afternoon, climb to Humantay Lake, then spend the night in an Andean cabin surrounded by mountains.
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Pick-up in Cusco and breakfast in Mollepata
By tourist transport, pick-up at 4:00 a.m. · Cusco → Mollepata
The tour begins with a 4:00 a.m. pick-up from your hotel in Cusco to travel to the town of Mollepata, where we will have breakfast.
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Challacancha, start of the hike
By tourist transport · Mollepata → Challacancha
From Mollepata we continue to Challacancha, the starting point of the Humantay Lake hike and the Salkantay Trek.
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Hike to Soraypampa and lunch
On foot, approx. 3 hours · Challacancha → Soraypampa
The first part of the route takes us to Soraypampa (3,900 m a.s.l.), where we will have lunch surrounded by mountain scenery.
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Humantay Lake Highlight
Uphill hike, approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes · Soraypampa → Humantay Lake
In the afternoon we climb to the beautiful Humantay Lake, at 4,200 m a.s.l. From the top you will enjoy one of the most impressive views of the trip: the turquoise lake at the foot of the snow-capped Humantay mountain, perfect for taking photos.
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Back to Soraypampa, dinner and rest
On foot · Humantay Lake → Soraypampa
After the visit we return to Soraypampa, where we will have dinner and spend the night in an Andean cabin at the “Mama Andrea” Eco-Lodge.
Day details
- Hiking time: Approx. 5 hours
- Distance: 11 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Weather: Cool and windy
- Altitude: minimum 2,900 m (Mollepata) · maximum 4,200 m (Humantay Lake)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Andean cabin at the “Mama Andrea” Eco-Lodge, Soraypampa area
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA - SALKANTAYPAMPA - SALKANTAY PASS - CUSCO
The big challenge: the Salkantay Pass!
We climb the famous “7 serpents” to the highest point of the hike, with views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains, and return to Cusco in the afternoon.
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Hike to Salkantaypampa
On foot, approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes · Soraypampa → Salkantaypampa
After breakfast, we start hiking to Salkantaypampa on a gradual uphill route.
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Climbing the “7 serpents”
On foot, approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes · Salkantaypampa → Salkantay Pass
From here we begin the climb known as the “7 serpents”, a trail that zigzags up to the majestic Salkantay Pass.
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Salkantay Pass, the highest point
Rest and photos · Salkantay Pass (4,630 m a.s.l.)
At the Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the hike, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains and walk one of the most famous sections of the Salkantay Trek.
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Descent and lunch in Soraypampa
On foot, approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes · Salkantay Pass → Soraypampa
After a well-deserved rest and some unforgettable photos, we descend to Soraypampa, where we will have lunch.
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Return to Cusco
By tourist transport, arrival approx. 6:00 p.m. · Soraypampa → Cusco
After lunch we board our transport back to Cusco, arriving around 6:00 p.m.
Day details
- Hiking time: Approx. 7 hours
- Distance: 12 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Weather: Cool and windy
- Altitude: minimum 3,900 m (Soraypampa) · maximum 4,630 m (Salkantay Pass)
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Return to Cusco: Approx. 6:00 p.m.
Two wonders of the Andes in 2 days: Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass, in groups of up to 8 people. Want to keep hiking all the way to Machu Picchu? Discover the Salkantay Trek 4 Days.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
Guide, assistance and safety
- Briefing one day before the tour.
- Professional bilingual guide: Spanish or English.
- Cook.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen tank.
Transportation
- Outbound: From your hotel in Cusco to Challacancha.
- Return: From Soraypampa to Cusco.
Accommodation and meals
- 1 night in a cabin: “Mama Andrea” Eco-Lodge, in the Soraypampa area.
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner: With vegetarian options or for special diets.
- 1 tea time: Hot drinks (tea, coffee, coca tea, hot chocolate with milk), cookies, snacks and popcorn.
- Boiled water: To refill your bottles.
Equipment
- Duffel bag: For your personal items; we give it to you one day before the trip.
Not include
Tickets
- Humantay Lake entrance fee.
Optional
- Personal items.
- Trekking pole rental: See the rate in Additional services (Prices tab).
- Travel insurance (recommended): Not mandatory, but it gives you peace of mind in case of lost luggage, cancellations, strikes, natural disasters or other unforeseen events.
Note: You do not need to bring a sleeping bag.
Prices Laguna Humantay and Salkantay Pass – 2 Days
Rates per person
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Message us and we will check whether you can join a group already confirmed for your date.
Payment
When booking
Deposit of US$ 200 per person
We request it once we receive the booking forms, to confirm your spot.
Balance
In cash, in Cusco
In US dollars or soles, one or two days before the tour, according to the conditions given by your sales executive.
Additional services
- Trekking pole rental – US$ 15: Request them when you book. Highly recommended for better stability and less effort during the hike.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Be ready for the cold: In the high Andes temperatures can get very cold, especially at night. If you are missing anything on this list, there are many camping stores in Cusco where you can buy or rent it.
- Clothing and footwear: Hiking boots or your most comfortable shoes, comfortable warm clothing and a rain poncho.
- Protection: Sunscreen, insect repellent and UV-protection sunglasses.
- Health: Personal medication.
- Personal hygiene: Towel, toothpaste, soap and deodorant.
- Money: Cash in soles.
- Optional: Camera with charger and power bank.
Recomendations
- Book in advance: Book your excursion as early as possible, as spots sell out quickly.
- Acclimatization in Cusco: Arrive at least 2 days before the hike to adjust to the altitude; Cusco sits at 3,400 m a.s.l. If you are coming from another high-altitude area of Peru, 1 full day in Cusco will be enough.
- Check your luggage: Review the personal items you will bring on the trip.
- Pre-trip briefing: One day before departure you will receive detailed information from your guide, in a group or privately at your hotel, so you travel informed, safe and ready for your tour.
- Luggage storage: Luggage you will not take on the excursion can stay free of charge at our office or at your hotel.
- Any questions?: If you would like more information about this tour, feel free to message us.
- Why you will love it: You will hike among Andean valleys and snow-capped peaks with an expert, friendly local guide. Ideal for couples, groups of friends and nature lovers: a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
F.A.Qs
How many travelers are needed for a guaranteed departure?
Departures are guaranteed from 2 travelers and groups have a maximum of 8 participants, for a more comfortable and personalized experience. If you are traveling solo, ask us whether you can join a group already confirmed for your preferred date.
How do I know if this trip is right for me?
It is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy mountains, nature and hiking through spectacular scenery. It requires moderate to good fitness, as it includes climbs at high altitude and several hours of hiking. For this reason we do not recommend it for children under 10 or adults over 70, unless they have previous mountain hiking experience and good physical condition.
If you prefer a slower pace, we recommend the private service: you will hike at your own pace, with more breaks and more time to enjoy each view.
Can I do this hike without previous trekking experience?
Yes. You do not need to be an experienced hiker, but you should have moderate fitness and be used to walking for several hours. The guide will keep a suitable pace for the group.
How difficult is the hike to the Salkantay Pass?
Its difficulty is moderate. The most demanding parts are the altitude, the long climbs and the several hours on the trail, so good fitness will help you enjoy it fully.
What is the maximum altitude of the route?
The highest point is the Salkantay Pass, at 4,630 m a.s.l. (15,190 ft). That is why we recommend staying in Cusco at least 2 days before the hike to better adjust to the altitude.
How many days before should I arrive in Cusco to acclimatize?
We recommend arriving at least 2 days in advance. During that time we can help you organize acclimatization activities, such as a half-day City Tour or a full-day trip to the Sacred Valley, combining rest and exploration at your own pace.
If you are arriving from another high-altitude area of Peru, 1 full day in Cusco will be enough to rest and recover from the journey.
What happens if the altitude affects me during the hike?
Our guides are trained to handle any altitude-related situation, and we carry an oxygen tank and a first aid kit throughout the route.
What is the accommodation like? Do I need a sleeping bag?
You spend the night in an Andean cabin at the “Mama Andrea” Eco-Lodge in Soraypampa, with basic restrooms. There are no showers, but we provide hot water in the morning and evening for washing up. You do not need to bring a sleeping bag; if you would like one, you can rent it from us.
Can I rent trekking poles?
Yes, when you book, for US$ 15. They are highly recommended for better stability and less effort during the hike.
What is the weather like in Salkantay?
It is variable and can change quickly during the day. Mornings are often sunny with clear skies, while afternoons and nights are cold. It can rain at any time of year, so bring warm clothing and a rain poncho.
Is there cell phone signal during the hike?
Signal is limited along most of the route. In some areas near Soraypampa there may be partial coverage, depending on the carrier, so we recommend letting your family or friends know before you start the hike.
Will I receive information before the trip?
Yes. One day before departure you will receive detailed information from your guide, in a group or privately at your hotel.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
It is not mandatory, but we recommend it for your peace of mind, as it can assist you in case of lost luggage, cancellations, strikes, natural disasters or other unforeseen events.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Yes. During the trip, your main luggage can stay free of charge at our office or at your hotel.
How does the booking process work?
1. Availability check: Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com or on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 to check dates. We will send you a booking form that each participant must complete.
2. Traveler details: To arrange the entrance tickets we need, exactly as shown on the passport, the full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
3. Deposit and confirmation: Once we have the completed forms, we request a deposit of US$ 200 per person. Book in advance, as spots sell out quickly.
4. Final confirmation: Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive the official invoice and your spot will be 100% guaranteed.
How do I pay the balance?
You can pay it in cash, in US dollars or soles, in Cusco, one or two days before the tour, according to the conditions given by your sales executive.
Are tips expected?
Tips are entirely voluntary. Our whole team is paid fairly, so any gratuity is up to you.
Do you have more questions?
Contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
