Salkantay and Humantay Lake: A Majestic Andean Journey
The Salkantay and Humantay Lake are among the most breathtaking destinations in the Peruvian Andes, celebrated for their dramatic landscapes, pristine natural beauty, and the sense of isolation that enchants trekkers and adventure seekers alike.
Salkantay Mountain
Salkantay is one of the highest and most iconic peaks in the Andes, rising to an impressive 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). Part of the Vilcabamba mountain range, this majestic mountain holds deep spiritual significance for the local Indigenous communities. With its rugged, snow-covered slopes and commanding presence, Salkantay offers an awe-inspiring panorama from every viewpoint, making it a highlight of any high-altitude trek.
Humantay Lake
Cradled at the foot of the striking Humantay Mountain (5,473 meters or 17,956 feet), Humantay Lake is a glacial lagoon renowned for its vivid turquoise waters. Surrounded by towering peaks and nestled within a serene alpine valley, the lake offers a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a true gem for hikers seeking a blend of natural wonder and spiritual connection amid the Andean wilderness.
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Itinerario
DAY 1: CUSCO – CHALLACANCHA – SORAYPAMPA – HUMANTAY LAKE – SALKANTAY PAMPA
Your Andean mountain adventure begins at 5:00 a.m., when we pick you up from your hotel and drive for approximately 3 hours in our private van to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek. Along the way, we’ll pass through the charming Andean villages of Iscuchaca and Limatambo, while enjoying sweeping views of deep valleys and the imposing snow-capped Salkantay Mountain.
Upon arrival at Challacancha, the starting poing we will going up for 30 minutes to the inca canal, We will begin our journey along a scenic and mostly flat trail, hiking for about 2 hours until we arrive at Soraypampa, where a warm, freshly prepared lunch will be waiting for us. After enjoying our meal amidst the beautiful Andean surroundings, we’ll continue our adventure with a 1.5-hour ascent to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4200 m / 13.779 ft). There, we’ll have ample time to relax, take photos, and admire the lake’s striking turquoise waters, framed by the impressive Humantay Glacier (5,900 m / 19,356 ft) and surrounding peaks.
After this unforgettable visit, we’ll resume our trek with a 2.5-hour hike to our campsite at Salkantaypampa (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), located at the base of the mighty Salkantay Mountain (6,217 m / 20,396 ft). Upon arrival, we’ll be welcomed with hot drinks, followed by a hearty dinner to close out the day and prepare for the next leg of our journey.
Included meals: Lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodation: Comfortable campsite
Trekking distance: 9 km / 5,59 miles
Duration: 6 – 7 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
DAY 2: SALKANTAYPAMPA – SOYROCOCHA – SALKANTAY PASS – SORAYPAMPA – CUSCO
After a hearty breakfast, get ready for a moderate ascent as you begin the second day of your trek. In about 2 hours, we will reach the highest point of the trek. Standing at 4,630 meters (15,367 feet). From this breathtaking vantage point, take time to rest and fully appreciate the raw beauty of the Andes—the towering snow-capped peaks of Salkantay (6,217 m / 20,717 ft), Humantay, and Huayanay rise majestically around you.
As you continue, you’ll pass mineral-rich glacial rivers and charming alpine lakes, each adding to the magical landscape. Leaving the main trail for a short detour, we hike 30 minutes to the spectacular Salkantay Lake, a hidden turquoise gem nestled in the mountains. After enjoying this peaceful and awe-inspiring spot, we return along the same path to Soraypampa, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.
Take your final photos of the dramatic Andean scenery before we board our private van back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 p.m..
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Distance: 12kms/9 miles
Time: 6 – 7 hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenge
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- .Permits and entrace tickets.Pick-up at your hotel the morning of your trek.Private transport from Cusco to Challacancha trailhead and back to Cusco..English speaking, experienced professional guide
.Comfortable tents with two people in a four-person tent
.Foam mattresses and pillows
.Meals as indicated in the itinerary
.All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen and toilet tent
.First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
.Pack horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen
.7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes
.Boiled water for drinking and washing purposes
Not Included
- .Last dinner.Sleeping bag adequate for temperature of -5°C $20 ( you can rented from us).Air Mattresses $20.Trekking Poles $15
.Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal 7kg allowance
Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters
How to reserve the tour?
The Humantay Trek 2 days is available on any date that it’s best for you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers!
GROUP PRICE
.Group Price: US$ 295.00 per person
.Required Pre-payment: US$ 295.00 per person
.Balance (Cusco): US$ 0.00 (Commonly paid in cusco after the briefing)
IMPORTANT INFO
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Humantay Lake and Salkantay 2 day Trek.
ARRIVAL IN CUSCO
You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and we drive you to your hotel, please send us the information about flight details at least 15 days prior to your trek or tour. Look out for our representative holding an NOMAD IN PERU logo at the arrival terminal. It can be done on any date that is best suited to you!
THE BRIEFING
We use to visit at your hotel 6 pm or if you prefer during the day, please you could send us an email with details to get your briefing time Will be ready any time for our clients.
HOW TO BOOK THE HUMANTAY LAKE 2 Day TREK
STEP 1: Complete our booking form by clicking the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or by using the following link: [BOOK NOW].
Please note: A copy of each participant’s passport is required at the time of booking.
STEP 2: A deposit is required to confirm your reservation. This initial payment corresponds to the percentage indicated of the total tour cost, per person.
You can securely make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PayPal icons on our booking page.
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
The customer agrees to make an initial payment equivalent to the indicated percentage of the total agreed amount, to ensure the date of the service. And the remaining payment will be paid immediately before one or two days of the start of the service in cusco. And ( if you want to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru you can pay in cash in US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in cusco there are many ATMs, or you can do it by this same means.
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
If you need to change the date of your trek, please notify us as soon as possible. Fees may apply depending on how close it is to the departure date.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number you sent to us to book your trek, other entrances and reservations. In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us your old passport information to secure your permit, and we can change it when you get your new passport number.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
The weather along the Salkantay Trek can vary significantly depending on the season and altitude. Currently, it is the rainy season (October to March), characterized by warmer daytime temperatures (around 19°C/66°F) and colder nights (as low as 4°C/39°F) at higher altitudes like the Salkantay Pass.
IS THE HUMANTAY LAKE 2 DAYS DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?
The Humantay Lake 2-day trek is moderately challenging and requires a decent level of physical fitness due to the altitude and steep ascents.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH?
In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, Nomad In Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems in extreme cases. There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
TIPPING
Tipping after a trek, such as the Humantay Lake or Salkantay Trek, etc is not mandatory but is a common and appreciated gesture to show gratitude for the efforts of the guide, porters, chefs, and other staff.
Lista de embalaje
- WHAT YOU SHOULD TAKE WITH YOU.Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek).Good daypack (the smaller, the better).Water storage: 2-3L (reusable, not disposable bottles)
.Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
.Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
.Headlamp: essential
.Toilet paper
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG
.As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing.
.1 t-shirts
.1 hiking pants at least
.2 sets of undergarments
.2 sets of hiking socks
.2 fleece/ thermals, depending on the season
.Warm clothes, down jacket — depending on the season
.Warm gloves
.Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger.
.Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
.Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us.
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK
.We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day.
.Sun hat
.Sunscreen
.Headlamp
.Wool hat
.Rain gear
.Fleece
.Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or dry fruits
.Gloves
.Camera
.Hand sanitizer
.Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
