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This two-day excursion to Humantay Lagoon and the Salkantay Pass is one of the best places to visit in Cusco. Its emerald-green lake and the imposing glacier that crowns it create a scene so perfect it seems unreal.
Humantay Lagoon lies between Humantay Mountain (5,473 m / 17,956 ft) and Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft). This lake remains hidden until you are practically on its shore.
I spent two full days surrounded by pristine Andean beauty. You will hike near Salkantay Mountain, the second-highest snow-capped peak in Cusco. The hike to Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,779 ft) is not just a stroll, but a wake-up call to respect nature, as the view from there is unparalleled. You will understand why it is important to protect these mountains, and the second day, although challenging, will be worth reaching 4630 meters above sea level.
Your tour begins with a 4:45 a.m. pickup from your Cusco hotel. Yes, it’s early, but coffee and spectacular views await! Our private transport takes you on an approximately two-hour drive through the Andes, offering views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m) and the Limatambo Valley.
Tip: Stay awake because the sunrise over the peaks is incredible! (The best views).
Around 6:30 a.m., we arrive in Mollepata (2,900 m), a welcoming village where you can fuel up with a hearty breakfast. Imagine scrambled eggs, freshly baked bread, local cheese, and sweet Peruvian coffee. Don’t miss the coca tea; it will help with the altitude later!
Then, we drive 45 minutes uphill to Soraypampa (3,900 m). Here, you’ll encounter the true essence of the Andes: rugged peaks, icy glaciers, and pure mountain air.
Your guide will perform a brief Andean ceremony (with coca leaves or flowers) to honor the mountains; it’s a local tradition, so feel free to join in!
We begin the 1.5- to 2-hour hike to Humantay Lake (4200 m / 13779 ft). You’ll ascend in a zigzag pattern along winding trails, passing grazing alpacas and, with luck, spotting condors. The thin air makes the hike challenging; take breaks, drink water, and eat coca sweets.
Arrival at Humantay Lake: BREATHTAKING! That turquoise water reflecting the glacier? Pure magic. You’ll have time to explore. Take photos, sit in silence (the silence here is breathtaking), or throw a small stone into the lake as a local blessing. But don’t swim—it’s freezing! Then the one-hour descent to the Soraypampa campsite begins. Tonight you’ll sleep in domes, and this evening you’ll have tea and dinner, followed by rest for the day.
Total distance: 15 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (approx)
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (approx.)
Today we’ll wake up with coca tea, then get ready for breakfast. Afterward, we’ll begin a 3-hour hike to the highest point of the Salkantay Trail. Once there, you’ll have time to take photos, and then the guide will explain the area. Afterward, we’ll begin a two-hour descent along the same path we ascended to the Soraypampa campsite.
There, lunch will be prepared by the cook. Afterward, you’ll walk another 30 minutes to the bus station for the return trip to Cusco. We’ll drop you off at your hotel, and that concludes the tour.
Total distance: 11 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)
The Sakantay Trek 5-Day Tour is available all year round. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2025 through January 2026. All prices quoted are $USD.
Here is your packing list, and go over what is helpful, and what is a waste of money and backpack space. Now we show you the packaging list you need for the Salkantay and Humantay lake 2-day tour
Key Trip Notes:
Why This Hike Sticks With You:
Final Tip: If your knees hate descents, rent trekking poles ($5-10). Your joints will thank you later. Now go crush that hike—Humantay’s waiting!
Included
Not Included:
Optional:
Important:
Group tours: 10-15 people per guide. Private tours? Message us—we’ll assign a dedicated guide and van.
Daily departures: Even holidays! Book 2 days ahead for last-minute spots.
What to Bring:
Fleece jacket: Wind cuts through thin fabrics—go thick!
Pro Tips:
Heads Up:
This trek’s no joke, but Humantay’s turquoise waters? Pure Andean magic. Pack right, and you’ll nail it
100% Locally Owned by a Tour Guide
Go Treks Peru was founded by Elisban Condori, a local tour guide with years of experience leading treks to Machu Picchu. His goal is simple: to offer top-quality, authentic experiences led by passionate professionals who truly know the Andes.
Fair Work Conditions
We believe in ethical tourism. That means no exploitative working hours and fair pay for all our staff. We work with trained, freelance professionals who have the flexibility and respect they deserve.
Personalized Service
At Go Treks Peru, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We tailor each tour to your preferences, always focusing on small groups to ensure a flexible, high-quality experience. For us, personal means unforgettable.
Sustainable Travel
All of our treks are 100% eco-friendly. We follow a strict “leave no trace” policy and encourage our travelers to protect nature and respect local communities at every step of the journey.
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We’re proud to have consistent 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor and other platforms. Our travelers love the personal attention, seamless logistics, and genuine local connections we provide.
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From USD:
per person
From USD:
per person
Starting From:
US$200
