What to Bring

For the five days of Salkantay treks, you need personal trekking gear and a sleeping bag. If you do not have a sleeping bag is possible to rent one from us also if you like trekking poles, you can rent them from us. The rest needed for this trek we provide.

Here is a general packing list for the Salkantay trek that you can use as a reference:

Clothing:

• Hiking boots or shoes
• Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Long pants (hiking pants or leggings)
• T-shirts or breathable shirts
• Fleece jacket or sweater
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Warm hat and gloves
• Swimwear (for hot springs or swimming)
• Sandals / Flip flops
• A towel

Gear:

• Backpack (20-30L)
• Sleeping bag (rated to 0-5 degrees Celsius/32-41 degrees Fahrenheit). If you do not have one, you can rent one from the company
• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
• Trekking poles (optional but recommended), if you do not have one pair you can rent from the company
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat or cap
• Water bottle or hydration system (at least 1.5 liters capacity)
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
• Personal medication (if necessary)

Optional:

• Camera or phone for taking pictures
• Portable charger or power bank
• Book or Kindle for reading during downtime
• Snacks (such as energy bars, trail mix, or dried fruit)
• Cash in soles (for buying souvenirs or optional activities)
• Also, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes, so it’s recommended to dress in layers and bring both warm and waterproof clothing or rain ponchos.

DOCUMENTS YOU MUST CARRY DURING THE TREK

• Original Passport
• Original student card if you have applied for a student discount.

NOTE: Salkantay Treks Peru provides a duffle bag in which you can pack up to 7 kilograms of your personal belongings, which will be carried by horses during the trek. During the trek, you will carry a small backpack with the necessary items for the day hike. The rest of your belongings can be packed in the duffle bag, which will be accessible at each campsite.

Travel Guide

Humantay Lake is a beautiful natural attraction located in the Peruvian Andes, near Cusco. Many visitors to the area choose to take a tour to Humantay Lake to experience its stunning natural beauty and to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

The tour usually starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and a two-hour drive to the town of Mollepata, where you will have breakfast. After breakfast, you will continue on to the trailhead to begin the trek. The first part of the hike is a relatively easy one-hour hike to Soraypampa, where you will stop for lunch and rest.

After lunch, the trek continues with a more challenging 1.5-hour uphill hike to Humantay Lake. The lake sits at an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) and is surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains. Once you reach the lake, you will have time to explore the area and take photographs before beginning the 45-minute walk back to Soraypampa.

The tour is all-inclusive, meaning that transportation, meals, and a guide are all provided. It is recommended that visitors wear warm clothing and comfortable hiking shoes as the weather can be chilly and the terrain can be uneven. The tour typically takes around 3.5 hours and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Andes while in Cusco.

Best Recommendations about Humantay Lake

If you are planning a visit to Humantay Lake, here are some recommendations to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude: The lake is located at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level. It’s important to give yourself time to adjust to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Spend a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude locations before heading to Humantay Lake.
2. Dress appropriately: The weather at the lake can be cold and unpredictable, even during the summer months. It’s important to bring warm clothing, including a jacket, hat, and gloves. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for the hike.
3. Bring enough water and snacks: The hike to the lake can be challenging and you’ll need to stay hydrated and energized. Bring enough water and snacks to keep you going throughout the hike.
4. Take it slow: The hike to Humantay Lake is steep and can be strenuous, especially if you are not used to the altitude. Take your time and go at your own pace. Rest when you need to and enjoy the scenery along the way.
5. Respect the environment: Humantay Lake is a sacred place for the local people. It’s important to respect the environment and avoid littering or damaging the natural surroundings. Follow the rules and regulations of the area and don’t disturb the wildlife or vegetation.
6. Consider hiring a guide: A knowledgeable guide can enhance your experience by providing information about the area and its history. They can also help you navigate the trail and ensure your safety.

By following these recommendations, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Humantay Lake and fully appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder.

Inca Trail Avaialability, (Oficial Inca Trail Permits 2024)