Skip to content

Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night

Humantay lake and Salkantay Trek by Glamping Sky Lodge Dome

2 Days from $ USD 340.00

Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night

Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night

Humantay lake and Salkantay Trek by Glamping Sky Lodge Dome

c

2 Days from $ USD 340.00

Price
$ USD 340.00
Duration
2 Days
Physical Level
Moderate
Altitude
3300 mnsn
Accomodation
Glamping Standard Dome
Departures
Daiy Departures
Cusco

Overview

Salkantay Trek 2 Days

The Salkantay Trek 2 Days is internationally recognized as one of the top 25 treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Magazine. The trek offers a breathtaking view of the iconic Mount Salkantay, which is the highest mountain in the Vilcabamba Mountain range of the Cusco region.

The Salkantay Pass, standing tall at 4,600m, provides hikers with spectacular views of the valley below. This 2-day, 1-night trek takes hikers through Andean and lush green mountains, cloud forests, streams, rivers, and hot springs, providing a physically challenging yet rewarding experience.

Along the way, hikers will also witness a change in temperature and even encounter snow at one of the highest points of the trail, at 4,630m/15,228ft above sea level. On the fifth and final day, hikers will enjoy a grand tour of Machu Picchu City. (https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/)

To make the trek more comfortable, it is recommended to carry a duffel bag or backpack, as well as a good-sized daypack.

Trip Details

2-Day Salkantay Trek details

  • TOUR NAME: Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek 2 Days
  • 100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Salkantay & Inca Trail Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
  • GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 08 People Maximum
  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb at 7:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as a large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in Cusco
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 18km
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. Salkantay Trek requires some physical preparation and we also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the Salkantay Trek
  • MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,630 m / 15,228 ft
  • TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Challacancha (for our Passengers and staff) and Bus back from Soraypampa to Cusco
  • ACCOMMODATIONS: 1-night Glamping Sky Lodge Dome at Soraypampa
  • MEALS: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner (Vegetarian, Vegan and Free Gluten with NO extra Charge, Upon Request)
Price From
$ 340.00
Food

2B, 2L, 1D

Travel Asistants

Local Guide
Private Bus

Transport

Bus, Guide

Group Size

Accomodation

Glamping Standard Dome

Physical Level

Moderate

Travel Map

Itinerary at a Glance

  • DAY 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake
  • DAY 2: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Salkantay Lake – Soraypampa – Cusco

Highlights

  • Cusco to Soraypampa: Start your journey from Cusco and drive to Soraypampa, the starting point of your trek. Soraypampa is already at a high altitude, so it’s important to acclimate to the elevation.
  • Humantay Lake: Depending on the specific itinerary, you might hike to Humantay Lake. This stunning glacial lake is known for its turquoise waters and is a relatively short hike from Soraypampa.
  • Salkantay Pass: Begin your day with an early start and a challenging hike up to the Salkantay Pass, which is the highest point of the trek. The views from the pass are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Itinerary

DAY 1

Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake

At 4:30 a.m. m., we will pick you up from your hotel for a 2.5-hour trip to Mollepata. Along the route we will make a stop to enjoy breakfast. From Mollepata, we will continue our journey to Challacancha, where we will begin our exciting walk along the Salkantay route.

When we arrive at Challacancha, our staff will be in charge of preparing everything for the walk. This is the starting point of our exciting journey along the Salkantay road.

The first 25 minutes will be a gentle ascent that will take us to the Water Canal, where we will be rewarded with impressive panoramic views of majestic snow-capped mountains, among which Humantay (4,120 m/13,500 feet) and Salkantay (6,271 m/20,575 feet) stand out.

Our destination for the day is Soraypampa, located at an altitude of 3,800 m/11,750 ft, and is the highest and coldest camping point of the entire trip.

We will be in the vicinity of the second highest peak of Salkantay in the Cusco region.

After the revitalizing lunch, we will explore the beauty of Lake Humantay and its surroundings before returning to our camp in Soraypampa, which is one of the best of the entire journey.

1ST DAY: Total distance: 15 km (approx.)
Estimated hiking time: 7-8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (approx)
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (aprox.)

SALKANTAY HUMANTAY - Salkantay Trek 2 Days
SALKANTAY HUMANTAY – Salkantay Trek 2 Days
DAY 2

Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Salkantay Lake – Soraypampa – Cusco

Following breakfast on our Salkantay Trek, we commence our uphill walk at approximately 6:30 am.

This day’s journey will take us 4 hours to reach the highest point of the Salkantay Trek (4650m/15200ft), situated midway between two massive mountains: Salkantay on the right and Tucarhuay on the left.

The view of the two snow-capped mountains from the pass is breathtaking. There is a chance of snow in this area. Following a rest and group photo, we will return via the same path to Soraypampa for lunch and relaxation before taking the bus back to Cusco.

2ND DAY: Total distance: 11 km (approx.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,650 m (approx.)

Inclusions

Included

  • Transportation To Mollepata and Extra 1 hour to get to soraypampa (Trailhead)
  • Transportation back from Soraypampa to Cusco After Exploring the Salkantay Trek on 2nd day
  • English – Spanish speaking guide for 2 days on Humantay Lake & Salkantay Trek.(All our Guides work for us only) All of them speak Fluent English
  • 1 Night in GLAMPING SKY LODGE DOME AT SORAYPAMPA ( Twin bedroom, Matrimonial bedroom, 3 beds room, 4 beds room Accommodation)
  • Cook and assistance of the Cook. (We have chosen the best cooks/chefs and all are trained by Salkantay Treks Peru every month)
  • Snack Service (Wake up Coca tea and afternoon tea time(Happy hour) full of popcorn and special snacks made by our cooks)
  • Food Service  (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner) – nutritionally balanced menu: Buffet style Plenty of food you will never be hungry with us!
  • Vegetarian and free Gluten menu at no extra cost (Please let us know at the time of booking)
  • First-aid kit (Our Guide will carry while on the Salkantay trail) Please, note all our Guides are trained every year in first-aid)
  • Emergency oxygen bottle (Our guide will carry while on the Trail)
  • Pre-trek Orientation – briefing A day before we do the Trek. (Hotel or Office) Let us know once you are at the office or by email.
  • Free “I survived ” T-shirt and certificate (only for PEOPLE who successfully complete the trek!!!

No Included

  • Day 1 Breakfast
  • Entrance fee ( 20 soles)
  • Tips (optional)

Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please): Salkantay Trek Peru highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

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.

Pricing List

2-Day Salkantay Trek to Machupicchu (Prices for 2023 & 2024)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$340

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): (Group Size: 02 Minimum – 06ppl Average – 08ppl Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: US$440

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)


Booking Note

DISCOUNTS 
  • Group of 6 or more: US$10 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.
RENTALS
  • Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$15 for the entire trip
  • (Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$10 for the entire trip
  • Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$10 for the entire trip
ADDITIONAL INFO:
  • BRIEFING: all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30 pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet your guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
  • STORAGE: Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage at no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)


Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu

To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:

  • 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
  • The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
  • The ID must have a valid expiration date

Invalid Student IDs

Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:

  • Traveler is older than 25
  • Expired ID
  • Student Id without expiration date
  • ISIC cards are not valid.

Travel Guide

The Salkantay Trek 2 Days  is a high mountain trekking experience that has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most technical and challenging routes in the Peruvian Andes region. Spanning approximately 74 kilometers, this itinerary offers adventurers the opportunity to immerse themselves in an extraordinary natural environment and test their technical and physical skills in a variety of conditions.

Altitude and Acclimatization on Salkantay:

The first technical challenge that hikers encounter on the Salkantay Trek 2 Days is the altitude. The journey begins in Cusco, a city that is located more than 3,300 meters above sea level. Sudden exposure to high altitudes can lead to altitude sickness, making acclimatization essential. Participants must spend several days in Cusco before beginning the trek to allow their bodies to adapt to the decreased oxygen pressure.

The Trek and Variable Terrains:

The Salkantay Trek 2 Days involves extreme variability in terrain, ranging from dirt roads and rocky trails to narrow paths along steep slopes. The route crosses forested areas and flame traps at altitudes above 4,600 meters. Changing weather conditions and the occasional presence of snow and ice increase the complexity of the route. Hikers should be prepared to face challenging and varied terrain along the entire route.

The Best alternative for the Inca Trail

Proper navigation is a critical component of the Salkantay Trek due to the complexity of the route and limited signage. Hikers must rely on topographic maps and GPS to stay on the correct route. Trail signs can be sparse, requiring a high level of orientation and route knowledge. The help of experienced local guides is often essential to ensure safe navigation.

Climate and Technical Preparation:

Climate variability is a key factor in the Salkantay Trek 2 Days. Hikers may experience rain, snow, and wind conditions at different times of the year. Technical preparation includes carrying appropriate equipment, such as waterproof clothing, trekking boots, hiking poles, and sleeping bags suitable for sub-zero temperatures. The ability to evaluate and adapt to changing weather conditions is essential for a successful voyage.

The Final Experience on Machu Picchu Tour:

The Salkantay Trek 2 Days is a technical feat that rewards adventurers with stunning landscapes and an immersion in the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Those seeking the technical challenge of this route must be prepared to face a variety of obstacles and conditions, including altitude, varied terrain, precise orientation, and unexpected weather changes.

As you advance, you will witness the majesty of the snow-capped Salkantay and the authenticity of the local communities. The Salkantay Walk is a technical achievement that provides exceptional natural and cultural rewards.

Inca Trail Avaialability, (Oficial Inca Trail Permits 2024)

  • Mon
  • Tue
  • Wed
  • Thu
  • Fri
  • Sat
  • Sun
  • 1
    No Spaces
  • 2
    No Spaces
  • 3
    No Spaces
  • 4
    No Spaces
  • 5
    No Spaces
  • 6
    No Spaces
  • 7
    No Spaces
  • 8
    No Spaces
  • 9
    No Spaces
  • 10
    No Spaces
  • 11
    No Spaces
  • 12
    No Spaces
  • 13
    No Spaces
  • 14
    No Spaces
  • 15
    No Spaces
  • 16
    No Spaces
  • 17
    No Spaces
  • 18
    No Spaces
  • 19
    No Spaces
  • 20
    No Spaces
  • 21
    No Spaces
  • 22
    No Spaces
  • 23
    No Spaces
  • 24
    No Spaces
  • 25
    No Spaces
  • 26
    No Spaces
  • 27
    No Spaces
  • 28
    No Spaces
  • 29
    No Spaces
  • 30
    No Spaces
  • 31
    No Spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

Salkantay is considered a challenging but doable hike for the average traveller or tourist. Moderate fitness is necessary due to the physical demands, and spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek is recommended for acclimatization to the altitude. Even those who are extremely fit may still experience altitude sickness.

The Salkantay trek covers approximately 60.5 kilometers (37.5 miles) over 4 days and 3 nights, with the remaining day spent at Machu Picchu. Compared to the Inca Trail, Salkantay is slightly more challenging, while other trails such as Choquequirao are slightly more difficult than Salkantay.

The Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m / 15,228 ft above sea level, is the most difficult section of the trail. Hikers should expect cold and windy weather, and may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Oxygen is available if needed, and symptoms typically subside once hikers begin their descent. The uphill climb, cold winds, low temperatures, and low-oxygen altitude all contribute to the challenge of the Salkantay Pass.

The Salkantay trek may not be available during the rainy season, from mid-March to the end of February, due to safety concerns. If the weather is good, the trek will be approved, but if safety is compromised, the trek will be cancelled to ensure the safety of our clients and porters.

You are free to choose your own hotel, and our guide will pick you up from there one day before the trek.

A 30% deposit is required to guarantee your reservation and ensure that we can make necessary purchases such as entrance fees, bus and train tickets.

This deposit is non-refundable once received because we use it immediately for the aforementioned purchases. Additionally, making a deposit helps us to prepare for the trek by knowing how many guides to assign and how much food to purchase.

The final balance (70%) is paid in Cusco, 2 days before the trek, and payment options include online payment systems, VISA, Western Union, Money Gram, or a Peruvian bank account.

Answer: To book the Salkantay Trek, you must fill out the attached booking form that we email you with updated and accurate information. This will ensure that we can make your bookings with the right information. Alternatively, you can send us your Full Names, Passport Number or ID Number, Nationality, Gender, and Birthdate to expedite the booking process.

The Salkantay trek has various trails and campsites, but the trail we follow is about 60.5 km. On average, you will hike approximately 8-9 hours per day.

Answer: The Salkantay Trek is ideal for adventure enthusiasts who can handle the altitude and distance. While it’s not a technical hike, altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend bringing a wooden walking stick or purchasing one in Peru to aid with balance and reduce load on your knees. Metal tipped walking sticks should not be used as they can harm the environment.

Altitude affects everyone differently. If you have little to no experience with altitude, we recommend giving yourself 2-3 days in Cusco to adjust. Drinking plenty of water, chewing cocoa leaves, and taking medicine if necessary can help alleviate any symptoms. Generally, breathlessness, headaches, and slight nausea are the most common symptoms.

You will arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning on Day 5 and have a 2-hour tour with a local guide followed by a few hours of free time to explore on your own before taking a bus to Aguas Calientes and then the train back to Cusco.

No, pack mules and/or horses will carry your personal items. You will still need to bring a day backpack to carry essentials, and a duffel will be provided to put your belongings in.

It can get quite chilly at night, especially during the Andean winter, so it’s recommended to bring thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag. Locally made mitts and gloves can be purchased in Cusco.

Private campsites and green eco domes are used on Days 1-3, and a hotel is used on Day 4.

Basic permanent toilets and portable toilet tents are available at some places. Trekkers are provided with a bowl of hot water every morning in their tent.

Boiled water is provided every evening after dinner for refilling water bottles, but purchasing bottled water is discouraged to reduce garbage. Trekkers can bring water purification tablets.

High-energy meals appropriate for the trek are prepared by the chefs/cooks, including pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables, and breakfast foods. Food for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets is also provided.

Children under 8 years old are not allowed, but those over 8 years old and in good physical shape can do the trek. Horseback riding is also an option for some parts of the trek.

How to Book

TO BOOK THE SALKANTAY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS, FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:

  1. Choose a reputable, government-authorized tour operator.
  2. Click the “Book Online” button, select the date, and complete the booking form. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together. Keep your passport handy for accurate information.
  3. Make a payment online using any debit or credit card. There’s a 2.9% fee for online payments, which customers must cover.
  4. To secure your Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night, provide a $180 deposit per person. This helps obtain necessary permits and tickets from the Peruvian government.
  5. Optionally, you can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns.
  6. If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in cash (soles or dollars) at the office in Cusco or by card (3.9% fee). You can also pay the balance online with any card (2.9% fee).

By following these straightforward steps, you can easily book your Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night experience and focus on preparing for your adventure.

Payment: You can pay for Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night online using any debit or credit card. A 2.9% fee applies to online payments, which customers must cover. To book Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night, a $180 deposit per person is required to secure permits and tickets from the Peruvian government. You can choose to pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid future payment concerns. If you pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay the balance in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco, or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online using any card with a 2.9% fee.

Passport Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date to Peru. If it’s set to expire within 6 months, renew it before traveling. If your passport expires within 6 months but you want to secure Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night and Machu Picchu tickets, book the tour and update your passport details with us after renewal. Failure to do so may result in permit and ticket forfeiture.

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.

Deposit: The $180 deposit per person for the Salkantay Trek 2 Days 1 Night tour is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Remaining Balance: If you only pay the deposit, the balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online with any card and a 2.9% fee.

Student Discount: If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.

Inquire Now

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by Hikes in Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.

Formato Contacto
BOOK BY WHATSAPP
RECOMMENDED ON
Formato Contacto
formulario de reserva