Set out on a remarkable two-day journey from the historic city of Cusco to the captivating Humantay Lake and the majestic Salkantay Pass. Along the way, you’ll traverse stunning natural landscapes, push your limits on challenging treks, and learn about the serene beauty of the Andes. Indulge in comfortable accommodations, savor delectable meals, and let expert guides lead you through this breathtaking adventure. Prepare to be awestruck by the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon and the towering peaks of the Salkantay Pass as you uncover the true essence of this remarkable region.
Key Points
- 2-day trek from Cusco to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass, including a 6-hour hike and a 7-hour ascent.
- Accommodation in cozy Sky Luxury domes with private bathrooms, hot showers, and stunning mountain views.
- Guided by a professional bilingual guide and supported by a cook, with mules available to carry personal items.
- Suitable for participants aged 6 and above, excluding those with heart problems, due to high altitude challenges.
- Opportunities for photography of the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains, as well as the serene Humantay Lagoon.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Trip Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Included Amenities
- Important Information
- Unique Hiking Experience
- Scenic Views
- Accommodation Details
- Photography Opportunities
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book This Trip for a Solo Traveler?
- Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?
- What Is the Fitness Level Required for This Trek?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions Besides Children Under 6?
- Can I Bring Additional Luggage Beyond the 7 Kg Limit?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Trip Overview
This 2-day trek from Cusco offers a unique opportunity to explore the majestic Humantay Lake and the renowned Salkantay Pass. The tour’s name is "From Cusco | Humantay Lake & Paso Salkantay in Domos – 2 Days," with a price starting from K10,162 per person. The duration is 2 days, and the group size is limited to 10 participants. The tour is available in Spanish and English, and hotel pickup in Cusco is included. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Itinerary Highlights
The itinerary begins with an early start at 04:30 from the hotel in Cusco. Trekkers embark on a 6-hour hike from Challacancha to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, where they’ll witness the breathtaking views of the Huamantay and Salkantay mountains. After reaching the lagoon, they’ll settle into their cozy Sky Luxury domes for the night.
On the second day, the group treks for 7 hours from Soraypampa to the Salkantay Pass, reaching an impressive altitude of 4,600 meters. After taking in the majestic scenery, they’ll return to Cusco by vehicle.
| Day | Duration | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 hours | Humantay Lagoon |
| 2 | 7 hours | Salkantay Pass |
Included Amenities
Included in the 2-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass trekking experience are various amenities to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Transportation is provided from Cusco to the starting point and back. Meals include 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner on the first day.
Participants will stay in shared domed accommodations with hot showers, heating, private bathrooms, and balconies.
The experience also includes a professional cook, a bilingual guide, mules to carry personal items up to 7 kg, and a dry bag for belongings.
These inclusions aim to enhance the overall trekking adventure and allow participants to focus on seeing the stunning natural landscapes.
Important Information
While preparing for the 2-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass trekking experience, participants should bring their passport or ID, a camera, and any necessary personal medication. Cash is also recommended, as there may be opportunities for purchasing souvenirs or snacks along the way. It’s important to note that this trek is not suitable for children under 6 years old or individuals with heart problems, as the high altitude can be challenging.
| What to Bring | Not Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Passport or ID | Children under 6 years |
| Camera | Individuals with heart problems |
| Cash | |
| Personal medication |
Unique Hiking Experience
This 2-day trekking experience offers nature lovers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Cusco region.
Hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Salkantay Mountain and the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon. The experience is further enhanced by spending the night in luxurious sky domes, providing a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience.
The trekking itself is challenging yet rewarding, featuring:
- A 6-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon
- A strenuous 7-hour climb to the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters
- Supported by a professional cook and bilingual guide
- Mules to carry personal items, allowing hikers to focus on the journey.
Scenic Views
What breathtaking views await trekkers on this 2-day journey? Hikers will marvel at the majestic Salkantay Mountain, its snow-capped peaks piercing the sky.
The trail leads to the stunning Humantay Lagoon, a turquoise gem nestled against the backdrop of towering glaciers. Along the way, panoramic vistas of the Andes unfold, with rugged peaks and lush valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see.
Reaching the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters offers a truly awe-inspiring perspective, as the trekkers survey the vast, untamed landscape from this lofty vantage point.
This trek provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Cusco region.
Accommodation Details
Complementing the breathtaking scenery, the accommodations on this 2-day trek offer a cozy and comfortable respite for weary hikers.
Travelers will spend the night in Sky Luxury domes, which feature:
- Private bathrooms with hot showers.
- Heating systems to keep guests warm during the cool mountain nights.
- Balconies offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
- Shared domes that accommodate up to 4 people, providing a sense of community.
These thoughtful amenities ensure a pleasant and relaxing experience, allowing adventurers to recharge before tackling the next day’s challenges.
Photography Opportunities
Avid photographers will delight in the endless opportunities this two-day trekking adventure offers.
From the striking vistas of the Salkantay and Humantay mountains to the serene beauty of the Humantay Lagoon, every step of the journey presents a chance to capture breathtaking images.
The overnight stay in the Sky Luxury domes provides a unique vantage point to photograph the night sky and the surrounding peaks bathed in the golden light of sunrise.
With a camera in hand, trekkers can immortalize the rugged landscapes, vibrant flora, and captivating wildlife they encounter along the way.
The expedition’s bilingual guide is on hand to assist photographers, ensuring they make the most of this visually stunning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Trip for a Solo Traveler?
Yes, this 2-day hiking trip to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass is suitable for solo travelers. The group size is limited to 10 participants, allowing solo adventurers to join and experience the scenic trek.
Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the accommodation. Travelers can opt for a private dome with their own bathroom instead of the shared dome. This upgrade offers more privacy and exclusivity for an additional cost.
What Is the Fitness Level Required for This Trek?
This trek requires a moderate fitness level. Hikers should be able to trek for 6-7 hours per day over uneven terrain at high altitudes. Reasonable cardiovascular fitness and prior hiking experience are recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions Besides Children Under 6?
The trek isn’t suitable for those with heart problems, but there are no other age restrictions beyond children under 6. Participants should be in good physical condition to handle the strenuous hike at high altitudes.
Can I Bring Additional Luggage Beyond the 7 Kg Limit?
Participants can bring additional luggage beyond the 7 kg limit, but it’ll need to be transported separately by mules for an extra fee. The tour operator prefers to keep personal items light during the trek.
From Cusco| Humantay Lake & Paso Salkantay in Domos – 2 Days
Recap
This two-day adventure from Cusco to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass promises an unforgettable experience. Hikers will be rewarded with stunning natural landscapes, including the turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon and the majestic Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters. Comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and expert guidance make this an exceptional hiking trip in the Peruvian Andes.
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