Book the ultimate 2-Day Salkantay Trekking + Humantay Lake tour for 2026! Avoid the crowds, sleep at our exclusive Sky Lodge Okidoki, and witness unforgettable glacial vistas—Check availability now!
2-Day Salkantay Trekking + Humantay Lake Tour
The 2-Day Salkantay Trekking + Humantay Lake Tour is a masterfully designed alpine route engineered for travelers who want to witness Peru’s most iconic glacial views and turquoise waters without the rush of a single-day rush tour. This specialized high-altitude journey focuses on the majestic Vilcabamba mountain range, delivering unmatched alpine scenery, pristine lagoons, and deep cultural immersion.
While standard day-trippers return to Cusco completely exhausted after spending only minutes at the lake, our 2-day itinerary slows down the experience. By spending the night directly beneath the glaciers at our exclusive base camp, you enjoy the pristine wilderness responsibly, completely bypassing the massive mid-day tour crowds with our sustainable, locally-operated team.
The 2-Day short route Salkantay Trek offers a condensed yet powerful high-mountain adventure. Here is a definitive overview of what to expect on this premium express trail:
📌 Quick Trip Facts
This immersive 2-day mountain expedition perfectly balances the emerald beauty of Lake Humantay with the challenging physical triumph of crossing the high Salkantay Pass, ending with a comfortable direct return to Cusco center.
- Total Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night.
- Total Distance: Approximately 22 kilometers (13.6 miles) of pure mountain trekking + local tourist transit.
- Salkantay Mountain Peak: 6,271 m / 20,575 ft (Towering right in front of your cabin).
- Max. Hiking Altitude: 4,620 meters (15,157 feet) at the Salkantay Summit Pass on Day 2.
- Trek Highlights: Beat the crowds at the turquoise Humantay Lake (4,200m), sleep inside our exclusive glass-front Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki, experience premium stargazing at 4,050m, and participate in an authentic Andean protective ceremony.
- Difficulty: Moderate (Ideal for hikers possessing a basic level of physical condition and prior acclimatization in Cusco).
- Best Season: May – September (Dry Season), with custom departures operating smoothly all year round.
- Permits & Regulations: No rigid government trail permits required months in advance. A local community entrance ticket of 20 Soles is managed directly at the checkpoint.
- Guiding & Crew: 100% Authorized Local Operator — Okidoki Travel Peru (Includes professional bilingual guides, mountain logistics support, and fresh hot meals at base camp).
Day by Day Overview:
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Night at Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp (Okidoki)
Stats: 9km | 4.5 Hours | Moderate
Your Andean journey begins with an early morning pickup from your Cusco hostel between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. We travel by tourist bus for 2 hours to the village of Mollepata (2,900m / 9,514ft) where a freshly prepared breakfast is included. Here, you will settle the community and lagoon entrance ticket (20 Soles, not included). Next, we drive 1 more hour to the trailhead at Soraypampa (3,900m / 12,795ft) to kick off an energetic 1.5-hour hike to the striking, emerald-turquoise Humantay Lake (4,200m). After soaking in the views, we descend for 1.5 hours to our private Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp Okidoki (4,050m / 13,287ft) for a hot lunch. Spend a peaceful afternoon capturing panoramic glacial views, enjoy an intimate dinner, and sleep soundly in our exclusive private cabins.
Day 2: Okidoki Base Camp – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa – Mollepata – Cusco
Stats: 13km | 7 Hours | Moderate to Challenging
We start early with a warm mountain breakfast at 5:30 AM. Leaving our cabins, we begin our steady upward climb toward the magnificent, snow-capped Salkantay Pass, reaching the trek's highest point at 4,620 meters (15,157 feet) after approximately 3 hours of steady hiking. Directly underneath the giant mountain glaciers, your native guide will lead a traditional spiritual Andean ceremony, paying respect and gratitude to the sacred mountains. Afterward, we make a 3-hour descent back down to our Okidoki base camp to enjoy a final rewarding lunch. To close the circuit, we complete a gentle 1-hour walk down to Soraypampa to board our return private transportation. Enjoy the 3-hour scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving comfortably at the city center around 6:00 PM or earlier.
Note: The Private Service Salkantay Trek 4 Days is one of the most popular hiking routes in Peru...
Best 2-Day Salkantay Trekking + Humantay Lake Tour
An incredible 2-day / 1-night alpine mountain expedition bypassing the massive crowds. Masterfully combining the emerald-turquoise waters of Humantay Lake with the high-altitude challenge of the majestic Salkantay Pass, featuring an exclusive overnight stay at our premium Sky Lodge Okidoki.
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Night at Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp (Okidoki)
Your adventure begins with an early hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. We embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to the town of Mollepata (2,900m / 9,514ft) where a freshly prepared hot breakfast is included. Here, you will settle the local community and lagoon entrance fees (20 Soles, not included). A final 1-hour drive brings us to the official trailhead at Soraypampa (3,900m / 12,795ft), where our mountain trek officially kicks off.
We start with a steady 1.5-hour upward hike to reach the breathtaking, legendary turquoise waters of Humantay Lake (4,200m / 13,779ft). After exploring the peaceful lagoon and capturing incredible photos, we descend for another 1.5 hours to our exclusive Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp Okidoki (4,050m / 13,287ft) to check into our premium glass-walled cabins and enjoy a nutritious hot lunch. Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in panoramic views of Mt. Salkantay before wrapping up the night with a warm dinner and stargazing from your private mountain accommodation.
Day 2: Okidoki Base Camp – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa – Mollepata – Cusco
The definitive high-altitude day begins early with a warm breakfast at 5:30 AM. Leaving our cabins behind, we hit the trail at 6:00 AM to conquer a steady 3-hour uphill trek toward the magnificent, snow-capped Salkantay Pass (4,620 meters / 15,157 feet), the highest geographic point of our entire route. Standing directly beneath the jaw-dropping glacial peaks of sacred Mt. Salkantay (6,271m / 20,575ft), our professional guide will lead a traditional Andean gratitude ceremony to pay respect to the mountain spirits (*Apus*).
After capturing panoramic photos at the pass, we begin a rewarding 3-hour descent down rugged paths back to our Okidoki base camp for a freshly prepared, celebratory hot lunch. To finish the walking portion of the trek, we make a gentle 1-hour final descent to the Soraypampa transit area. Here, our return private tourist transportation will be waiting to take us on a 3-hour drive back to the city, arriving safely at the Cusco center around 6:00 PM or earlier to conclude services with Okidoki Travel Peru.
What is Included
- Pre-Departure Briefing: Detailed information session about your booked tour provided 1 day before departure at the Okidoki Travel Peru office. Location: Calle Nueva Alta No. 644, Hostal Okidoki, Cusco.
- Professional Guide: Licensed professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) leading and supporting the group for all 2 days of the high-altitude trek.
- Initial Transportation: Ground tourist transportation from Cusco to Mollepata and straight to the Challacancha trailhead to begin the trek.
- Board Meal Plan: Includes 2 nutritious breakfasts, 2 hot lunches, and 1 freshly prepared dinner at our Salkantay base camp.
- Hot Beverages: Comforting hot drinks (teas, coffee, and traditional coca tea) served at night and accompanied with each scheduled meal.
- Sleeping Bag: Insulated professional sleeping bag included for your comfortable night stay at the high-altitude mountain camp.
- Return Transportation to Cusco (Last Day): Full return ground transportation by tourist bus directly from Soraypampa back to Cusco city center on the final day.
What is NOT Included
- Local Fees & Community Tickets: Entrance ticket handled at the checkpoint for the Mollepata Community and Humantay Lagoon (S/. 20 Soles per person).
- Extra Beverages & Water: Personal bottled water, soft drinks, and extra alcoholic beverages (cold beer, champagne, whisky, etc.).
- Trekking Poles: Hiking stick rental / pair of trekking poles (US$ 10 per pair for the duration of the entire 2-day trek).
- Wi-Fi Connection: Wireless internet access available optionally at the mountain base camp (S/. 10 Soles).
- Travel Insurance: Personal medical, international travel, and high-altitude wilderness trek insurance support.
- Tips & Gratuities: Voluntary tips or rewards for the professional mountain field staff (guides, camp chefs, and transport drivers).
What to Pack
Frequently Asked Questions
Join thousands of happy explorers: Find expert answers to the most frequent questions about our Peru tours.
Our Inca Trail Camping Wilderness Accommodations
Experience the ancient Inca road network with high-quality camping equipment set up at the most scenic, officially designated campsites.
Wayllabamba Camp
Nestled in a peaceful Andean valley with a breathtaking frontal view of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain (Wakaywillka). A perfect setting to unplug, connect with nature, and enjoy full outdoor comforts.
- Meals: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
- Accommodation: Premium Camping Facilities
- Max Altitude: 3,150 m / 10,334 ft
- Trekking Time: Approx. 5 Hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Pacaymayo Camp
Located high in the mountains adjacent to the pristine Pacaymayo River. This camp offers striking panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range, surrounded by dense high-Andean native vegetation.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
- Accommodation: Premium Camping Facilities
- Campsite Altitude: 3,620 m / 11,876 ft
- Trekking Time: Approx. 7 Hours
- Difficulty: Challenging (Post-Pass)
Wiñaywayna Camp
The final and most spectacular campsite, located just a stone's throw from the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Offers peerless views of the surrounding cloud forest and the adjacent Wiñaywayna archaeological complex.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
- Accommodation: Premium Camping Facilities
- Max Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
- Trekking Time: Approx. 5 Hours
- Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
Private Service Salkantay Trekking: Tour Prices — 2026 Season
Rates are per traveler and depend entirely on the type of service selected. Choose the option that best fits your style of adventure.
Group Service
Join an international open group of like-minded hikers.
Private Service
An exclusive trek tailored solely for your private party.
Group vs. Private Treks: What is the difference?
Group Service: Depending on bookings, additional travelers will join your team to complete a shared group. Solo travelers may book if we can match them with existing departures.
Private Service: No outside travelers will be added to your booking under any circumstance, regardless of your group's size. A minimum of 2 passengers is required to open a private trek.
Critical Booking Notice
The Peruvian Government strictly limits access to the Inca Trail to only 500 permits per day (including guides and porters). Due to extreme demand, availability fluctuations happen instantly.
Date Flexibility Mandatory:
All hikers must provide alternative travel dates (1 to 2 days before or after your preferred departure) to successfully secure physical permits.
Available Discounts
- Student Discount (Requires active, valid university card) - US$ 20
- Under 18 Years Discount (Requires valid passport verification) - US$ 20
About this activity
Tour Highlights
- Mount Salkantay Majesty: Traverse the spectacular Vilcabamba Range, trekking beneath the majestic "Wild Mountain"—Cusco’s iconic sacred peak at 6,271 m - 20,575 ft.
- The High Salkantay Pass: Conquer the challenging summit pass at a maximum altitude of 4,620 m - 15,157 ft for unparalleled, breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes.
- Humantay Lake & Sky Lodge: Visit the emerald-turquoise waters of Lake Humantay (4,200 m) and spend an unforgettable night stargazing at our exclusive Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki.
- Spiritual Connection & Local Food: Experience an authentic Andean gratitude ceremony led by your native guide and enjoy freshly prepared hot mountain meals at our base camp.
- Daily departures available: Secure your 2026 short adventure with an authorized local operator—Check real-time availability and book your 2-Day Salkantay Trek today!
Hike itinerary
Conquer the Alpine Peaks: 2-Day Salkantay Trekking + Humantay Lake Tour
Ready to experience the raw beauty of the Peruvian Andes without the rush? Join our top-rated local agency for a masterfully designed 2-day / 1-night mountain expedition. This short yet immersive trek seamlessly connects the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the high-altitude challenge of the Salkantay Pass with a peaceful overnight stay at our private base camp, away from the massive single-day crowds.
Hike beneath dramatic glaciers alongside your expert native guide, taking in breathtaking vistas and participating in a traditional Andean spiritual ceremony. Enjoy a seamless, all-inclusive journey featuring comfortable lodging at our unique Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki on Day 1, hearty mountain meals, and a worry-free return transport to Cusco center. Secure your 2026 spots with authorized local experts today!
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Night at Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp (Okidoki)
Stats: 9 km | 4.5 Hours | Moderate (Stay at Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki)
Day 2: Okidoki Base Camp – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa – Cusco
Stats: 13 km | 7 Hours | Moderate to Challenging ...
Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Humantay Lake – Night at Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp (Okidoki)
Stats: 9 km | 4.5 Hours | Moderate (Stay at Sky Lodge Salkantay Okidoki)
Day 2: Okidoki Base Camp – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa – Cusco
Stats: 13 km | 7 Hours | Moderate to Challenging
What is Included & NOT Included?
What is Included
- Detailed pre-departure briefing session at our local office 1 day before departure (Calle Nueva Alta No. 644).
- Professional licensed bilingual guide (English/Spanish) dedicated for the entire 2-day mountain expedition.
- Initial tourist transportation from Cusco directly to the starting point of the trek at Mollepata and Challacancha.
- High-quality insulated sleeping bag included for your night stay at our high-altitude mountain base camp.
- All board meals on the trail: 2 nutritious breakfasts, 2 hot lunches, and 1 freshly prepared dinner.
- Hot drinks (coffee, tea, traditional coca tea) served every evening and accompanied with each scheduled meal.
- Direct return tourist bus transportation from Soraypampa back to Cusco city center on the afternoon of the last day.
What is NOT Included
- Entrance ticket to the Mollepata Community / Humantay Lagoon checkpoint (20 Soles per person).
- Extra beverages and personal water (bottled water, sodas, cold beer, champagne, whiskey, etc.).
- A pair of hiking sticks / trekking poles (Available for rent: US$ 10 per pair).
- Optional Wi-Fi connection access at the mountain base camp.
- Personal travel and health insurance.
- Voluntary tips or gratuities for the trek support crew (guides, camp chefs).
Important information
What to pack
- Original passport (Mandatory for trail checkpoints; must be valid for at least 6 months).
- Daypack (30 liters or more) to comfortably carry your personal gear
- Reliable rain jacket or heavy-duty rain poncho.
- Properly worn-in hiking shoes or trekking boots....
- Lantern
- Towel + toilet paper
- Personal medications
- Sunscreen – Glasses – Hat
- Mosquito repellent for inka trail
- Chocolate candy snacks
- Photographic camera
- Extra money inka trails
Not allowed
- Littering or damaging archaeological sites.
- Hiking sticks without rubber tips.
Before traveling
- Please enter your contact number correctly (including your country code) and confirm that you have an active WhatsApp number for coordination
- You will receive a booking confirmation within 24 hours, subject to government permit availability.
- Crucial note: Your tour is 100% confirmed only after our team manually secures your official government permits.
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Passport details for each participant are strictly required at the time of booking:
- Full name as it appears exactly in your passport.
- Passport number
- Expiration date
- Nationality / Country
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary options are available upon request at no extra cost.
- Travelers should possess at least a moderate level of physical fitness and be properly acclimatized to Cusco's altitude before starting the trek.
Other suggestions for trekking
Cusco: 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with accommodation
Cusco: Amazing Salkantay Trek 4 Days and Train
From Cusco: Short Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu
5-Day Hiking Route along the Inca Trail + Salkantay Trekking
Classic Inca Trail Luxury Edition: Private Service
Inca Trail Express with return by Vistadome Train
Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail Combo Challenge
