TOUR – DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – HUMANTAY LAKE – OKIDOKI SKY LODGE SALKANTAY BASE CAMP
We’ll start your adventure by picking you up from your hostel in Cusco (elevation: 3,400 meters) between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. From there, we travel by private transport for about 2 hours to the village of Mollepata (2,900 meters), where we’ll enjoy a delicious included breakfast.
Note: At this point, you must pay the entrance fee of 20 soles (not included) to access the Humantay Lagoon and the local community.
After breakfast, we continue by bus for another 1 hour to Soraypampa (3,900 meters), the official starting point of our trek.
From Soraypampa, we begin a scenic 1.5-hour hike to reach the stunning Humantay Lake (4,200 meters). Take your time to explore and enjoy this breathtaking turquoise lagoon surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
After soaking in the beauty of Humantay, we descend for about 1.5 hours to the Okidoki Sky Lodge Salkantay Base Camp (4,050 meters), where a well-deserved lunch will be waiting for you.
In the afternoon, relax and take in the panoramic views of the majestic Salkantay Mountain and the surrounding Andean landscape. After dinner, we’ll settle into our cozy Okidoki cabins for the night under a sky full of stars.
TOUR – DAY 2: OKIDOKI BASE CAMP – SALKANTAY PASS – RETURN TO CUSCO
We begin the day early with a hearty breakfast at 5:30 a.m., preparing us for the most exciting and rewarding part of the trek.
From the Okidoki Base Camp, we start our ascent toward the breathtaking Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,620 meters above sea level. The hike takes approximately 3 hours, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and rugged Andean landscapes accompanying you the whole way.
At the summit, we’ll pause for a special Andean ceremony led by your guide—a moment of gratitude and respect to Salkantay Mountain, considered sacred by local communities and deeply tied to their culture and history.
After taking in the incredible views and spiritual energy of the pass, we begin our descent back to base camp, a trek of about 3 hours, where a well-earned lunch will be served.
Following lunch, we continue walking 1 more hour to Soraypampa, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. The drive takes about 3 hours, with estimated arrival around 6:00 p.m., depending on weather and road conditions.
This day marks the end of an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes with Okidoki Travel.
End of Okidoki Travel Peru Service
We thank you for choosing Okidoki Travel Peru to be part of your adventure.
We hope this experience through the Andes and the heart of Inca territory has left you with unforgettable memories, deeper connections with nature, and a greater appreciation for the ancient culture of Peru.
We look forward to guiding you on your next journey!
¡Hasta pronto, traveler!
Important points
Salkantay Trek + Humantay Lake – 2 Days
Price: $190 USD
Important:
We highly recommend having a proper acclimatization period in Cusco before beginning the Salkantay + Humantay Lake Trek, due to the high altitudes involved.
⚠️ Note: This tour does not include a student discount, as discounts only apply to tours that include the Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
FAQs
What is the meaning of “Salkantay” in Quechua?
The word Salkantay comes from the Quechua language and means “wild mountain” (Salqa Antay). It represents the untamed, majestic spirit of the Andes and is deeply revered in local Andean cosmology as one of the powerful “apus” or mountain spirits.
Why is the Salkantay Mountain famous?
Salkantay is the second highest mountain in the Cusco region, rising to 6,271 meters (20,574 ft). Its dramatic snow-capped peak attracts trekkers and climbers from all over the world. The route surrounding it offers one of the most scenic treks in Peru, with changing landscapes, breathtaking views, and access to hidden Inca paths that lead to Machu Picchu.
What can I see on the Salkantay Trek?
During the Salkantay Trek, you’ll experience:
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The beautiful Humantay Lake at 4,200 meters above sea level.
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The Salkantay Pass at 4,650 meters – the highest point of the trek.
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Panoramic views of snowy peaks, cloud forests, and tropical jungle.
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Local flora and fauna, including alpacas, vizcachas, hummingbirds, and possibly even Andean condors.
Where does the trek start and end?
The Salkantay Trek typically starts in Mollepata, Limatambo, or Soraypampa, and ends at Machu Picchu, offering an alternative route to the traditional Inca Trail. Most treks last 4 to 5 days and include both mountain and jungle ecosystems.
Is the Salkantay Trek difficult?
The trek is moderately challenging and involves high altitudes and steep ascents. However, it is suitable for most travelers with basic physical fitness and proper acclimatization. No technical climbing is needed, but you will walk several hours each day through variable terrain.
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes! Since parts of the trek reach over 4,500 meters, it is essential to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before your departure. This will help prevent altitude sickness and allow your body to adjust.
When is the best time to hike Salkantay?
The best time to hike the Salkantay Trek is during the dry season, from June to September. This period offers clear skies, warmer days, and the best views of the surrounding mountains.
What is the weather like on the trek?
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Daytime temperatures: 10°C to 18°C (50°F – 64°F)
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Nighttime temperatures: Often below 0°C (32°F), especially at higher elevations like the base camp or Salkantay Pass.
Prepare for both cold nights and sunny days.
Where is Salkantay located?
Salkantay is located in the Cusco region, in the districts of Santa Teresa and Limatambo, within the provinces of La Convención and Anta.
Why choose the Salkantay Trek over the Classic Inca Trail?
The Salkantay Trek is:
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Less crowded than the Inca Trail.
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No special permit required (unlike the Inca Trail).
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More diverse in landscapes and ecosystems.
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Offers a unique arrival to Machu Picchu through scenic jungle trails.
