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Experience the highlights of the Salkantay region on a shorter schedule with a two-day trek to Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass. Choose from private luxury dome experiences or guided treks with hotel pickup included.
Trek to Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass, staying overnight in glass domes under the Andean stars.
Hike to Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass with a night in private luxury domes overlooking the snow-capped peaks.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Salkantay Trek — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A 2-day Salkantay Trek offers a condensed, action-packed adventure for travelers short on time but eager to experience the dramatic high-altitude landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. You will tackle steep mountain passes, marvel at vibrant glacial lakes, and spend the night under the stars in unique glass-topped domes.
Hike up to this stunning turquoise glacial lagoon sitting at the base of Humantay Mountain. The vibrant emerald waters reflecting the towering glacier make for incredible photography.
Challenge yourself by ascending to 4,630 meters (15,190 feet). Standing directly beneath the massive glaciers of the Savage Mountain offers panoramic views of the rugged Vilcabamba range.
Spend the night in exclusive glass-topped cabanas or luxury domes. You can lie in bed and gaze directly up at the brilliant, unpolluted Andean night sky.
Enjoy fully catered meals on the mountain. Some luxury tours even feature a live ceviche preparation show, afternoon tea, and traditional Pisco sours at base camp.
Interact with the local environment in a unique way. Certain private tours include an alpaca feeding therapy session right at your campsite.
Booking a 2-day Salkantay Trek requires careful preparation, as this is a high-altitude, physically demanding adventure. Here are the essential details you need to know before securing your spot.
You can choose between shared group treks that welcome solo travelers, or private luxury tours designed for couples and small groups. Both options typically include 1 night in a specialized dome camp.
This is a highly challenging trek with steep climbs up to 4,630 meters. Travelers must have a high level of physical fitness and be in good cardiovascular health to safely complete the route.
Because the trek reaches extreme elevations, operators strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your departure to adjust to the altitude and prevent sickness.
Most 2-day tours are fully comprehensive, covering hotel pickup, a professional mountain guide, dome accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and entrance tickets to Humantay Lake and the Salkantay trail.
You will generally be provided with a personal duffel bag with a weight limit (often up to 5 kg / 11 lbs) for your travel gear. Pack layered clothing and a good pair of waterproof hiking boots.
These treks are not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries. The minimum age to participate is generally 10 years old, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Policies vary significantly by operator. Some luxury private tours are strictly final sale with no refunds, while others offer a tiered refund system (e.g., 100% refund if canceled 6 days in advance).
Your passport name, number, expiry, and country are required at the time of booking. You must bring your up-to-date, physical passport with you on the travel day.
| Shared Sky Camp Trek | Private Luxury Dome Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Tour Style | Guided Group Tour | Private Tour |
| Group Size | Shared (No minimum) | 2 to 10 people |
| Key Highlights | Humantay Lake, Salkantay Pass, Sky Camp Domes | Luxury Domes, Private Hot Showers, Ceviche Show, Alpaca Feeding |
| Price from | $380 USD | $350 USD |
Unlike enclosed archaeological sites, the Salkantay Trek does not have strict opening or closing gates. However, timing is heavily regulated by tour operators for safety and logistics.
The 2-day Salkantay Trek takes place in the Vilcabamba mountain range, located about 100 kilometers west-northwest of Cusco.
Weather plays a massive role in the safety and enjoyment of the Salkantay Trek.
The Salkantay Trek is a rugged, remote wilderness trail and is not wheelchair accessible.
Facilities on the mountain have improved significantly in recent years, especially on organized tours.
Preserving the natural beauty of the Salkantay region is a priority for local communities and the government.
No, you do not need a special government permit for the Salkantay Trek like you do for the Inca Trail. There is a local entrance fee for the trail and Humantay Lake, but this is almost always included in the price of your 2-day tour.
The Salkantay Pass is the highest point of the trek, sitting at an elevation of 4,630 meters (15,190 feet) above sea level. You will reach this point on the trail while standing beneath the massive glaciers of Salkantay Mountain.
Yes, because the trek quickly ascends to over 4,600 meters, altitude sickness is a significant risk. Tour operators strictly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco prior to your trek to acclimate.
Instead of traditional tents, these 2-day tours feature overnight stays in Sky Camps or Luxury Domes. These are glass-topped, hard-shell structures equipped with beds that allow you to sleep comfortably while stargazing.
Yes, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. Some premium private tours even offer extra culinary experiences like afternoon tea, a live ceviche show, and traditional Pisco sours.
You should pack layered clothing to handle extreme temperature shifts, from freezing nights to warm days. Waterproof hiking boots are essential, along with a personal duffel bag (usually limited to 5 kg) for your gear.
No, drones are strictly prohibited at Humantay Lake and other sensitive ecological and archaeological sites in the region. Photography with standard cameras and tripods is perfectly fine.
The trek is highly demanding. You will be hiking steep inclines at extreme altitudes for several hours a day. Travelers must be in excellent physical shape and have good cardiovascular health.
Children aged 10 and older may participate in most shared tours, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult. However, they must be highly active and capable of handling long, steep hikes at altitude.
Cancellation policies depend on the specific tour you book. Some shared tours offer a full refund if canceled 6 days in advance, while certain private luxury tours mandate that all sales are final with no refunds available.
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This two-day trek is designed for those who want to experience the highlights of the Salkantay region on a shorter schedule. The first day begins with a hike to the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, followed by an evening at our Sky Camp. These glass-topped domes provide a clear view of the night sky while offering protection from the high-altitude cold. The second day focuses on the ascent to the Salkantay Pass, the most challenging section of the route. Reaching the summit provides a close-up view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Throughout the journey, you will learn about the cultural importance of the mountains and the local traditions that have shaped life in the Peruvian Andes.
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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This two-day trek explores the high-altitude landscapes of Humantay Lake and the Salkantay Pass. Starting from the base camp at Soraypampa, you will hike to the turquoise glacial waters of the lake and continue toward the mountain pass, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Peruvian Andes. Overnight accommodation is provided in luxury domes at Soraypampa, offering a more comfortable alternative to standard camping. Each private dome is equipped with comfortable beds, mattresses, and heavy blankets to keep you warm. Unlike traditional campsites, these domes include private toilets and hot showers. From your private balcony, you can take in unobstructed views of the Salkantay and Humantay glaciers. This itinerary combines the physical challenge of high-mountain trekking with the convenience of a private room and modern amenities.
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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