The Best Night in the Andes, Under the Stars
If you’re visiting Cusco and like the idea of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city for a couple of days and venturing to some of the most incredible scenery in the mountains, look no further than our 2-day Humantay Lake and Salkantay Pass hike.
Visit two of the most imposing sites in the Cusco region of Peru, Humantay Lake and Salkantay Mountain. You’ll also get to spend the night in our exclusive Sky Camp under the Andean starry sky and learn all about the constellations that were very significant in the Inca period. Join like-minded travelers on this epic 2-day trip.
Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a larger group, you can join us any day of the week on this incredible 2-day tour in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. You can escape the busy city and connect with Mother Nature in the most picturesque setting imaginable.
You’ll get to visit two of Peru’s most impressive sights. On day 1, you’ll hike up to Humantay Lake, which looks like a glistening gem against the white mountainous backdrop. On the second day, you’ll trek up the Trail of the 7 Snakes to reach the Salkantay Pass, where you’ll get some truly astounding views of the snowy Andean mountain peaks.
If that’s not enough, you can enjoy the unique experience of sleeping in our Sky Camp. There, you’ll spend the night under the Andean starry sky and look through the glass roof of your igloo.
So, what are you waiting for? Join us on this amazing trip that’ll give you an experience you’ll never forget.
DAY 01: Cusco | Challacancha – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Sky Camp
We’ll pick you up in Cusco and head to Challacancha to start the trek. With our guide, hike to Soraypampa, visit Humantay Lake in the afternoon and spend the night at our Sky Camp under the stars.
DAY 02: Sky Camp |Salkantaypampa – Salkantay Pass – Soyrococha – Soraypampa – Cusco
Hike up to Salkantay Pass via the Trail of the Seven Snakes this morning and enjoy breathtaking views before lunch. Enjoy the ride as you return to Cusco on our company vehicle.
Highlight of the day: Looking out over the gem, Humantay Lake and enjoying the drastic change of color against the white backdrop.
Hike to the Turquoise Jewel in the Andean Mountains.
Your exciting 2-day adventure begins bright and early with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco by your tour guide and driver. Our first stop will be in Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a nourishing breakfast to kickstart your journey. From there, we’ll continue to Challacancha (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the official starting point of our trek.
From Challacancha, we’ll set off on a scenic walk toward our camp in Soraypampa. This initial section is not too strenuous, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude gradually. Along the way, you’ll follow a charming Inca canal, surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes that set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Our destination is the incredible Sky Camp (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), located beneath the towering, snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our reception team and treated to an exquisite lunch. Afterward, you can unwind in your cozy igloo or explore the site before we gear up for an afternoon hike.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a gradual ascent to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). The hike will be paced to accommodate the altitude, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the turquoise lake, cradled by the snow-dusted Andes—a true natural wonder.
As night falls, we’ll return to Sky Camp for a delightful dinner under a canopy of stars. Your guide will share captivating stories about Inca astronomy, adding a touch of mysticism to the evening. When it’s time to rest, you’ll drift off while gazing at the constellations through the transparent roof of your igloo—a perfect end to an extraordinary day.
1ST DAY:
Highlight of the day: Reaching the Salkantay Pass and taking in the amazing mountain scenery.
Defeat the Trail of the Seven Snakes.
Today’s the grand day because you’ll reach the highest point of the trip; you’ll come across marvelous landscapes bordered by an impressive complex of mountains. We’ll enjoy a filling and nutritious breakfast before we gradually ascend to Salkantaypampa and then through a challenging path known as “The Trail of the 7 Snakes” until we get to the impressive Salkantay Pass at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. You’ll spend some time at the pass to take memorable photos and enjoy the fantastic landscape.
After taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and feeling the power of nature, we’ll pass through a unique rocky terrain and descend to our campsite for lunch. On the way, we’ll catch a glimpse of the vast forest of snow-covered stones from a distance. Your hard work will be greatly rewarded with incredible views everywhere you look.
After lunch at our Sky Camp, we’ll have a break before heading out on the last stretch for 30 minutes to board the transport. Along this last part of the journey, you’ll get plenty of opportunities for great photos of valleys, mountains, rivers, and farming fields. We’ll finally reach Cusco and drop you off for some well-deserved rest at your accommodation.
2ND DAY:
At Pacha Peru Explorers, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
This 2-day hike takes place at high altitude, so it’s important to be well prepared, but also to pack light. You’ll only need the essentials for a short mountain adventure.
Pacha Peru Explorers includes: 1 Duffle Bag for your belongings (up to 5 kg), which goes straight to the campsite. You won’t carry it during the hike, so bring a small backpack for what you’ll need on the trail, accessible at the campsite.
“The Humantay Lake & Salkantay Pass” can leave any day of the week, from January through December.
2025 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 280.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 100.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 180.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Notice that PayPal, credit cards charge a 6% fee for the use of their secure payment gateway. This tax is just for online and card payments. You can also pay the remaining balance in cash (the briefing day) without charges.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the Price won’t increase, whatever the circunstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Pacha Peru Explorers in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
How difficult is this hike?
This is a moderately challenging hike due to the altitude and the uphill sections, especially the climb to Humantay Lake. You’ll walk several hours each day, but the pace is steady and there are plenty of breaks. If you’re reasonably fit and acclimatized, you’ll be just fine.
What is the highest altitude on the route?
The highest point of the trek is Wayra Punku Pass (also known as Waywakunka), which sits at 4,774 m / 15,663 ft above sea level. Humantay Lake sits slightly lower, at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
What’s the weather like in Salkantay?
The weather can be unpredictable. Days are usually clear and sunny, but mornings and evenings get cold, especially near the glacier. Rain is always a possibility, even in the dry season, so bring layers and rain gear just in case.
Is camping gear included?
Yes! Pacha Peru Explorers provides everything you need: Domes – sky camps, sleeping pads, warm blankets, and even a duffle bag for your belongings. You just need to bring your clothes and personal items.
Can I rent trekking poles?
Yes, trekking poles are available for rent. While they’re optional, they’re highly recommended—especially for the uphill and downhill sections.
What if I get altitude sickness?
Altitude can affect anyone, even if you’re fit. The team carries oxygen and a first-aid kit at all times, and the pace is designed to help with acclimatization. We also recommend arriving in Cusco at least 1–2 days before the hike to adjust.
Are there toilets or showers at the campsite?
There are clean, basic toilets at the campsite, but no showers. We do provide warm water for washing up in the morning and evening.
Thank you for your interest in having and adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Pacha Peru Explorers. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. the Pacha Peru Explorers Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availlability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 950 705034 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
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Pacha Peru Explorers is a 100% peruvian, separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.
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