Salkantay

 

Our Salkantay tours focus on the most spectacular part of the region: the hike to Abra Salkantay (4,650 m), with the possibility of continuing towards Machu Picchu for those who wish.

We offer three different ways to experience the Salkantay region: a one-day hike to Abra Salkantay, a two-day journey combining Salkantay and Humantay Lake, or a three-day experience continuing through the Salkantay Valley to Machu Picchu.

1-day trip

We leave Curahuasi early in the morning and drive approximately two hours to Soraypampa, where our hike begins.

After breakfast at Soraypampa, we gradually climb towards Abra Salkantay (4,650 m), the highest point of the Salkantay Trek. Depending on the pace of the group, the hike to the pass takes around three to four hours. Along the way, we enjoy spectacular views of the glaciers, alpine lakes and the impressive Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m).

For those who prefer, horses can be rented in Soraypampa to assist with the climb.

After reaching the pass and taking time to enjoy the scenery, we return along the same trail to Soraypampa, where we have a well-earned lunch before driving back to Curahuasi.

Because most Salkantay trekkers continue towards Machu Picchu after crossing the pass, the trail becomes much quieter on the return hike, allowing us to enjoy the mountain landscape in peace.

Other options

For travelers with a little more time, we highly recommend extending the journey with an overnight stay in the mountains.

2-day trip: Humantay & Salkantay

We start our trip at 10:00 a.m. and drive for about two hours to the small village of Soraypampa. After lunch, we begin our hike to Humantay Lake (4,300 m).

Humantay Lake is one of the most iconic glacial lakes in the Peruvian Andes. Fed by the melting ice of the Humantay Glacier, its turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding snow-capped peaks, making it one of the most photographed landscapes in the Cusco region.

Depending on the pace of the group, the hike takes between one and two hours.

In recent years, Humantay Lake has become one of the most popular destinations in the region. To avoid the busiest hours, we deliberately leave Curahuasi later in the morning and visit the lake in the afternoon, after most of the large tour groups have already returned to Cusco. This allows us to enjoy a much quieter atmosphere while experiencing the same breathtaking scenery.

The following morning, we set off early for the hike to Abra Salkantay (4,650 m), the highest point of the Salkantay Trek. The trail takes us through spectacular mountain scenery to the foot of the majestic Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m).

After taking time to enjoy the views, we return on foot to Soraypampa before driving back to Curahuasi (approximately 2½ hours) or Cusco (approximately 3 hours 40 minutes).

For those who prefer, horses can be rented in Soraypampa to assist with the climbs.

Continue to Machu Picchu (3-days)

Instead of returning to Soraypampa after crossing Abra Salkantay, our 3-day Humantay, Salkantay & Machu Picchu itinerary continues through the cloud forest towards Santa Teresa and finally to Machu Picchu.

→ Discover the 3-day itinerary

Looking for an other option?

Humantay Lake can also be visited as a carefully timed one-day tour from Curahuasi.

→ View the 1-day Humantay tour

Good to know

During our multi-day journeys, we stay in small locally owned lodges, allowing us to experience the mountains at a relaxed pace while supporting local communities.

Because every group is different, we do not work with fixed itineraries. We are happy to adapt the route to your travel plans, interests and level of acclimatization.

Tours can start in Curahuasi or Cusco and can easily be combined with other destinations, such as the Rainbow Mountains, Waqrapukara, the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, Choquequirao, or the Manu rainforest.