The Salkantay Express Hike – 2 Days is a short but powerful adventure designed for trekkers who want to experience the best of the Andes in just two days. On Day 1, you'll conquer the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,650 m), surrounded by snowcapped peaks and dramatic mountain views. This high-altitude challenge offers a true taste of the remote wilderness and beauty that makes the Salkantay Trail famous.
On Day 2, we visit the breathtaking Humantay Lake, a turquoise glacial lagoon nestled beneath steep cliffs and glaciers. It's a peaceful and spiritual place, perfect for photos, reflection, and reconnecting with nature. This express trek is ideal for fit hikers with limited time who want to explore Peru’s most iconic natural wonders without committing to a longer itinerary. A perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and unforgettable Andean energy.
Salkantay Hike Tour Overview
The Salkantay Express Hike – 2 Days is perfect for active travelers who want a taste of the Andes without committing to a long trek. In just two days, you’ll hike through high mountain passes, take in snowcapped views, and visit the stunning Humantay Lagoon, all while surrounded by some of Peru’s most dramatic scenery. Whether you're short on time or just looking for a fast-paced adventure, this express version of the famous Salkantay Trek packs in big rewards with every step.
Tour at a Glance
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Start/End: Cusco – Cusco
Max Altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft (Salkantay Pass)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Accommodations: Scenic mountain campsite
Group Size: Small & personalized
Availability: we have daily departure with a minimun 2 and Max 8 people. we operate from April 1 to Dicembre 31st only.
Salkantay Tour Highlights
Hike to the top of the Salkantay Pass, one of Peru’s most breathtaking viewpoints
Visit the spectacular Humantay Lake, a turquoise glacial lagoon
Camp under the stars with views of towering snow-covered peaks
Ideal for experienced hikers with limited time
Full support from expert guides, chefs, and comfortable camping gear
Why Choose This Hike?
This 2-day adventure is perfect for fit travelers who want a real Andean trekking experience without spending 4 or 5 days on the trail. You’ll still enjoy remote mountain beauty, high-altitude challenge, and incredible views, but in a time-efficient format. With professional support, delicious meals, and breathtaking natural wonders, the Salkantay Express Hike is your shortcut to one of Peru’s most iconic mountain experiences.
Salkantay Hike Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Soraypampa
Your adventure begins bright and early with a 4:20 am pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll drive for about 3 hours through scenic Andean valleys until we reach Soraypampa (3,900 m), where our trekking chef will greet you with a delicious breakfast to start the day strong. After a short briefing and time to prepare your gear, we begin the hike.
The first stretch follows a gentle, uphill path for about 3 hours to Salkantaypampa, a wide, open valley with spectacular views. After a brief rest, we continue ascending for 2 more hours to reach the legendary Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), the highest point of your trek. From here, take in the unforgettable panorama of snowcapped Salkantay Mountain, considered the second-highest peak in Cusco and a sacred Apu (spirit) of the Andes. After soaking in the energy and snapping photos, we descend the same trail, now much easier as we head downhill. At Salkantaypampa, our chef will be waiting with a fresh, energizing lunch. We then continue down to Soraypampa, where we set up camp for the night surrounded by towering peaks and crisp mountain air.
Day 2: Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Soraypampa – Cusco
We begin your final day in the mountains with a hot cup of coca tea served at your tent, followed by a hearty Andean breakfast to fuel the morning ahead. After packing up, we start our hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake (4,200 m), one of the most photogenic and spiritual places in the Andes. The uphill trail takes around 1.5 hours, passing through dramatic mountain scenery, colorful highland flora, and crisp alpine air.
Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with unforgettable views of this turquoise glacial lagoon, set beneath the mighty Humantay and Salkantay peaks. Take time to enjoy the silence, reflect by the water, and snap stunning photos before beginning the gentle descent back to Soraypampa. At camp, our chef will be waiting with a delicious farewell lunch, featuring local flavors and a celebratory mood.
After resting and saying goodbye to the mountains, we board our private vehicle and begin the scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 5:00 pm, tired but thrilled, with your heart full of adventure and memories from your powerful 2-day journey.