Salkantay Trek 2D | Hike through Glaciers, Mountains, and Andean Rainforest

Description

The 2-day Salkantay Trek is an intense and well-designed hike for travelers who want to experience the grandeur of the high Andes and the transition to the Andean rainforest in a short amount of time. This shorter version of the Salkantay Trek allows you to traverse landscapes dominated by snow-capped glaciers, open valleys, and natural trails where climate and vegetation change with every step.

During the trek, you’ll hike near the imposing Salkantay mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in the Andes, and enjoy unique panoramic views, fresh air, and pristine natural settings.

• The route combines sections of moderate effort with moments of contemplation, ideal for connecting with nature and experiencing an authentic trekking adventure in Cusco.
• The descent into the Andean rainforest marks the final contrast of the journey, with milder temperatures and verdant landscapes that herald the change in ecosystem.
• The 2-day short Salkantay Trek is perfect for adventurers with limited time who are looking for a challenging hike, spectacular scenery, and a true mountain experience, without having to go all the way to Machu Picchu.

🧭 Itinerary

🚶‍♂️Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Humantay Lagoon

The adventure begins very early with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and a ride in tourist transport to Mollepata, where we’ll make a brief stop for breakfast and final preparations before the hike. From there, we continue to Soraypampa (approx. 3,900 m a.s.l.), the starting point of the short Salkantay Trek.

We begin the ascent towards the spectacular Humantay Lagoon, one of the most iconic landscapes of trekking in Cusco. The trail offers sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks of Humantay and Salkantay, while the high-mountain environment is breathtaking, with its pure air and natural silence.

After enjoying the scenery and some time for photos, we descend again and continue to the campsite, located in a natural setting surrounded by glacial mountains. A hot dinner and rest under the starry sky typical of the Andes await.

🌿Day 2: Campsite – Salkantay Pass – Andean Rainforest – Return to Cusco

After breakfast, we begin the most challenging section of the Salkantay Trek 2D, gradually ascending to the Salkantay Pass (approx. 4,650 m a.s.l.), the highest point of the route. From the summit, the panoramic views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and deep valleys offer one of the most memorable moments of the trek.

From the pass, we begin our descent, where the landscape gradually changes: the vegetation becomes greener, the temperature warmer, and the surroundings signal our entry into the Andean cloud forest. This natural contrast is one of the great attractions of the short 2-day Salkantay Trek.

After lunch, we continue our trek to the pick-up point and return by tourist transport to the city of Cusco, concluding an intense experience of trekking, nature, and adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

✔️ Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco

We begin the adventure in comfort. Our team will pick you up from your accommodation in downtown Cusco to take you to the trekking starting point without any hassle.

✔️ Tourist Transportation

All ground transportation, both at the beginning and end of the trek. You will travel in a comfortable and safe tourist vehicle, accompanied by qualified personnel.

✔️Professional guide specializing in high-altitude mountaineering

An experienced, bilingual guide, knowledgeable about the natural and cultural environment of the Salkantay Trek, will accompany you. They will explain the geography, history, flora, and local traditions.

✔️Complete camping equipment

Includes weather-resistant tents, insulating sleeping mats, a dining tent, and all the necessary utensils for resting and eating in the mountains.

✔️First-aid kit and oxygen

For your safety, the guide carries a complete first-aid kit and portable oxygen for altitude sickness or minor emergencies.

✔️Personalized assistance throughout the trek

From your booking until your return to Cusco, our team will be available to assist you at every stage of the trip.

❌ What’s not included?

✘ Dinner on the second day

The tour ends upon your return to Cusco, therefore, dinner on the last day is not included. You are free to choose where to dine in the city.

✘ Sleeping bag

Not included, but you can rent one when making your reservation. A sleeping bag rated to -10°C is recommended for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

✘ Trekking poles

Not included, but you can rent them. They are highly recommended, especially for descents and rocky terrain.

✘ Tips for the guide and support staff

Tips are not mandatory, but

They are a common and appreciated way to acknowledge the team’s effort.

✘Bottled or alcoholic beverages

No additional beverages are included during the tour. You can purchase water or local drinks at points along the way if you wish.

✘Travel or accident insurance

We recommend purchasing international travel insurance that covers trekking activities and medical care at high altitude. It is not included in the package.

✘Entrance to hot springs or extra activities

If you wish to add any extra activities at the end of the trek (such as hot springs in Santa Teresa), these are not included in this express package.

🌟 Recommendations

➡️Acclimate before starting

It is important to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before starting the trek. This allows your body to adapt to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness (soroche).

➡️Get physically prepared

Although the tour only lasts two days, it is demanding. We recommend having a moderate level of fitness and some prior hiking experience. The ascent to Abra Salkantay is challenging, but entirely achievable with a positive attitude.

➡️Pack clothing for varied weather

The weather varies greatly on this route: in a single day you can go from freezing cold to tropical heat. It’s ideal to dress in layers: bring thermal underwear, a windbreaker, a waterproof poncho, a hat, gloves, and light clothing for the cloud forest.

➡️Choose your footwear wisely

Wear sturdy, waterproof trekking boots that you have worn before. Avoid wearing new shoes on the trail.

➡️Pack the essentials

Include sunscreen, UV sunglasses, insect repellent, a headlamp, a small towel, toilet paper, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and personal items.

➡️Stay hydrated and eat well

Drink water throughout the trek to avoid altitude sickness. The tour includes meals, but you can also bring your favorite snacks to replenish your energy between sections.

➡️Bring cash (soles)

At some points along the route, you may find drinks, snacks, or basic services, but they don’t accept cards. It’s also recommended to have cash if you wish to leave voluntary tips.

➡️Respect the natural environment

Salkantay is a sacred mountain. Do not leave trash, do not pick plants, and do not make loud noises. Respect the fauna, flora, and local communities.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the 2-day Salkantay Trek?

This trek is of moderate to challenging difficulty. The first day is the most challenging, as it involves ascending to the Salkantay Pass at over 4,600 meters above sea level. However, with acclimatization and a positive attitude, it is entirely doable.

What is the minimum recommended age for the tour?

This tour is designed for people 12 years and older, in good physical condition. Older adults can also participate if they are accustomed to long hikes.

How many kilometers are hiked per day?

Approximately 16 km on the first day (including Humantay Lagoon and the Salkantay Pass) and 12 km on the second day, through the high jungle. The total is about 28 km over 2 days.

Can I rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles?

Yes. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent a sleeping bag and trekking poles from us or when booking the tour. It is important to request this in advance.

How cold is it at night at the campsite?

In Chaullay, the temperature drops at night, but it doesn’t reach extreme levels. Even so, bring warm clothes to sleep in, especially if you are sensitive to the cold.

Can I leave luggage in Cusco during the tour?

Yes, you can leave some of your luggage at your hotel or with us. Only bring what you need for the two days of the trek.

Is travel insurance required?

It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended. Travel insurance that covers adventure activities, medical care, and high-altitude evacuation can give you greater peace of mind.