Unique 2-Day Salkantay Trek with Humantay Lake and Inkachiriasqa Lagoon with Tunqui Expeditions is one of Peru’s premier trekking and adventure.
Most hikers on the classic Salkantay Trek spend the first day hiking from Soraypampa and the second day climbing to the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 m (15,091 ft).
But with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll experience a different and exclusive route that no one else offers. Instead of following the usual path, we take you to the hidden Inkachiriasqa Lagoon, a crystal-clear lake located beside the mighty Salkantay Mountain — even more dazzling than Humantay Lake. You’ll see for yourself which one is more crystalline!
What Makes This Trek Unique
The 2-Day Salkantay Trek is the perfect choice if you’re short on time but want to experience the magic of the Andes. Walk ancient trails, discover sacred landscapes, and feel the energy of the mountains with Tunqui Expeditions, a local company that knows every corner of these sacred lands.
✨ Book now and create memories for a lifetime while traveling responsibly and sustainably.
Discover the Andes in Just 2 Day — Recognized by National Geographic Adventure as one of the Top 25 Treks in the World, the Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes. On this short but intense adventure, you’ll explore the stunning Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Sustainable Camping, Better Experience?
Unlike commercialized tours that promote “glamping,” we at Tunqui Expeditions believe in responsible and sustainable travel. You will stay in high-quality tents, enjoy delicious Andean meals prepared by our fantastic chef, and travel in small groups for a more authentic and eco-friendly experience. By choosing us, you support a local company that respects Pachamama (Mother Earth) and protects the environment.
Start your journey with a scenic drive to Soraypampa, then hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, one of the most famous gems of the Andes. In the afternoon, continue to Salkantay Base Camp, where you’ll camp in high-quality tents and fall asleep under a starry Andean sky.
Accommodation: Premium camping tents
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Rise early and hike to the secluded Inkachiriasqa Lagoon, a hidden treasure near Salkantay Mountain with waters even clearer than Humantay. After exploring this unique natural wonder, descend back to Soraypampa for lunch and return to Cusco in private transport.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
✨ This 2-Day Salkantay Trek with Humantay Lake and Inkachiriasqa Lagoon is one of the most unique and sustainable adventures in Peru, designed for travelers who want authenticity, natural beauty, and a deeper connection with the Andes.
Highlight of the Day: Hiking to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon, framed by majestic snow-capped peaks.
Hike to the Turquoise Gem of the Andes
Your 2-Day Salkantay Trek begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. After a scenic drive, we stop in Mollepata and Soraypampa to enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast with stunning viewpoints of the valley.
From Soraypampa, your adventure begins with a steady hike to the magical Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), one of the most famous jewels of the Peruvian Andes. Take your time to breathe in the crisp mountain air, admire the glowing turquoise waters, and capture incredible photos.
We then continue to Salkantay Pampa, where you’ll be welcomed with a freshly prepared lunch before heading toward our campsite at Salkantay Base Camp (4,750 m / 15,584 ft).
At camp, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Mollepata Valley, Apurimac River, and hidden mountain lagoons. As night falls, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our expert chef, then gaze up at the constellations that illuminate the Andean sky.
Highlight of the Day: Reaching the hidden Inkachiriasqa Lake, a crystalline lagoon near the mighty Salkantay Mountain.
Discover the Hidden Lagoon of Salkantay
After a hearty breakfast surrounded by mountain silence, we begin the ascent toward Inkachiriasqa Lake (approx. 4,600 m / 15,091 ft). This hidden turquoise lagoon, more crystalline than Humantay, lies at the base of the towering Salkantay Mountain. Few travelers ever get to see it — this exclusive route was designed by Tunqui Expeditions for a truly unique experience.
At the pass, take in the dramatic scenery of glaciers, rocky peaks, and deep valleys — a perfect moment to feel the power of the Andes. After celebrating this achievement, we descend toward Soyrococha for a well-deserved lunch.
From there, a short walk takes us to Soraypampa, where our private transport awaits for the return journey to Cusco. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Andean valleys, rivers, farms, and snow-capped peaks before arriving back at your hotel in Cusco.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we make sure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey. Our 2-Day Salkantay Trek with Humantay & Inkachiriasqa Lagoons includes:
We believe the small touches are what set us apart from other local companies. You will receive:
We offer round-the-clock phone service to ensure constant communication with Tunqui Expeditions before your trek.
Our guides carry fully charged satellite phones for emergencies, allowing connection from any point on the mountain. Clients may use them as well for non-emergency situations if needed.
From the first lunch to the last breakfast, we will provide boiled, filtered, and cooled drinking water. Please bring a CamelBak or water bottle (minimum 2L capacity) to refill at each meal.
Every morning, our team will greet you with a hot cup of coca tea delivered to your tent or dome.
Each afternoon before dinner, we’ll serve hot drinks, popcorn, cookies, biscuits, and more. No need to wait for dinner to relax and warm up!
Each morning, your guide will provide a fabric snack bag filled with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies. We refill it daily.
You’ll receive a small towel and soap before each meal to wash your hands.
Ethical and Responsible Treatment of Our Porters
Our porters are the backbone of every journey. Founder Silvio Tunqui began his career as a porter and understands their challenges firsthand. We offer:
Porters’ Trips to Machu Picchu
Every year, we organize 4 trips to Machu Picchu for our team and their families—many of whom walk the trail dozens of times but never see the sanctuary itself.
Equality Matters
Since 2022, our team has included female guides, cooks, and porters. We continue working toward gender balance in all our expeditions.
Sustainable & Responsible Operator
We are leaders in eco-tourism. We follow a zero-impact policy, clean up trash left by other groups, and use biodegradable, local products whenever possible.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about traveling with us—all in one place.
Still have questions? 💬 Contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail and is best suited for adventurous hikers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. The trek to the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) isn’t extremely steep or exhausting since it’s reached early in the hike. However, it still requires stamina and proper acclimatization in Cusco beforehand.
It’s very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before taking on the physical demands of the trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adapt and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been at high altitudes in other parts of Peru, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover, and enjoy the sights before your adventure.
Suggested tours before your trek:
Here are a few recommended activities near Cusco to enjoy before your adventure:
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm the day before your tour begins. Briefings typically last 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend at that time, please coordinate an alternate meeting time via email, phone, or in person at our office.
Any remaining trek balance must be paid at least 2 days before your trek to confirm your reservation.
We appreciate cash payments in USD or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office. You can withdraw both currencies from ATMs along Avenida El Sol.
If needed, we also accept payment by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person. Please note: a 5% service fee applies for card and PayPal payments.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You will receive a Duffel Bag during the briefing. It will be carried by our porters or muleteers along the route and handed to you at each campsite.
Duffel Bag Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in)
Max weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lb (including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and other personal items)
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage at our office (arranged during the briefing or via email), or at your hotel—free of charge.
Any items not needed on the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Most hotels offer this service. We recommend placing valuable items in the hotel’s safe and requesting a detailed receipt—some travel insurance companies require this in the event of theft.
For peace of mind, seal valuables like credit cards in signed envelopes.
We can pick you up from your hotel as long as it’s located within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Pick-up time will be coordinated during the briefing, but please note it may vary by 30–45 minutes due to traffic.
Important: Cusco has many narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be located on streets inaccessible to vehicles or on steep hills. We strongly recommend booking a hotel with easy access.
Our group tours are made up of people of various ages and fitness levels. By joining a group trek, you accept that some may walk faster or slower than you. Everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If a group wishes to modify the itinerary, any changes will be decided by the guide, in consultation with all participants.
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and can sometimes affect travel plans. Roads and train tracks may be blocked.
If this happens, we will do everything possible to keep your tour running as planned, even if it means departing the night before your scheduled trek.
However, tours may be canceled in extreme cases. If this occurs, all changes or cancellations will be coordinated with you by our operations team. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll make decisions accordingly.
Please be mindful of your belongings. Be sure to collect all your items when leaving our transportation, tents, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your personal belongings during the trek.
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek, we recommend bringing the following items. Please read carefully and prepare accordingly.
Our muleteers or porters will carry up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) of your personal gear.
This must include your sleeping bag and air mattress (if bringing or renting). Together, these typically weigh about 3.5 kg (7.7 lb).
The Unique 2-Day Salkantay Base Trek is available all year round.
We operate with a minimum of 2 people and guarantee departures even if the group is small.
Guaranteed Departures with small groups for a more personalized experience.
⚠️ Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee, which we kindly ask you to cover. This fee only applies to the online deposit. The remaining balance in Cusco is paid in cash with no extra fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may also add the following extras to your trek:
Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that your price will not increase, regardless of any external circumstances.
Please make sure to read all the important tour information before confirming your reservation.
Discover the Andes in Just 2 Day — Recognized by National Geographic Adventure as one of the Top 25 Treks in the World, the Salkantay Trek is an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes. On this short but intense adventure, you’ll explore the stunning Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Sustainable Camping, Better Experience?
Unlike commercialized tours that promote “glamping,” we at Tunqui Expeditions believe in responsible and sustainable travel. You will stay in high-quality tents, enjoy delicious Andean meals prepared by our fantastic chef, and travel in small groups for a more authentic and eco-friendly experience. By choosing us, you support a local company that respects Pachamama (Mother Earth) and protects the environment.
Start your journey with a scenic drive to Soraypampa, then hike to the turquoise Humantay Lake, one of the most famous gems of the Andes. In the afternoon, continue to Salkantay Base Camp, where you’ll camp in high-quality tents and fall asleep under a starry Andean sky.
Accommodation: Premium camping tents
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Rise early and hike to the secluded Inkachiriasqa Lagoon, a hidden treasure near Salkantay Mountain with waters even clearer than Humantay. After exploring this unique natural wonder, descend back to Soraypampa for lunch and return to Cusco in private transport.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
✨ This 2-Day Salkantay Trek with Humantay Lake and Inkachiriasqa Lagoon is one of the most unique and sustainable adventures in Peru, designed for travelers who want authenticity, natural beauty, and a deeper connection with the Andes.
Highlight of the Day: Hiking to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lagoon, framed by majestic snow-capped peaks.
Hike to the Turquoise Gem of the Andes
Your 2-Day Salkantay Trek begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. After a scenic drive, we stop in Mollepata and Soraypampa to enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast with stunning viewpoints of the valley.
From Soraypampa, your adventure begins with a steady hike to the magical Humantay Lagoon (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), one of the most famous jewels of the Peruvian Andes. Take your time to breathe in the crisp mountain air, admire the glowing turquoise waters, and capture incredible photos.
We then continue to Salkantay Pampa, where you’ll be welcomed with a freshly prepared lunch before heading toward our campsite at Salkantay Base Camp (4,750 m / 15,584 ft).
At camp, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Mollepata Valley, Apurimac River, and hidden mountain lagoons. As night falls, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our expert chef, then gaze up at the constellations that illuminate the Andean sky.
Highlight of the Day: Reaching the hidden Inkachiriasqa Lake, a crystalline lagoon near the mighty Salkantay Mountain.
Discover the Hidden Lagoon of Salkantay
After a hearty breakfast surrounded by mountain silence, we begin the ascent toward Inkachiriasqa Lake (approx. 4,600 m / 15,091 ft). This hidden turquoise lagoon, more crystalline than Humantay, lies at the base of the towering Salkantay Mountain. Few travelers ever get to see it — this exclusive route was designed by Tunqui Expeditions for a truly unique experience.
At the pass, take in the dramatic scenery of glaciers, rocky peaks, and deep valleys — a perfect moment to feel the power of the Andes. After celebrating this achievement, we descend toward Soyrococha for a well-deserved lunch.
From there, a short walk takes us to Soraypampa, where our private transport awaits for the return journey to Cusco. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Andean valleys, rivers, farms, and snow-capped peaks before arriving back at your hotel in Cusco.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we make sure you have everything you need for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey. Our 2-Day Salkantay Trek with Humantay & Inkachiriasqa Lagoons includes:
We believe the small touches are what set us apart from other local companies. You will receive:
We offer round-the-clock phone service to ensure constant communication with Tunqui Expeditions before your trek.
Our guides carry fully charged satellite phones for emergencies, allowing connection from any point on the mountain. Clients may use them as well for non-emergency situations if needed.
From the first lunch to the last breakfast, we will provide boiled, filtered, and cooled drinking water. Please bring a CamelBak or water bottle (minimum 2L capacity) to refill at each meal.
Every morning, our team will greet you with a hot cup of coca tea delivered to your tent or dome.
Each afternoon before dinner, we’ll serve hot drinks, popcorn, cookies, biscuits, and more. No need to wait for dinner to relax and warm up!
Each morning, your guide will provide a fabric snack bag filled with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies. We refill it daily.
You’ll receive a small towel and soap before each meal to wash your hands.
Ethical and Responsible Treatment of Our Porters
Our porters are the backbone of every journey. Founder Silvio Tunqui began his career as a porter and understands their challenges firsthand. We offer:
Porters’ Trips to Machu Picchu
Every year, we organize 4 trips to Machu Picchu for our team and their families—many of whom walk the trail dozens of times but never see the sanctuary itself.
Equality Matters
Since 2022, our team has included female guides, cooks, and porters. We continue working toward gender balance in all our expeditions.
Sustainable & Responsible Operator
We are leaders in eco-tourism. We follow a zero-impact policy, clean up trash left by other groups, and use biodegradable, local products whenever possible.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about traveling with us—all in one place.
Still have questions? 💬 Contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail and is best suited for adventurous hikers who can handle higher altitudes and longer distances. The trek to the famous Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft) isn’t extremely steep or exhausting since it’s reached early in the hike. However, it still requires stamina and proper acclimatization in Cusco beforehand.
It’s very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before taking on the physical demands of the trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adapt and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been at high altitudes in other parts of Peru, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover, and enjoy the sights before your adventure.
Suggested tours before your trek:
Here are a few recommended activities near Cusco to enjoy before your adventure:
All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm the day before your tour begins. Briefings typically last 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend at that time, please coordinate an alternate meeting time via email, phone, or in person at our office.
Any remaining trek balance must be paid at least 2 days before your trek to confirm your reservation.
We appreciate cash payments in USD or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office. You can withdraw both currencies from ATMs along Avenida El Sol.
If needed, we also accept payment by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person. Please note: a 5% service fee applies for card and PayPal payments.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You will receive a Duffel Bag during the briefing. It will be carried by our porters or muleteers along the route and handed to you at each campsite.
Duffel Bag Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in)
Max weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lb (including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and other personal items)
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage at our office (arranged during the briefing or via email), or at your hotel—free of charge.
Any items not needed on the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Most hotels offer this service. We recommend placing valuable items in the hotel’s safe and requesting a detailed receipt—some travel insurance companies require this in the event of theft.
For peace of mind, seal valuables like credit cards in signed envelopes.
We can pick you up from your hotel as long as it’s located within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Pick-up time will be coordinated during the briefing, but please note it may vary by 30–45 minutes due to traffic.
Important: Cusco has many narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be located on streets inaccessible to vehicles or on steep hills. We strongly recommend booking a hotel with easy access.
Our group tours are made up of people of various ages and fitness levels. By joining a group trek, you accept that some may walk faster or slower than you. Everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If a group wishes to modify the itinerary, any changes will be decided by the guide, in consultation with all participants.
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and can sometimes affect travel plans. Roads and train tracks may be blocked.
If this happens, we will do everything possible to keep your tour running as planned, even if it means departing the night before your scheduled trek.
However, tours may be canceled in extreme cases. If this occurs, all changes or cancellations will be coordinated with you by our operations team. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll make decisions accordingly.
Please be mindful of your belongings. Be sure to collect all your items when leaving our transportation, tents, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your personal belongings during the trek.
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek, we recommend bringing the following items. Please read carefully and prepare accordingly.
Our muleteers or porters will carry up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) of your personal gear.
This must include your sleeping bag and air mattress (if bringing or renting). Together, these typically weigh about 3.5 kg (7.7 lb).
The Unique 2-Day Salkantay Base Trek is available all year round.
We operate with a minimum of 2 people and guarantee departures even if the group is small.
Guaranteed Departures with small groups for a more personalized experience.
⚠️ Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee, which we kindly ask you to cover. This fee only applies to the online deposit. The remaining balance in Cusco is paid in cash with no extra fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may also add the following extras to your trek:
Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that your price will not increase, regardless of any external circumstances.
Please make sure to read all the important tour information before confirming your reservation.
