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

The 2-day Salkantay Trek is a short but intense version of the famous route to Machu Picchu. Designed for travelers with limited time, this express experience retains the essence of the original route, traversing majestic landscapes that combine mountains, lagoons, and high jungle.

In just two days, you’ll ascend the impressive Salkantay Pass (4,630 m), visit the magical Humantay Lagoon, hike among snow-capped glaciers, rock formations, Andean valleys, and cloud forests, and explore the tropical biodiversity on the eastern side of the mountain range. Every step is a contrast of ecosystems, colors, and emotions.

This trek is perfect for people in good physical condition who want to experience a high-level adventure without disrupting their entire travel itinerary. With comfortable camping, meals included and expert guides, the Salkantay Trek 2D/1N is a short but absolutely unforgettable alternative.

🧭 Itinerary

🚶‍♂️ Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Challacancha – Humantay Lagoon – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay

Day begins with a journey from Cusco to the rural landscapes of Mollepata and then on to Challacancha, the starting point of the trek. The fresh air and the imposing mountain range mark the beginning of this journey.

The first section ascends through ravines and pastures until reaching the mystical Humantay Lagoon, located at the foot of the glacier that bears its name. Turquoise waters, fed by millennia of meltwater, create a perfect mirror reflecting the snow-capped peaks. It is a sacred place for the local communities, and also an ideal spot for meditation or simply admiring the scenery.

After this point, the most challenging part of the day begins: the ascent to Abra Salkantay, the highest point of the trek at 4,630 meters above sea level. The path narrows, the temperature drops, and the views open up to the white giants of the Andes. From the summit, the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Tucarhuay can be seen in all their splendor. The energy of the place is powerful, and it’s common for travelers to stop and pay a small tribute to the mountain with a stone or a coca leaf.

From the pass, the hike changes completely. A steep descent begins through lush, green terrain. Gradually, the rocky ground is left behind, and you enter the cloud forest, where the vegetation becomes denser and the air warmer.

The route passes natural formations, viewpoints, and agricultural areas until reaching Chaullay, a small community nestled among the mountains. There, amidst the sounds of rivers and vibrant nature, you’ll have dinner and spend the night in an eco-camp with basic amenities, ideal for resting after a physically and emotionally intense day.

Ecosystems traversed: Andean puna, high mountain, glaciers, cloud forest
Approximate distance: 16 km
Maximum altitude: 4,630 m above sea level

🌿 Day 2: Chaullay – Sahuayaco Beach – Return to Cusco

The second day begins with a more relaxed but no less fascinating hike. The trail crosses the high jungle of Salkantay, a region where nature becomes more exuberant and teeming with life. Along the way, you can see crystal-clear rivers, small waterfalls, tropical flowers, butterflies, and exotic birds.

The route also passes through plantations of coffee, bananas, avocados, and passion fruit, cultivated by local families. This is a perfect stretch to connect with the area’s agricultural culture and to take photo breaks that capture the transition between the Andean and tropical worlds.

After approximately five to six hours of hiking, you’ll reach Sahuayaco Beach, a warm, humid spot surrounded by lush vegetation, where lunch will be served (depending on the group’s schedule). From here, you’ll begin your return journey to Cusco by tourist transport, crossing the Andean valley once again towards the city.

Arrival in Cusco marks the end of a short but intense adventure, where your body will be exhausted, your senses will be awakened, and your soul will be filled with unforgettable landscapes.

Ecosystems traversed: cloud forest, tropical crops, cloud forest
Approximate distance: 12 km
Minimum altitude: 2,064 m above sea level
Climate: warm and humid

✅ 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 and transfer you to the trekking starting point without any hassle.

• Tourist Transportation Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Cusco

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

• Professional Guide Specialized in High Mountain Trekking

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

• Breakfast and lunch on the first day + dinner and breakfast on the second day

The tour includes full board during the trek. The meals are energizing, varied, and prepared by local cooks with fresh ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request.

• Daily Energy Snack

Each day you will receive a snack with fruit, cookies, or energy bars to keep you energized during the trek.

• Camping or Eco-Lodge Accommodation in Chaullay

You will spend the night in an eco-lodge with double tents, thermal sleeping mats, or basic beds, depending on availability. The accommodation is rustic yet cozy, surrounded by nature.

• 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.

❌ What’s not included?

✘ Dinner on the second day

The tour ends upon returning 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 better night’s sleep.

✘ Trekking poles

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

✘ Tips for the guide and support staff

Tips are not mandatory, but they are a common and appreciated way to acknowledge the team’s efforts.

✘ 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 after the trek (such as hot springs in Santa Teresa), these are not included in this express package.

🌟 Recommendations

➡️Acclimate before starting
It’s important to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before beginning the trek. This allows your body to adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness (soroche).

➡️Prepare yourself physically
Although the tour only lasts two days, it is demanding. We recommend having a moderate level of fitness and 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 in your backpack. Add sunscreen, UV sunglasses, insect repellent, a headlamp, a small towel, toilet paper, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and personal items.

➡️Stay hydrated and well-fed. Drink water throughout the trek to prevent 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 trail, 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 moderate to challenging. The first day is the most demanding, 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 who are 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.

Are there showers at the campsite?

Depending on the eco-lodge or campsite in Chaullay, some have basic showers with cold water. We recommend bringing wet wipes for added convenience if you prefer not to shower in rustic conditions.

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’s 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 clothing for sleeping, 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.

Does this tour include entrance to Machu Picchu?

No. This itinerary does not include Machu Picchu, as it is a shorter version of the Salkantay Trek. If you’d like to combine it with Machu Picchu, we can help you organize an extended 3, 4, or 5-day tour.

Is travel insurance necessary?

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.