Salkantay and Humantay Lake Hike 2D

Salkantay Trek 2-Day Hike includes:

• Pre-departure briefing.
• Transfer from your accommodation in the historic center of Cusco.
• Return to your accommodation (historic city center).
• Professional local guide in English, Spanish, and other languages.
• Entrance tickets to Salkantay.
• Pack horses to transport all camping equipment.
• Camping equipment: Dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and kitchen equipment.
• Duffel bag with a capacity of up to 8 kg (17 lbs) for your belongings.
• First aid kit, oxygen supply.
• 1 night of camping in comfortable North Face or Hard Wear tents.
• Sleeping mat, rain poncho, hand towels.
• Experienced chef to prepare meals: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• All meals on the trail, except for dinner on the last day.
• Wake-up tea every morning.
• Afternoon tea.
• Daily water and snacks.

Salkantay Trek 2-Day Hike does not include:

• Dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, trekking poles.
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Tips.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

What to pack in your backpack:

• Original passport: Always keep your passport in a safe place, preferably in a waterproof case or a sealed plastic bag.
• Sunscreen: You’ll be walking under open skies and exposed to the sun. Make sure to bring adequate sunscreen or buy it in Cusco before departure.
• Toilet paper: Bathrooms at stops may have a fee, so bring small change and make sure to carry your own toilet paper.
• Waterproof jacket and thermal jacket: Mornings will be very cold, so it's important to have warm clothing. As you warm up, you can remove layers and store them in your backpack.
• Energy snacks: Although meals and snacks are included, it’s a good idea to bring energy bars, granola, chocolate, or candy to refuel during long hikes.
• Water bottle: Bring a reusable container of at least 2 liters, such as a Camelback. Water will be provided starting from the first lunch.
• Flashlight or headlamp: Essential for moving around camp and using the bathrooms at night. Headlamps are useful for keeping your hands free.
• Hat and gloves: Bring a hat to protect you from the sun during the day and something warmer for the night. Gloves are also useful for the cold mornings.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the intense sunlight at the high altitudes of Salkantay.
• Extra money: It’s recommended to carry around 600 soles (approximately $200) for emergencies. It’s useful for bathrooms, souvenirs, snacks, and tips.
• Personal medications: Bring band-aids, altitude sickness pills (Diamox), Pepto Bismol, ibuprofen, Imodium, motion sickness medicine, and feminine products.
• Camera or mobile phone: Don’t forget something to capture the incredible views.

What to pack in the duffel bag:

• Sleeping bag: Temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Be sure to bring a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F), or rent one.
• Hiking boots: Trekking boots are highly recommended instead of sneakers.
• Sandals: After a long hike, they’re useful for relaxing at camp.
• Wool socks: Thick and comfortable socks for hiking.
• Lightweight socks: To wear after the hike.
• Underwear: Bring enough in case they get wet.
• Breathable hiking pants: Leggings are also a comfortable option.
• Sweatpants: Ideal for relaxing in the afternoons and mornings.
• Long-sleeve shirts: Preferable for sun and cold protection.
• Wet wipes, tissues, and a small towel.
• Swimsuit: Optional, if you decide to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Trekking poles: You can bring your own or rent a pair.
• Air mattress: Foam mattresses are provided, but you can bring or rent an air mattress for extra comfort.

How many days do I need to acclimatize before the trek?

It is very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before embarking on a trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins to help you acclimatize and avoid potential altitude sickness during the hike. If you have already been in another high-altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend taking a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travels, and enjoy the sights.

Travel to Cusco.

Cusco airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It’s important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any change in weather can halt air traffic. If you prefer an overland alternative, buses are a viable option, though the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to reach Cusco.

Pick-ups.

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it is located in the Historic Center of Cusco. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but keep in mind that the wait time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets, which can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas with no vehicle access or on steep climbs, making luggage transfer challenging. It’s advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transportation.

Luggage storage.

You can safely store any extra luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you are on the trek. We will store your luggage for you on the morning of your trek departure and return it to you once you get back to Cusco. It’s important to make sure your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.

Altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness occurs when there is less oxygen available in the air at high altitudes. It can affect some travelers regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. Common symptoms include headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. While some people will recover quickly, for others, the condition may persist for several days if not properly treated. We recommend following these suggestions to reduce the likelihood and severity of altitude sickness.

Before traveling, it is advisable to speak with your doctor. They may recommend taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication that can help reduce symptoms if taken one or two days before the trip begins.

It is important to stay properly hydrated. Drink plenty of water before and during your stay. Some people find saline nasal sprays or drops beneficial.

Upon arrival, it is recommended to take it easy and allow your body to adjust by lying down for a period of 10 to 15 minutes. Try to rest as much as possible during your journey, as overexertion can worsen symptoms.

Before heading to high-altitude locations, it’s best to follow a light diet. Opt for easily digestible foods like fish, chicken, and hot soups. Avoid fatty foods, beef, lamb, and beverages with caffeine or alcohol.

Coca tea, mint tea, and muña tea can alleviate symptoms.

Using oxygen properly will be beneficial for your recovery.

Weather.

The weather on Mount Salkantay varies greatly due to its altitude and location in the Andes. At high altitudes, such as at the Salkantay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), temperatures can be cold, especially at night, with lows dropping below 0°C (32°F). During the day, temperatures can range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). In the dry season (May to September), the weather is more stable with less rainfall, while in the rainy season (November to March), it is more humid, with frequent rain and possible storms.

The weather is unpredictable, and sudden changes from sun to cold or even snow in higher areas are common.

First aid.

Every Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. When accompanying you on the trek, they will carry a first aid kit for basic medical situations and oxygen. They will take good care of you. In case something unexpected happens and you feel unable to complete the trek, they will determine the safest and quickest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic in Cusco.

Food.

All meals and snacks will be provided throughout the trek, up until the last lunch. We understand you may be concerned about the quality of the food. While each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent with a portable stove, our clients are always satisfied with the quality of the dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each trekking day, a delicious dinner awaits you, cooked in the heart of the Andes, sure to exceed your expectations for meals on the Salkantay trek.

We use fresh ingredients sourced from Cusco’s market and transported by pack horses led by our muleteers. These ingredients are then prepared by our chefs to ensure that every meal is fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Do you have special dietary needs? No worries, we are equipped to cater to vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies.

Water.

Ausangate Adventure will ensure water is available at every meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before being served to our clients, ensuring it is safe to drink. However, for the first morning of the trek, you must bring your own water due to the preparation process. It’s recommended to start the hike with 2-3 liters of water, so make sure you have a large enough bottle or a Camelback to store it.

Environmental impact.

At Ausangate Adventure, we use naturally degradable soap and ensure all waste is brought back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and pick up waste. We are committed to preserving and conserving our environment by managing waste responsibly. We adopt practices that minimize our environmental impact.

Protests and strikes.

Protests and strikes are common in Peru and may affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may stop. However, we will do our best to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means departing the night before. In some cases, trips may be canceled. If there are any changes, our operations team will communicate with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.

Lost items.

Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect everything when leaving our vehicles, camps, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.

$260 per person.

Student Discount.

$20 discount for students.

Student discounts apply to anyone with a valid university student ID at the time of booking. We will need a copy of the ID with the reservation. For those booking for children aged 17 or younger, we need a copy of their passport at the time of booking. Please send all documents to info@ausangateadventure.com.

• Price 450 dollars per person from 6 people
• From 4 people 550 dollars per person
• From 2 people $1,650 per person

Discount for students. $20 discount per student. Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid university student card at the time. We will need a copy of the card in the reservation. For those booking children aged 17 and under, we require a copy of their passport at the time of booking. please send everything to: info@ausangateadventure.com