Difficulty
Duration
Group Size
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Inkachiriasqa Lake & Salkantay Mountain One Day Tour
Starting from
US$50
per person
The Hidden Gem of Salkantay Mountain
Inkachiriasqa Lake (also known as Inka Quiriaska) is one of the best-kept natural treasures in the Cusco region. Located at approximately 4,600 meters (15,090 ft) above sea level, this stunning glacial lake rests at the foot of the majestic snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Unlike the more crowded traditional routes, this destination offers a pristine and remote setting, ideal for travelers seeking a deep immersion into the vastness of the Andes away from the crowds of mass tourism.
Its deep turquoise waters are fed directly by the meltwater from the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a spectacular visual contrast against the rugged rocks and glaciers. Reaching its shores, after conquering the Waywakunka Pass, represents not only a physical achievement but also an experience of profound connection with the “Apus” (sacred mountains), in an environment of absolute silence and tranquility.
Key Highlights of the Destination:
- Altitude & Location: Situated at ~4,600 m.a.s.l. (15,090 ft) in the heart of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range.
- Glacial Origin: A pristine water mirror naturally fed by the melting ice from the Salkantay peaks.
- Level of Exclusivity: Significantly fewer visitors compared to destinations like Humantay Lake, guaranteeing a truly authentic expedition.
- Photographic Potential: A high-mountain environment with crystal-clear waters reflecting the glaciers, offering exceptional conditions for landscape photography.
Cusco | Limatambo – Qoyllor – Waywakunka Pass – Inkachiriasqa Lake – Cusco
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 04:00 am and 04:30 am for a comfortable and safe departure. Take advantage of this journey to rest in our transport as we head into the stunning landscapes of the mountain range. In Limatambo, we will make a strategic stop to enjoy a nutritious breakfast—the perfect time to physically prepare before beginning our high-altitude route.
Upon arriving at the village of Qoyllor, our starting point, you will feel the true Andean atmosphere. We will adjust our gear and take the first steps of this great hike, making our way to conquer the Waywakunka Pass. Here, after the first uphill section, the landscape will reward us with the first majestic panoramic views of the valley. We will then arrive at the Salkantay Viewpoint, a must-see photographic spot to closely admire the vastness of the snow-capped peak, which is one of the most sacred and imposing summits in the entire region.
Finally, we will reach our grand objective for the day: the Andean jewel, Inkachiriasqa Lake. You will have plenty of time to marvel at the glacial waters, feel the energy of the mountains, and capture unforgettable photos. Together with the Bestreks team, we will begin our descent back toward the Waywakunka Pass with the immense satisfaction of having reached the lake, hiking at a steady pace and appreciating the Andean landscape from a new perspective.
We will enjoy a comforting lunch to recharge all our energy before boarding our private transport for the return trip. Our estimated arrival time in Cusco is 06:00 pm, where we will drop you off in the Imperial City, concluding a day of intense expedition, pure nature, and total disconnection.
Tour Fact Sheet
- MEALS: Breakfast and typical lunch.
- TOTAL TRANSPORT TIME: Approx. 7 hours (round trip).
- TOTAL HIKING DISTANCE: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
- HIKING TIME: 5 hours (total round trip).
- DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate - Challenging (due to altitude, not technical difficulty).
- MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 2,554 m / 8,379 ft.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,774 m / 15,662 ft.
What Is Included?
✅ Official Specialized Tour Guide: You will have a certified professional guide, an expert in high-mountain trekking, fluent in both English and Spanish. They will accompany you throughout the route, explaining the geography and local culture, ensuring your experience is both safe and memorable.
✅ Comfortable Private Transportation: We offer a door-to-door service. We will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and bring you back at the end of the adventure. Our vehicles are fully equipped and conditioned for the demanding Andean terrain.
✅ Complete Meals:
- 01 Energizing Breakfast: To start the day strong in Limatambo.
- 01 Typical Lunch: Upon returning from the hike, we will enjoy a restorative lunch prepared with local ingredients (Vegetarian options available upon prior request).
✅ Safety and First Aid: Your safety is our top priority. Our team always carries:
- Oxygen Tank: Vital for high-altitude trekking (4,600 m.a.s.l. / 15,090 ft).
- First Aid Kit: Fully equipped to treat altitude sickness, minor cuts, or basic discomforts.
- Emergency Protocols: Our guides are trained to assess risk situations and coordinate evacuations if strictly necessary.
✅ Permits and Entrance Fees:
Inkachiriasqa Lake Entrance Ticket: Includes the official payment for access to the route, directly contributing to the development and economy of local families.
What Is Not Included?
❌ Dinner: The tour ends in Cusco at approximately 6:00 PM. Dinner is at the passenger’s own expense.
❌ Personal Mountain Gear: We do not include technical clothing or personal accessories. We highly recommend bringing:
- Trekking shoes or hiking boots.
- Thermal and waterproof clothing (jacket, pants).
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for the ascent).
- Small daypack, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
❌ Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers adventure activities and medical evacuation, given that we will be in remote areas at over 4,000 m.a.s.l. (13,123 ft).
❌ Tips (Optional): If you enjoyed the service of our guide and driver, a tip is always welcome as a token of appreciation, although it is completely voluntary.
❌ Unforeseen Expenses (Force Majeure): We are not responsible for additional expenses arising from situations beyond our operational control, such as:
- Natural disasters or extreme weather conditions (e.g., heavy snowfall closing the road).
- Strikes, road blockades, or social unrest.
- Passenger health issues during the tour.
- Delays or itinerary changes made for safety reasons.
Tour Price: Inkachiriasqa Lake (Full Day)
- Private Service Price: US$ 50.00 per person.
- Price Guarantee: Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Before booking, please ensure you have carefully read all the important information regarding the tour.
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations within 24 hours of the trip: This will be considered a “No Show.” The deposit will not be refunded, as this amount covers the cancellation penalties for transport reservations and the assigned guide’s fees.
Voluntary Abandonment (Dropping Out): If you decide not to continue during the hike due to fatigue or physical discomfort, you may return and wait safely in the transport. No partial refunds will be issued for not completing the route or failing to reach the lake.
What to Bring to Inkachiriasqa Lake? (packing list)
To make the most of this expedition and combat the extreme cold at high altitude, we highly recommend packing your backpack with the following:
- Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: Essential for protecting yourself from the freezing wind and possible precipitation on the mountain.
- Thermal Clothing: Base layers (top and bottom) to retain body heat.
- Trekking Pants: Comfortable and quick-drying (avoid jeans, as they do not retain heat if they get wet).
- Warm Accessories: Thick gloves (preferably waterproof), a warm woolen hat (beanie or traditional chullo), and a scarf or neck gaiter (like a Buff).
- Trekking Shoes/Boots: With good ankle support and non-slip soles. You are very likely to encounter wet or uneven terrain on the trail.
- Trekking Socks: Made of wool or synthetic materials (avoid cotton) to prevent blisters and keep your feet warm.
- Complete Sun Protection: Sunglasses with certified UV protection (mandatory), sunscreen (SPF 50+ or higher), a sun hat or cap, and lip balm, as the wind and sun dry out the skin very quickly.
- Small Daypack (20-30L): To comfortably carry water, extra warm clothing, and your camera.
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended to help with the ascent and maintain balance in downhill or slippery areas.
- Hydration: A water bottle or hydration bladder (minimum 2 liters per person) to stay hydrated and mitigate the effects of altitude.
- Energy Snacks: Nuts, chocolates, granola bars, or lemon/coca candies to consume along the route.
- Camera and Power Bank: The landscapes are unique, but the extreme cold drains cell phone and camera batteries very quickly.
- Cash (Peruvian Soles): For minor purchases along the route, potential emergency horse rentals, or tips (there are no ATMs in the area).
Personal Medication: If you take any specific prescription medication or preventive pills for altitude sickness (such as Acetazolamide).
