Trade trekking boots for saddle and reins. This high-altitude horseback journey is designed for travelers who want to experience the power of the Andes without long hikes, riding through glacier valleys, across open puna landscapes, and into the shadow of Apu Salkantay.
Over two unforgettable days, you’ll ride to both the legendary Salkantay Pass and the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, with an overnight stay in our exclusive Soraypampa Skydomes.
Most travelers reach these locations on foot over several demanding days. This version transforms the experience into a mountain riding expedition, maintaining altitude gain, scenery, and exclusivity, but shifting the physical effort from trekking to riding.
You still get:
But now, the journey itself becomes smoother, more immersive, and uniquely Andean.
If you want to take on this experience hiking check that option here.
• Pure Horseback Focus: No trekking segments — this is a fully supported riding experience.
• Skydome Luxury: Private overnight stay in our panoramic glass domes at the foot of the glacier.
• Iconic Landmarks: Reach both Salkantay Pass and Humantay Lake in just 48 hours.
• Full Service: Trained horse handlers, professional bilingual guides, and gourmet mountain meals included.
Depart Cusco early as agricultural valleys give way to the high puna of the Vilcabamba range. Upon arrival at Soraypampa, your horses and professional arrieros await.
After a safety briefing and saddle adjustment, we begin our ascent toward Salkantay Pass.
The Experience
Ride steadily through alpine meadows and glacial valleys, gaining altitude gradually without the physical strain of hiking. The landscape opens wide as you approach 4,630 meters, the highest point of the Salkantay route.
Stand at the pass surrounded by towering peaks and prayer flags, facing the immense presence of Apu Salkantay.
We descend on horseback back to Soraypampa for a late lunch.
The Night
Retreat to your private Skydome. From your bed, watch alpenglow settle over the glacier. A chef-prepared dinner awaits in our panoramic dining hall, followed by a clear Andean night sky.
• Riding Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
• Max Altitude: 4,630m
Wake to first light touching the ice walls above camp. After a high-energy breakfast, we mount up once more, this time riding toward the iconic Humantay Lake.
The Experience
The trail climbs gently through open terrain before revealing the sudden turquoise brilliance of the lake. Arrive on horseback to one of Peru’s most photographed alpine lagoons, without the crowded uphill hike.
Take time to absorb the stillness, the glacier reflections, and the sense of scale that defines this corner of the Andes.
We return to Soraypampa for lunch before private transport brings you back to Cusco by evening.
• Riding Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
• Max Altitude: 4,200m
• Arrival in Cusco: Evening
This experience is designed to be low physical effort, as the route is completed entirely on horseback.
You don’t need prior trekking experience, and even first-time riders can comfortably enjoy the journey. Our team and horse handlers are there to guide you throughout, ensuring a safe and smooth ride.
This is the ideal way to experience the Salkantay route without the physical demands of hiking at high altitude.
Even without hiking, you’ll be traveling through high-altitude mountain terrain, so packing smart is essential:
Since horses carry the load, you won’t need to carry heavy gear during the ride.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This ensures a more controlled riding experience, personalized attention from your guide, and better coordination with the horses and support team.
The route reaches Salkantay Pass at over 4,600 meters (15,090 ft), so acclimatization is still essential—even on horseback.
We recommend arriving at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your tour. This helps your body adjust to the altitude and allows you to fully enjoy the experience.
Hydration, light meals, and proper rest beforehand will make a noticeable difference.
Porters are not necessary for this experience.
Because the journey is done on horseback, you’ll be enjoying this iconic trail without the physical strain of carrying gear or hiking long distances. Our support team and horses handle the logistics, allowing you to focus entirely on the scenery and the ride.
Yes—SkyDome Camps operates fully legally and with all required permits.
As part of the Sam Travel Corporation, we comply with all official regulations to operate in the region. Our team combines extensive local experience with a strong focus on safety, coordination, and high-quality service.
This is what allows us to deliver a seamless experience on one of the most iconic routes in the Andes—without compromise.
YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE.
Guest Reviews
Real experiences from travelers who slept under the Andean sky
I never thought I could sleep in a luxury bed while staring at the Milky Way through a transparent dome. The Salkantay glacier right in front of you at sunrise — absolutely unreal. Worth every penny.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky DomeWe did the full Salkantay Trek and stayed at the dome on night two. After a hard day of hiking, coming back to a real bed, hot shower and that view of the mountain? Nothing compares to that.
SkyDomeCamps - Salkantay TrekI have camped across Patagonia and Nepal but nothing matched this. The dome is warm, beautifully designed and the silence at 4,600m is something else entirely. I woke up at 3am just to stare at the stars.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky Dome
