Salkantay Pass: the highest point in the Salkantay Trek

The Salkantay Pass is a stunning natural wonder and is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers. The pass is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, towering glaciers, and deep valleys. The views from the pass are breathtaking, and the hike to the summit is a rewarding experience full of beautiful panoramic views. The Salkantay Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Peruvian Andes at 15,092 feet (4,600 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest mountain passes in Peru and the world. It is located right in the middle of the Vilcabamba mountain range and is the highest point of the Salkantay Trek, a popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail.

The Salkantay Trek is considered one of the toughest hikes in Peru due to the steep ascent and descent involved. The hike begins with a steep climb up the slopes of the Salkantay Mountain,  which rises to 20,560 ft (6,271 m) above sea level. The trek then continues on to the high pass of Salkantay, which is the highest point of the hike. After passing this point, the trek descends into the lush cloud forest of Santa Teresa. It's a five-day trek from the town of Mollepata, near Cusco, to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. The trek takes adventurers through a diverse range of landscapes, from lush cloud forests to majestic snow-capped mountains. 

The highlight of the trek is the Salkantay Pass, which offers spectacular views of the Salkantay Peak and the stunning Humantay Lake. It is an ideal way to experience the beauty of Peruvian Andes. The journey takes trekkers through a number of different ecosystems, giving them the chance to observe the unique flora and fauna of Peru’s highlands. Trekkers will also get the chance to explore the ruins of Inca settlements, as well as visit the majestic Humantay Lake. It is important to note that the trek is very challenging and is not suitable for inexperienced hikers. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains and altitude sickness can be a risk, so it is necessary to be prepared and adequately acclimatized.

Humantay Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenging hike. The hike to the lake is a strenuous trek, but the views from the top are worth the effort. The hike usually takes about four hours, depending on the route taken. The lake is also a sacred site for the local people. They believed Humantay’s water has spiritual powers and is sometimes used in religious ceremonies. The lake is often visited by local shamans who come to the lake to perform rituals to honor the  Apus, the sacred mountains. The lake was formed by a glacial outburst, which caused a large volume of water to rush down the mountain, carving out a stunning blue lagoon. The crystal clear waters of the lake are so vivid that they almost look like they are glowing. The surrounding landscape is composed of the rugged snow-capped Salkantay peaks and lush green valleys. Visitors to the lake marvel at its beauty and often stay there for a minute or two to breathe in and out quietly and feel part of the power of nature. 

The Salkantay Pass is a challenging trekking route, but the views and the sense of accomplishment at the end, make it well worth the effort. The trek usually takes four to five days, depending on the route taken. Along the way, trekkers can observe a variety of wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, and many bird species. They will also cross the incredible Salkantay Glacier and will be rewarded with incredible views of the mountain range and the nearby glaciers.

The Salkantay Pass is an essential part of the Salkantay Trek, and it is a must-see for anyone wishing to experience the Peruvian Andes. The views from the top of the pass are spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment at the end of the trek is unbeatable. This adventure will stay with you for a lifetime. The Salkantay Trek is an amazing journey that should not be missed by anyone looking to explore the beauty of Peru.