Ancascocha Trek To Machu Picchu 5 days
5 Days & 4 Nights /
starting from US $780 per person
Trek
Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days – is an alternative trek that leads you to Machu Picchu citadel hiking through the mountains in the Andes within the Vilcanota mountain range. Ancascocha trek is an incredible route to encounter absolute tranquility since it is one of the least explored routes in the region but offers amazing Andean landscapes, local fauna, and incredible Incan remains full of stories, which make it a unique and remarkable hiking experience. This hiking tour promises to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories, making your adventure to Machu Picchu unforgettable. The name of this relatively new road comes from a small blue turquoise lake called Laguna Ancascocha; the trail traverses three mountain passes, Andean valleys, and of course impressive archaeological remains scattered along the way.
The Ancascocha Trek is an off-the-beaten-path into the Vilcanota range mountains, a new alternative road, and one of the lesser explored destinations dotted with some undisclosed sites. This alternative trek is designated among the 20 dream hiking activities by National Geographic since the road joins the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on its fourth day of adventure.
Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu begins at Soqma Village, two hours away from Cusco city, a small village tucked away between mountains, inhabited by friendly and welcoming people who will invite you to visit Perolniyoc waterfall and Qorimarca archeological remains.
Kuntur Peru Travel invites you to venture through the Ancascocha trek and explore some of the antique sites that have not yet been uncovered and have been preserved in time for centuries.
Learn more about our exclusive Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with our travel experts. We are not here just to provide information; we are passionate about crafting customized Machu Picchu trips, making sure that every detail is tailored to your wishes, making it a truly extraordinary adventure.
Unlike other hiking routes, Ancascocha Trek 5 days stands out for being an off-the-beaten-track trekking route that offers its high Andean beauty, archaeological monuments, and historical accounts of the Andean culture from the first day of adventure.
Discover a Hidden Gem Venturing the Andes, through the Splendorous Ancascocha Peru Trek.
This five day adventure will take you to the Peruvian Andes, exploring remote villages, local farmlands, stunning Incan monuments, and Andean wildlife. Hear the stories of the Andean culture and discover Machu Picchu, ¨The lost Inca city¨. Don't miss the chance to explore and live a life time experience with Kuntur Peru Travel.
We pick you up early from your hotel and drive one and a half hours to the Soqma community. In its 10 km distance and seven hours of trekking, you will visit Perolniyoc waterfall, the Qorimarca Inca site, on the way to Rayanniyoc, our first campsite.
Today we will continue 2 hours uphill to Kuychiccasa pass, then descend to the Ancascocha community, continuing the valley to the campsite by the Ancascocha lagoon. We will hike a 13 km distance and roughly 8 hours of hiking.
Today will be an overwhelming day, as you will have a long day hiking roughly 14 km distance, it is about 8 hours total hiking, but you will have stunning views of snow-capped mountains, Andean landscapes, and Inca sites.
Today we join the official Inca Trail at Wayllabamba village, continuing toward Piscacucho, the end of our journey. We will hike for about 6 hours and a 12 km distance, then on board our private transport to Ollantaytambo, and lastly, two hours train ride to Aguas Calientes town.
Visit Machu Picchu citadel, and reveal its mysteries on 3 hours guided tour accompanied by your trekking guide. In the afternoon, take the train back to Ollantaytambo. Then, drive back to the hotel in Cusco City, end of the service.
The hike to Ancascocha is an adventure that offers a deep connection to nature and Inca history. Here are four highlights that travelers will absolutely love:
Spectacular Scenery: The Ancascocha route uncovers some of the most impressive and least explored landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Travelers can expect stunning views of snow-capped peaks, pristine glacial lakes, and lush valleys.
Ancient Inca Sites: Along the way, hikers will discover well-preserved Inca archaeological sites, such as the ruins of Qorimarca and Paucarcancha. These sites offer an insight into the Incas history, and we believe this is the perfect introduction before you visit Machu Picchu.
Cultural Encounters: This expedition will lead you through remote Andean villages, offering you the chance to interact with the local Quechua-speaking communities. Travelers will learn about traditional agricultural practices, weaving, and the enduring culture of the Andean people.
Challenging Adventure: The Ancascocha trek is known for its beautiful landscapes but also for its challenging terrain, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an authentic and physically demanding trek.
Ancascocha trek is rated as a challenging or advanced hike, considering the high altitudes and length of walking it is considered 6 strenuous summits difficulty. It is suggested a previous training hiking, have a multi-day trekking experience, and acclimatize some days before the trekking. This trekking experience can be done year-round. However, you will have a better experience during the dry season. (March – November)
Our itineraries are designed to provide you with accurate information on all the routes and tours we offer. The distances and altitudes described are exact references that you will experience along the way. The times mentioned are average to a standard hiker in suitable conditions. However, this may vary according to your physical preparation, the weather conditions during the trek, and the number of participants. In addition, lunch and camping locations may change accordingly to adapt to the circumstances and needs of the group.
The expedition to Machu Picchu throughout the Ancascocha trail begins from Cusco or Urubamba Valley. We will pick you up from your hotel and embark on a 1.5-hour drive to Soqma at 3,000 m (9,842 ft.), an isolated community in the middle of the mountains.
After breakfast in Soqma, we will go further into the community through small farms; it will take us about one and a half hours to reach Perolniyoc waterfall, a hidden but impressive site where we will get the chance to cool off with the water breezes, following the trail uphill for one more hour we will find Qorimarca, an Inca site built on the hilltop a strategic place with breathtaking vistas overlooking Soqma community, the perfect place for a break to take photos while hearing the Incan stories from your trekking guide.
After a short tour around the site, we will continue to the first campsite at Rayanniyoc at 3,700 m (12,139 ft.), where we will find our tents already set up on the camp.
Spend the rest of the evening indulging in the serenity of nature at Rayanniyoc, surrounded by mountains and the Soqma Valley. Later in the evening, we will enjoy our dinner under a starry sky and beautiful constellations.
Our second day of adventure in the mountains starts with a cup of freshly brewed tea to wake you up in your tent.
After breakfast, we will catch the trail uphill to Kuychicassa Pass, a two-hour hike through a highland landscape and Andean grassland that will take us 4,500 m. (14,764 ft.) to Kuychiccasa pass, the second highest point on the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu, at 4,500 m / 14,764 ft. This part of the Ancascocha trek is quite demanding because of the altitude, but it’s worth it because of the breathtaking views we get, the Sacred Valley and its steep mountain peaks; Chancachuco Valley and its views of the Veronica snow-capped Mountain (5,682m /18,642ft) at the other site, we continue on our hike downhill for lunch at 4,350m / 14272ft.
In the afternoon, the hike continues around the mountainside and downhill to Ancascocha Community at 3,900m / 12,795ft. We will hike through the valley towards our campsite, alongside the Ancascocha lagoon, surrounded by high mountain peaks.
On our third day of adventure, we will be rewarded with views of Ancascocha Lagoon, glacier peaks, Inca ruins, and more.
From the campsite, we will hike uphill for two hours to the highest point on our journey to the Ancascocha trail, towards Huayanay Pass at 4,750 m/ 15,200 ft. From the pass, we will descend to the valley, then continue on the side of the steep slope mountain to the lookout point of the valley; the trail continues downhill to our lunch spot at Quesqa, another remote community in the middle of the mountains.
The second part of the hike today is much easier, as the trail is relatively flat, we will be able to see part of the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu far in the distance, and farther away will arrive at the Incaracay site, remains of what once was the Inca guard residence, continuing the way for another hour, we will get to Paucarcancha, an archeological remain (3,120 m / 10,236 ft.) Take a break while hearing some stories from your trekking guide. Our campsite is near the Inca site.
Today’s adventure is shorter than the last three days on the trail, as you will have 5 hours hiking the opposite way to those trekking the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Today’s highlight is Llactapata, a hidden citadel in the middle of the mountains; further ahead, get the chance to witness Canabamba, the last archaeological site we will see today. After one more hour of hiking, we will get to Piscacucho, the trailhead of the Inca Trail, but to us, our lunch place. In the afternoon, we will take our private transportation to Ollantaytambo train station to board the train, which will take you to Aguas Calientes town 2,040 m /6,693 ft. The train ride is a fantastic experience, as you will witness the change of vegetation descending to the Andean cloud forest. Aguas Calientes town is the gateway to Machu Picchu citadel. Tonight, you will stay in a 3* hotel room, explore the town, or enjoy the hot springs while waiting for our last dinner at a restaurant in town.
Today will be the biggest day of our adventure, as we will reveal the mysteries of Machu Picchu citadel.
After breakfast at your hotel, your trekking guide will pick you up to embark on the bus to Machu Picchu citadel. Your guide will bring you up to the terraces, from where you will have a panoramic view of Machu Picchu citadel; after taking your photos, start with brief information about the citadel, then your guide will take you to explore two hours of a guided tour, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes town, here you will have enough time for lunch and shopping if you wish, as you will be taking the train in the afternoon.
Later in the afternoon, catch the train to Ollantaytambo station, where our representative will meet you on arrival and get back to Cusco on private transportation to your hotel in Cusco.
Please, note if you purchased the admission ticket to climb Huaynapicchu Mountain our guide will take you to the respective entrance.
The pricing below is subject to a new Peruvian law governing the employment of porters on the Inca Trail. These changes are expected to substantially raise the cost of operating the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu for all accredited tour companies. Please, contact us for further details.
$870.00 per person Price based on 8 ppl in the group
Students under 17 years old and children do not need the ISIC to apply for a discount. Please, email us a copy of your passport at the time of booking for a trek or tour to info@kunturperu.com. We are glad to help you. We will be glad to help you.
Good offer! The prices of items set in the following list are adjusted for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 5 days. However, for a group booking 8+ hikers, we will consider a discount on the price of an item or a free walking tour in Cusco City.
The Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu mountains are additional hikes within the Machu Picchu citadel; these admission tickets are subject to availability since they are usually sold out quickly.
Round trip Expedition train service is included on the Quarry trek, we go to board the train at Ollantaytambo train station. However, there is a chance to upgrade the train service, it requires advance booking.
We reward your preference! More details will be available if you are interested in taking advantage of this offer, such as walking tours in Cusco City, discounts on items for camping activities, and personal discounts. Contact us at info@kunturperu.com
GO ON GROUP SERVICE:
8+ up to 12 participants in the group, From USD 630.00 per person. Please, note booking in advance.
We care about the safety and satisfaction of our adventurers during the trekking tours, Kuntur Peru provides the best quality items for outdoor adventures, igloo-type tents resistant to snow and heavy rain are perfect for camping in the mountains, branded inflatable mattresses and trekking poles, first aid kid and oxygen bottle to prevent high altitude sickness. Safety is our main priority in every trekking activity.
Weather on trek
Hiking through the Quarry trek is a very high-altitude activity, therefore, the weather may be cold and unpredictable. The nights on this trek are usually around 14 F. / -10 C. In the early mornings of the dry season, during the day, it can get quite warm if the sun is out, anywhere from 60-75F/15-24C. Keep in mind that if the weather is rainy or cloudy, it will be windy and colder, and it may change instantaneously, particularly when going up at the high-altitude passes; as with any high-altitude hike, you should bring plenty of layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures and conditions as well as appropriate sun/rain protection.
Pre-departure notes
It is highly recommended to spend at least two days before any trekking activity acclimating to the altitude in the Andes; drinking enough water and avoiding heavy meals also help you to adapt quickly to the environment. Cusco is an Andean city located at 3,399 m. / 11,151 ft. We suggest doing short day tours in and around the city.
It is imperative to attend the pre-trek briefing a day before the scheduled date of the trip, usually set at 17:00 hrs. See the itinerary instructions section of the tour and its details. For additional information, speak directly to your trekking guide.
Note on Itinerary
The current itinerary described accurately expresses the trekking activities we offer. However, please, notice that due to some circumstances occasionally turn beyond our control, such as natural disasters, weather conditions, strikes, and others that may force us to deviate from our original plan, in which case, we will provide you with the best alternative option available, so then you won’t miss the wonderful experience.
Note on Price
Please note. All our trekking tours, and the Inca trail tours, include a duffle bag, which means you can take additional clothing with your sleeping bag and mattress for the trek; these must be 7 kg/14 pounds max weight.
All Inca trail trekking tours are run with a pack of a trekking team (our porters), who are appointed to carry all camping equipment during the hike; the number of porters in the group is according to the number of travelers booked for the tour; for more details see Inca Trail FAQs.
Camping accommodation on the trek is based on double occupancy per tent.
Accommodation in towns is at 3* hotels; Twin-bed room (matrimonial if requested), triple occupancy in case of families or friends; the single rooms are subject to a single supplement fee.
Trip Payment Schedule
At the time of booking, you must be paid 30% of the total cost of the tour; this will allow us to make the corresponding reservation and purchase some tickets that may be sold out rapidly. A month before the departure date, the balance must be paid or upon your arrival in Cusco city, the 70% left of the final balance must be paid fully.
Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule
Gratuities for the trekking crew
One of the greatest ways to express your gratitude to your trekking crew for everything they do to help you make your adventure trip is by tipping. This is a tradition of years since the beginning of the tourism industry in our region, a personal appreciation based on the team’s effort during your adventure experience. Giving gratuities might not be customary in your country, however, it’s of the utmost importance to those who will be taking care of you during the trip. Tipping inspires excellent service and is an ingrained feature in the tourism industry on many Kuntur Peru Travel destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you wish, depending on your perception of the quality and length of your trip. Remember, tipping is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Usually, participants in a group gather the tipping money for the guides, porters, and cooks; you can either do it individually, or your trekking guide will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Tipping your tour guide is more personal and should be decided based on your relationship, quality, and length of service with them and is done separately from the group or could be done individually, this generally happens once you end the tour at Machu Picchu Citadel or Machu Picchu town.
Porters: Each porter $20 – $40 USD or the equivalent in Soles (from all the group or participants)
Trekking Chef: $35 – $70 USD or the equivalent in Soles (from all groups or participants)
Trekking guide: The amount is an entirely more personal preference, however, as a guideline, $40 -80 USD per person can be used.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Kuntur Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. The Kuntur Peru Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Ancascocha trek 5 days journey requires a good trekking backpack, we recommend to bring a 25L capacity trekking daypack to carry your personal items for a day hike, larger backpack capacity are not allowed to take into Machu Picchu citadel. Here we showcase a basic list of essential items you should bring for your trip
For the Ancascocha trek journey, we recommend you bring at most a 30L capacity trekking daypack to carry your items for a day hike; larger backpack capacity, it’s not allowed to enter Machu Picchu citadel. Here we showcase a basic list of essential items you should bring in your daypack.
It will be given to you at the pre-trek briefing a day before the departure. Please, note that 7 Kg / 15 pounds are the maximum weight. Both the sleeping bag and the foam mattress are 3 kg / 6.5 pounds in weight, which means the 4 kg left must be your clothing and personal items. The duffel bags will go straight to the campsite, then they will be given back to you at the camps. For 4 Days Inca trail to Machu Picchu, we have a checklist of items you should bring.
Kuntur Peru guarantees comfort and safety in all our adventure trips, our camping equipments are suitable for hiking trips in the high Andean mountains.
Enjoy the nights in our exclusively designed camping gear along every route we offer, you will spend the night in spacious four-season camping tents for two people, branded camping gear such as North Face, Black diamond, Eureka, and others; our trekking poles are lightweight aluminum material, adjustable and suitable for hiking in the mountains, sleeping pads Therma Rest trek and travel series; each of our hikers get additionally a foam mattress and small pillow to enjoy the overnights in tent.
Have the ultimate adventure experience with Kuntur Peru Travel. Trek with us, and live the adventure now!
All our adventure experiences, other than the 4 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, have as our destination Aguas Calientes town, where you will spend one night prior to visiting Machu Picchu citadel, for which we have selected standard 3 * hotels for your stay, these are hotels of prestige and quality that guarantee us comfort and good service to all our adventurers. However, we are also willing to provide superior quality hotels, as long as our travelers request it.