Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days
4 Days & 3 Nights / starting from US $720 per person
Ancascocha Trek is today one of the best destinations in the region; a fascinating and off-the-beaten-path destination, where you will enjoy the high Andean nature, mountain peaks, valleys, and several archaeological sites along the way. You can also join the classic Inca Trail in its extended versions.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ranked among one of the top 10 treks in the world. This incredible stone-paved trail starts from the Vilcanota Valley, taking you to the Dead Womans Pass at 4,215 m (13,828 ft.) It is the only hiking route that will take you to Machu Picchu Citadel entering through the Sun Gate.
Venture through the highest snow-capped peak in the Cusco region 6,385m. The Ausangate trail takes you through the most abrupt landscapes of the Andes known as the Vilcanota knot. Come with us and explore by the foothills of Ausangate witnessing Andean camelids, turquoise lagoons, high mountain peaks, the famous Rainbow Mountain and much more.
4 Days & 3 Nights / starting from US $720 per person
Trek
Ancascocha trek is one of the best alternative routes to Machu Picchu, its 53 km / 32.9 miles distance will take you through the high Andean valleys and mountains up to 4,750 m/ 15,200 ft. in the Huayanay pass, this fabulous trail is the only one that joins with the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, so the adventurers who head for this rarely explored trail have the opportunity to see amazing archaeological sites, that’s why Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu is the best alternative routes.
Ancascocha Trail 4 days to Machu Picchu is considered a strenuous hiking activity due to the 53 km that it covers and 6th summit difficulty activity as it has to overpass three high mountains throughout its trajectory. However, the trail offers impressive views of the valleys, Andean landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and astounding Inca sites. At the end, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel.
Unlike the highly popular Classic Inca Trail, the Ancascocha Trek is less crowded, providing a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience for hikers, so advanced booking is not required. We offer customized or private tours for the Ancascocha Trek. These options could provide more flexibility in choosing departure dates, especially if the standard group departures are fully booked. Private tours might come at a higher cost, but they can cater to specific dates and preferences of individual or smaller groups.
Kuntur Peru Travel invites you to a lifetime experience exploring some of the old-age sites still yet to be uncovered that have been preserved in time for centuries.
The Ancascocha trek begins at Soqma about two hours from Cusco City, a small remote village enclosed and tucked away between mountains, inhabited by friendly and welcoming people, this small village offers Perolniyoc waterfall and Qorimarca archeological remains to everyone who wants to experience a true hiking adventure.
Ancascocha Trek 4 days offers a wide diversity of natural and cultural attractions that will stand out from the very first day of the hike. The archeological sites, the local fauna, and the scenic beauty distinguish this marvelous trekking route.
A hardly explored hiking route in the highlands of Vilcanota mountain range
Ancascocha trek 4 day adventure will take you to the Peruvian highland, exploring remote villages, local farmlands, incredible Inca sites, and Andean wildlife. Hear the stories of the Incan 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.
The tour begins from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, we pick you up at 4:30 am from your hotel it takes about 2 hours to drive to the Soqma community, it is a 16 km/ 10 miles hiking distance on day one, about 8 to 9 hours total hike, you will visit Perolniyoc waterfall, the Qorimarca Inca site, and overpass Kuychiqasa pass at 4,450 m / 14,599 ft. the highest point on this day.
After an early breakfast, the trail continues toward Ancascocha Lagoon, continuing up to Huayanay Pass at 4,750m / 15,255ft. descend and continue to Qesqa Valley finally get to Paucarcancha Camp at 3,120 m / 10,236 ft. Today’s distance covers 18 km / 12 miles and about 10 hours of hiking time total.
Today from our Camp you will join the famous Inca trail at Huayllabamba Village the hike will be in the opposite direction of the classic Inca trail hikers, and after a 6-hour hike, you will get to Piscacucho km 82 for Lunch. today will be a 14 km distance, it is about 6 hours total hiking, but you will have stunning views of Urubamba Valley, Andean landscapes, and beautiful Inca sites.
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 Ancascocha Trek 4 days to Machu Picchu involves 53 km of distance in 3 days, about 16km to 18 km hiking per day, to achieve this traverse we encourage trekkers to engage in regular cardio exercises and hikes to build stamina and physical endurance; likewise arriving in Cusco a few days before the trek to acclimate to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Ancascocha trek is rated as a challenging or advanced hike, considering the high altitudes, length of walking, and 6 strenuous summits difficulty; it is suggested to have a multi-day trekking experience hiking at altitude terrain and acclimatizes at least two 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)
Travel with us and experience a truly astounding experience in the Peruvian Andes. We work with experienced tour guides, and we carry suitable camping gear for all our hiking adventures.
The following itinerary has been designed according to technical criteria based on the experiences of expert trekking guides who have hiked the 4 Days Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu, the timings are average to a regular trekker under favorable conditions. However, this may vary depending on physical preparation, health, age, weather conditions during the hike, and the number of participants in the group. In addition, lunch spots and campsites may change consequently 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.
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 muleteers and trekking crew during the hiking trip. These changes are expected to substantially raise the cost of operating the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu for all accredited tour companies.
$870.00 per person Price based on 8 ppl in the group
Students have benefits traveling in Peru! Museums, tourist tickets, archaeological sites, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, and more. Get discounts by presenting your International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Students under 17 years old and children do not need the ISIC to apply for a discount. Please, email us with a copy of the ISIC and passport at the time of booking for a trek or tour to info@kunturperu.com. We are 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. Trekking poles are of utmost use for hiking, as they save your energy while walking in the mountains. Their appropriate use prevents slides on gravel trails or wet terrains. Furthermore, they keep the body’s balance going downhill. Sleeping bag: Three-season backpacking sleeping bags for camping outdoors, comfortable for cold weather, down to -10°C / 18°F Foam mattresses are included as part of the price of each tour service; on routes other than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we overnight at flatted enough camping spots. However, it doesn’t guarantee you comfort while sleeping; for that reason, we strongly recommend you bring or rent an additional air sleeping pad.
The Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu mountains are additional hikes within the Machu Picchu citadel; these admission tickets are subject to availability, as they are usually sold out quickly.
Back and forth Expedition train service is included on the Ancascocha trek, we go to board the train at Ollantaytambo train station, usually in the afternoon. Peru rail train services and rates are subject to its schedules and availability; if the train ride ends at Ollantaytambo or any other train station, we will be there waiting for you to take you to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. All our services end once you are at your accommodation in Cusco City. Train upgrade to Vistadome service one way (Departing from Aguas Calientes town)
GO ON GROUP SERVICE: From USD 850.00 per person. 8+ up to 12 participants in the group. Please note, booking in advance. 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
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 Ancascocha 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 describes the exact way we offer our trekking tours. However, take note that occasionally turns beyond our control due to some circumstances, 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 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
Is hiking the Ancascocha trek worth it?
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Terms and Conditions
please see the policy linked at the bottom of our website in the footer. It is also available to read during the checkout
Please review our booking terms carefully. The minimum number of trekkers required for departure is 6 for the price quoted online. If the minimum is not met within 2 weeks of departure, Kunur Peru reserves the right to offer the 1-2 paid trekkers the option of 1) paying the difference to take a private trek, 2) transferring their payment to another trek with more trekkers booked, or 3) cancel the trek and provide a full refund. Please contact us for more information. At the time of booking only a deposit is charged. The trek deposit is required to secure your spot on a trek and is non-refundable. It is used to purchase non-refundable items such as train tickets, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, etc. The balance of the trek is due within 60 days of departure.
Cancellations: The initial deposit is non-refundable.
You may cancel your booking by notifying Kuntur Peru Travel or Agent used and the applicable cancellation fees shall be determined based on when the request is received by Kuntur Peru or Agent. (a) Cancellation received 60 days or more before departure of the first Product to depart in relevant booking: 60% of the Product total shall be refunded to you (Inca Trail excepted where 25% of the Inca Trail product total shall be refunded to you). (b) Cancellation received 59-30 days before departure of first Product to depart in relevant booking: an amount equal to 25% of the total Product shall be refunded to you. (Inca Trail excepted where no refund is payable). (c) Cancellation less than 30 days before departure of the first Product to depart in the relevant booking: no refund shall be payable to you. Travel Medical Insurance: is required to depart on any trek (including emergency evacuation coverage and high altitude hiking). We also suggest travel interruption insurance in the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances that may arise. Kuntur Peru Travel is not responsible for losses incurred due to any travel interruption (ex: weather/natural phenomena, missed/delayed/canceled flight, acts of war/terrorism, strikes, pandemics/epidemics, site or trail closures, etc.), passport, visa, family emergency, or illness/medical issues. Please be advised that due to
COVID-19 pandemic
and any subsequent variants – there may be border closures, quarantine measures, changes in entry requirements, etc. We will do our best to change your trek to a different date if issues arise that are outside of our control on our end. Please note you may also be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure and potentially a vaccination card once vaccines are widely available. As these terms change we will alert travelers to the new regulations. For
Are you planning to go on the Ancascocha Trek 4-days? Then, you must bring a good trekking backpack. To ensure your comfort during the day hike, we highly recommend carrying a 25L capacity trekking daypack. Remember that larger backpacks are not allowed inside the Machu Picchu citadel. We understand that packing for a trek can be overwhelming, but worry not! We have prepared a basic list of essential items to bring along. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure
For the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu, we recommend bringing at most a 25L trekking daypack to carry your items for the daily hike; larger backpack capacity is not allowed to enter Machu Picchu citadel. Here is a basic list of essential items to carry in your daypack.
We provide duffel bags to all hikers a day before the departure date. Please notice that the maximum weight allowed is 7 kg / 15 pounds. The sleeping bag and foam mattress combined weigh around 3 kg / 6.5 pounds, which means you have 4 kg left for your personal belongings and extra clothing. You will receive your duffel bag back at each campsite.
Kuntur Peru guarantees comfort and safety in all our adventure trips, our camping equipment is the most suitable for overnight in the high Andean mountains.
Enjoy two nights in our exclusively designed camping route on the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu, you will spend the night in spacious four-season camping tents for two people, branded camping gear such as North Face, Black diamont, 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!
Our adventure experiences, other than the Classic Inca Trail 4-day trek, include an overnight at Aguas Calientes town. You will spend one night there before visiting the Machu Picchu citadel, for which we have selected 3-star hotels of high quality and prestige as our standard accommodation for your stay. These hotels guarantee comfort and excellent service to all of our adventurers. However, if you prefer superior-quality hotels, please let us know, and we will make the necessary arrangements for our adventurers.