Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights

Overview

The Ancascocha Trek is a four-day route that combines high-altitude hiking, Inca archaeological sites and some of the less-visited landscapes around Cusco. From the starting point in Soqma, the trail passes through mountain valleys, glacial lakes and remote settlements, offering a different perspective of the Andes beyond the usual trekking circuits.

One of the most demanding sections is the crossing of Huayanay Pass, followed by a descent through the Andean valleys toward Paucar Cancha and Km 82. From there, you travel to Aguas Calientes by train and visit Machu Picchu on the final day.

Highlights

• Start the trek in Soqma, a small Andean village in the Sacred Valley and follow trails away from the main tourist routes.
• Visit Perolniyoc Waterfall and explore the archaeological site located above the falls.
• Climb Puka Kassa Pass at approximately 4,450 m (14,596 ft), with views of the surrounding Andean mountains.
• Discover Ancascocha Lake, a high-altitude lake set among mountains and glacial landscapes.
• Cross Huayanay Pass at 4,650 m (15,255 ft), the highest point of the trek.
• Explore the Inca archaeological sites of Inca Raqay and Paucar Cancha along the route.
• Walk a section of the historic Inca Trail near Km 82 and enjoy views of the Patallacta archaeological complex.
• Finish the trek with a guided visit to Machu Picchu after three days of hiking through the Andes.

Ancascocha Trek at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Puka Kassa Pass – Chancachuco

Travel from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Soqma, where the trek begins. Visit Perolniyoc Waterfall and its nearby archaeological site before climbing to Puka Kassa Pass. Descend to the Chancachuco campsite for dinner and overnight camping.

Day 2: Chancachuco – Ancascocha Lake – Huayanay Pass – Inca Raqay – Qesqa

Continue through Ancascocha Valley with views of Veronica Mountain. Visit Ancascocha Lake before climbing to Huayanay Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,650 m. Descend through the Huayanay Valley, visit Inca Raqay and continue to Qesqa.

Day 3: Qesqa – Paucar Cancha – Km 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Descend through the Andean valley to the archaeological site of Paucar Cancha. Continue toward Km 82, passing the Willcaraqay viewpoint overlooking Patallacta. After lunch, travel by private vehicle to Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Take an early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided visit of the Inca citadel. Return to Aguas Calientes and board the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, continue by private transportation to Cusco, where the tour ends.

Why Choose the Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights?

Choose a less-traveled trekking route to Machu Picchu, away from the busiest trails in the Cusco region.
Explore Perolniyoc Waterfall and its archaeological site during the first day of the hike.
Walk through the Ancascocha Valley and enjoy views of Veronica Mountain and the surrounding highlands.
Experience the challenge of crossing Huayanay Pass at 4,650 m, the highest section of the route.
Visit Inca archaeological sites such as Inca Raqay and Paucar Cancha along the way.
Follow part of the historic Inca Trail near Km 82 and see the Patallacta archaeological complex from Willcaraqay viewpoint.
Experience different Andean environments, from high mountain landscapes and lakes to valleys and traditional communities.
Complete four days of travel with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, combining trekking, archaeology and Inca history.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Puka Kassa Pass – Chancachuco

Highlight of the Day: Visit Perolniyoc Waterfall and its archaeological site before climbing Puka Kassa Pass, surrounded by the mountain scenery of the Sacred Valley.

We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes through the Sacred Valley to Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft), the starting point of the Ancascocha Trek. Upon arrival, you meet the horsemen and support team, who prepare the equipment and supplies for the trek.

The hike begins with a gradual ascent through a side valley. After approximately 1.5 hours, we reach Perolniyoc Waterfall, where you can take a break and enjoy the natural surroundings.

From the waterfall, we continue uphill for about one hour to visit the nearby archaeological site of Perolniyoc, located above the falls. Your guide explains the history and importance of this archaeological complex.

After the visit, we continue hiking for approximately one hour to our lunch spot. In the afternoon, the route becomes more demanding as we climb for around three hours toward Puka Kassa Pass (4,450 m / 14,596 ft).

From the pass, we enjoy views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and the entire Sacred Valley. We then descend for approximately 1.5 hours to Chancachuco, where our campsite is prepared. Dinner is served before resting for the next day.

• Meals: Lunch and dinner
• Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
• Highest elevation: 4,450 m / 14,596 ft
• Walking time: Approximately 8–9 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Day 2: Chancachuco – Ancascocha Lake – Huayanay Pass – Inca Raqay – Qesqa

Highlight of the Day: Reach Ancascocha Lake and cross Huayanay Pass at 4,650 m, the highest point of the trek, before descending toward the Qesqa community.

After breakfast at the campsite, we continue toward Ancascocha Valley. Along the way, we enjoy views of Veronica Mountain (5,950 m / 19,600 ft) as the trail descends into the valley.

After crossing a small stream, we begin a steady climb of approximately two hours to reach Ancascocha Lake (4,090 m / 13,100 ft). Surrounded by high mountain scenery, the lake is one of the main natural highlights of this route and gives its name to the trek.

From the lake, we follow a preserved section of the Inca Trail, gradually ascending for another two hours toward Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,300 ft). This is the highest point of the Ancascocha Trek and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After crossing the pass, we descend into Huayanay Valley and stop at Inca Raqay for lunch. We then continue downhill for approximately three hours toward Qesqa community (3,650 m / 11,910 ft). The landscape becomes greener as we lose altitude, and we spend the night at our campsite.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
• Highest elevation: 4,650 m / 15,256 ft
• Walking time: Approximately 8–9 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Qesqa – Paucar Cancha – Km 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the Day: Explore the Inca archaeological site of Paucar Cancha and walk toward Km 82, where the route connects with the historic Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

After breakfast, we leave Qesqa and begin descending through the Andean valley for approximately two hours until reaching Paucar Cancha, one of the archaeological sites along the route. Your guide explains the history and cultural importance of this Inca complex, giving you time to explore and take photographs.

From Paucar Cancha, we continue along the trail for approximately four hours toward Km 82, the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we stop at Willcaraqay viewpoint, where we can see the archaeological remains of Patallacta and its extensive agricultural terraces.

Upon reaching Km 82, we have lunch before continuing by private vehicle to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,158 ft). From there, we board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the town located below Machu Picchu.

After arriving, we transfer to our hotel and have time to rest before the following day’s visit to the archaeological sanctuary.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Highest elevation: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft
• Walking distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
• Walking time: Approximately 7 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Discover Machu Picchu on a guided visit and complete your Ancascocha Trek with a return journey through the Sacred Valley.

We begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before taking one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Once inside the archaeological sanctuary, your guide leads an approximately two-hour visit, explaining the history, architecture and purpose of this important Inca site.

During the guided tour, you visit its main areas, including the agricultural terraces, residential sector and religious area. You will learn how the Incas organized this mountain settlement and why Machu Picchu remains one of the most important archaeological sites in Peru.

After the visit, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch, which is not included in the tour. Depending on your train departure, you may also explore the local market, visit the museum or relax at the hot springs. The entrance fee to the hot springs is paid separately.

In the afternoon, we board the return train to Ollantaytambo, traveling along the Urubamba River through the surrounding valleys and canyons. Upon arrival, our transportation takes you back to Cusco, where we drop you off at your hotel.

Important Note: Machu Picchu archeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The mountain requires a separate permit for those wishing to hike it. If you are interested in adding this experience, please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.

• Meals: Breakfast.
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft.
• Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy.

Included

• Pre-departure briefing at your hotel, one or two days before the trek.
• Hotel pick-up and private transportation from Cusco to Soqma.
• Professional bilingual English-speaking trekking guide.
• Additional guide for groups of eight or more participants.
• Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
• Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• One night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, based on double occupancy.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• One-way bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Camping tent.
• Basic foam sleeping mattress.
• Kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and chairs.
• Professional cook.
• Horsemen and horses to transport group equipment, food and camping supplies.
• Personal duffel bag with a maximum allowance of 6 kg (13 lb), carried by horse.
• Three breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners, according to the original service information.
• Hot water for washing at the campsites.
• Boiled and cold water for refilling your bottles during the trek.
• Emergency oxygen bottle.
• Basic first-aid kit.
• All local taxes.

Not included

• Breakfast on Day 1.
• Lunch and dinner on Day 3 in Aguas Calientes, according to the original service information.
• Lunch on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping bag (available for rent).
• Trekking poles or walking sticks (available for rent).
• Entrance fee to the Aguas Calientes hot springs.
• Personal energy snacks and hydration supplements.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain permits (US$75 per person, subject to availability and confirmation).
• Personal travel insurance.
• Tips for the guide, cook and horsemen (optional).

What do you need to bring:

The ancascocha Trek is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:

• Original passport
• Light day pack with a change of clothes for the entire trek
• Rain gear (jacket and pants or rain poncho)
• Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots
• Sandals or slip-on shoes for camp
• Warm clothing for cold evenings and mornings
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Hat or cap (for sun, rain, and cold)
• Sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) and insect repellent (20% DEET)
• After-sun or hydrating cream
• Toilet paper (pack in, pack out)
• Snacks (energy bars, biscuits, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.)
• Water sterilizing tablets
• Personal medical kit
• Bathers/swimsuit (if swimming in hot springs)
• Cash for tips, souvenirs, drinks, or snacks
• Walking sticks/poles
• Camera or smartphone for photos
• Extra zip-lock bags for trash
• Tissues or wet wipes
• Extra pair of socks
• Travel insurance
• Lightweight, quick-dry towel
• Sunglasses with UV protection

💰 Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights daily, subject to Machu Picchu permit availability.

USD $669 per person

✔ Small-group departures with personalized service throughout the trek.
✔ Professional English-speaking guides and full trekking logistics included.

⚠️Limited availability due to Machu Picchu permits. Early booking is highly recommended.

Private Service

A more personalized experience with flexible pacing and tailored logistics.

2 Trekkers: $829 per person
3 Trekkers: $779 per person
4 Trekkers: $739 per person
5 or more Trekkers: $679 per person

* All our tours are priced in US dollars.

Booking & Payment

To confirm your reservation, a 40% deposit is required.

• Deposit: 40% of the total trek price to secure your booking.
• Balance: The remaining balance must be paid at least 2 days before departure during your briefing in Cusco.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, PayPal, and bank transfers. Please note that online credit card and PayPal payments are subject to a 5% service fee.

Student & Child Discounts

18 to 25 years old: USD $25 discount. A valid student ID is required at the time of booking.
Under 18 years old: USD $25 discount. Please send a copy of your passport when booking.
Under 11 years old: USD $30 discount. Please send a copy of your passport when booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance)

Machu Picchu Mountain: USD $75 per person (Advance reservation required).
Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD $75 per person (Advance reservation required).

Hotel Upgrades

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (★★★★★): USD $325 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel El Mapi (★★★★): USD $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
Santuario Hotel (★★★+): USD $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades

Vistadome Train: USD $65 per person (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo).
Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: USD $585 per person (Aguas Calientes – Poroy).

Rentals

Hiking poles – US$20.00
Sleeping bag – US$25.00
Private Tent – US$30.00

Frequently Asked Questions – Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights

1.- Why is the Ancascocha Trek considered one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail?

The Ancascocha Trek is a popular alternative to the Classic Inca Trail for travelers looking for a more remote hiking experience in the Peruvian Andes. The route crosses high mountain passes, glacial lakes and traditional Andean communities, with fewer trekking groups along the way. It also connects with a section of the historic Inca Trail near Km 82 before continuing to Machu Picchu.

2.- Does the Ancascocha Trek connect with the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Yes. One of the unique features of the Ancascocha Trek is its connection with the historic Inca Trail route near Km 82, the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. From there, you continue toward Ollantaytambo by private transportation and take the train to Aguas Calientes. The following day, you visit Machu Picchu with your guide.

3.- How difficult is the Ancascocha Trek compared to other treks in Cusco?

The Ancascocha Trek is considered a challenging route due to its high altitude, steep ascents and long walking days. Crossing Huayanay Pass at approximately 4,650 m (15,255 ft) is one of the most demanding sections. Compared with other treks in Cusco, it is a demanding option for travelers with good physical condition and previous hiking experience.

4.- What makes the Ancascocha Trek ideal for travelers looking for solitude?

The Ancascocha Trek follows remote mountain trails and passes through valleys and communities that receive fewer visitors than the main trekking routes around Cusco. You can enjoy quieter campsites, open landscapes and a closer look at rural Andean life. It is a suitable choice for hikers who prefer less crowded trails and a more secluded mountain experience.

5.- What type of landscapes can I expect on the Ancascocha Trek?

The route crosses several Andean environments, including high-altitude grasslands, glacial valleys, mountain lakes and wetlands. You will see Ancascocha Lake, the surrounding peaks and views of Veronica Mountain along the trail. As the route descends toward the lower valleys, the scenery changes before reaching the archaeological area near Km 82.

6.- Is the Ancascocha Trek suitable for photographers and nature lovers?

Yes. The Ancascocha Trek offers opportunities to photograph snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, waterfalls and traditional Andean villages. Perolniyoc Waterfall, Ancascocha Lake and the views from Huayanay Pass are among the main photographic highlights. The changing landscapes throughout the four days make this route especially interesting for nature and landscape photography.

7.- How high is the Ancascocha Trek and should I acclimatize before starting?

The highest point of the Ancascocha Trek is Huayanay Pass, at approximately 4,650 m (15,255 ft) above sea level. At this elevation, hiking can become physically demanding, particularly for travelers who have not adjusted to the altitude. We recommend spending at least two or three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek.

8.- What archaeological sites can I visit during the Ancascocha Trek?

The route includes several archaeological sites connected to the history of the Incas. During the first day, you visit Perolniyoc, located above the waterfall, while the following days include Inca Raqay and Paucar Cancha. You also pass Willcaraqay viewpoint, which offers views of Patallacta and its extensive agricultural terraces.

9.- Is a special permit required for the Ancascocha Trek?

The Ancascocha Trek does not require the same limited government permit system as the Classic Inca Trail. This makes it an alternative for travelers who cannot obtain a place on the traditional Inca Trail or prefer a different mountain route. However, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is still required and must be arranged for your visit.

10.- Is the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu worth it?

Yes, the Ancascocha Trek is worth considering if you enjoy demanding hikes, Inca history and remote mountain landscapes. It combines waterfalls, archaeological sites, high-altitude lakes and a connection to the historic Inca Trail before reaching Machu Picchu. This route is particularly suitable for travelers who want more than a standard visit to the archaeological sanctuary.

Important Travel Information – Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe and enjoyable. This guide covers the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour, from altitude acclimatization and luggage arrangements to Machu Picchu entrance circuits and travel tips.

Please take a moment to read this information carefully. It will help you prepare for your journey and enjoy your adventure in the Andes with greater comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are held personally at your hotel in Cusco, usually around 5:00 p.m., one or two days before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30–45 minutes and is an important part of your preparation.

During the briefing, your guide will review the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, confirm the main arrangements, and answer any final questions to help you prepare for your adventure.

Acclimatization in Cusco

It is important to allow enough time to acclimatize before starting your trek. Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the altitude.

We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two or three days before your trek begins. This gives you time to rest, adjust to the altitude and explore the region before your adventure.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some of the nearby attractions:

• Cusco City Tour: Discover the Main Square, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha).
• Sacred Valley Tour: Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
• Moray & Maras Excursion: Learn about ancient Inca agricultural techniques and visit the impressive salt terraces.
• Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Discover the last traditional Inca rope bridge still in use today.
• Rainbow Mountain Tour: Visit one of Peru’s most striking natural landscapes, known for its colorful mountain slopes.

These tours offer opportunities to discover the region’s history and landscapes while allowing time to adjust to the altitude. Choose activities according to how you feel during your first days in Cusco.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please arrange payment at least two days before your trek or tour begins, according to your booking conditions.

Whenever possible, we recommend paying the remaining balance in cash, in US dollars (USD) or Peruvian soles (PEN), during your briefing. Several ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol, where you can withdraw money in either currency, depending on the machine.

You may also pay by credit or debit card or through PayPal, either online or in person. Please note that a 5% processing fee applies to payments made through our payment gateways, Niubiz and PayPal.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You will receive a duffel bag or canvas case during your briefing. The dimensions and weight allowance are:

• Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in).
• Maximum weight: 6 kg (13 lb), including your clothes and personal belongings.

Our trekking team will transport your duffel bag along the route and deliver it to you at each campsite. Please remember that the 6 kg limit includes your sleeping bag and any other personal items you wish to pack.

Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?

Absolutely! You can arrange to store your main luggage free of charge at our office or your hotel during the trek. Please coordinate this with us during your briefing or by email.

Any items you will not need during the trek can remain at your hotel, as most hotels offer luggage storage. We recommend keeping valuables out of stored bags and placing them in your hotel safe. If you use the hotel safe, request a receipt or written record of the items stored, where available, and check your travel insurance conditions.

For additional security, keep important documents and valuables, such as credit cards, in a secure place.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu has designated entrance times and circuits to manage visitor access and protect the archaeological site.

Main Circuits

Visitors can choose from three main routes: Circuit 1 covers the upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces, Circuit 2 explores the main archaeological areas of the citadel and Circuit 3 visits the lower sector and selected Inca structures.

For our Ancascocha Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights, Circuit 2 is our priority because it offers a comprehensive visit to Machu Picchu. If Circuit 2 tickets are unavailable, we will check availability for Circuit 3 as an alternative.

All tickets are subject to availability and must be confirmed in advance. The final circuit and entry time depend on the ticket secured for your visit. Re-entry is generally not permitted once you exit the site.

Pick-Up of Guests

Pick-ups are arranged from hotels within Cusco city. We recommend staying in the historic center for convenient access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, although the schedule may vary by approximately 30–45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an old city with narrow, cobbled streets and some hotels or Airbnb accommodations may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is located on a street where vehicles cannot reach the entrance, we will coordinate the nearest convenient meeting point with you.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

The return journey from Machu Picchu involves several stages. After your visit, you will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes, and boarding is generally on a first-come, first-served basis.

From Aguas Calientes, you will take the train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will provide the relevant tickets and confirm your departure time. Please arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure.

The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a road transfer of around two hours to Cusco city. Actual travel times may vary depending on schedules and road conditions.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Participants should walk at a pace appropriate to their abilities while following the guide’s instructions and the group’s agreed schedule.

If adjustments to the itinerary become necessary, the guide will assess the situation, communicate with the group, and make decisions based on the conditions and the safety of the participants.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations occasionally occur in Peru and may affect roads, train services, or other travel arrangements. In such circumstances, Cusco Journeys will make every reasonable effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times when possible.

Your safety is our priority. Any changes will depend on the situation, transport availability, and the guidance of the relevant authorities.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please check your surroundings and make sure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, tents, restaurants, and other stops.

Avoid leaving belongings unattended during the trek. Before moving on to the next stop, check that you have your phone, camera, passport, money and other personal items with you.