Ancascocha Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights, is a remarkable alternative to the traditional Inca Trail Trek. The route is ideal for those that wish to experience the beautiful scenery of the Andes including the stunning Vilcanota Range, home to the impressive Mount Salcantay. Another highlight of the trek is the chance to hike a stretch of the famed Inca Trail, visiting two Inca outposts.

In spite of being listed as one of National Geographic Magazine’s 20 Dream Treks, the Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights remains uncrowded and perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

This ancascocha trek offers a mix of high-altitude passes, crystal-clear lagoons, and hidden valleys, where local communities maintain their centuries-old traditions. Travelers will enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, diverse ecosystems ranging from high puna grasslands to lush cloud forest, and archaeological sites that reveal the legacy of the Inca Empire.

Each day brings a new challenge and reward, making it a perfect choice for hikers looking for both cultural immersion and natural beauty. The journey concludes with the awe-inspiring experience of visiting Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Andes.

Overview

This Ancascocha hike is for people who really want to experience nature and the Andes at its best: snow covered mountains, deep valleys, pristine lakes, animals such llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and encounters with indigenous people who live in these high mountains.

It is a demanding but highly rewarding trek, combining challenging terrain with breathtaking scenery and authentic cultural experiences far from the crowds.

Highlights	Off the beaten path, pristine wilderness, glacial mountains & lakes, Machu Picchu.
Distance	56 km/34.8 miles
Duration	Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights
Altitude	2,870m/9,416ft to 4,821m/15,817ft
Adventure Rating	★★★★★ Strenuous, lengthy, high altitude
Solitude Rating	★★★★★ Quiet, remote, off the beaten track
When to Go	Best from March to December
Location/Terrain	Glacial, snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, multiple high passes, rocky terrain
Acclimatization	2 day acclimatization and multi-day trekking experience recommended

The Ancascocha Trek is not only a physical challenge but also a journey deep into the heart of the Andes, where nature, culture, and history come together. Its remoteness and authenticity make it one of the most rewarding ways to reach Machu Picchu, offering memories that will last a lifetime.

Itinerary

Pre-trek briefing:

You will have thorough briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and you can take this opportunity to ask questions and make any final preparations.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan

At the scheduled time, travelers will be picked up from their hotels, and we will drive through the Sacred Valley for about 1 hour and 40 minutes until reaching the village of Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft). This is the official starting point of the Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights, where our horsemen will be waiting, ready to accompany us on this adventure.

We’ll begin by ascending gently through one of the side valleys. After about an hour and a half of hiking, we will arrive at the Perolniyoc waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful cascades in the Sacred Valley.

Here, we will take some time to rest and enjoy the scenery before continuing our uphill hike for another hour to reach the archaeological site of Perolniyoc, located above the waterfall. With our guide, we will explore the site and learn about its history and significance within the Inca culture.

After the visit, we continue walking for approximately one more hour to reach our first lunch spot and campsite. This first day of the trek is designed as part of the acclimatization process to high altitude, giving our bodies time to adjust while still enjoying beautiful landscapes and cultural sites.

After lunch, there will be time to relax and recover energy for the next day’s hike. We spend the night at the Rayan campsite (3,700 m / 12,136 ft).

Meals: Lunch/Dinner
Lowest Elevation: 3,205 m/ 10,512 ft
Highest Elevation: 3,700 m/ 12,136 ft
Distance to walk: 8 km/5 miles
Approximate walking time: 4 to 5 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Area: Dry Mountain

Day 2: Rayan – Ancascocha

After breakfast we will set up from the campsite, 3 hours of slow hike will let us to arrive to the highest point of the second day hike Puka kasa pass (4,450 m /14,596 ft), for many people this is the hardest section because the altitude but is the most spectacular day, we will see many of the snow capped mountains and the Sacred Valley in the other side.

Once we reach the mountain top you will feel proud of yourself surviving one the highest passes on this mountain range. After we enjoy all the wonderful and scenic views it’s time to head down to Chancachuco, it will take us 1 hour and a half to arrive to the lunch place.

As we make our way to Ancascocha village we’ll see some more snow capped peaks in front of us, Veronica Mountain (5,950 m/ 19,600 ft) will accompany us for many hours, after to turn some of the grassy hills we will enter in the Valley of Ancascocha, where the village is located.

We then go across the stream and hike uphill for another 2 hours to arrive in our campsite around Ancascocha Lake (4,090 m/13,100 ft.), the coldest night for the whole trip.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Highest Elevation: 4,450 m/ 15,250 ft
Campsite elevation: 3,700 m/ 12,136 ft
Distance to walk: 16 km/ 10 miles
Approximate walking time: 8 to 10 hours
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Area: Dry Mountain

Day 3: Ancascocha – Huayanay pass – Qesqua community

After breakfast, we will continue with our Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights; we will start our hike up-hill for 2 hours until we reach the highest point of Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu which is called the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m/ 15,300 ft.), The views along the way are very impressive.

It is amazing how the Incas managed the difficult geography of this area to build the Inca Trail. After enjoying the magnificent views from the pass, we will hike down into the valley until we reach Incaraqay where a delicious lunch will be waiting for us. If we are lucky we will see the condors flying around Huayanay pass.

At this point we will embark on a 3 hour descent into greener vegetation. During this stretch of the trek we will have views of the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu appear in the distance, and fascinating views of the communities of the Qésqua valley.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Highest Elevation: 4,650 m/ 15,298 ft
Campsite elevation: 3,650 m/11,910 ft
Distance to walk: 14 km/ 9 miles
Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Area: Dry Mountain

Day 4: Qesqua – Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The 4th day of the Ancascocha Trek begins with a delicious breakfast before we continue descending through the valley for approximately 2 hours until we arrive at Paucar Cancha, an extraordinary and well-preserved Inca fortress.

Here, you will learn fascinating details about Inca history from our guide, and then enjoy some free time to explore the site on your own and take photos. After visiting Paucar Cancha, we begin our final long hike, about 5 hours, toward Km 82. This last stretch is especially rewarding, as it follows the initial section of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Along the way, we will stop at the Inca ruins of Willcaraqay, from where it is possible to admire a panoramic view of Patallaqta, another remarkable archaeological site. Once we reach Km 82, our talented chef will be waiting with a well-deserved and delicious lunch to celebrate the completion of this section of the trek.

After lunch, we will be picked up by our private transfer and driven to the town of Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,158 ft.), where we board the scenic train that takes us to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Lodging: Hotel
Highest Elevation: 3,850 m/12,628 ft
Lowest Elevation: 2,792 m/9,158 ft
Distance to walk: 13 km/ 8 ½ miles
Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Start your day early with breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring you arrive in time to witness the magical sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas—an unforgettable sight you won’t want to miss.

Upon arrival, your guide will lead a two-hour tour through the most significant areas of Machu Picchu Citadel, explaining its history, architecture, and purpose. Explore the site’s three main sectors: the agricultural terraces, the residential area, and the religious sector, gaining insight into how the Inca civilization once thrived in this awe-inspiring mountain retreat.

After soaking in the spectacular views, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure, you may also explore the town, visit the local market, stop by the museum, or relax in the hot springs.

In the afternoon, board your train at 2:30 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the Urubamba River through the stunning Sacred Valley. As the train winds through the narrow canyon, keep an eye out for the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins, visible high up on the mountainside.

After a two-hour journey, you will arrive at Ollantaytambo, where a private bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Upon arrival, we will drop you off at your hotel, concluding your incredible adventure.

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.

Inclusions

Included:

Bilingual English speaking tour guide (additional tour guide for groups of nine people or more).
Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before your trek.
Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Soqma.
Four-person tent for every 2 people.
Inflatable Mattress.
Kitchen tent.
Dining tent with tables and chairs.
Toilet tent.
Chef.
Wranglers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc).
Horse to transport 7 kg of your personal gear.
Duffle bag for your personal gear.
Emergency horse in case we need it.
04 breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners.
Hot water for washing.
Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy).
Entrance to Machu Picchu.
Round trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.

Not included

First breakfast & lunch on the last day.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (US$75).
Hot springs (S/10.00 soles).
Sleeping bags.
Walking Stick.
Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal item allowance.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses.
**Tips, for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide).

What do you need to bring:

A good day pack.
Original passport.
Travel insurance.
Lighter trekking boots.
3 pairs of trekking pants (not jeans), 1 hiking, 1 cotton–which is just enough. Please spray both pairs with an insect repellent spray before the trip.
Layers for variable temperatures especially at night
1 rain jacket.
1 warm/winter jacket (Thermals: wool socks/gloves, scarf and woolen hat for cold nights).
4 pairs of underwear, 4 pairs of socks (Bamboo or cotton/nylon-blend socks dry faster than 100 percent cotton, which lose their softness when air-dried).
4 shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts
1 good sleeping bag liner which is super lightweight and easy to pack. This definitely does its job!
Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness. Several people on the hike have varying degrees of altitude sickness and both of these remedies (in addition to the coca tea) are very helpful in alleviating the symptoms.
Sun protection cream (SPF 45 or higher recommended).
Bug spray with 30% DEET.
Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel-back.
Water (Only for first day of the hike, as we will provide you with water throughout the rest of the hike).
Camera and film.
A headlamp to navigate camp in the evenings and pre-dawn mornings with spare batteries.
Bandages or moleskin.
Flip flops to change into at night.
Toiletries.
Medication (Imodium AD or something for your stomach) because some people get an upset stomach on the trek.
Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
Extra money for drinks,
Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220).

Prices

The Ancascocha Trek 5 Days 4 Nights can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We do not run this trek in February.

_{Group Price:}_$709^USD_{Per person}

* We need a minimum of 2 people to run the tour. We guarantee that your tour will be limited to a maximum of 8 people.

Important: Price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter hire!).

Discounts:

18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).

Upgrades:

Hotel Upgrades:

InkaTerra (5 star hotel) – US $480 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel el Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades:

Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo – One Way.
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy – One Way.

Rentals:

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

Map

Terms & Conditions

By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Booking:

Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.

Cancellations:

Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:

ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.

Cancellation By	Terms
91 days or more before departure	we will retain 50% of your deposit.
90 – 30 days before departure	we will retain 75% of the total tour cost.
29 – 0 days before departure	we will retain 100% of the total tour cost.

Inca Trail Tours:

Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

Medical Information:

You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.

Tours and Treks:

All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.

Delays:

Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.

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Ancascocha Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview

Itinerary

Pre-trek briefing:

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan

Day 2: Rayan – Ancascocha

Day 3: Ancascocha – Huayanay pass – Qesqua community

Day 4: Qesqua – Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Inclusions

Included:

Not included

What do you need to bring:

Prices

Discounts:

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Upgrades:

Rentals:

Map

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation By

Terms

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