Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights

Ancascocha Trek Overview

Join us on the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights—one of the most sought-after treks in South America. From the breathtaking Huayanay Pass to the ancient ruins of Paucarcancha and the majestic Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu, this journey promises adventure, cultural discovery, and memories that will last a lifetime.

As the only operator in Cusco offering this exclusive trek combination, we promise expert guidance, local support, and a seamless journey from start to finish.

⭐ Highlights

• A Unique Trekking Route: Combine the off-the-beaten-path Ancascocha Trek with the iconic Inca Trail for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Stunning Mountain Passes & Scenic Landscapes: Cross the famous Huayanay Pass and witness breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Ancient History & Culture: Explore Inca ruins like Paucarcancha and connect with the ancient paths of the Incas.
• Authentic Village Experiences: Visit traditional Andean villages untouched by modern tourism.
• Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) following the original Inca Trail.
• Camp beneath snow-capped mountains and experience the beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
• Travel with experienced local guides, professional chefs, and dedicated trekking staff.
• Enjoy one of Peru’s most exclusive trekking routes, available only with Cusco Journeys.

This combined trek is the ultimate adventure for travelers seeking both challenge and reward. From high-altitude passes and glacial lakes to remote villages and ancient Inca trails, every step reveals the beauty, history, and culture of the Andes.

Completing the journey at Machu Picchu offers a truly magical and unforgettable conclusion, making this trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc – Rayan

The journey begins with an early departure from Cusco toward Soqma, the starting point of the Ancascocha Trek. The route includes a hike to Perolniyoc Waterfall and a visit to the nearby Inca archaeological site. The day ends at the Rayan campsite, located in a high-altitude Andean setting ideal for acclimatization.

Day 2: Rayan – Kuychicassa Pass – Chancachuco – Ancascocha

This day covers one of the most remote sections of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu. The trail ascends to Kuychicassa Pass, offering wide views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding peaks. After crossing the pass, the route descends through Chancachuco Valley before reaching the Ancascocha campsite.

Day 3: Ancascocha – Huayanay Pass – Muyu Muyu – Paucarcancha

The trek continues with an ascent to Huayanay Pass, the highest point of the Ancascocha Trek and the connection to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The descent leads past Inca stone paths, the Incarajay archaeological site, and the rural community of Muyu Muyu before camping near the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha.

Day 4: Paucarcancha – Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

From Paucarcancha, the route joins the Classic Inca Trail. The hike passes through Wayllabamba and continues uphill toward Warmiwañusqa Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass. The day concludes in the Pacaymayo Valley, surrounded by well-preserved sections of the original Inca Trail.

Day 5: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

This section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu features several important archaeological sites, including Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca. The trail then descends through cloud forest vegetation to Wiñaywayna, one of the most significant Inca sites along the Classic Inca Trail.

Day 6: Wiñaywayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco

The final day follows the last stretch of the Inca Trail toward Machu Picchu. After entering the citadel, a guided visit covers the main sectors of the site. The journey concludes with the return to Cusco by train and private transportation.

Why Choose This Tour

Discover why the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most unforgettable trekking adventures.

• Combine two iconic trekking routes in one incredible journey to Machu Picchu.
• Discover remote Andean landscapes with fewer crowds and breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Visit impressive Inca archaeological sites along both the Ancascocha Trek and the Classic Inca Trail.
• Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) following the original Inca route.
• Enjoy small-group departures for a more personalized trekking experience.
• Travel with experienced local guides and a professional trekking support team.
• Camp in spectacular natural settings surrounded by the beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
• Challenge yourself on one of Peru’s most rewarding trekking adventures before reaching Machu Picchu.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan

Highlight of the Day: Explore the beautiful Perolniyoc Waterfall and its hidden Inca archaeological site before camping in the peaceful Andean valley of Rayan, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

We depart from Cusco early in the morning for a scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive to Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft), the starting point of our trek. Upon arrival, we’ll meet the horsemen who will accompany us throughout the journey, as well as our chef, who will have a hearty and revitalizing breakfast ready to fuel our adventure.

Our hike begins with a 1¾-hour walk leading to the breathtaking Perolniyoc Cascade lookout—an ideal spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy a light snack. The sight of the cascading waterfall here is truly awe-inspiring! From there, we’ll continue for another 35 minutes to explore the nearby Inca archaeological site bearing the same name.

During the brief guided tour, our guide will share insights into the Inca history, architecture, and significance of this site. After the tour, we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch in this scenic location.

Refreshed and re-energized, we’ll continue on a 45-minute ascent to our first campsite at Rayan (3,700 m / 12,136 ft), where we’ll set up camp for the evening. Here, travelers can relax, acclimatize to the altitude, and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery before the next day’s adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast / 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

Day 2: Rayan – Kuychicassa Pass – Chancachuco – Ancascocha Lake.

Highlight of the Day: Cross the spectacular Kuychicassa Pass (4,450 m / 14,596 ft), enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, and hike through one of the most remote sections of the Ancascocha Trek.

We begin our day early, around 6:30 AM, starting one of the most spectacular sections of the Ancascocha Trek, a true off-the-beaten-path trek to Machu Picchu. The trail ascends steadily for approximately 4 hours, surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery—snow-capped peaks, llamas grazing along the mountainsides, and vast high-altitude valleys.

With some luck, we may spot a soaring Andean condor, the largest bird in the Andes, with a wingspan reaching up to 10 feet. Our ascent leads us to Kuychicassa Pass (4,450 m / 14,596 ft), the highest point of the day and one of the highlights of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu.

From the pass, we enjoy panoramic views of the Chancachuco Valley on one side and the legendary Sacred Valley of the Incas on the other—an unforgettable moment for photography and reflection.

After taking time to enjoy the scenery, we begin a 1-hour descent to a scenic location where we stop for a well-deserved lunch. Re-energized, we continue with a 30-minute uphill walk along a crystal-clear stream, offering incredible views of Mount Veronica (5,822 m / 19,100 ft), one of the most iconic peaks in the Andes.

The afternoon features a 4-hour downhill hike through changing landscapes, eventually reaching the small and peaceful community of Ancascocha (3,700 m / 12,136 ft)—our campsite for the night.

Set in a quiet, wooded valley with a flowing stream, this campsite provides the perfect atmosphere to relax after a challenging day of high-altitude trekking in Peru.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 4,450 m / 14,596 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

Day 3: Ancascocha – Huayanay Pass – Muyu Muyu Community – Paucarcancha.

Highlight of the Day: Reach Huayanay Pass, the highest point of the trek, before connecting with the legendary Inca Trail and camping beside the impressive archaeological site of Paucarcancha.

The day begins with a steady ascent toward Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,298 ft), the highest point of the Ancascocha Trek and the connection to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The climb takes approximately 4 hours along a steep zigzag trail through high-Andean terrain. During the ascent, we pass sections of a well-preserved original Inca stone path and a waterfall that flows into Ancascocha Lake.

From the pass, we descend for about 45 minutes to reach the Inca archaeological site of Incarajay, where we stop for lunch. This site provides insight into the Inca presence along this remote trekking route.

After lunch, the route continues downhill through areas of dense vegetation. Along the way, we observe sections of the classic Inca Trail leading toward Machu Picchu and pass through the Muyu Muyu Community (3,850 m / 12,628 ft), a small highland settlement.

The final 2-hour descent leads to our campsite near the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha (3,133 m / 10,276 ft). Paucarcancha is a restored Inca settlement that functioned as a Tambo, serving as a resting and administrative point along the Inca road system.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 4,650 m / 15,298 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 3,133 m / 10,276 ft
• Distance to Walk: 16 km / 10 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 7 to 8 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Challenging

Day 4: Paucarcancha – Wayllabamba – Ayapata – Pacaymayu.

Highlight of the Day: Join the Classic Inca Trail and conquer the legendary Dead Woman’s Pass while hiking through spectacular mountain landscapes and ancient Inca stone paths.

After breakfast, the trek begins with a 25-minute descent from Paucarcancha toward Huayllabamba (2,866 m / 9,400 ft), the last village along the Classic Inca Trail.

From Huayllabamba, the route continues with a 4-hour uphill hike to Llulluchapampa (3,700 m / 12,136 ft), one of the most demanding sections of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The ascent passes through changing ecosystems with a wide range of high-Andean vegetation, including Queuña trees (Polylepis), a native species adapted to high-altitude environments. The trail then continues to Warmiwañusqa Pass (4,215 m / 13,692 ft), also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, one of the highest points on the Inca Trail.

After a short break at the pass, the route descends along a well-preserved section of the Inca stone path toward the Pacaymayo Valley, where the campsite is located near the river.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Minimum Elevation: 2,866 m / 9,400 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,215 m / 13,692 ft
• Approximate Walking Time: 8 to 9 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Day 5: Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha – Wiñaywayna.

Highlight of the Day: Visit the remarkable Inca sites of Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna while walking one of the most scenic sections of the Classic Inca Trail.

After breakfast, the trek continues with a gradual ascent toward Runkuraqay (3,800 m / 12,464 ft), a circular Inca structure without a roof, believed to have functioned as a checkpoint and resting place for Inca messengers. After a brief guided visit, the trail climbs further to Chaquicocha Pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft).

From the pass, the route descends along a well-preserved section of the original Inca Trail, passing a small highland lake and entering areas of cloud forest vegetation.

The trail then leads to Sayacmarca (3,850 m / 12,551 ft), an important Inca archaeological site strategically located on a ridge above the Aobamba Valley. Access to the site is via a narrow stone staircase, reflecting the defensive and ceremonial nature of its design.

The trek continues along the ridge to Phuyupatamarca (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), an Inca site whose name translates as “Town Above the Clouds.”

From here, the trail descends through an Inca-built tunnel and stone paths before reaching Wiñaywayna (2,700 m / 8,856 ft), one of the most significant archaeological complexes on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, featuring extensive agricultural terraces and ceremonial structures.

The campsite for the night is located near Wiñaywayna, within the cloud forest zone, marking the final camping area before reaching Machu Picchu.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 2,700 m / 8,856 ft
• Approximate Walking Time: 9 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 6: Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Walk through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise and arrive at Machu Picchu for a guided tour of Peru’s most famous archaeological wonder.

The day starts early as we follow the final section of the Inca Trail toward Inti Punku (2,400 m / 7,875 ft), known as the Sun Gate, which historically served as the main entrance to Machu Picchu. This part of the trail is relatively gentle and takes approximately 1 hour of walking.

From Inti Punku, the route continues with a 40-minute descent into the Machu Picchu citadel. Upon arrival, there is time to stop at the classic viewpoint for photographs before taking a short break.

A guided tour lasting around 2 hours then follows, covering the principal sectors of the site and offering historical and architectural explanations. Passengers who have reserved Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (not included) must select the 10:00 AM entrance time.

After completing the guided visit, we take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we board the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, transportation transfers passengers back to their hotel in Cusco. Final arrival time will depend on the train schedule.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Maximum Elevation: 2,700 m / 8,856 ft
• Minimum Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
• Distance to Walk: 6 km / 3.73 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 2 hours

✅ Included

• Pre-departure briefing before your trek.
• Hotel pickup on the morning of your departure.
• Private transportation from Cusco to Soqma, the starting point of the trek.
• Ancascocha Trek entrance fee.
• Classic Inca Trail permit.
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
• Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout the trek.
• Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Comfortable four-person tents shared by only two hikers.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
• Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
• Professional trekking chef and experienced support staff.
• All meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.
• Freshly prepared meals with vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary options available upon request.
• Complete camping equipment, including dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and toilet tent.
• All equipment for the trekking staff and horsemen.
• Comfortable foam sleeping mattress.
• First aid kit with emergency oxygen.
• Boiled drinking water and washing water provided daily.
• One duffel bag (up to 6 kg) per person.
• Motorola Talkabout radios for team communication.
• 24/7 customer assistance.
• All local taxes.

❌ Not Included

• Travel insurance.
• Breakfast on Day 1.
• Lunch on the final day.
• Sleeping bag (available for rent).
• Trekking poles (available for rent).
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permit (from US$75 per person, subject to availability).
• Personal expenses such as soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Optional train and hotel upgrades.
• Tips for your guide, chef, horsemen, and trekking staff.

🎒 What to Bring

The Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights is a challenging high-altitude adventure. Packing the right equipment will help you enjoy a safe, comfortable, and rewarding trekking experience.

Essential Documents

• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.

Backpack and Trekking Gear

• Comfortable daypack.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
• Water for the first day.
• Headlamp with spare batteries.

Clothing

• Comfortable waterproof trekking boots.
• Three pairs of trekking pants (avoid jeans).
• Layered clothing for changing temperatures.
• Waterproof rain jacket.
• Warm insulated jacket.
• Thermal base layers.
• Four pairs of underwear.
• Four pairs of trekking socks.
• Four T-shirts.
• Two long-sleeve shirts.

Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping bag liner.

Personal Care

• Travel-size toiletries.
• Wet wipes and tissues.
• Sunscreen (SPF 35 or higher).
• Insect repellent.
• Personal medications.

Health and Safety

• Altitude sickness medication (if recommended by your doctor).
• Personal first aid kit.

Other Essentials

• Swimsuit.
• Camera and extra memory card.
• Plastic bags for wet clothing.
• Sandals or flip-flops.
• Extra cash for personal expenses.

💰 Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail 6 Days / 5 Nights daily, subject to Inca Trail permit availability.

Price: From USD $1139 per person

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

⚠️Limited availability due to Inca Trail permits. Early booking is highly recommended.

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.

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.

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 $265 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).

Equipment Rental

• Hiking Poles: USD $20
• Sleeping Bag: USD $25
• Private Tent: USD $40
• Personal Porter (12 kg): USD $140

Ancascocha Trek FAQs

1.- What is the Ancascocha Trek and how does it connect to the Inca Trail?

The Ancascocha Trek is a remote high-altitude trekking route in the Peruvian Andes that later connects with the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This combination allows travelers to explore less-visited landscapes before joining the historic Inca Trail for the final approach to Machu Picchu.

2.- How difficult is the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail combination?

This trek is considered moderate to challenging, featuring long trekking days and high mountain passes. It is recommended for travelers with good physical condition and some previous trekking experience, especially due to the altitude of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu.

3.- What is the highest point of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu?

The highest point of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,298 ft) on Day 3. This section is one of the most demanding parts of the trek and requires proper acclimatization.

4.- Do I need an Inca Trail permit for this trek?

Yes. Since this itinerary includes the Classic Inca Trail, an official Inca Trail permit is required. Permits are limited and often sell out months in advance, so early booking is essential for the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

5.- How many days does the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu take?

The Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 6-day, 5-night itinerary. This duration allows for gradual altitude gain, visits to multiple Inca archaeological sites, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

6.- What type of accommodation is included during the trek?

Accommodation during the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail is in tents at designated campsites, including Rayan, Ancascocha Lake, Paucarcancha, Pacaymayo, and Wiñaywayna. Camping equipment is provided.

7.- Are meals included during the Ancascocha Trek?

Yes. All meals during the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are included, from breakfast on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6. Meals are prepared daily by a professional trekking chef using fresh ingredients, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

8.- What is the best time to go on the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail?

The best time to go on the Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season from April to October, when trail conditions are generally more stable. May to August are the most popular months. The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.

9.- What archaeological sites are visited along the route?

During the trek, you will visit several remarkable Inca archaeological sites, including Perolniyoc, Incaracay, Paucarcancha, Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna, before arriving at the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.

10.- Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after the trek?

Yes. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require separate permits and are not included in the standard program. Entrance times are subject to availability, so we recommend booking these permits well in advance.

Travel Information

Make the Most of Your Peru Adventure with Cusco Journeys

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This guide includes the most important information to review before starting your trek — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry procedures and practical travel tips.

Please take a few minutes to read it carefully. It will help you prepare for your journey and enjoy the beauty of the Peruvian Andes with confidence.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation.

During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

Acclimatization in Cusco

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air.

We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, we recommend exploring some of Cusco’s nearby attractions:

• Cusco City Tour: Visit the Main Square, the Cathedral, and Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun).
• Sacred Valley Tour: Explore Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
• Moray and Maras Tour: Discover the impressive Inca agricultural terraces and traditional salt ponds.
• Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Visit the last handwoven Inca bridge still in use.
• Rainbow Mountain Tour: Experience one of Peru’s most spectacular natural landscapes.

These excursions help your body adjust to the altitude while allowing you to discover the region’s rich culture and history.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please complete the payment at least two days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask that the remaining balance be paid in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where both currencies are available.

Payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, PayPal, and debit cards are also accepted. Please note that online and card payments are subject to a 5% service fee charged by Niubiz and PayPal.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept personal or traveler’s checks.

Duffel Bag Information

You’ll receive your duffel bag during the briefing.

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

Our porters will carry your duffel bag throughout the trek and return it to you each afternoon at camp. Please pack only the items you’ll need during the hike.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

To protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu now operates with timed entry tickets and designated visitor circuits.

Main Circuits

• Circuit 1: Panoramic viewpoints and upper terraces.
• Circuit 2: The classic route through the main archaeological sector.
• Circuit 3: Lower terraces and the agricultural sector.

For the Salkantay Trek and Inca Trail, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, depending on ticket availability and current government regulations.

If you’d like to visit another circuit or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, an additional entrance ticket is required and is subject to availability.

Please note that once you leave Machu Picchu, re-entry is not permitted.

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

Guests are responsible for their personal belongings throughout the trek.

Before leaving campsites, restaurants, trains, or vehicles, please double-check that you have all your belongings with you. Avoid leaving valuables unattended during the trek.

If an item is found, our team will do everything possible to help recover it; however, Cusco Journeys cannot be held responsible for lost personal belongings.