- The Classic Ancascocha Trek<\/a>
- What to Expect from this Trek?<\/a><\/li>
- Day by Day Itinerary<\/a><\/li>
- Day 1<\/a><\/li>
- Day 2<\/a><\/li>
- Day 3<\/a><\/li>
- Day 4<\/a><\/li>
- Day 5<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Other ways to explore Ancascocha?<\/a>
- Ancascocha to Machu Picchu: 4 days<\/a><\/li>
- Ancascocha Trek and Short Inca Trail: 5 days<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Recommendations for the Ancascocha Trek\u00a0<\/a>
- Preparation:<\/a><\/li>
- During the hike:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- You may also be interested:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n
The Classic Ancascocha Trek<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Ancascocha and Machu Picchu trail is a beautiful 5-day journey, ideal for those seeking a unique experience away from the crowds. Despite its proximity to the classic Inca Trail, this route, also known as the Hidden Inca Trail, is less traveled and offers spectacular views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the trek, you’ll be rewarded with impressive landscapes, including towering waterfalls, Inca constructions, and panoramic vistas. Additionally, you’ll pass through Quechua agricultural communities and traditional villages like Ancascocha (3,900 m \/ 12,795 ft). The highest point of the trek is the Abra Huayanay (4,650 m \/ 15,256 ft).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The journey culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the World’s New Seven Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided tour before returning to your accommodation in Cusco. Every detail is taken care of so you can enjoy every minute of this incredible experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to Expect from this Trek?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Walk through the glorious Andes in peace and tranquility, away from the crowds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Enjoy guided visits to different Inca sites along the way.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Trek the Ancascocha trail, which is considered one of the best routes in the world by National Geographic.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Visit Quechua agricultural communities that still practice ancestral customs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Observe Andean rural communities and their way of life, which are far from the nearest town.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Contemplate the most marvelous and grand landscapes throughout the journey.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- End your trek with a visit to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a New Wonder of the World.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Classic](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/classic-ancascocha-trek-machu-picchu-5-days-4-nights-map-day-by-day-large-1024x724.jpg\")
Classic Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu Map 5 Days – Salkantay Trekking<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Day by Day Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Day 1<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Cusco | Soqma – Perolniyoc – Racaypata – Rayan<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the starting point of the trek, Soqma, to begin your journey towards Perolniyoc Waterfall for a refreshing stop. Afterward, you will visit the Inca site of Racaypata and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, descend to spend the night in Rayan.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day details <\/strong><\/td><\/tr> Meals <\/strong><\/td> Breakfast, lunch and dinner <\/td><\/tr> Lodging<\/strong><\/td> Camp<\/td><\/tr> Difficulty<\/strong><\/td> Moderate<\/td><\/tr> Walking distance <\/strong><\/td> 8 km \/ 4.9 miles<\/td><\/tr> Duration of the hike <\/strong><\/td> 5- 6 hours <\/td><\/tr> Minimum altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,000 m \/ 9,843 ft<\/td><\/tr> Maximum altitude <\/strong><\/td> 3,700 m \/ 12,139 ft<\/td><\/tr> Camp altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,700 m \/ 12,139 ft<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Today, your exciting adventure begins. We will pick you up early from your hotel and travel for an hour and a half to the starting point of the trek, Soqma (3,000 m \/ 9,843 ft). Our transportation is exceptionally comfortable, and you can use the cozy blankets we provide to rest a bit more on the way if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before we set off, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet our chefs and muleteers, who will accompany us throughout the trek. The journey begins with three hours to Perolniyoc Waterfall. Along the way, you’ll admire corn, wheat, and quinoa fields. Once at the waterfall, you can cool off under the cascade or take fantastic photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After another hour of trekking, we will reach the Inca site of Racaypata, built on the cliffside with stunning views of the surrounding valley. Our guides, experts in Inca history, will offer you a wonderful lesson about their culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll enjoy our first lunch and savor the excellent food prepared by our chefs amidst the mountains. In the afternoon, we’ll descend for about an hour until we reach our campsite in Rayan (3,700 m \/ 12,139 ft). Clear nights amid the Andes are stunning, and you can rest well while appreciating the beautiful constellations and shooting stars. After enjoying a delicious dinner, you’ll retire to your camp for a comfortable night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Perolniyoc](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Perolniyoc-Waterfall.jpg\")
Perolniyoc waterfall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"People](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/People-next-to-Perolniyoc-waterfall.jpg\")
People next to Perolniyoc waterfall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Day 2<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Rayan Abra Kuychiccasa – Chancachuco – Ancascocha<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Early in the morning, you will ascend to Abra Kuychiccasa and enjoy spectacular views before lunch. In the afternoon, you will descend to the community of Ancascocha while enjoying marvelous landscapes. You will spend the night in the village.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day details <\/strong><\/td><\/tr> Meals <\/strong><\/td> Breakfast, lunch and dinner <\/td><\/tr> Lodging<\/strong><\/td> Camp<\/td><\/tr> Difficulty<\/strong><\/td> Challenging<\/td><\/tr> Walking distance <\/strong><\/td> 14 km \/ 8.7 miles<\/td><\/tr> Duration of the hike <\/strong><\/td> 8-9 hours <\/td><\/tr> Minimum altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,700 m \/ 12,139 ft<\/td><\/tr> Maximum altitude <\/strong><\/td> 4,500 m \/ 14,764 ft<\/td><\/tr> Camp altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,900 m \/ 12,795 ft<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n When you travel with Salkantay Trekking, you don’t need to worry about setting your alarm clock. We will wake you up with a cup of hot tea or coffee. After that, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast with the rest of the group before we embark on our fantastic hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the morning, you will ascend for about two hours to Abra Kuychiccasa (4,500 m \/ 14,764 ft), where you will behold beautiful landscapes. You’ll see farmland, alpacas, sheep, and, if you’re lucky, the majestic flight of a condor against the backdrop of the snowy Andean mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There’s no need to rush to the top; this isn’t a race. Remember, you’ll be at a high altitude, so going slow and steady is the best approach. We’ll take a break to appreciate the spectacular views of the Chancachuco Valley and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Then, we’ll continue for another hour until we reach our lunch spot (4,350 m \/ 14,272 ft), where our chefs will wait for another exquisite meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the afternoon, you’ll continue ascending, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the La Ver\u00f3nica Glacier (5,682 m \/ 18,642 ft). Then, you’ll descend for four hours until you reach the community of Ancascocha (3,900 m \/ 12,795 ft), which shares its name with the trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our campsite is truly impressive, within a beautiful valley crossed by a stream of crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll spend a comfortable night after a great day of hiking and enjoy a delicious dinner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Rayan](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Rayan-Abra-Kuychiccasa.jpg\")
Rayan Abra Kuychiccasa<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Ancascocha](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Ancascocha-Lagoon.jpg\")
Ancascocha Lagoon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Day 3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ancascocha | Abra Huayanay – Incaracay – Quesqa – Paucarcancha<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the morning, you’ll hike to the trek’s highest point, Abra Huayanay. Afterward, we’ll head to the community of Quesqa and the Inca site of Paucarcancha for a tour before spending the night at our campsite.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day details <\/strong><\/td><\/tr> Meals <\/strong><\/td> Breakfast, lunch and dinner <\/td><\/tr> Lodging<\/strong><\/td> Camp<\/td><\/tr> Difficulty<\/strong><\/td> Challenging<\/td><\/tr> Walking distance <\/strong><\/td> 14 km \/ 8.7 miles<\/td><\/tr> Duration of the hike <\/strong><\/td> 8 hours<\/td><\/tr> Minimum altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,900 m \/ 12,795 ft<\/td><\/tr> Maximum altitude <\/strong><\/td> 4,650 m \/ 15,256 ft<\/td><\/tr> Camp altitude<\/strong><\/td> 3,120 m \/ 10,236 ft<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n After another fantastic breakfast, you will continue your hike, ascending for an hour. You’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular landscapes, breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers, Inca archaeological sites, and the brilliant blue of Ancascocha Lagoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next, you’ll ascend for two more hours to the route’s highest point, Abra Huayanay (4,650 m \/ 15,256 ft). After the strenuous effort, you’ll have plenty of time to rest at the summit and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Then, you’ll have lunch at the Inca site of Incaracay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the afternoon, the hike will be much easier on your legs as you descend towards the community of Quesqa and visit the archaeological site of Paucarcancha (3,120 m \/ 10,236 ft). As the vegetation becomes greener and denser, you’ll notice the change in altitude. From here, you’ll get an incredible view of a section of the original Inca Trail in the distance, along with the picturesque and remote village of the Quesqa Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once at Paucarcancha, your guide will take you to learn more about the site and its significance to the Inca Empire before settling into your campsite. Of course, another delicious dinner will also be waiting for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"Paucarcancha\"](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Paucarcancha.jpg\")
Paucarcancha, Quesqa Valley<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Archaeological](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Archaeological-Site-of-Paucarcancha.jpg\")
Archaeological Site of Paucarcancha<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Day 4<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Paucarcancha | Piscacucho, KM 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll traverse the Classic Inca Trail in the morning to KM 82. Later, you’ll board the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant before resting at a comfortable hotel.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day details <\/strong><\/td><\/tr> Meals <\/strong><\/td> Breakfast, lunch and dinner <\/td><\/tr> Lodging<\/strong><\/td> Hotel<\/td><\/tr> Difficulty<\/strong><\/td> Easy <\/td><\/tr> Walking distance <\/strong><\/td> 13 km \/ 8.08 miles<\/td><\/tr> Duration of the hike <\/strong><\/td> 5 hours<\/td><\/tr> Minimum altitude<\/strong><\/td> 2,040 m \/ 6,693 ft<\/td><\/tr> Maximum altitude <\/strong><\/td> 3,120 m \/ 10,236 ft<\/td><\/tr> Camp altitude<\/strong><\/td> 2,040 m \/ 6,693 ft<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n You’ll be glad to know that this day of hiking is the easiest of all and offers excellent photo opportunities. We’ll embark on a five-hour journey along the Classic Inca Trail to KM 82, where hikers typically start this route; we’ll be heading in the opposite direction. Along the way, we’ll pass through small villages and reach the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata. Across the river, you’ll see the Inca citadel of Canabamba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At KM 82, you’ll enjoy your final lunch prepared by our skilled chefs before bidding farewell to the team that accompanied us during the journey. We’ll then transfer by private transport to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m \/ 9,160 ft), a picturesque Inca town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, you’ll board the train bound for Aguas Calientes (2,040 m \/ 6,693 ft) at the base of Machu Picchu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the journey, you can enjoy the mountainous landscape from a different perspective and have excellent opportunities to take photos to cherish as memories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/The-llactapata-archaeological-site.jpg\")
The llactapata archaeological site in inca trail <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Aguas](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Aguas-Calientes-town.jpg\")
Aguas Calientes town<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Day 5<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll start the day before sunrise to visit Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours at the site. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will await to take you back to Cusco.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day details <\/strong><\/td><\/tr> Meals <\/strong><\/td> Breakfast<\/td><\/tr> Difficulty<\/strong><\/td> Easy <\/td><\/tr> Duration of the hike <\/strong><\/td> 2-5 hours exploring<\/td><\/tr> Optional Activities<\/strong><\/td> Moderate to challenging (2-4 hours)<\/td><\/tr> Altitude of the Machu Picchu citadel<\/strong><\/td> 2,430 m \/ 7,972 ft<\/td><\/tr> Altitude of Machu Picchu mountain<\/strong><\/td> 3,000 m \/ 9,843 ft<\/td><\/tr> Altitude of the mountain Huayna Picchu<\/strong><\/td> 2,720 m \/ 8,924 ft<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Today, you’ll head to Machu Picchu, one of the World’s New Seven Wonders. To do this, you’ll need to set your alarm and rise before sunrise, have a quick breakfast, and beat the crowds to the Inca citadel to enjoy this magical place in peace before more visitors arrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Entry to Machu Picchu begins at 6:00 a.m., so we’ll board the bus from Aguas Calientes at 5:30 a.m. Upon entering, you’ll feel a sense of magic and mystery as you first behold the complex. Take a moment to reflect on how the ancient Inca culture could construct such a marvel on the mountainside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After taking in this sight, our expert guide will lead you on an informative and exciting tour of the critical sectors, revealing the best-kept secrets of the Incas. Then, if you’ve purchased tickets in advance, you can climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Around noon, it will be time to return to the quaint town of Aguas Calientes. You’ll have time to choose a restaurant and enjoy a good lunch before heading to the train station to board the train to Ollantaytambo. The travel time depends on ticket availability at the time of booking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once we arrive in Ollantaytambo, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. Finally, you can enjoy a well-deserved and comfortable rest. On the way, you’ll reflect on the journey of a lifetime, which we’re sure you’ll never forget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Machu](\"https:\/\/www.salkantaytrekking.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Machu-Picchu-Peru-1024x683.jpg\")
Machu Picchu<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Other ways to explore Ancascocha?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
At Salkantay Trekking, we offer other ways to explore the wonderful and magical destination of Ancascocha. Here’s information on different options to enjoy this experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ancascocha to Machu Picchu: 4 days<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ancascocha hike in the Peruvian Andes is a beautiful trail that has remained off the beaten path despite its proximity to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This option is ideal if you’re looking for a true adventure and want to avoid the large crowds of more well-known hikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Known as the Super Inca Trail or the Hidden Inca Trail, this route is more challenging, less traveled, and much more rewarding. After a few days of solitude, you’ll cross a section of the original Inca Trail and be surprised to see several hikers, though they’ll be heading in another direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll stop at fascinating Inca archaeological sites and learn about this ancient culture along the way. You’ll also enjoy some of the most incredible landscapes in the Andes, surrounded by local flora and fauna that will accompany you during the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’ll end this adventure at the mountain by visiting the world-famous Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour through several sections, and, if you wish, you can climb one of the additional mountains: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu (subject to availability). Afterwards, we’ll ensure you return safely to your accommodation in Cusco. You don’t need to worry about a thing; we’ll take care of all the details so you can enjoy your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summary of your Itinerary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nDay 01<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n
- During the hike:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Ancascocha Trek and Short Inca Trail: 5 days<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Day by Day Itinerary<\/a><\/li>
- What to Expect from this Trek?<\/a><\/li>