Traveler feeling the spirit of the Huayanay Glacier and the Ancascocha Lake.

Ancascocha & Machu Picchu Trek

4 Days & 3 Nights
Starting from US$650 per person
Accommodation Icon
Camps & Hotel Accommodation
Group Size Icon
Up to 12 people Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
4,650 m / 15,256 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

The Super Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Perolniyoc - Kuychiccasa Pass - Ancascocha - Huayanay Pass - Paucarcancha - Machu Picchu
Accommodation Icon
Camps & Hotel Accommodation
Group Size Icon
Up to 12 people Group Size
Max. Altitude Icon
4,650 m / 15,256 ft Max. Altitude
Difficulty Icon
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the least known routes and is far less traveled than many other options. This makes it one of the lesser-crowded of all the tourist circuits around Cusco, so perfect if you love to get off-the-beaten-path and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet on your hikes.

Despite getting fewer visitors, the Ancascocha route was declared as one of the 20 dream-walks by National Geographic on the best walks in the world list, and with good reason! You’ll be treated to incredible views along the adventurous trail on your way to the amazing Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days & 3 Nights Map Day by Day (4D/3N) Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days Map
  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
  • Before You Go
  • Packing List
  • Pricing
  • Enquire Now
  Overview

The Ancascocha Trek in the Peruvian Andes is a wonderful trail that’s remained off-the-beaten-path despite its close proximity to the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for a real adventure and avoid large crowds on the more well-known treks, this option is perfect for you.

This route is sometimes known as the Super Inca Trail or the Hidden Inca Trail; it’s more strenuous and less traveled but much more rewarding. However, after a few days of solitude, you will pass a section of the original Inca Trail and be surprised to see so many other hikers all of a sudden. Don’t worry, though, as they’ll be heading in another direction.

Along the way, you’ll stop off at fascinating Inca archaeological sites and learn all about the ancient culture. You’ll also get to see the most incredible landscapes and hike through beautiful scenery in the Andes. All the while, you’ll be surrounded by local flora and fauna that accompany you the whole trek.

You´ll finish this mountain adventure by heading to the world-famous Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. At this magical site, you´ll enjoy a guided tour of several sections and climb one of the additional mountains: Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability). Afterwards, we´ll make sure you return safe and sound to your accommodation in Cusco. You don't need to worry about anything; we´ll take care of all the details so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 01

    Cusco | Soqma - Perolniyoc - Racaypata - Rayan - Kuychiccasa Pass - Chancachuco

    Start the day with a walk to the Perolniyoc waterfall before heading to Racaypata Inca archaeological site. After lunch, you’ll hike up to the Kuychiccasa pass before heading down to camp in the Chancacucho Valley.

  • Day 02

    Chancachuco | Ancascocha - Huayanay Pass - Incaracay - Quesqa

    In the morning, walk to get some amazing views of La Veronica glacier before heading to the Ancascocha community. After lunch, hike up to the trek’s highest point before enjoying a relaxing descent to our camp in Quesqa Valley.

  • Day 03

    Quesqa | Paucarcancha - Piscacucho, KM 82 - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

    We’ll begin by walking to the Paucarcancha Inca site before descending for 5 hours along the Classic Inca Trail to KM 82, where we’ll eat lunch. From Ollantaytambo, we’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a hostel.

  • Day 04

    Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

    Today we´ll start the day early to avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu. Once at the citadel, we´ll have a guided tour of approximately two hours. Later, we´ll board the train to Ollantaytambo, from where our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.

What's it like

Highlights

  • Hike through the Andes surrounded by very few other trekkers, if any!
  • Informative guided tours of Inca archaeological sites along the route.
  • Observe extensive cultivation fields where generations of peasants have tilled the land.
  • Pass through small Andean communities and see how locals live in these rural parts of the country.
  • Be accompanied by astounding scenery and expansive landscapes the whole way.
  • Visit the New Wonder of the World, Machu Picchu, and discover its secrets.

Why Travel with us

  Itinerary
Day 01

Cusco | Soqma - Perolniyoc - Racaypata - Rayan - Kuychiccasa Pass - Chancachuco

Highlight of the day: Exploring the Racaypata archaeological site and taking in beautiful views from the Kuychiccasa pass.

The Excursion Begins with Fantastic Views and an Inca History Lesson

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Camp Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
16 km / 9.9 miles Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
9-10 hours Walking Time
Min. Elevation Icon
3,000 m / 9,843 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,500 m / 14,764 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
3,350 m / 14,272 ft Campsite Elevation

The adventure begins early when we collect you from your accommodation. We’ll head to our trek starting point and walk for 3 hours to the Perolniyoc waterfall, where you can freshen up in the water and take some stunning photos. We’ll then walk another hour to the Racaypata Inca archaeological site, where you’ll learn all about this fascinating place and enjoy some spectacular views. After, you’ll enjoy your first delicious meal cooked by our chefs.

After lunch, we’ll head uphill for 3 hours to the Kuychiccasa Pass and observe cultivation fields and Andean wildlife, such as alpacas and condors All the while, snowy mountains will accompany you. Once we reach the top, you can enjoy looking out over the beautiful landscapes before we head down for an hour and forty-five minutes to our campsite in the Chancacucho Valley. Spend the early evening resting and looking up into the beautiful Andean night sky before dinner and bed.

Your exciting adventure begins today when we collect you from your accommodation bright and early and set off on a one-and-a-half-hour journey to the starting point of our trek, Soqma (3,000 m / 9,843 ft). You’ll find our transport extremely comfortable and be pleased to see that we provide cozy blankets for you to wrap up and enjoy a little more sleep if needed.

After enjoying a tasty breakfast, you’ll meet the rest of our trekking team of cooks and horsemen. and then be on our way. We’ll start with a 3-hour hike to the Perolniyoc waterfall, which is a beautiful sight and a place to unwind a little. You’ll have time to enjoy snapping some great photos and cooling off in the water if you’d like.

We’ll keep walking for another hour until we get to Racaypata Inca archaeological site, which was built on a cliff and provides the most spectacular views of the surrounding valley. Each and every one of our guides is an expert in Inca history and passionate about sharing their knowledge with you, which means quality information is guaranteed. We’ll then have lunch, and you’ll be able to try the high-quality cuisine our chefs cook up in the middle of the mountains for the first time.

In the afternoon, we’ll head uphill for 3 hours to the Kuychiccasa pass (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). Along the way, we’ll see cultivation fields and alpacas, as well as condors in flight, if we’re lucky. All the while, snowy peaks make for the perfect backdrop.

There’s no need to rush to get to the top, and we’ll take a break together as we look out over the picturesque Chancacucho Valley and Sacred Valley of the Incas. Another hour and forty-five-minute walk downhill will take us to our camp in the Chancacucho Valley (4,350 m / 14,764 ft). Once there, you’ll be able to chill out and rest your legs or lie down for a moment under the Andean sky and watch the stars begin to appear before you enjoy a delicious dinner and then bed.

Day 02

Chancachuco | Ancascocha - Huayanay Pass - Incaracay - Quesqa

Highlight of the day: Reaching the highest point and seeing the amazing landscapes all around.

Adventure to the Highest Point on the Trek

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Camp Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Challenging Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
15 km / 9.32 miles Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
8-9 hours Walking Time
Min. Elevation Icon
3,850 m / 12,631 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
4,650 m / 15,256 ft Highest Elevation
Campsite Elevation Icon
3,850 m / 12,631 ft Campsite Elevation

Wake up early with an excellent breakfast before setting out for an hour to get an incredible view of La Veronica glacier. We’ll then head downhill for 3 hours to get to the Ancascocha community. We’ll cross a gorgeous valley crossed by a crystal clear stream before we continue for another 1 hour uphill. You’ll be rewarded with amazing views at the end of this section and enjoy today’s tasty lunch.

After, we’ll be making our way to the highest point of the entire trek, the Huayanay Pass. You’ll also get to know a section of the original Inca Trail and enjoy some more outstanding scenery. The walk down will be relaxing as we take things slowly on our way to the campsite for the evening in Quesqa Valley. It’s time for some dinner and to wind down for the evening to rest up before another day of trekking tomorrow.

We’ll wake you up with a delightful hot tea or coffee, and then you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast to give you the energy you need to continue with our adventure.

We’ll set off on a 45-minute undulating path followed by a twenty-minute uphill climb so you can delight in the incredible views of La Veronica glacier (5,682 m / 18,642 ft). After, we’ll descend for another 3 hours until we reach the community of Ancascocha (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), which the trek is named after. Here, we’ll cross a small beautiful valley that’s crossed by a crystalline stream. It’s a very picturesque area, to say the least.

Next, we’ll continue our trek with a 1-hour uphill hike that’ll reward you with absolutely stunning views of the surrounding glaciers, well-preserved Inca archaeological sites, and the beautiful blue Ancascocha Lake. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture some incredible shots.

We’ll enjoy a bite to eat as our chefs prepare another one of their delicious lunches before we continue on to the highest point of the trail, Huayanay Pass (4,650 m /15,265 ft). The ascent takes 2 hours, and you’ll also get to know a part of the original Inca Trail. You can expect some astounding views when you’re up this high.

The walk down from the pass is much more comfortable, and we’ll descend gradually with gorgeous views all around. We’ll reach our camp in Quesqa Valley (3,850 m / 12,631 ft) and relax while we wait for another amazing dinner. After, you’ll go bed to get some quality rest before another day of hiking tomorrow.

Day 03

Quesqa | Paucarcancha - Piscacucho, KM 82 - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the day: Hiking along the Classic Inca Trail.

Travel on the Classic Inca Trail

Meals Icon
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals
Accommodation Icon
Hotel Accommodation
Difficulty Icon
Moderate Difficulty
Walking Distance Icon
18 km / 11.18 mi Walking Distance
Walking Time Icon
7 hours Walking Time
Min. Elevation Icon
2,040 m / 6,693 ft Min. Elevation
Highest Elevation Icon
3,850 m / 12,631 ft Highest Elevation
Accommodation Elevation Icon
2,040 m / 6,693 ft Accommodation Elevation

Wake up early to leave the Quesqa Valley and head to the Paucarcancha Inca site through thickening vegetation. From the site, you’ll get a great view over the original Inca Trail and enjoy a tour of the place with your knowledgeable guide from the site. We’ll then descend for 5 hours along a part of the Classic Inca Trail to KM 82, where the trail starts for those going on the Inca Trail trek. We’ll enjoy lunch at the end of this section.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo by our transport before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes. You’ll get some amazing photo opportunities along the railway. Once we get to Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into your hostel before having some time to relax. After, we’ll have dinner in a top restaurant before making our way to bed early. You’ll need to be up before sunrise in the morning.

We’ll be up bright and early for another tasty breakfast before we set off downhill from the Quesqa Valley for two and a half hours. We’ll make our way to the Paucarcancha Inca site (3,120 m / 10,236 ft) through vegetation that becomes greener and thicker. From the archaeological site, you’ll be able to appreciate a part of the original Inca Trail in the distance and the remote communities of the Quesqa Valley. Inside the site, your guide will give you a tour and tell you about all the mysteries of the place.

After, we’ll descend for 5 hours along a part of the Classic Inca Trail toward KM 82, where the traditional Inca Trail begins. Along the route, you’ll be able to appreciate the Llactapata and Canabamba archaeological sites. We’ll eat our lunch at Km 82 and rest our legs for a while before we set off again.

In the afternoon, we’ll transfer you to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft) to board the train to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft). On this comfortable journey, you’ll enjoy a different perspective of the mountains you walked through earlier as you travel alongside the Urubamba River. You’ll also get some fantastic photo opportunities so that you will need your camera at the ready!

Once we get to Aguas Calientes, we’ll take you to your hostel to check in, where you can rest until dinner. Alternatively, and if you still have energy, you can explore the small town or head to the hot springs to relax your tired muscles. We’ll meet up for dinner in one of the best restaurants in town before going to bed early, as you’ll need to be up before dawn tomorrow.

Day 04

Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Highlight of the day: Visit to the incredible Inca citadel, Machu Picchu.

Explore the Lost City of the Incas - Machu Picchu

Meals Icon
Breakfast Meals
Difficulty Icon
Easy Difficulty
Activity Duration Icon
2-5 hours exploring Activity Duration
Machu Picchu Site Elevation Icon
2,430 m / 7,972 ft Machu Picchu Site Elevation
Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
3,000 m / 9,843 ft Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation
Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation Icon
2,720 m / 8,924 ft Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation
Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration) Icon
Moderate to Challenging / 2-4 hours Optional Activities (Difficulty - Duration)

The most exciting day has arrived! Get up early to have a quick breakfast before boarding the 5:30 a.m. bus to Machu Picchu and avoid the crowds at this sacred site. Once inside, you´ll feel really excited and the magic of the Incas will invade your being. You´ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours through several important sections. You´ll also be able to climb one of the additional mountains to get an incredible view of the entire site; remember to reserve your tickets in advance.

You’ll head back down to Aguas Calientes just after midday and have a quick lunch. Then, head to the train station to travel back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation in Cusco to put your feet up and reflect on your incredible trip.

The grand day is finally here! Make sure you set your alarm before sunrise today so that we can beat the large crowds at Machu Picchu. You’ll enjoy a bit of breakfast at the hostel before catching the bus from Aguas Calientes at 5:30 am. The entrance to Machu Picchu opens at 6:00 am, and we like to be one of the first groups inside.

As soon as you step foot in this magical place, you’ll feel goosebumps all over as you look out at the incredible construction the Incas built so many years ago with very few tools. Good vibrations will wash over you as you sense the connection and balance between human beings and Mother Nature, or as the Incas knew her, Pachamama.

Our expert guide will take us on a tour of approximately two hours through the important sections of Machu Picchu to discover the secrets of this mystical place. Afterwards, you´ll be able to do one of the additional mountain hikes: Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. Please note that you must have your tickets reserved in advance.

Around noon, it will be time to return to Aguas Calientes. You´ll have some time to choose a restaurant of your choice and have lunch before going to the station to board the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation in Cusco. Finally, it will be time to take a break and reflect on our incredible journey that will leave your heart beating to the rhythm of the Andes for years to come.

  Inclusions

At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.

What Is Included?

Permits & Entrance Tickets

High Quality Service & Safety

  • Pre-departure Briefing - The day before the trip, at 5:00 pm you will meet your trekking guide.

    You’ll meet your trekking guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.

  • Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.

    English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!

  • Private Camping Equipment

    You’ll have spacious dining and kitchen tents where you can enjoy your food without problems. In addition, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our horses).

  • Portable Travel Toilet
  • One Duffle Bag

    On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).

  • Medical Kit or First AID Kit - Our guides are trained to deal with basic emergencies.

    All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers' diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.

  • Extras Included in our Service

    We believe that attention to small details is what sets us apart from other local companies. You’ll receive a small sleeping pillow, a foam mattress, a cover to protect your backpack on the road, and a rain poncho.

  • 24/7 Customer Service - We have 24 hours a day telephone service.

    We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.

  • Satellite Phone - Each of our guides has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of emergency.

    Our main priority will always be the tranquillity of our clients. All of our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains; however, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps you feel more secure. For this reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of an emergency.

Accommodation

  • Lodging in Campsites

    We have a series of campsites that offer you true comfort. Besides that, just like our ancestors, we have a profound link of affection and respect for our Mother Earth. Because of this, we are insistent that our campsites don’t generate any negative environmental impact. Remember that the accommodations are double and shared.

  • Best Camping Tents

    Salkantay Trekking uses the best equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Every 2 people will share Eureka Timberline or Mountain Hard Wear tents with a capacity for 4 people.

  • Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes

    The last night of this trek is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with a double or triple room, private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.

Meals

  • 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 3 Dinners

    Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.

  • Water on the trail - You will need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle for us to give you boiled, filtered and refrigerated water.

    We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your hike, from your first lunch to your last lunch with your hiking team in Piscacucho (KM 82). For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).

  • Wake up tea - Every morning at campig we will provide you with hot coca tea.

    Every morning at the campsite, you'll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.

  • Tea Time or Happy Hour - Every evening, before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, tea, hot water, etc.

    Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won't have to wait until dinner to relax, warm-up, and enjoy a bite to eat!

  • Snacks on the trail daily - You will receive a bag with cookies, fruit and more, to be refilled each morning.

    Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.

  • One cloth snack bag per person

    To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we'll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.

  • Hygiene Products

    You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.

Transportation

  • Transport
    • Day 1: You'll be picked up from your hotel in the morning and will travel in our private transportation to Soqma, the trek's starting point.
    • Day 3: Transport from Piscacucho (KM 82) to Ollantaytambo.
    • Day 4: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Train Tickets
    • Day 3: From Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
    • Day 4: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 4)
  • Personal Belongings Transportation

    On days 1,2, and 3, cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items.

What Is Not Included?

  • Extras and important equipment

    All our travelers need a sleeping bag to camp. Inflatable mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but highly recommended. If you do not have them, don’t worry, you can rent them with Salkantay Trekking.

    • Sleeping bag: US$ 20.00
    • Inflatable mattress: US$ 20.00
    • Walking poles (pair): US$ 20.00
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain - If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

    You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least one month in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.

    • The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
  • Machu Picchu Mountain- If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

    Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.

    • The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.
  • Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 4)
  • Personal Hiking Clothing and Gear
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for our staff

    Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Typically, group participants collect their tips to hand out to the horsemen and chefs together.

  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control

    Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.

  Before You Go

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.

How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.

You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.

Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:

Briefing or Informative Meeting

All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.

If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler's checks as forms of payment for the balance.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. Our horses will carry them, and the horsemen will hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).

A maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb is allowed for each duffel bag, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes, and other personal items.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.

Pick up of guests

Please note:

  • All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
  • Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
  • Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
  • Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.

Return to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!

  • In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
  • In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
  • Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
  • In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.

Note: Your tour includes a One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a round-trip bus ticket, you’ll need to pay an extra of US$ 12.00.

Group Tours

Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.

It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.

Strikes and demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.

Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost objects

Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.

  Packing List

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

ESSENTIAL

Valid Passport
Valid Passport
Extra money (recommended soles)
Extra money (recommended soles)
Personal medication
Personal medication
Water bottle or CamelBak
Water bottle or CamelBak
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Personal Care Products
Personal Care Products

CLOTHING

Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Light footwear or sandals
Light footwear or sandals
Trekking pants (*)
Trekking pants (*)
Trekking socks
Trekking socks
Pair of thermal pants
Pair of thermal pants
Warm jacket
Warm jacket
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof jacket
Raincoat or rain poncho
Raincoat or rain poncho
Waterproof or wool gloves
Waterproof or wool gloves
Sun hat to protect neck and face
Sun hat to protect neck and face
Wool hat for the cold
Wool hat for the cold
Neck gaiter or buff
Neck gaiter or buff
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunglasses with UV protection

EQUIPMENT

Sleeping bag (-15°C)
Sleeping bag (-15°C)
Trekking poles
Trekking poles
Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)
Medium trekking backpack (15 - 25 liter)

RECOMMENDED

Camera and charger
Camera and charger
Power bank
Power bank
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Bathing suit
Bathing suit
Towel
Towel
Flashlight
Flashlight
  Pricing

"Ancascocha & Machu Picchu Trek" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.

2024 Land Cost

Group Price: US$ 650.00 per person.

Required Pre-payment: US$ 200.00 per person.

Balance (Cusco): US$ 450.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).

This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.

Notice that PayPal charges a fee of 5%, which we ask the client to cover since it's due to the use of its service. This tax is just for online deposits so that you will pay the remaining in cash (the briefing day in Cusco) without charges.

Hotel

All the related treks to Machu Picchu end in or before Aguas Calientes, so you’ll spend the last night in a hotel in the town rather than camping (including a shared room in a standard 3-star hotel). If you need a hotel upgrade or prefer a single room, you can pay an extra fee. Please enquire for more details.

Extras & Upgrades

There are complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip.

  • Huayna Picchu:  US$ 60.00
  • Machu Picchu Mountain:  US$ 60.00
  • Huchuy Picchu Mountain:  US$ 45.00
  • Single Supplement (Hotel at Aguas Calientes):  US$ 30.00
  • Extra Night at Aguas Calientes:  US$ 50.00
  • Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo):  US$ 70.00

Extensions & Offers

There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure.

  • Rainbow Mountain:  US$ 100.00  US$ 80.00
  • Sacred Valley:  US$ 100.00  US$ 80.00
  • City Tour:  US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00

Additional Items

There are additional items you can include in this trip. Below is a quick list of prices.

  • Sleeping bag::  US$ 20.00
  • Inflattable mattress:  US$ 20.00
  • Walking poles (pair):  US$ 20.00

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.

Student Discount

US$20.00 off

Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to info@salkantaytrekking.com.

  Enquire Now

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.

Our Pledge |  Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.

Personal Details

Trip Details

Ancascocha Trek Short 4D
14 years and above
Below 14 years
7 + 3 =

Remember |  One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.

Note |  Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!

Feel free to reach us via email at info@salkantaytrekking.com or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179

Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Triunfo Street 346 - Main Square of Cusco, Peru

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