Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu – 4D/3N
Our Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is your invitation to an authentic Andean adventure, far from the crowds and brimming with hidden wonders.
This 4-day, 3-night journey will challenge your spirit and reward you with breathtaking scenery, ancient ruins, and the magic of Machu Picchu.
Yearning to escape the crowds and discover the secret side of the Andes? Our 4-day, 3-night Ancascocha Trek is your passport to an unforgettable journey through Peru’s hidden gems.
This trek isn’t just about reaching Machu Picchu (though that’s certainly a spectacular finale!). It’s about immersing yourself in the untouched beauty and rich culture of the Peruvian highlands. You’ll follow ancient trails, traverse high mountain passes, and witness the timeless traditions of remote Andean villages.
Imagine yourself gazing upon the snow-capped peak of Apu Salkantay, exploring the ruins of long-lost Inca settlements, and sharing moments with local communities who call this breathtaking landscape home. You’ll even hike a portion of the legendary Classic Inca Trail, connecting you with the footsteps of history.
Our experienced guides will weave tales of the region, its people, and its past, ensuring a truly enriching and immersive experience. And of course, the grand finale awaits: a visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where you’ll stand in wonder at this iconic marvel.
If you’re seeking a unique and challenging trek that ventures beyond the tourist trail, the Ancascocha Trail is your calling. Get ready to discover the hidden heart of Peru!
Detailed Itinerary – Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu– 4D/3N
Pre-trek briefing (required):
Before we embark on this incredible journey, we’ll gather for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. This is your chance to get all the insider tips, ask any burning questions, and ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
You can choose to join us at our office or we’ll happily swing by your hotel in Cusco. Just remember, this briefing is scheduled for the day before your trek kicks off, so make sure you arrive in Cusco with plenty of time to spare!
Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan – Kuychiccasa Pass – Chancachuco Valley
Say goodbye to the city buzz of Cusco! Today, we’re diving headfirst into the wild beauty of the Andes.
We’ll kick things off with a scenic drive to Soqma, where the real adventure begins. Here, we’ll meet our trusty horsemen and their sturdy steeds who’ll be carrying our gear – so you can focus on enjoying the views!
Lace up those boots, it’s hiking time! Our first trek takes us to the stunning Perolniyoc Waterfall. Get your cameras ready for some epic shots, and if you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the refreshing pool at the base!
Next, we’ll step back in time at the Inca ruins of Perolniyoc, perched dramatically on a cliff. Your guide will fill you in on the fascinating history of the Incas and their incredible civilization.
After a delicious lunch whipped up by our talented chef at Rayan, get ready for a bit of a challenge. We’ll be tackling the climb to the Kuychiccasa Pass. It’s a bit of a climb, but trust us, the views are worth every step. As you make your way up, the landscape will open up before your eyes, revealing snow-capped peaks, vast valleys, and maybe even a majestic condor soaring overhead.
From the pass, take in the panoramic views of the Chancachuco Valley and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Then, it’s a relaxing downhill walk to our cozy campsite for the night, nestled in the heart of the Chancachuco Valley.
As the day comes to a close, gather ’round the campfire for a hearty dinner and be mesmerized by the starlit sky. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an amazing first day on the Ancascocha Trek.
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 3,205 m/10,512 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 4,450 m/14,599 ft.
- Distance to walk: 16 km/9.9 miles
- Approximate walking time: 8-10 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Day 2: Chancachuco Valley – Ancascocha – Huaynay Pass – Quesqa Valley
Wake up to the crisp mountain air and a hearty breakfast – today’s adventure awaits! We’ll start with a scenic hike through the Chancachuco Valley, with stunning views of Mount Veronica.
Next, we’ll descend into the charming village of Ancascocha, nestled in a picturesque valley. It’s the perfect spot for a breather before we tackle the challenging climb to Huayanay Pass, the highest point of our trek! The views from the summit still leave us speechless today!
After soaking it all in, we’ll descend into the lush Quesqa Valley, catching glimpses of the Classic Inca Trail and the villages below. Our campsite for the night is tucked away in this tranquil valley, where a delicious dinner and well-deserved rest await.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Highest Elevation: 4,650 m/15,255 ft.
- Campsite elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft.
- Distance to walk: 18 km/11.1 miles
- Approximate walking time: 10-11 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 3: Quesqa Valley – Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Today, we’re swapping those high peaks for lush green valleys! We’ll kick off the day with a scenic downhill hike from Quesqa Valley to the fascinating Inca site of Paucarcancha. Your guide will bring the history of this ancient spot to life with captivating tales.
Next up, we’ll join the legendary Classic Inca Trail, walking in the footsteps of countless adventurers before us. It’s an easy downhill stroll through stunning scenery, made even more special by the fact that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep your eyes peeled for the Llactapata ruins, a hidden gem tucked away along the trail.
Lunchtime! We’ll take a well-deserved break at Kilometer 82, the official start of the Classic Inca Trail. Then, we’ll hop in a local vehicle and head to the charming town of Ollantaytambo.
The afternoon is all yours to explore this ancient Inca town. Wander through its narrow streets, check out the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins, and maybe even snag a souvenir or two.
As the sun starts to set, we’ll gather for a farewell feast at a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo. It’s the perfect time to swap stories and relive all the amazing adventures we’ve had.
Finally, we’ll board the night train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Get some rest on the train, because tomorrow is the big day!
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lodging: Hotel
- Highest Elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,692 ft.
- Distance to walk: 15 km/9.3 miles
- Approximate walking time: 7 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Rise and shine, it’s Machu Picchu time! After an early breakfast, we’ll hop on a bus and zigzag our way up to the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
Prepare to be blown away as you step into this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will lead you on an unforgettable tour, revealing the secrets and stories behind this ancient citadel. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own, snap some epic photos, and soak in the magic of this place.
In the afternoon, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes and catch the train back to Cusco. Sit back, relax, and let all those incredible memories sink in. You’ve just completed an amazing journey through the heart of the Andes!
- Meals: Breakfast
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/8,005 ft
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Easy/Challenging*
What’s Included in The Trek Package?
- Our guides are more than just trail leaders – they’re your personal Andean gurus! Fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua, they’ll keep you safe, share stories, and make sure you have an unforgettable experience. Big group? No worries, we’ll add an extra guide to keep the good vibes flowing.
- We’ll get you prepped and pumped for the adventure ahead with our pre-trek briefing. Think itinerary highlights, packing tips, safety info, and a chance to ask all your burning questions. We can meet at our office or your hotel – your choice!
- From Cusco to the trailhead and back again, we’ve got your transport Picture comfy private vans for those scenic Andean drives and train tickets for the journey back to Cusco after you’ve soaked up all the Machu Picchu magic.
- Forget about fumbling for tickets – we’ll handle all the entrance fees for Machu Picchu and any other cool spots we visit along the way.
- Our chefs will whip up hearty breakfasts and dinners to fuel your trekking spirit. Expect fresh, local ingredients and a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine. And for those midday munchies, we’ve got you covered with packed lunches to enjoy amidst stunning scenery.
- We’re all about making your nights under the stars as comfy as possible. Think spacious tents, cozy sleeping pads, and pillows for that extra touch of luxury. Plus, we’ll provide hot water for washing up, keep your water bottles topped up, and set up a portable eco-friendly toilet at each campsite.
- After conquering the trail, you’ll unwind in a comfy hotel in Aguas Calientes, just a stone’s throw from Machu Picchu.
- Your well-being is our priority. We carry a fully stocked first-aid kit, including emergency oxygen, and our guides are trained to handle any situation.
- Our trusty horsemen and their strong steeds will carry all the group gear and up to 8kg of your personal belongings, so you can focus on enjoying the hike. And don’t worry, we’ve got an extra horse on standby, just in case!
NOT included:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
- Ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain (this ticket can be purchased for an extra USD $75 per person)
- Day 4 Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the trek crew
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
What to bring:
- Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking you MUST bring both)
- Down or synthetic feather sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, tops, a few T-shirts, socks, sun hat, thermal underwear, light long pants, gloves, poncho, rain jacket)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
- Sun block (SPF 35+ recommended)
- Head lamp + batteries*
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Camera + batteries*
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us) MUST have rubber tips
- Insect repellent – 15% DEET
- Snacks (while your crew will prepare the most amazing meals, everyone’s energy needs are different, particularly at high altitude, so you should pack suitable snacks to make sure you are always fully energized)
- NOTE: * Batteries run down faster at high altitudes
PRICES & ADD-ONS
Group: USD $690 per person
Private: USD $750 per person
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Eco Andes Trekking is able to join that person with additional groups.
Discounts
- Under 18 years Discount: USD $20
- Under 7 years Discount: USD $35
Rentals
- Hiking poles – USD $25 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – USD $30 per person
- Private Tent – USD $40 per person
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $500 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $250 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- El Mapi hotel by Inkaterra (4-star hotel) – USD $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
Ancascocha Trek 2025 FAQs.
When’s the best time to trek this Trail?
This trek is open year-round, but for the best weather and clearest views, aim for the dry season between April and September or November and March.
Do I need to organize transportation?
We handle all your transportation needs throughout the trek. From private vans for scenic drives to train tickets for your Machu Picchu adventure, we’ve got you covered.
Where will I be sleeping?
Get ready for a mix of cozy mountain campsites and a comfortable hotel stay. For the first two nights, you’ll sleep in high-quality tents equipped with mattresses and pillows. On the third night, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Do I need a permit for this trek?
No permits are required for the Ancascocha Trek, making it a fantastic alternative to the Classic Inca Trail if you’re short on time or permits are sold out. However, you’ll still need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu, so book in advance, especially during peak season (May-September).
Is the Machu Picchu entrance ticket included?
Yes, your Machu Picchu entrance ticket is included in the trek price. We’ll take care of everything and provide you with your ticket on the day of your visit.
What if Machu Picchu tickets are sold out?
Machu Picchu tickets have limited availability, so it’s crucial to book your trek well in advance, especially during peak season. Remember, these tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, so double-check your travel dates before booking.
Can I enter Machu Picchu with a different name on my ticket?
No, you’ll need to present your valid passport at the entrance, and the name on your ticket must match exactly.
How tough is this Trek?
This trek is classified as challenging. It covers approximately 49 km (30.2 miles) over four days, with daily hikes lasting 7-11 hours. You’ll be trekking through varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents, at high altitudes. While it’s demanding, anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and a love for hiking can conquer this trek. Our guides carry oxygen for anyone needing assistance, and we’ll take plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath.
What should I pack?
Pack light! You’ll only need to carry essentials like water, snacks, and your camera during the day. We provide a duffel bag for your personal gear (up to 8 kg), which will be transported by our trusty horses.
Where can I store my extra luggage?
Your Cusco hotel can store your luggage for free while you’re on the trek. We also offer free luggage storage at our office in Cusco.
How big are the groups?
Our groups are small and intimate, typically ranging from 3 to 5 people, with a maximum of 16, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Is this trek always open?
Yes, this trek is open year-round. However, for the best weather and views, we recommend trekking during the dry season (April-September or November-March).
What about bathrooms and showers?
We provide clean, sanitary portable toilet tents at each campsite. Showers are not available during the trek, but you can enjoy a hot shower at your hotel in Aguas Calientes on the third night.
How do I deal with the altitude?
We recommend spending a few days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize to the high altitude. Cusco’s elevation is similar to the starting point of the trek, making it an ideal place to adjust. Remember, altitude sickness can affect anyone, so listen to your body, stay hydrated, and inform your guide if you experience any symptoms.
What’s the food like on the trek?
A skilled cook accompanies each group, preparing delicious breakfasts, three-course lunches, and dinners using fresh, local ingredients. We can also cater to vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs with advance notice.
Will drinking water be provided?
Yes, we’ll provide you with drinking water every morning and at each meal. We collect water from nearby streams, boil it, and let it cool overnight. Bring a reusable water bottle or hydration pack to help reduce plastic waste.
What gear does Eco Andes Trekking provide?
We provide all the necessary camping equipment, including sleeping tents, dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, sleeping pads, and pillows. We invest in high-quality gear and regularly replace older equipment to ensure your comfort and safety.
What are the guides like?
Our guides are the best in the business! They’re locals from the Cusco and Sacred Valley areas, fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua. With years of experience leading treks to Machu Picchu, they’re passionate about sharing the region’s history, culture, and ecology with you.
How can I prepare for the trek?
The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy the trek! We recommend incorporating 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week into your routine in the months leading up to your trip. Focus on leg strength and aerobic fitness by walking up and down stairs or hills.
What if I have a medical emergency on the trek?
Our guides are trained in first aid and carry a comprehensive kit for basic medical issues. In the rare event of a serious emergency, we have well-established evacuation procedures to ensure you receive prompt medical attention.
Are there any ATMs along the trek?
There are no ATMs along the trek. We recommend bringing enough cash from Cusco to cover tips, snacks, drinks, and your lunch in Aguas Calientes. There are ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional funds.
Is there internet access on the trek?
No, there is no internet access along the Ancascocha Trek. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and camaraderie of the experience. Your last chance to connect will be in Huarocondo, and your next opportunity will be in Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.
How much money should I bring on the trek?
While most expenses are covered in the trek price, you’ll need some cash for:
- Snacks and drinks from local vendors
- Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
- Tips for your guides and porters
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the final day
We recommend bringing at least 350 soles per person in small denominations for these expenses.
What climates can I expect on the trek?
This trek traverses diverse landscapes, so expect a range of climates. Daytime temperatures in the highlands typically range from 10-25°C (50-77°F), but can drop as low as -10°C (14°F) at night, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for rain, sun, and chilly evenings.
How much time can I spend at Machu Picchu?
Your entrance ticket allows for a maximum of four hours at Machu Picchu. We recommend arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the sunrise over this magnificent site.
Your guided tour will last approximately two hours, leaving you with additional time to explore independently or hike Huayna Picchu (if you’ve booked a permit in advance).
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD:
Group: $690
Private: $750
DURATION:
4 Days / 3 Night
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
- Hiking poles – USD $25 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – USD $30 per person
- Return Vistadome train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $500 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $250 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- El Mapi hotel by Inkaterra (4-star hotel) – USD $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Private Tent – USD $40 per person
OVERVIEW
- Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan – Chancachuco Valley
- Day 2: Chancachuco Valley – Ancascocha – Huaynay Pass – Quesqa Valley
- Day 3: Quesqa Valley – Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Hike Total Distance: 49 km/30.2 miles
- Beginning altitude: 3,205 m / 10,512 ft.
- Maximum altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft.
- Overall trek difficulty: Challenging
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT
Your Full Satisfaction or Your Money Back
We understand planning a big trip like ours at EAT takes a lot of trust, and we’re here to make sure that trust pays off from the moment you book to the day your adventure wraps up. We’re fully committed to making your experience unforgettable. If something doesn’t go as planned—whether it’s an issue with the service or something unexpected along the way—we’ll step in to fix it.
That even includes offering a refund if needed so you can book with total peace of mind.
Your Peruvian adventure means the world to us, and we’ll go the extra mile to make sure it not only meets but exceeds your expectations. With our satisfaction guarantee, you can relax and focus on taking in all the incredible beauty and culture Peru has to offer.
We Help You Experience Peru Through The Eyes of a Local
We’re 100% locally owned and operated, with guides, porters, and chefs who grew up in the Cusco region. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua, our team brings unmatched cultural and historical knowledge to share with you. Traveling with us means gaining insight into Peru’s traditions, landscapes, and stories from those who know them best.
We Work With Professional Guides Who Provide Exceptional Service
Our guides are the best of the best. Truly skilled experts with at least 5 years of experience, every guide we employ is ready to share their expertise on Peru’s trails, culture, and history. Our porters are no exception. They work hard to make your journey one for the books, while our chefs will prepare you delicious meals along the way. With a 99% recommendation rate, we’re dedicated to making every detail of your trip unforgettable.
We’re Committed to Our Team
Our porters and horsemen are easily the backbone of every trek. That’s why we are fully committed to prioritizing their well-being. We ensure they’re paid above-average wages—higher than those offered by most tour companies—recognizing their hard work and dedication to the team. Beyond fair pay, we truly care for their well-being, providing proper gear, meals, and working conditions so they’re not just safe but comfortable, too.
We Look Out for Our Community
A portion of every trek we sell supports local projects, like helping fund a much-needed school roof in Sacsayhuaman, where many of our team live. For years, children in the area had no nearby school and faced grueling four-hour walks in harsh conditions to get an education. Today, thanks to these contributions, they have a local school, and we continue to donate to its upkeep—because making an impact goes beyond the trek.
We Customize Our Adventures to Suit Your Travel Style
We want every trip to feel like it was made just for you. Whether you’re keen on hiking the famous Inca Trail, exploring lesser-known spots in the Sacred Valley, or tackling our one-of-a-kind Ancashcocha + Inca Trail trek, we’ll plan your adventure to fit your travel style. To keep things personal, we keep group sizes small—and if your group is larger than eight, we’ll bring in an extra guide so no one misses out on the experience.
We Travel with Purpose – Serving the Women, Children, & Men of Peru
Every journey with us has a ripple effect. Your adventure supports ethical tourism, fair wages for porters, and opportunities for female trekkers–many of whom are breaking barriers on the Inca Trail–and children. We’re passionate about creating opportunities for local children to grow up healthy and learn about everything their heart desires. Through initiatives like repairing schools, donating educational materials, and funding projects, we make it a mission to build a brighter future for kids in the Cusco region. Every trek you take with us contributes to this mission. When you book with us, you’re not just exploring Peru; you’re investing in it and setting a standard for all other tourism companies and tourists.
Our Reputation is Built on Trust
Year after year, Eco Andes Trekking has earned top ratings on TripAdvisor and the prestigious Certificate of Excellence. We’ve worked hard for these awards and are proud to see our hard work recognized. Even prouder to know our travelers leave with unforgettable memories and stories worth sharing.
We Travel Sustainably & Responsibly
Peru’s landscapes are magnificent. That’s why we work so hard to protect them. We prioritize sustainable traveling by working with our local communities and employing indigenous guides––thus promoting economic empowerment and preserving cultural heritage. Along the journey, we’ll always encourage travelers to embrace responsible practices as advocates for the environment.
