Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N
Machu Picchu is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world. Its iconic Inca Trail, the most traveled hiking trek from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, is well-known, along with other trails like Salkantay. However, Peru’s heartland boasts many unmissable treks, which are considered some of Machu Picchu’s most underrated trails. The Ancascocha Trek is one of the lesser-known routes from Cusco. Yet, avid travelers might receive blank looks from others when sharing their exciting adventures.
The Hidden Wonders of Ancascocha & Machu Picchu
The Ancascocha Trek takes travelers off the beaten path to discover popular sites and Peru’s beauty, free from over-tourism. Hikers will enjoy guided tours of ancient Inca ruins and wander through remote Fincas, where generations of farmers tended to livestock, and through traditional Andean villages like Chillipahua and Ancascocha. But the main event of this hidden gem will surely take anyone’s breath away. Ancascocha’s unobscured views of the majestic Andes make this an unforgettable adventure!
National Geographic placed Ancascocha in the top 20 dream hikes in its World’s Best Hikes list for good reason. Navigating these amazing views demands significant effort and is not for the faint of heart. Hiking in Ancascocha is quite challenging, taking hikers well above 4,550m to the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m/ 15,255 ft). The tour stays at high elevations throughout most of the trek, offering spectacular views of the mountains, clear blue skies, and raging waterfalls. The Apu Salkantay, which soars to 6,266m (20,551 ft.), often dominates the skyline.
Overview of the Ancascocha Trek
Eco Andes Trekking (EAT) understands the challenges of all our treks and prioritizes hiker safety, enjoyment, and comfort at all times. Our guides ensure that the pace of the hike suits the whole group, taking breaks when necessary. EAT uses top-tier camping equipment to provide maximum comfort and safety. Campsites for all three nights of the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu will be prepared before the hikers’ arrival.
Unique and Delectable Dining
In addition, hikers will enjoy meals our highly talented kitchen team prepares. Travelers will be amazed by the quality of meals our chef and his assistant can produce even on the side of a mountain. You certainly won’t go hungry, as the menu is specially designed to ensure you have enough energy for each day’s hike.
Relaxation After Exciting Hikes
The close of our adventure comes as we head to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, where we’ll board a scenic train bound for Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu. As we travel, you’ll be treated to spectacular photo opportunities of Andean landscapes, from lush valleys and towering mountains to vibrant local villages.
In the evening, settle into your cozy lodging before joining the group for a farewell dinner at one of Aguas Calientes’ top restaurants, which perfectly rounds off your day with delicious food in a lively atmosphere. The following day marks the grand finale of the Ancascocha Trek as you explore Machu Picchu, one of the world’s seven new wonders. Even after the stunning sights you’ve seen, the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu will still manage to astonish you, offering up some of the most spectacular views in all of South America.
Wrapping Up Your Adventure in Peru
After soaking in the majesty of Machu Picchu, your EAT guide will take you on a detailed two-hour site tour. You’ll learn about its history, architecture, and significance, allowing you to deepen your appreciation of this seventh wonder of the world. Once the tour wraps up, we’ll take care of your return to your Cusco hotel by train and mini-van, concluding your adventure with Eco Andes Trekking.
Eco Andes Trekking is highly recommended by TripAdvisor Join hundreds of happy trekkers who have experienced the adventure of a lifetime!
Detailed Ancascocha Trek Itinerary
Pre-trek briefing (required): Before departure, all travelers must attend a mandatory pre-trek briefing at our Eco Andes Trekking office or your hotel in Cusco. These briefings provide important information about the itinerary and allow travelers to ask any questions before starting their journey. Please note that briefings are scheduled for the day before departure, so please plan your arrival in Cusco accordingly.
Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan
In the morning, an EAT representative will pick you up from your hotel for the two-hour scenic drive to Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft), the starting point of our trek. Our vans are equipped with all the comforts, including blankets, available upon request for those who wish to get some extra rest en route.
Upon arrival at Soqma, you’ll be greeted by our team of porters and horsemen, who are ready to assist you. After a final equipment check, we’ll embark on a moderate two-hour hike, covering approximately 4 kilometers, to the Perolniyoc waterfall.
If the weather allows, hikers can take a short hike down to the base of the falls for a refreshing experience. This route offers a unique view and a chance to cool off. For those who prefer to stay dry, the main trail also offers numerous scenic photography spots, ensuring everyone can capture their first memorable shots of the trip.
A half-hour later, the tour group will arrive at the Perolniyoc Inca ruins, perched on a clifftop with breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Here, our tour group will stop for lunch, prepared by our kitchen team. During lunch, you’ll enjoy a quick history lesson as you soak in the surrounding views and listen to our expert guides share Inca history.
Thirty minutes into our hike, we reach the Perolniyoc Inca ruins, set dramatically on a cliff overlooking the valley. Here, we’ll stop for lunch prepared by our kitchen staff. During the meal, our guides, experts in Inca history, will share captivating stories and historical facts about the site. After lunch, we will ascend another hour toward our prepared campsite at Rayan (3,700 meters /12,139 ft).
At Rayan, you’ll settle into your tent for a well-earned night’s rest. But first, enjoy a full three-course dinner, and then take a moment to marvel at the clear night skies, where the Andes’ most beautiful constellations shine brightly.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 3,205 m/10,512 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 3,700 m /12,139 ft.
- Distance to walk: 8 km/4,9 miles
- Approximate walking time: 4 to 5 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 2: Rayan – Kuychiccasa Pass – Ancascocha
Forgot your alarm clock? No worries! Our ATP team will ensure you’re up and ready for the day’s adventures on the trail. You’ll be awakened gently with a freshly brewed cup of tea or coffee and provided hot water to wash up before you set out.
Once everyone is up and ready, our kitchen staff will serve breakfast to fuel your day. You’ll need the energy for the steep three-hour ascent to the Kuychiccasa pass (4,450 m / 14,599 ft). Along the way, our group might spot rustic fincas, encounter wild alpacas, or even see a soaring condor. One thing’s for sure, though: we’ll always be able to spot those stunning snow-capped peaks of the Nevadas in the background.
Remember that while this hike to the Kuychiccasa pass is challenging, it’s not a race to the top. We’ll take frequent breaks to enjoy the stunning 360-degree views of the Chancachuco and Sacred Valleys. After the ascent, it’s just a one-hour easy hike to our lunch stop in the Chancachuco Valley (4,312 m / 14,147 ft), where you can refuel and relax.
After lunch, we’ll climb for a short time with beautiful views before an easy three-hour walk downhill to the community of Ancascocha (3,700 m/12,139 ft).
We’ll end day two at our campsite for the night, set in a small but stunning wooded valley with a tranquil stream.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Highest Elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft.
- Campsite elevation: 4,450 m/14,599 ft.
- Distance to walk: 14 km/8,6 miles
- Approximate walking time: 8 – 10 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 3: Ancascocha – Huaynay Pass – Quesqa Valley – Paucarcancha
We start the third day with a brief one-hour climb. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the nearby glacier, well-preserved Inca remains, and the sparkling blue Ancascocha Lake, making the early morning effort truly worthwhile!
Taking a deep breath, we make an even longer, two-hour climb to the trek’s highest point, the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m/15,255 ft). Along this section, you will see an original cobblestone-paved Inca Trail. This remarkable example of Inca engineering has withstood the test of time. These ancient paths once connected the empire’s most important cities and sacred sites, and walking them offers hikers a rare chance to follow in the footsteps of Inca messengers and travelers.
After the climb, we’ll take a short break to soak in the summit views before an easy 45-minute walk to our lunch stop at the small Inca site of Incaracay.
With the toughest climbs behind us, the afternoon descent into the peaceful Quesqa Valley feels much easier. At this lower elevation, the landscape turns lush and green, offering views of the Classic Inca Trail in the distance and the valley’s remote communities. From there, we continue to the Inca site of Paucarcancha (3,133 m/10,278 ft).
Upon arrival at Paucarcancha, your EAT guide will provide a site tour. Before settling in for the evening, you’ll enjoy another delicious dinner prepared by the kitchen staff.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Highest Elevation: 4,650 m/15,255 ft.
- Campsite elevation: 3,133 m/10,278 ft.
- Distance to walk: 15 km/ 9,3 miles
- Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 4: Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
The fourth and final day is the easiest. It involves six hours of downhill hiking along a section of the well-known Classic Inca Trail to Km 82, the official starting point of the route. The group will wrap up the trek with a well-earned lunch at Km 82.
After lunch, our ATP guides will drive you to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m/9,160 ft) to catch the scenic train to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m/6,692 ft). On the train, you’ll see a much different perspective of the mountains than you did on your hike, and there will be even more photo opportunities.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your lodging and have time to rest before the farewell group dinner (drinks not included). If time allows, consider visiting the town’s natural hot springs, a perfect way to relax before heading home.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lodging: Hotel
- Highest Elevation: 3,133 m/10,278 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,692 ft.
- Distance to walk: 12 km/ 7 ½ miles
- Estimated walking time: 6 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Our trip to Machu Picchu usually begins before sunrise. The lodging offers an early buffet or a boxed breakfast, ensuring we can get in line for the bus.
The drive to Machu Picchu takes about 25 minutes, and on a clear day, the sunrise is breathtaking. This is an excellent opportunity to take more incredible photos.
Once we arrive, your EAT guide will lead a two-hour walking tour of the site, one of the world’s new seven wonders. Afterward, you’re free to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you’ve booked in advance. Please note that these climbs are not included in the trek price.
When ready, your guide will ensure you catch the bus back to Aguas Calientes before your train to Poroy or Ollantaytambo. From here, you will travel by private van to Cusco and back to your hotel. Arrival times will vary depending on traffic and connections, but they should be around 8 p.m.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
SERVICES INCLUDED:
- Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel
- Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Soqma (start of trek)
- Bilingual English speaking tour guide (additional tour guide for groups of nine people or more)
- High quality, 4 person tent for every 2 people
- Mattress and pillow
- Kitchen tent
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Portable Eco-friendly toilet ant toilet tent
- Professional Chef and assistant chef
- Wranglers and horses to carry all equipment
- Horse to transport up to 8 kg of your personal gear
- Duffle bag for your personal gear
- Emergency horse (in case we need it!)
- Five breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners
- Hot water for washing twice daily
- Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
- Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Poroy or Ollantaytambo
- Private van transportation from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
- Round trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
- Day 5 Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu Permit (this can ticket can be purchased for an extra USD $75 per person)
- Tips for the trek crew (tipping optional and guidelines provided)
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
What to bring:
- Original passport (nb. 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 (factor 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 altitude, and so you should pack some suitable snacks to make sure you are always fully energized)
- NOTE: Batteries run down faster at high altitudes
PRICES & ADD-ONS
Group (3+ people): USD $770 per person
Private (2 people): USD $830 per person
Discounts
- Under 18 years Discount: US $20.00
- Under 7 years Discount: US $35.00
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 $420 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
Ancascocha Trek 2025 FAQs.
What is the Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu?
The Ancascocha hike to Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes is a remarkable trail that remains off the beaten path. It is listed as one of National Geographic’s 20 dream hikes on their World Best Hikes list.
The trek wanders through traditional villages like Chillipahua and its namesake Ancascocha (3.700 m / 12.136 ft). Along the way, it humps over big passes, including the high point at the Huayanay Pass (4.550 m / 14.925 ft), and takes in views of towering 6.266 m / 20.551 ft) Apu Salkantay.
Why the Ancascocha trek is getting popular?
National Geographic named it one of World Best Hikes as one of their 20 dream hikes. You will be delighted if you choose to trek this route: you’ll have a guided tour through several Inca ruins, wander through remote fincas, and visit traditional Andean villages.
The stunning views of the solemn Andean Mountains are the main reason that excited travelers choose to trek this unique and epic route.
You can traverse everything, from the rolling farmlands in the Quesca Valley to high alpine passes in the Cordillera. You will meet the children of the schools and get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of an alpaca farmer as you pass through Andean villages.
There will be glacial lakes, soaring glaciers and steamy cloud forests. You also might see ancient ruins that date back to before the Incas occupied the same lands.
This trail is 90% of the original Inca Trail and many sections are in near perfect condition because it is the less traveled road to Machu Picchu.
How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Ancascocha trek?
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, where there is a limit of 500 hikers per day and so permits can be sold out up to six months in advance, there are no limits for the Ancascocha trek.
This makes it an excellent alternative if you’d been hoping to hike the Inca Trail but have found that there isn’t any space.
The only restriction you’ll face is on the availability of entry tickets to Machu Picchu, so it’s still worth booking at least a few weeks in advance, particularly if you’re travelling between May and September.
Is a permit required to trek the Ancascocha hike to Machu Picchu?
No permits are currently required to trek the Ancascocha trek. However, you will need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu at the end of the trek. Also, if you plan on hiking any of the three mountain trails within Machu Picchu, you will also need to buy these tickets in advance too.
Again, be mindful, that tickets for Huayna Picchu sell out months in advance, as there is a limit of just 200 people per day. So, you may need to be a little more organized than usual if you plan to hike this trek.
Does the Ancascocha trek include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?
Yep, the cost of entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of Eco Andes Trekking to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.
Is there a waiting list for sold out Machu Picchu permits?
No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual.
Is it possible to enter Machu Picchu with a different name?
No, you need to carry your valid passport to enter the city.
What is the terrain like? And how difficult is the Ancascocha trek?
The difficulty of Ancascocha trek is “Challenging”.
This trek is around 49 km (30.2 miles) long. For travelers interested, you must be physically capable for a trek like this.
Altitude effects aside, it is multiple days of 8+ hours of hiking through rough terrain and often up or down hill. But anyone who exercises regularly will manage just fine! It is exhausting but it’s certainly not unbearable.
All guides carry oxygen canisters, so if you start to feel altitude sickness you can rest and get some much-needed O2. If you’re an avid hiker or used to the altitude you won’t have a problem.
For everyone else, make sure you feel confident in your hiking abilities and you’ll do amazing.
Which campsites do you use along the trek?
Campsites may change depending on booking time and availability, weather conditions or on restrictions undertaken for safety reasons by our trekking team.
We generally camp in less trafficked areas so that trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the trek and minimize environmental impacts.
Our regular campsites for either the 5 day or 4-day trek itineraries are Rayan, Chancachuco, Ancascocha and Paucarcancha.
What do I need to carry on the trek?
We recommend that travelers carry the items that they will need each day while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.
Our horses will carry 8 kg of each of your personal gear including the camping equipment during the trek. We will give you a duffel bag for those belongings at the time of your pre trek briefing.
We generally ask trekkers to bring only the necessary items that they will need for the trail and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office.
Where do I store my luggage during the Trek?
Your Cusco hotel will store your luggage for free while you will be on the trek. We can also store your extra luggage at our office in Cusco.
How big are the groups?
Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.
When Is the Best Time to Hike the Ancascocha Trek?
The end of the rainy season (April) and the beginning of the dry season (May) are generally considered the best times to hike the Ancascocha trail.
The surrounding landscape is still green and lush from months of downpour and the chances of being caught out in the rain are significantly lower.
Is this hike to Machu Picchu always open?
It’s possible to hike the Ancascocha trek all year round, but for the best conditions (and to get those iconic views at Machu Picchu on the final day), try to avoid the rainy season, which is between November and March.
Are there toilets and showers at the campsites?
We provide you with a pop up tent and eco-friendly portable toilet that is clean and sanitary.
Hot shower is available for some extra soles at Paucarcancha campsite.
Altitude and acclimatization
We recommend travelers spend a few days in Cusco before doing the trek to help adjust to the high altitude.
It’s better to acclimatize in Cusco, not the Sacred Valley, because the higher elevation of the city at 11,120 ft (3,400 m) is more akin to those at the start of the Salkantay trek.
Altitude sickness is caused by a rapid change in elevation without the necessary time for acclimatization. Mild symptoms are common and include lingering headache, nausea, and loss of appetite.
Every person responds differently to the change in altitude and unfortunately there is no way to prevent it or predict how seriously it may affect you.
What is the food like on the Ancascocha hike?
A cook accompanies each group on the trek and prepares breakfast, three course lunches and dinners. The meals are quite exquisite considering that all of the ingredients and cooking supplies are carried from Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Each trekker is also provided with snacks to take with them on the trek. Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request. Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.
Is drinking water supplied?
Yes, our trekking team will provide drinking water every morning and at each meal (except for the first day until the lunch spot).
Each evening, water is collected from nearby streams, boiled, and left to cool overnight. A reusable water bottle or hydration pack works well for this.
We recommend that travelers bring their own refillable bottles to limit plastic waste along the Trail.
What equipment is supplied by us along the trek?
We supply the sleeping tents (4 person tents for two travelers), dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, sleeping pads, and other camping equipment.
Our outfitter purchases the highest quality equipment in Peru and older equipment is evaluated and replaced on a regular basis.
What are the guides like?
Our team are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere. They are from the surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley areas and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the Inca indigenous language of Quechua.
Most have 8-10 years of experience leading hikes to Machu Picchu and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area.
How can I prepare for this trek?
The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek.
We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure. Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.
Are there any ATMs?
There are no ATMs along the Ancascocha trek. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for tipping and lunch in Aguas Calientes.
There are also some ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional cash.
What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the Ancascocha hike?
Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.). They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year.
Our guides lead over 1000 travelers along the trek each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike.
In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, the client has been escorted back to Cusco and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later.
Cusco city has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.
Is there internet access on the Ancascocha hike?
Nope, and this is one of the best things about it.
Instead, you and your group will spend evening conversing over metal cups of hot tea or coffee, playing card games, or lazing in nature together.
Your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Huarocondo (the nearest town to the start of the hike), and your first opportunity will be at Ollantaytambo before taking you’re the train down to Aguas Calientes town.
How much money should you bring on this trek?
The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your trip, but there are a few costs along the way for which you’ll need to bring cash:
- Snacks and drinks from stallholders
- Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
- Tips for porters and guides
- Lunch on day 5 at Aguas Calientes.
It’s sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins.
We’d say at least 350 soles per person for the trek-specific section.
Will I get altitude sickness on the Ancascocha trek?
Many of the most popular places in Peru, such as Cusco and Huaraz, are at high altitude; this means that for anyone planning a trip to Peru understanding altitude sickness (and how to avoid it) is incredibly important. In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travelers in South America.
The best way to minimize the likelihood and impact of altitude sickness is factoring in enough time into your Peru itinerary to acclimatize to the conditions.
This means that it is incredibly foolish to arrive in Cusco, which is at 3,399m (11,152 feet) above sea-level, and leave the next day to do a strenuous hike or even start the Salkantay trek. Your body needs the time to adjust to the altitude!
A good rule of thumb is to give yourself and your body two easy days at altitude to acclimatize to the change, and to keep yourself well hydrated throughout.
What about medication?
Obviously, medical attention and facilities along the trek are pretty much non-existent so you need to bring any of your own required medication with you and keep it on your own person or in the daypack.
What climates can I expect on the Ancascocha trek?
Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra Mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance.
While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge.
You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 10-25°C (50-77 °F), falling as low as -10 °C (14°F) at night especially at the second camp site.v
How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.
The early morning is one of the best times to savour the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu. The mystical morning light over the enigmatic sites is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wakeup call!
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD:
Group: $770
Private: $830
DURATION:
5 Days / 4 Night
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
- Hiking poles – USD $25 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – USD $30 per person
- Huayna Picchu Permit – USD $75 per person
- Return Vistadome train to either Poroy or to Ollantaytambo– USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $420 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
- Day 2: Rayan – Chancachuco – Ancascocha
- Day 3: Rayan – Ancascocha – Huaynay Pass – Quesqa Valley – Paucarcancha
- Day 4: Rayan – Paucarcancha – Kilometer 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Beginning Altitude: 3,205 m / 10,512 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m / 15,255 ft.
- Hike Total Distance: 49 km/30.2 miles
- Overall Trek Difficulty: Challenging
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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.
