Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu via Salkantay – 5D/4N
When it comes to knowing where to find the world’s best hiking trails, what better experts are there than the folks at National Geographic? The magazine recently compiled its list of 20 trails worldwide that hiking enthusiasts dream about taking, and the Ancascocha Trail in the Peruvian Andes was included. With a number of challenging ascents at high altitudes this trek is not for the faint hearted, but it is a true adventure especially prepared for people who love nature, peace, and the most spectacular mountain scenery.
Hiking the Ancascocha trail is offered by very few companies and so is definitely one of the less crowded trails that you can take from Cusco (you may well get quizzical looks in Cusco when you say you’re hiking Ancascocha!) but don’t be put off by its lesser known status.
This stunning trek takes you past ancient Inca ruins and through traditional Andean villages such as Chillipahua and the trail’s namesake Ancascocha (3,700m/12,139 ft.) Here you may briefly share the trail with farmers and shepherds tending to their livestock and their simple lives.
Your fitness will be tested as you climb a number of big passes, including the highest point at the Chiriasca pass (4,960 m/16,272 ft.) At all times though your guide and crew will ensure that the pace is suitable for everyone in the group, taking breaks for rest and food whenever needed. The rewards for your efforts are staggering, with panoramic views across the snow-covered peaks of the Andes, cascading waterfalls, crystal blue lakes and the towering 20,551 foot (6,266 m) Apu Salkantay. The trail formerly connected Limatambo, Machu Picchu, and Choquequirao and so in the distance you will see many of the original Inca trails into the mountains, partly covered by the passage of time.
We will spend 3 nights camping at the most beautifully remote, peaceful locations. The night skies in the Andes truly have to be seen to be believed. Depending on pace you can expect to hike for around 8-10 hours per day, but each day you will arrive at camp to find your high quality tent already pitched (complete with mattress and pillow), your gear in place, and your crew preparing a sumptuous dinner. After a well-earned night’s sleep you will be woken at dawn with a cup of steaming hot fresh coffee or tea and hot water to wash with, before sitting down for a nutritious and energizing breakfast. All you need for the days hiking ahead.
On the 4th day we take the train to Aguas Caliente, our base for visiting Machu Picchu. You will have photo opportunities galore as the train carves its way along the valley floor. Your final night will be spent in a top quality hotel with a group dinner at an excellent local restaurant (drinks not included). Rising as early as you want, your itinerary concludes with a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Witnessing this new wonder of the world is an incredible spectacle that will stay with you forever.
Finally, with your camera loaded with photos and your head loaded with incredible memories, you will take the train back to Cusco and a transfer back to your hotel.
So if you’re ready, put on your hiking boots, take a deep breath and take a hike with us through some of the most breathtaking and inspiring landscapes in the Andes, or indeed in the world.
Eco Andes Trekking is highly recommended by TripAdvisor and Trustpilot. Join hundreds of happy trekkers who have experienced the adventure of a lifetime!
ITINERARY – ANCASCOCHA TO MACHU PICCHU VIA SALKANTAY
Pre-trek briefing (required): We provide a full pre-trek briefing at our office or at your hotel in Cusco. This gives you the chance to ask questions about the trek itinerary. Briefings are scheduled for the day before your trek starts.
Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, to ensure you arrive in time for the briefing.
Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Umantay Lake – Salkantaypampa- Pampa Japonesa
The days with Action Peru start early and you will be picked up from your Cusco hotel at 5am for the 3 hour drive to Mollepata. Here our chef will prepare an energizing breakfast at a local house, and you will also have the chance to purchase any last minute supplies.
From Mollepata we continue our drive for another hour until we reach Soraypampa (3850 m/12,631 ft.) At Soraypampa, we will meet our horseman (and horses!) and all the rest of our crew who will accompany us on this adventure. After making final preparations, we being our hike for 1 hour uphill to the crystal blue waters of Umantay Lake where we will stop to soak in the incredible views of the lake and the surrounding glaciers. We then take a 45 minute return downhill.
From Soraypampa we take a scenic 2 hour gentle uphill hike to Salkantaypampa (4, 100 m/13,451 ft.) where we will have our first views of the spectacular Apu Salkantay (6271m/20,574 ft.) and a well-deserved lunch. After lunch, we hike a challenging, less traveled uphill path for 3 ½ hours until we arrive at our camp for the night at Pampa Japonesa (4,610m/15,124 ft.)
The campsite is located at the base of the stunning mount Salkantay and if the night is clear you will most likely see the most stunning display of stars and distant galaxies. Your chef will prepare a sumptuous and hearty dinner before we retire for the night to rest our weary limbs!
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 3,205 m/ 10,512 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 4,610m/15,124 ft.
- Distance to walk: 12 km/7.5 miles
- Approximate walking time: 7 to 8 hours.
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- Difficulty: Easy
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 2: Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriasca – Millpo
You will be woken at dawn with a steaming hot cup of coffee or coca tea and a delicious, nutritious breakfast. Day 2 is a strenuous and long hike which will climb up to many high passes. But don’t worry, your guide will ensure we take a pace that best suits the group, and take plenty of rest when needed.
With incredible views of the Andes all around us, we first hike uphill for 2 hours to Inca Chiriasca pass (4,960 m /16,272 ft.) Here we will be able to see the magnificence of the Vilcabamba and the Urubamba mountain ranges. Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged!
We then hike along an original Inca Trail for 3 hours until arriving at the Tocto pass (4820m/15,813 ft.) where we stop for lunch. Once again our team will have forged ahead (you will wonder at how they move so quickly!) and the lunch site will already be prepared for our arrival.
After lunch, we continue for another 2 hours to the Calacocha pass (4,660 m/15,288 ft.) and then for a further hour to the pass of Cruz Casa (4,620 m/15,157 ft.) After a short 1 hour climb to the Millpo Pass, from here we take a gentle descent for an hour to our camp for the night at Millpo (4390 m/14,402 ft.)
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 4390 m/14,402 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 4,960 m /16,272 ft.
- Distance to walk: 16 km/10 miles
- Approximate walking time: 9-10 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 3: Millpo – Yahuarmaky – Ancascocha
We rise very early on Day 3 and after breakfast we begin by hiking uphill for about an hour to the Chusquenay pass (4,630 m/15,190 ft.) followed by a 1 hour descent to the pass of Rumi Inca. We continue upwards for an hour to the valley of Yahuarmaky.
Climbing again for about two hours until we reach the pass of Aqocasa (4,689 m/15,383 ft.), this is yet another spectacular place to enjoy the vistas across the magnificent Andes. Here we can see part of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu far in the distance as well the Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay glaciers. The glaciers are simply breathtaking!
From Aqocasa pass, we descend for 3 hours to a small Inca ruin named Inca Racay. We will stop here for our lunch and your guide will tell stories of the ancient ruins.
After lunch we climb for an hour to the Huayanay pass (4,650m/15,255 ft.), and then take a steady 3 hour downhill path to the small village of Ancascocha and our camp for the night (3,700 m/12,139 ft.)
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 4,689 m/15,383 ft.
- Distance to walk: 14 km/8.6 miles
- Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 4: Ancascocha – Silque Valley – Camicancha – Ollantaytambo- Aguas Calientes
On Day 4 we take a 6 hour hike downhill through the most incredible canyon to the small village of Chilca. On our way we will pass several small villages and no doubt see the villagers going about their simple lives. We will also see beautiful orchids and many of the wild plants that the locals use for medicinal purposes.
Once we arrive at Camicancha (2,900 m/9,514 ft.) we will enjoy our last lunch from our chef before taking a local van to Ollantaytambo. It is from here that we take a 2-hour scenic train ride to the beautiful town of Aguas Calientes (2,040 m/6,692 ft.) Photo opportunities are endless as we carve through the valley floor into the lush green vegetation of the Aguas Calientes area.
Arriving in town, we escort you to your quality hotel where you will have some time to relax before dinner. After 3 nights in the mountains, your comfortable hotel room (and the hot shower!) will be a welcome sight. The natural hot springs in town are also a great place to relax if there is time before dinner. We take dinner together at a quality local restaurant with an extensive menu (drinks not included) before retiring to the hotel to prepare for the early start on Machu Picchu.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,692 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 3,700 m /12, 139 ft.
- Distance to walk: 11 km/6.8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- Area: Dry Mountain
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After a very early breakfast at your hotel we take one of the early buses along the winding road to Machu Picchu to see the magnificent citadel. Your guide will then give a 2 hour walking tour of this breathtaking site, named as one of the new 7 wonders of the world. Your entry ticket to Machu Picchu is included in the price of the trek.
After you have concluded your guided tour of the site you will probably have some time to be at Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes by bus.
Arriving back in Aguas Calientes you will board the expedition train to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy. From here you will travel by private van to Cusco and back to your hotel. Your arrival time in Cusco will depend on the time of your train ticket.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,692 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
- Level of Difficulty: Easy/Challenging*
INCLUDED:
- Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel
- Pick up from your hotel and transportation to 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
- 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!)
- 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 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
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
- Round trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy
- Private van transportation from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
NOT Included:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
- Huayna Picchu Permit (USD $75 per person)
- Day 5 Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the trek crew
- Travel Insurance
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: USD $770 per person
Private: USD $830 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 $20 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – USD $25 per person
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $400 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $245 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Private Tent – USD $30 per person
Ancascocha Trek 2024 FAQs.
What is the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Ancascocha Trek 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 Clasvsic 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 hike the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu?
No permits are currently required to hike 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”.
The Ancascocha 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 Salkantay 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 trek.
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 the Ancascocha trek 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 trek?
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 the Ancascocha 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 trek?
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 trek?
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 the Ancascocha 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.
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
- Return Vistadome train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $420 per person
- Huayna Picchu Permit – USD $75 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 – Soraypampa – Umantay Lake – Salkantaypampa- Pampa Japonesa
- Day 2: Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriasca – Millpo
- Day 3: Millpo – Yahuarmaky – Ancascocha
- Day 4: Ancascocha – Silque Valley – Camicancha – Ollantaytambo- Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Beginning Altitude: 3850 m /12,631 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,960 m /16,272 ft.
- Hike Total Distance: 53 km/33 miles
- 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.
