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Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu

5 days - 4 nights
677USD Price per person
Duration:

5 days - 4 nights

Max. Altitude:

4959 M.S.N.M

Group Size:

8 person(s)

Service:

Group

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is an incredible trail!  This adventure is for people who really want to experience nature and the Andes at its best: snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, pristine lakes, animals such llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and encounters with local people such as herders. This trek takes you to the most wild parts of the Andes, then to the UNESCO World Heritage site and New 7 Wonder of the World: Machu Picchu!

Day 1: Cusco – Mollepata – Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa

Pick up in our private vehicle and drive 3 hours to Mollepata (2,870m/9,416ft), have the chance to buy local produce or last minute supplies. From Mollepata, continue another hour by car to Soraypampa (3,840m/12,598ft). Give your duffel bag to the horseman, only keep your daypack with you for the hike.

From the village of Soraypampa we hike to Salkantaypampa, and have lunch. After 3 hours of trekking, arrive at our campsite, located at the base of the most impressive mountains, Salkantay Mountain (6,264m/20,551ft) and Humantay Mountain (5,217m/17,116ft). The campsite is called Pampa Japonesa or Japanese Plain at (4,600m/15,091ft).

Day 2: Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriaska – Millpo – Yahuarmaky

After a delicious breakfast, hike with mules and emergency horses, crossing several high mountain passes. The first pass, Inca Chiriaska (4,959m/16,269ft) has amazing views of the landscapes below. Walk along an original portion of the Inca Trail and arrive at the Tocto Pass (4,821m/15,816ft). From here the trail heads towards the towering Salkantay Mountain.

Continue for the next 4 hours, passing over the Calacocha pass (4,667m/15,311ft), the Cruz Casa pass (4,600m/15,918ft) and the Millpo Pass (4,399m/14,432ft). From the last pass descend to our campsite at Millpo. This has been a day that you have successfully crossed 4 mountain passes. It is time for afternoon tea and appetizers, which will be ready and waiting at camp. Your tents will be set up so you can settle in before your gourmet dinner.

Day 3: Millpo – Yahuarmaky – Ancascocha

After breakfast, walk for an hour to Chusqenay pass (4,630m/15,190ft). Walk to the Rumi Inca pass, continuing to the Valley of Yahuarmaky. After a short rest and time to enjoy the views, continue to the pass of Aqocasa (4,686m/15,374ft). From the pass get a view of the famous Inca Trail, which leads to Machu Picchu. Also see Salkantay, Humantay and Huayanay Mountains from the distance. Also see the Veronica Mountain, also known as Wacay Willka. 

Enjoy exploring a small archaeological site called Inka Raqay. Climb up to Huayanay Oass (4,630m/15,190ft).  Later walk of 3 hours until we reach our campsite at Ancascocha, on the Lake (3,700m/12,139ft), a total walking time of 8-9 hours today, it is time to relax and have dinner.

Day 4: Ancasqocha – Chillca – Aguas Calientes

We start today with a walk 2 hours to Chillca and Arequipa Pampa. Pass small villages with views of Andean valleys with native trees. The flowers you will see on the way are chachacoma, q’euña, orchids, begonias, and bromeliads that bring to life the landscape. The descent becomes easier to Camicancha (2,930m/9,612ft), Here our van will pick us up. We will take the train around 4:00pm to Aguas Calientes and enjoy a group dinner, chat about your adventures and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

Meals: Breakfast –  Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Wiracocha Inn Hotel or Intipunku Tambo
Difficulty: Easy

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical place and not something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a tour of Machu Picchu, which takes around two hours. See the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel during your tour. 

When you have had your fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes lunch is waiting at one of the numerous restaurants (lunch not included). Depending on your train departure time, there may be some time for shopping, or sightseeing.

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 7:00pm.

  • Meal: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (It can be done on any date before the trek)
  • Pick up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure and drop off after
  • Private transport from Cusco to Mollepata (starting point of the trek)
  • Entry fee to Machu Picchu
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • English-speaking, professional guide
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
  • All camping equipment such as dining tent, tables, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent
  • 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
  • First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy – Cusco
  • Dinner in Aguas Calientes in a restaurant (4th day)
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
  • Mules and horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen, 7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bags, etc
  • Provision of a horse in case of emergency such as illness to ensure the trek is completed by all participants
  • Foam mattress and camping pillow
  • Boiled water for drinking and washing purposes

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED  ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: $30 USD – (Tent for solo travelers only)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $57 USD per person (For the return to Poroy at 4:43pm)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook and horsemen of ORANGE NATION PERU

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu its available on any date that is best for you, as long we have a minimum of 2 people.

No. OF PEOPLEPRICE
2 to 8 people$ 677 USD per person

**** This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs. We will provide you with a duffel bag, in which to put your things.

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.

DISCOUNTS

  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 or more: $30 USD. – All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress – $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles – $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal Tent – $30 USD  (Tent for solo trekkers only)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  – $57 USD per person (For the return to Poroy at 4:43pm )
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  – $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your trek)
  • Hotel single supplement –$35 USD 2* for solo travelers
  • Hotel upgrades – 3* or more

ADDED VALUES  FOR FREE

  • TRANSFER – from the airport to hotel (Cusco only)
  • DUFFEL BAG AND LINER BAGS – included in the trekking price!
  • EXTRA PACK HORSE is included in the price, the HORSE will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs /14lbs like sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc
  • BOILED WATER is provided at each mealtime
  • OXYGEN TANK will be available along the trek
  • EMERGENCY HORSE is included in the price which can be ridden if you get tired or sick
  • CAMPING PILLOW

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments). 

THE BRIEFING

The Briefing will be the night before the trek at 6pm in our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210 , Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Absolutely! During the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.

HOW TO BOOK THE ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

FIRST, to book your Ancascocha Trek Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase an Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu entrance tickets without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD  per person in order to purchase a permit for the Ancascocha Trek Machu Picchu.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money.  You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPALyou need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address orangenationperu@gmail.com. 

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

  • According to Peruvian Law, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need student cards). For example: if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.
  • All students from 11 to 17 years, the discount is $30.
  • For children from the age of 2 to 11 the discount is $40.
  • Children under the age of 2 are free.
  • All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.
  • Send us a copy at orangenationperu@gmail.com

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Yes, but with some restrictions.  Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date.  If you cancel your Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu, the deposit is not refundable at all!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

DEFINITELY! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number you sent to us to book your Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu, other entrances and reservations. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu and board the train.

In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us a COPY of your old passport to secure your permit, and we can change it when we get a COPY of your new passport or updated with your name change for a fee of $25 USD per person.  We must have a COPY of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.

If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you.  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or the train. If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter, Machu Picchu or get on the train.

Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

The fascinating Ancascocha trekking route is located in the remote area of Cusco, part of the Peruvian Andes mountains. So the type of weather you can expect on the this trail and some other similar alternative trails leading to Machu Picchu have the same kind of climates as in the whole region of Cusco, divided into two big clearly marked seasons: dry and wet, from May to October is considered the dry season with a minimum chance of getting rainy days, mainly sunny and hot during the day. But  freezing cold at night especially in winter time (June August). From November to April is the rainy season, usually heavy rain falls, thunder storms, cloudy and at this time you will have less visibility on the mountains in the whole Andes, definitely not the suggested time to go trekking on the Mountains.

For most of the alternative trails we highly recommend hikers to bring a good four season sleeping bag or it could be hired here in Cusco, also a change of clothes for sunny days and cold temperatures expected at night time. The Ancascocha trail goes in the proximity of the cloud forest so the weather is usually warm and dry in the winter season, rainy and cloudy in the wet season, totally opposite to the northern hemisphere. But at Machu Picchu area you can expect very changeable weather, sometimes unpredictable usually sunny days from June to August, cloudy and wet days the rest of the months, a good rain gear is always recommended to take with you.

A good winter clothing is required because you will have two cold nights at high altitude, also dry-fit clothes are highly advised and especially if you are planning to trek in the wet season (November to April).

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU? 

For some visitors, the first hours in Cusco can be summarized as: shortness of breath, a discomfort in the body, dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, even vomiting. As great connoisseurs of natural medicine, the Incas used coca leaves to counteract soroche, quechua for high-altitude sickness.

Don’t do anything other than rest

If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. It is advisable to take it really easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.

Stay hydrated

How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.

Discovering coca

No one knew better the effects of high altitude than indigenous peoples. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2 and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. Try drinking coca tea, which is found in the lobbies of most hotels in Cusco.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 10 persons.  Our groups are usually between 2-6 persons. ORANGE Nation Peru specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provides a personalized service.

HIKING ANCASCOCHA TREK MACHU PICCHU 

You will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next five days in our office at your briefing. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/14 lbs. Your pack horse will carry your duffel bag, food and camping gear. Please Note: You will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day as the horses will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day pack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. Usually a 30 to 40 litre backpack is sufficient.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu Trail is a difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be fit and do regular exercise, such as walking, hiking or running prior to the Trek. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9.3miles in a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatised to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek.

WHAT ABOUT TOILETS ON THE TREKS?

Orange Nation Peru have an individual restroom tent with a toilet and a seat.  Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite and at night, if you need to use the toilet, it is readily accessible and clean.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU? 

In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu due to a health issue, ORANGE Nation Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required).
Generally those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly, they then continue the journey to Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to original plan.

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

OF COURSE!! We will drop you at your hotel! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you there too!  If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, we wil pick you up there !

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for our staff and their families. It inspires them to give excellent service and is an major feature in the tourism industry. Of course you are free to tip as much as you feel appropriate, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator for that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Original Passport: VERY IMPORTANT: (Must be the same you have used for booking your trek)

Valid University Card: (Only if you booked as a student)

Water storage:  2-3L  (Camelbaks are encouraged)

Headlamp: Headlamp frees up hands for getting to essential items at night & late night bathroom trips. (Back-up flashlight & batteries are recommended)

Toilet paper: Make sure to pack your own. (You can find it in most small stores around the main square in Cusco)

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG FOR ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

As a Direct Local Tour operator, we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra pack horse which will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 lbs including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Bathing suit for the thermal waters
  • Fleece / Thermals
  • Warm clothes, jacket
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones but you might prefer something larger
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office to line your duffel
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR ANCASCOCHA TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bring reusable bottles, not disposable ones.
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or dry fruits
  • Rain poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu

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Gideon G 5 of 5 bubbles

Couples

Trip to Rainbow mountain. First to the mountain thanks to Yair’s expert driving and special thanks to Cristian for being my guide. Highly recommend!

Written July 2, 2025

Steven C 5 of 5 bubbles

Family

We had an incredible experience hiking the Inca Trail with Ray as our guide. Ray was amazing. He was super knowledgeable about the history of the Incas, and he brought that history to life. We visited three larger sites, and several smaller ones that we arrived at by foot deep in the Peruvian jungle. Ray's was an incredible, passionate, and experienced guide, and also just a great person we are lucky to have met. I also have to mention Moses, our porter who made an amazing lunch and hiked it up to our resting spot 2000 ft above the Urambamba River to Wiñaywayna.

Written July 4, 2025

Charlie C 5 of 5 bubbles

Family

Did the short inca trail through sam travel and it was an unforgettable experience. Hiking from the train to the Sun Gate with its beutiful views of macchu piccu was incredible. Our guide, Ray, was extremely knowledgeable, passionate, and always positive. At every location and along the way he had fascinating information to share and no question went unanswered.

Written July 4, 2025

Ignacio R 5 of 5 bubbles

Family

We had a great experience with our guide Cristian during our visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. He shared clear and detailed explanations, with a fascinating historical narrative that helped us truly connect with the places we explored. I learned so much thanks to him. The atmosphere was also really positive and friendly throughout the tour. Highly recommended!

Written June 26, 2025

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