4959 m.s.n.m
8 person(s)
Group
Hike, Bus, Train
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!
Your guide will pick you up in our private vehicle and drive about 3 hours to Mollepata (2,870m/9,416ft), where we have the chance to buy local produce or last minute supplies. From Mollepata, we continue another hour by car to Soraypampa (3,840m/12,598ft). Here you will give your duffel to the horseman, keeping only your daypack for the hike. From the secluded village of Soraypampa we hike to Salkantaypampa, where we have lunch. After 3 hours of trekking, we arrive at our campsite for the night, at the base of the most impressive mountains in this area, 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).
After a hearty and delicious breakfast, we start the long hike with mules and emergency horses, crossing several high mountain passes. The first pass is Inca Chiriaska (4,959m/16,269ft), with amazing views over the landscapes below. From here, we walk along an original portion of the Inca Trail until you arrive at the Tocto Pass (4,821m/15,816ft), where the trail heads towards the towering Salkantay Mountain. We 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), where we descend to our campsite at Millpo. It has been a day of breathtaking views and the successful crossing of 4 mountain passes. It is time for afternoon tea and appetizers, which will be ready at camp when you arrive. Your tents will already be set up so you can settle in before your gourmet dinner.
After a hot breakfast, we walk for about an hour to Chusqenay pass (4,630m/15,190ft) and then on to the Rumi Inca pass, continuing upwards to the Valley of Yahuarmaky. After a short rest and time to enjoy the views, we continue until we reach the pass of Aqocasa (4,686m/15,374ft) in about 1.5 hours. This mountain is a reddish sandy mountain and from the top of this pass we get a view of the famous Inca Trail, which leads to Machu Picchu. We can also see Salkantay, Humantay and Huayanay Mountains and off in the distance, we can see the Veronica Mountain, also known as Wacay Willka. We get to enjoy exploring a small archaeological site called Inka Raqay. Then, we descend to Inca Rakay, and climb up to Huayanay Oass (4,630m/15,190ft). After a final downhill walk of 3 hours, we reach our campsite at Ancascocha, on Ancascocha Lake (3,700m/12,139ft), a total walking time of 8-9 hours this day. It is time to relax and have dinner.
After another delicious breakfast, we walk 2 hours downhill to Chillca and Arequipa Pampa. We pass small villages with views of Andean valleys with native trees and flowers, such as chachacoma, q’euña, orchids, begonias, and bromeliads that decorate the landscape. The descent becomes easier towards Camicancha (2,930m/9,612ft), where our van will pick us up. We will take the train around 4:00pm to Aguas Calientes where we will enjoy a celebratory dinner and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Wiracocha Inn Hotel or Intipunku Tambo
Difficulty: Easy
After an early breakfast at your hotel, we are ready to get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical site out of history and not something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which takes around two hours. You will see many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel during your tour.
After the tour, those people that have booked in advance for the extra hike up Huayna Picchu will have time to hike it on their own. When they have had their fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, a bus back down to Aguas Calientes will be waiting. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes lunch is waiting with numerous restaurants to choose from (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, your 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.
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 PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 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.
Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu
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 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.
Absolutely! During the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.
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:
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.
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 PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address orangenationperu@gmail.com.
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!
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
The maximum group size is 8 persons. Our groups are usually between 2-6 persons. ORANGE Nation Peru specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provides a personalized service.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 !
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
$677USD Per Person
It was perfect! On the first day we had a great time exploring the Sacred Valley and see the main attractions and learn about the history of this beautiful place.
I would definitely recommend the short Inka trail, I think it was the best way to get to know Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. We arrived at Machu Picchu when most of the crowd was gone and it felt really special.
You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru
Best mix of adventure, history and nature: Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
4-day trekking option seemed too intense for us, but we still wanted to experience the entrance to Machu Picchu through the ancient Inka trail, so we opted for Orange Nation’s combination of Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I couldn’t be more happy about our decision.
We booked and paid the deposit to Orange Nation / Sam travel for the 4 day Inca Trail and Machu Pichu trip back in 2019. But we couldn't travel in 2020 and 2021 - but the company honoured our agreement and so we came back in 2022.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru. This tour had so many incredible things and places packed into 4 days.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
My girl and i did the Machu Pichu trek tour with Orange Nation. It was seriously the most amazing experience that we'll never forget. Gorgeous views! The long trek was worth the amazing view. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. We considered other tours but chose Orange Nation because we liked the idea of smaller groups and this was definitely worth it. I will be using Orange Nation again next year when I come back to Peru!
recommends Orange Nation Peru
Wow, what a wonderful trekking experience! My trip to Peru was amazing thanks to this awesome tour that i took with Orange Nation. I did multiple tours with this company. I'm a solo traveler and everyone in my group was always still friendly and did not make me feel left out. I loved going off the beaten track with this company. It's much better to pay extra to go off the path for the quality experience of this amazing guided tour They definitely helped guide us and gave us a quality experience with a small group and paid special attention to each one of us. I highly recommend using Orange Nation for your next tour in Peru!
Has one of the most outstanding meal services. Our chefs have been highly trained to prepare the best peruavian and International food our treks. You should be prepared to not only have a superb trekking experience, but also a culinary one. "The food has been the highlight for all our hikers"
Christian B
10/10 Amazing experience
If you’re thinking about which agency to use, look no further- Ray and Jimmy went well above and beyond and made this a memorable, safe, fun, and professional experience.
Ray is the most knowledgeable guide I’ve ever had in any country for any excursion - during both the Short Inka Trail and the actual tour of Machu Picchu, Ray’s expertise shined through in his ability to give us a detailed background on every aspect of the history, climate, nature, flora, animals.. anything!
Likewise, Ray and Jimmy were truly the friendliest, kindest hosts that I could have imagined our group having.
Thank you both so much and I will definitely book with you again if (when) I come back!
Matt A
Awesome experience!!
Did the 2 day Inca trail with Ray and Jimmy they were great and knowledgeable. Ray not only guided us along trail to Machu Picchu but also was an excellent photographer and taught us the history. It was a group of 10 and we had a great time. Even everything going on in Peru, we always felt in good hands.
Rius
Short Inca Trial (2-Day)
This tour was the perfect experience for our (group of 10) short trip to Peru. The trail was sometimes challenging, but the views and history made it all worth it. Ray and Jimmy were our guides and imparted sooo much knowledge about the history of Peru, Inca, and beyond. I would definitely recommend!