Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu

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

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).

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

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.

Day 3: Millpo – Yahuarmaky – Ancascocha

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.

Day 4: Ancasqocha – Chillca

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.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We finally made it to our destination! We will take the first bus to Machu Picchu, where your guide will give you a full tour of this Wonder of the World. The Citadel of the Incas, Machu Picchu, what an amazing experience!

If you wish to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own you can (not included in the price):

• Climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from the views above (additional cost)
• You will be given some time to walk to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku. (Free of cost)
• Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the new local museum or to the hot springs (additional entrance fee).

When you are ready, we will head down to Aguas Calientes, have a leisurely lunch on your own, and later we board the Expedition train which departs at 14:55 or 15:20 for the return trip to Cusco stopping at the Ollantaytambo Station, where we will catch our private van back to Cusco and your hotel, arriving around 7pm.

• 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 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.

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)
• Machu Picchu  Mountain – $75 USD per person  (Please request when you book your trek)
• Hotel single supplement –$30 USD 2* for solo travelers

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
• PLASTIC RAIN poncho made by Orange Nation Peru is included

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 Calle Santa Teresa  Nº383; 101 (first floor) we are next to SUBWAY sandwich shop. We share a lobby with the Casona Corrales Boutique Hotel.

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 PAYPAL, you 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 8 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)

Good Daypack: One with extra room for a box lunch (the smaller, the better)

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

Boots: Comfortable broken in hiking boots or shoes (Boots with ankle support recommended).

Sleeping Bag: 4 season bag (can be rented from ORANGE NATION)

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 (provided by Orange Nation)
• Gloves
• Camera
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips