Classic Inca Trail 4 Days Group Tour
From, per person
US$ 950
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- Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights
Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights
Duration5 days / 4 nights
DifficultyChallenging
Max. altitude4,700 m
Group sizeMax 16
- Tour type
- Adventure and cultural
- Languages
- EN / ES
- Starts in
- Cusco
- Ends in
- Cusco
Overview
Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is the perfect adventure for travelers who want to experience a more exclusive and less-crowded route in Peru. This unforgettable journey takes you through remote Andean landscapes, high mountain passes, hidden valleys, and breathtaking scenery before reaching the world-famous citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is one of the most scenic and least-traveled alternatives near Cusco. Unlike more traditional routes, this trail offers rare solitude, dramatic mountain views, and a stronger sense of discovery along the way.
As you hike through the Andes, you will enjoy changing landscapes filled with rolling hills, waterfalls, rivers, and panoramic views of the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges. The route is ideal for travelers who want more than a classic trek and are looking for a deeper connection with the natural beauty of Peru. Some operators also emphasize that Ancascocha is far less crowded than other well-known circuits, which gives the experience a more authentic and peaceful character.
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is also a great choice for hikers who appreciate both challenge and reward. For travelers prepared for the altitude, the reward is an extraordinary journey through one of the most beautiful hidden trekking routes in the Peruvian Andes.
- Glacial Ancascocha lake and Huayanay pass
- Llama and alpaca herding villages
- Few other trekkers
- Guided Machu Picchu tour
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day01
Cusco – Soqma – Rayanniyoc – Chancachuco
We pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 am and start our travel for 1 and half hours until we reach our starting point called Soqma (3200m/10500ft). Here we will have our first healthy and energetic breakfast, we will al…
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Day02
Chancachuco – Ancascocha
Today we have to get up at 5:30am, starting the day with a cup of coca tea in our tents. After a big breakfast at 6:00am we start with a 4 hours climb all the way up the mountain until we reach the pass of Cuychicassa (…
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Day03
Ancascocha – Huayanay pass – Paucarcancha
Today we will set off with a positive mind because this day is the highlight of our little adventure. Starting our journey with a cup of coca tea in your tents, we’ll enjoy our breakfast in order to get good energy. The…
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Day04
Paucarcancha – Misjhay – km 82 – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Today we will get up at 5:30am with a cup of coca tea in our tents and then we have an energy loaded healthy breakfast. Our today’s hike will go gradually down. After 2 hours we will arrive at the Inca site of Paucarcan…
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Day05
Machu Picchu – return to Cusco
Today will be easy and the most impressive journey at 5.10 am we finally board the train to Aguas Calientes town. The train take us 2 hours approximately, once arrived to aguas calientes train station our tour guide wil…
What's included
Included
- Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the entire trek and Machu Picchu visit.
- Private transportation from Cusco to the Ancascocha trailhead.
- Official Ancascocha Trail permit.
- Official Ancascocha – Inca Trail connection permit.
- Muleteer drivers and horse mules to carry trekking equipment during the Ancascocha section.
- Professional trekking chef (Master Chef) throughout the trek.
- All meals during the trek prepared by our professional chef.
- Healthy and energetic breakfasts.
- Organic buffet lunches.
- Organic buffet dinners.
Not included
- Trekking poles.
- Sleeping bags.
- Air mattresses.
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the last day.
- Tips for muleteers, trekking chef, and support staff (optional).
- Tips for your tour guide (optional).
- Personal expenses and extra drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Packing list and tips
- Original passport (checked at checkpoints, trains and Machu Picchu)
- Broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
- Daypack of 25 to 35 litres
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layers: fleece, down jacket, hat and gloves
- Sun hat, sunglasses and SPF 50 sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication and toilet paper
- Some Peruvian soles in cash
- Swimsuit if hot springs are on the route
Recommendations
Arrive in Cusco at least two or three days before the trek to properly acclimatize to the altitude.
Bring your original passport, as it is required for permits, train travel, and Machu Picchu entry.
Wear well-broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
Dress in layers to adapt to cold mornings, warm afternoons, and changing mountain weather.
Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation at high altitude.
Bring a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold nights in the Andes.
Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the trek.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before and during hiking days.
Carry a small daypack for personal items such as water, snacks, camera, and sunscreen.
Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small personal expenses.
Consider renting trekking poles for added stability on steep or uneven sections.
Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and outdoor activities.
Respect local communities, archaeological sites, and follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Important information and precautions
- This route goes above 4,000 m: spend at least two nights in Cusco before departure
- Tell us about any medical condition when you book; consult your doctor if you have heart or respiratory problems
- Weather in the high Andes changes quickly: the guide may adapt the route for safety
- Pickup is in the historic centre of Cusco; the exact time is confirmed at the briefing
- Machu Picchu circuits and entry times are assigned by the Ministry of Culture based on availability at the moment of purchase
- Tickets are nominal: bring the same passport you used to book
- Train luggage is limited to one small bag of up to 5 kg per person
- Hotel pickup is in the historic centre of Cusco; the exact time is confirmed the evening before
- Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain have very limited spaces: request them when you book
Route map
- 1Cusco
- 2Soqma
- 3Ancascocha
- 4Huayanay pass
- 5Paucarcancha
- 6Km 82 (Piscacucho)
- 7Ollantaytambo
- 8Aguas Calientes
- 9Machu Picchu
Frequently asked questions
The Ancascocha Trek is a less crowded and more remote alternative route to Machu Picchu. It offers stunning high-Andean landscapes, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and traditional mountain passes before connecting with the Classic Inca Trail. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, Ancascocha provides a quieter trekking experience with fewer hikers, making it ideal for travelers seeking adventure, nature, and cultural immersion away from the crowds.
The Ancascocha Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to high altitude passes, long hiking days, and remote terrain. It is recommended for travelers with good physical condition and some hiking experience. The highest sections require steady walking and endurance, but the trek is non-technical. Our professional guides set a comfortable pace, provide support, and ensure safety throughout the entire journey.
The best time to hike the Ancascocha Trek is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer. June, July, and August are the most popular months and require early booking. March and November are good shoulder-season options with fewer travelers, although occasional rain may occur. February is not recommended due to heavy rains.
You should bring well-broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold nights. Trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mattresses are not included but can be rented if needed. A small daypack is recommended for personal items. All main camping equipment, meals, permits, and logistics are provided.
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Your policy should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical care, and evacuation. While our team carries a first-aid kit and emergency support, insurance offers additional peace of mind during a multi-day trek in remote mountain areas. Proper coverage helps protect you against unexpected health or travel issues.
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