Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
The Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is the hidden gem that seasoned trekkers whisper about: no permits to stress over, no trail traffic jams, just you conquering breathtaking high-altitude passes, pitching your tent beside impossibly blue glacial lakes, and sharing coca tea with Quechua families in villages so remote they feel frozen in time.
Challenging
Hike, Jungle, Culture, Adventure
4600 meters
Group Service
Experience the thrilling Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days, a remarkable journey featuring stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks like Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay, alongside the vibrant lakes of Salkantay and Ancascocha.
This trek is perfect for adventurers eager to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Andes: snowy summits, deep valleys, untouched lakes, and sightings of wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, plus interactions with local indigenous communities. Conclude this adventure with a train ride through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes and a fascinating tour of the iconic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.
Venture off the beaten path on the Ancascocha Trek, an epic 5-day journey that blends remote Andean beauty with the dramatic landscapes of the Salkantay route, culminating at the wonder of Machu Picchu. Hike through pristine valleys, snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and ancient Inca trails far from the crowds.
Pass through traditional highland villages, cross breathtaking mountain passes, and take in views of towering Salkantay Mountain and the rugged Vilcabamba range. Along the way, explore archaeological remains, witness diverse ecosystems, and connect with the living culture of the Andes. Your adventure ends with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where centuries of history come alive in one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
he Ancascocha Trek isn’t your typical touristy path, it’s raw, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. Below you’ll find what makes this trek special and what you should prepare for before lacing up your boots.
For travelers who want to arrive at Machu Picchu having truly earned the view, the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is one of the most complete and fulfilling options available. It combines raw Andean wilderness, cultural encounters, extraordinary mountain scenery and the unmatched reward of reaching one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites on foot.
This is the trek for those who crave genuine wilderness. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail or even the popular Salkantay route, Ancascocha sees only a handful of trekkers each week. You’ll experience the Andes the way they’re meant to be explored: with nothing but the sound of wind through the valleys, the call of distant condors, and your own footsteps on ancient paths. If you’ve ever dreamed of having the mountains almost entirely to yourself, this is your trek.
The Ancascocha Trek is no walk in the park. You’ll be trekking at elevations between 3,800m and 4,750m (12,500ft to 15,600ft), crossing several demanding high-altitude passes. The thin air will test your endurance, but the views from each summit make every breathless step worth it. Proper acclimatization in Cusco before the trek is essential, and our experienced guides know exactly how to pace the journey for your safety and enjoyment.
Your Andean expedition kicks off at 5 am with a pick-up from your hotel and a 3.5-hour drive in a private van to Soraypampa. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of Iscuchaca and Limatambo villages, dramatic valleys, and the majestic snow-covered Salkantay mountain. At the Soraypampa trailhead, savor a hearty breakfast while taking in the breathtaking sights of Humantay (5,900m/19,356ft) and Salkantay (6,217m/20,396ft) glaciers.
Don your hiking boots for a 2.5-hour round-trip trek to the turquoise Humantay Lake. Continue with a gentle 1.5-hour climb to Salkantay Pampa, where a delicious lunch awaits you against the backdrop of the glacier. Proceed uphill for another hour to reach your first campsite at Soroccocha, nestled at the base of Salkantay Mountain. Enjoy hot drinks and appetizers, and settle into your tents before dinner. The vistas today will be truly spectacular!
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodations: Camping facilities
Begin the day with a warm tea or coffee, followed by breakfast. Set off on a challenging hike, crossing several high mountain passes. The first pass is Inca Chiriaska (4959m/16,269ft), offering remarkable views of the surrounding landscapes. Continue along an original segment of the Inca Trail until reaching the Tocto pass (4821m/15,816ft), where the trail veers towards the imposing Salkantay Mountain.
Hike for the next 4 hours, crossing the Calacocha pass (4667m/15,311ft), the Cruz Casa pass (4600m/15,918ft), and the Millpo Pass (4399m/14,432ft) before descending to our Millpo campsite. Celebrate crossing four mountain passes with afternoon tea and appetizers before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodations: Camping facilities
Start your day with a hot beverage in your tent and a substantial breakfast. Then, hike for about an hour to the Chusqenay pass (4630m/15,190ft). Proceed to the Rumi Inca pass and continue climbing into the narrow Valley of Yahuarmaky. After a rest and some sightseeing, climb for about 1.5 hours to reach the Aqocasa pass (4686m/15,374ft), noted for its striking red hue.
From the top, using binoculars, view the Classic Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu, as well as the Salkantay, Humantay, Huayanay Mountains, and the distant Huacay Willka (also known as Veronica). Explore the small archaeological site of Inca Raqay before descending to Inca Rakay and climbing to Huayanay pass (4630m/15,190ft). After a final 3-hour descent, reach your campsite at Ancascocha by Ancascocha Lake (3700m/12,139ft), with a total hiking duration of 8-9 hours. Enjoy a relaxing evening, dinner, and recount the day’s experiences.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
Accommodations: Camping facilities
After a warm drink and a delicious breakfast, descend from Ancascocha to Chillca, a 2-hour journey to Arequipa Pampa. Pass through small villages and admire the Andean valleys adorned with chachacoma, queuña, orchids, begonias, and bromeliads. The descent becomes easier as you reach Camicancha (2930m/9,612ft), where you will either be picked up by car or continue to Chillca. Board the train around 4:00 pm to Aguas Calientes, where you will enjoy a celebratory dinner and spend the night in a hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
3 Accommodations:* Hotel Perre´ Machu Picchu
The awaited day has arrived! After an early breakfast at your hotel, take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise, a truly extraordinary experience. A guide will lead a two-hour tour covering the major highlights of the Machu Picchu Citadel, explaining its three sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.
After soaking in the views, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition train departs at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, traveling along the spectacular Urubamba River. As you approach Ollantaytambo, the narrow canyon and river’s whitewater sections create stunning scenery. Look out for Wiñay Wayna along the canyon wall. At Ollantaytambo, a driver will meet you to take you back to your Cusco hotel, with an expected arrival by 7:00 pm.
Meal Included: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
For those who booked an extra hike up Huayna Picchu, this will be done without a guide.
IMPORTANT:
You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same departure times (2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm) for an additional $67 USD. Early train options can be arranged upon request at the time of booking.
For those who booked an extra hike up Huayna Picchu, you will have time to enjoy those views independently. Afterward, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have the opportunity for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
**** This price covers an additional pack horse that will carry up to 7 kg of your belongings. A duffel bag will be provided for packing your items.
***We offer large Eureka 4-person tents, accommodating 2 trekkers per tent.
DISCOUNTS
EXTRAS
After your trek, those who have booked an additional hike up Huayna Picchu will have time to enjoy the views independently. Once you’ve had your fill of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may have the chance to shop, sightsee, or visit the museum or hot springs.
ADDED VALUES FOR FREE
Toiletries:
Backpack contents:
This information is comprehensive and ensures that trekkers are well-prepared for the Ancascocha Trek, equipped with the right gear, and aware of the services provided by INCA EXPEDITIONS.
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is one of the most rewarding and least crowded alternative routes to the Inca citadel. Combining high-altitude passes, pristine Andean lakes, snow-capped peaks and authentic encounters with local communities, this trek offers everything the Andes have to give without the crowds of more traditional routes.
The dry season between May and October is the best time to complete this route, with June, July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Clear skies, dry trails and stable temperatures make these months ideal for high-altitude trekking, though mornings and nights will still be cold at elevation.
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days is considered a moderate to challenging route. The high-altitude passes and multi-day physical demands require a reasonable level of fitness and at least two to three days of acclimatization in Cusco before departing. No technical climbing skills are needed, but trekkers should be comfortable with long days on uneven terrain at altitude.
Important Information Recap:
This information should help trekkers feel prepared and confident about their upcoming adventure with INCA EXPEDITIONS. It covers all the essential details, ensuring that they know what to expect and how to get ready for the trek.
This section provides essential details and practical advice for trekkers preparing for the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu with INCA EXPEDITIONS. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Toilets on the Treks:
Unable to Finish the Trek:
Drop-off After the Trek:
Train Departure Time:
Vistadome Train Upgrade:
Tipping:
Sustainability:
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
