Ancascocha Trek & Classic Inca Trail 7 Days
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Explore the Ancascocha Trek & Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERUExplore the Ancascocha Trek & Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu
Trip OverviewTrip Overview
The Ancascocha Trek is world-renowned and we are the only company in the Cusco area that offers this combination Ancascocha Trek and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Ancascocha Trek in the Peruvian Andes is a spectacular trail that remains off the beaten path. It is listed as one of National Geographic’s 20 dream hikes on their World Best Hikes list.
The trek wanders through traditional villages like Chillipahua, and its namesake Ancascocha (3,900 m/12,795 feet). Along the way, it humps over big passes, including the high point at the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m/ 15,252 ft), and takes in views of towering 20,551 foot (6,266 m) Apu Salkantay. On day 4 of the hike, we join the Classic Inca Trail. The Classic Inca Trail is the most famous hike in South America – perhaps the world. It is a must-do and one of the biggest highlights of your trip to Peru. It offers astounding trekking along original paved Inca pathways and a range of spectacular Inca ruins along the way. During the fascinates 7 days you can learn from another view the past of the powerful lords, the Incas. Their stories and legacy to humanity. Also some landscapes taken from the fairy tales, in many places you will see mountains that are about 15,890 feet. Houses of the typical people and descending of the race of Quechuas that still speak the language of the Incas. And they also practice their traditions, agricultural and livestock.
INCLUDEDINCLUDED
INCLUDED IN THE ANCASCOCHA TREK + INCA TRAIL
- Professional english speaker tour guide
- Expert mountain cook
- Private transport from your hotel to the start of the trail.
- Entrance fee to Inca Trail and Machupicchu
- Bus tickets up from aguas calientes to machupicchu.
- Train ticket back from aguas calientes to ollantaytambo
- Camping tent wich has a capacity for 4 persons, but only used for 2
- Dining tent with table and chairs, and a kitchen tent, manned by a professional cooking staff.
- Transport from the train station to Cusco.
- First-Aid Kits, Oxygen tank.
- Meals: Breakfast (7), lunch (6), dinner 6), with option for vegetarians, gluten free, lactose free.
- Horses and muleteers to carry the equipment and 15lbs of the hikers
- Porters to carry the equipment during the inca trail
- Sleeping pad
- Outdoor toilet tent.
- Emergency horse, that will be staying with us during the hike to upload our personal day gears or ride.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE ANCASCOCHA TREK + INCA TRAIL
- Sleeping bags, you might get them rented from us US$ 20
- Hiking poles,you might get them rented from us US$15
- Last lunch on 5th day.
- Extra expenditure during the trek, such as: soda, alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, tickets for the hot springs in Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes).
- Tipping.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain $ 80 usd.
- Travel Insurance.
Trip HighlightsTrip Highlights
- The Ancascocha Trek, also known as the Hidden Inca Trail or the Super Inca Trail, is a less traveled trek. If you’re looking for off the beaten path trails, pristine wilderness, and a challenging trek, this is the one for you! National Geographic recently named Ancascocha Trail as one of the World’s 20 Best Hikes!
- Best local tour guides who teach you about several ancient Inca ruins, wandering through remote Fincas where generations of farmers have tended their livestock, and passing traditional andean villages like Chillipahua and Ancascocha. But of course the real reason to take this trek is for the unsurpassed views of the majestic Andes.
- We will see spectacular views across the mountains, beautiful clear blue lakes and raging waterfalls, and with the towering 6,266m (20,551 ft.) Apu Salkantay frequently dominating the skyline.
- On our 4th day of hiking we will be on the Classic Inca Trail wich is the most beautiful hike of South America.
- Enjoy a unique sunrise in Machu Picchu, from the Guardian's house. Where you can take the best photographs of the wonder of the world.
- Explore the most famous and best preserved Inca trails, from the Andes and get lost in the cloud forests, which still hide mysterious Inca citadels.
ActivitiesActivities
Ancascocha Trek & Classic Inca Trail is very strenuous and challenging due to the altitude gain, high altitudes, 9 steep summits, and length of hiking: 85 km/52.8 miles and goes up to 4,959m/16,270ft. Being rewarded with amazing views does not come without effort, we recommend that everyone who joins us has a good level of basic fitness. Be prepared for all kinds of weather changes, since in the Andes, you can rain, snow, or hail at any time. That is why we recommend wearing a good trekking equipment such as hiking shoes, jackets and pants.
AccommodationsAccommodations
Ancascocha Trek & Inca Trail Camping Tents: 06 nights
The overnight stays during the Ancascocha Trek & Inca Trail are made in double-roofed tents, which are installed by the accompanying team. The tents are equipped with thick foam mattresses that are carried by the horses. On your ancascocha trek you will have a tent with your portable toilet, in the camps, these are always clean and you can use at any time. A dining tent offers enough space to eat together and end the evening in peace.
ItineraryItinerary
Once our arrival to the Incan site, you’ll have an explanation about the history of this site by our Tour Guide. We will then continue to our lunch spot for about 1 hour overlooking to a great scenery around. After the lunch, we’ll continue hiking up for about 2 hours to reach the first pass Called Kuichicasa 15,250 ft, at this point we’ll have stunning vistas of the Urubamba range where some snowc
apped mountains are located, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas below us. From the pass we’ll hike downhill for 1 hour to get the first camp site called Chancachuco 14,268 ft.
PACKING LISTPACKING LIST
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO THE ANCASCOCHA TREK + CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 7 DAYS
warm jackets
Hydration bladder
wool socks
camera
scarf
first aid kit
hiking shoes
Dry bags
Trekking Poles
sun cream
Snack
sun hat
bathing suite
rain coat
Sandals
insect repellent
Passport
Down Jackets
toilet paper
daypack
Wool cap
head lamp
gloves
sun glasses
cap
extra cash
Trekking pantsFAQ FAQ
The Ancascocha Trail starts from the Soqma Peasant Community in the direction of the Ancascocha Lagoon. Then we continue to kilometer 82 and finally reach Machu Picchu, all these places to visit are located within the geographical scope of the province of Urubamba, department of Cusco.
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATIONESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip InformationBest Season to TravelBest Season to Travel
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.
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DecemberPRICE & AVAILABILITYPRICE & AVAILABILITY
PRICE & AVAILABILITY
To book this tour, a minimum of $ 500 USD per person is required, the remaining balance will be paid upon arrival in Peru, at the Cusco office.
Any other additional information, please coordinate with your travel agent.
Choose your preferred departure date to proceed.
What to expect from our
Treks in Peru
Nothing gets you closer to a country than walking through it, and we’ve got trips to suit walkers of all levels and interests.
How fit do I need to be?
All our Walking trips are graded from ‘Easy’ through to ‘Challenging to Tough’. On our online trip itineraries you’ll find a chart showing the daily walk distances, timings and information on the route including the terrain, altitude. Generally, no specific training is needed but you might feel more comfortable if you’ve got out walking a few times in the lead-up to your trip.
What will the group be like?
As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers - all sharing a passion for exploring the world on foot. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Andean Great Treks leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.
Will I need to walk every day?
Mostly of our hikes in the mountains in Peru and Cusco like the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Ausangate Trek, Lares Trek, Ancascocha Trek, Salkantay Trek , involves an average of walking hours of 7-8 hours per day, this timing includes stops for taking photos, lunch, breaks for recovery the energy, and the most important we adapt to your walking pace. This relaxed style of trip involves to know all the attractions in greater depth.
What about the logistics?
On nearly all our Walking trips, porters or mules will carry all the camping equimpent, so your main luggage will be transported for you. We recommend walk with a light rucksack, you will carry water, snacks, a camera, a small first aid kit and any extra clothing or sun protection. On more remote or challenging treks, additional guides are there to assist the leader tour guide and provide support to the group.
ANDEAN TREKS FAQS
HOW MANY DAYS OF ACCLIMATIZATION DO YOU RECOMMEND BEFORE STARTING A PROGRAM?
The acclimatization period is very important for our travelers to enjoy the experience. We suggest a minimum of 3 or 4 days of the previous stay in Cusco city, the Sacred Valley of the Incas or Machu Picchu. We recommend you check the acclimation programs we have prepared for you on our website.
WHAT ARE THE ALTITUDES IN THE CAMPING SITES ?
The average height of our camps in the trekking circuits is 3,500 masl. In fact, one of the circuits where you sleep at the highest altitude is the Ausangate Trek, where you will have days to set up the tents at a height of 4,300 meters. Remember that Peru has snowy peaks that reach up to 6,700 masl.
HOW CAN ALTITUDE AFFECT ME?
From 3,000 meters above sea level, the symptoms of "altitude sickness" vary according to each person, and may even not occur. However, among the most common are a headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia. Therefore, upon arriving in the city of Cusco, located at 3,400 meters above sea level, we recommend our travelers to take a good rest, drink plenty of water, eat light meals and take slower walking. Also, it is necessary to avoid alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. The symptoms can be alleviated with high mountain medicines such as DIAMOX or similar products, but we suggest you consult with your doctor before the trip.
DO I HAVE TO CARRY MY OWN LUGGAGE?
While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a daypack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories you might need on the trail.) Horses and llamas will carry your duffle bag to the next camping site.
WHAT ARE THE SECURITY MEASURES IN THE TRAIL?
The company makes the greatest efforts to provide a safe and unforgettable experience, for this reason, the trekking guides are constantly communicated with the central office through satellite phones, ensuring the welfare of each passenger. Our guides are trained in rescue techniques and first aid in emergency outdoor, these courses are developed annually and have the standards of the wilderness first respond. At all times we have oxygen and first aid equipment. In case of any eventuality a medical director will answer our questions 24 hours a day. In addition to the animals who carry the luggage we have horses to help walkers tired or eager to ride. We recommend getting a travel insurance.
ANDEAN GREAT TREKS TOURS DIFFERENCE
UNRIVALLED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Every Andean Great Treks holiday has been thoughtfully planned and crafted by our specialists. They draw on their own extensive travel experience and the guidance and expertise of our local partners to create superb holidays. Our specialists are committed to making every aspect smooth and enjoyable; they genuinely want to ensure that the holidays they create leave you with wonderful lasting memories.
AMAZING TOURS & AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Every Andean Great Treks traveller is accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be immersed in Historic cities, ancient ruins and unfamiliar landscapes are all brought to life by our carefully selected local guides. They want to share their expertise and help you make your own discoveries too; their sole mission is to ensure you enjoy every moment.
FLEXIBILITY & CHOICE
Giving you the freedom to make your holiday even more memorable. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday and we pride ourselves on the choice and flexibility that we offer to enhance every aspect of your experience. Whether it’s getting to the airport, upgrading your room or booking an additional excursion, we can help.
GUIDED BY THE LOCAL GUIDES, TRUE EXPERTS!
Our guides are the stars of the show; it is their unrivalled knowledge, passion and expertise that will transform your tour experience from good to truly extraordinary!
Because the have grown up in the area and know it like the back of their hand, so they can help you experience whichever aspects most interest you. They’re passionate about sharing their corner of the world with you, and as you explore together, they’ll open your eyes to the intricate details, provide background to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing, and share stories that will bring everything to life.
ALL OF OUR NATIONAL TOUR GUIDES...
- Have at least five years guiding experience
- Are fluent in English
- Are born and raised in Cusco, Lima, Manu Jungle, Puno
- Go through rigorous and ongoing training programmes
- Are at your service 24 hours a day
OUR TRAVELS SHAPE YOURS
“Your inspiration for a trip can be a single word or a highly evolved outline, but it's the conversations we have that help us understand the experience you're looking for. Meanwhile, I'm looking back on the time I spent at the destination.
‘The great thing about working with a specialist at Andean Great Treks is how they take your complete jumble of ideas and turn them into something absolutely spectacular.’
As you begin to share your ideas with your specialist, it will connect them immediately back to a time in their own travels. Conjuring a picture of the rest time they made that same discovery, reminding them how it felt.
Your specialist understands that, when the journey is right, it has the power to excite your emotions in the most profound ways after all, that was the effect on them.
They carry a treasure box of moments, captured over many journeys, into every suggestion they’ll share with you, as they ask you how you want to feel on your trip.
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES, REAL CONNECTIONS
EXPERIENCES THAT CALL TO YOU
It’s what you do in a destination that helps bring it to life. It’s why we strive to choose experiences that help you connect to a place, absorbing a little of its complex character. Wherever your passions lie, we’ll recommend experiences that speak to you, and we’ll recommend the guide or local expert who’s most qualified to help you explore. Packing your holiday full of special experiences means some early starts and long days, but you can be sure that you’ll return home with many incredible memories! Read our Tours and check the Physical Ratings to see if the pace and activity levels are right for you.
STAYS WITH DIFFERENCE
We know that where you stay is a cherished part of your travels. So, we go to great lengths to find places to stay that exceed expectations, or go above and beyond the ordinary, whether in their character, hospitality, or location. Over the years, we’ve discovered the very best properties, trying and testing them, so we can choose the right one for you. We’ve nourished long-standing relationships with these establishments and the people who founded them, and we’ve stayed there many times often, we’ll even know which rooms have the best views (and reserve them for you).
TRAVELLING THE RIGHT WAY
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
WE EXPLORE WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ECOSYSTEM
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
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