Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Explore the Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERUExplore the Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu
Trip OverviewTrip Overview
The Ancascocha Trek, also known as the Hidden Inca Trail or the Super Inca Trail, is a strenuous and 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.
In Ancascocha Trail you will feel the magic of the Andes and at the same time discover the history that surrounds the great empire of the Incas. hiking in the mountains of the Southern Andes. Nature, geography, flora and fauna will surprise you with its beauty and diversity, filling your eyes and spirit with their unique characteristics. The story of The Incas will be present at each step towards the end point of our journey. Archaeological sites dotted throughout our journey will help us to better understand the Andean civilization and way of life.
On Ancascocha trail to Machu Picchu, the trail goes through very remote Andean communities, where locals try to keep living in happiness moving their llamas and alpacas as they’ve been doing so far. This trail forms part of the network of classic Inca Trail which is linking Machu Picchu from the other towns located in the highlands, therefore, we’ll have the chance to witness ancient Incan ruins along the path to Machu Picchu, Inca ruins that are still covered by shrubs waiting for becoming uncovered by you.
INCLUDEDINCLUDED
INCLUDED IN THE ANCASCOCHA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS:
- Professional english speaker tour guide
- Expert mountain cook
- Private transport from your hotel to the start of the trail.
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
- Bus tickets up from aguas calientes to machu picchu.
- Round trip train ticket Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Mountain Camping tent
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes 1 night
- 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 (5), lunch (4), dinner (4), with option for vegetarians, gluten free, lactose free.
- Horses and muleteers to carry the equipment and 15lbs of the hikers
- Sleeping pad
- Outdoor toilet tent.
- Emergency horse, that will be staying with us during the hike to upload our personal day gears or ride.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN ANCASCOCHA TRAIL
- Sleeping bags, you might get them rented from us US$ 20
- Hiking poles,you might get them rented from us US$ 20
- 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 Trail, also known as the Hidden Inca Trail or the Super Inca Trail, is a less traveled walk. If you are looking for off the beaten track, virgin nature and a challenging walk, this is the one for you! National Geographic recently named Ancascocha Trail as one of the 20 best walks in the world!
- The best local tourist guides that teach you about several ancient Inca ruins, roam through remote farms where generations of farmers have taken care of their livestock and pass through traditional Andean villages such as Chillipahua and Ancascocha. But, of course, the real reason for this hike is because of the unparalleled views of the majestic Andes.
- We will see spectacular views across the mountains, beautiful light blue lakes and furious waterfalls, and with the imposing 6,566 m (20,551 ft) Apu Salkantay that frequently dominates the horizon.
- On our third day of hiking we will be in a part of the Classic Inca Trail (the one that is booked one year in advance!) After 2 days of solitude, you may be surprised to see so many other hikers; but don't worry, they are going in the other direction!
- From the city of the sacred valley of Ollantaytambo we will take the panoramic train to Aguas Calientes, which is the base of our trip to Machu Picchu. The train journey itself is a fantastic experience and full of opportunities to take pictures.
ActivitiesActivities
Ancascocha Trail is very strenuous and challenging due to the increase in altitude, the 7 steep peaks and the length of the hike: 56 km / 34.8 miles and climbs to 4,959 m / 16,270 feet. But to be rewarded with incredible views do not come effortlessly, we recommend that everyone who joins us have a good level of fitness. Be prepared for all kinds of climatic changes, since in the Andes it can rain, snow or hail at any time. That is why we recommend using good trekking equipment, such as walking shoes, jackets and pants.
AccommodationsAccommodations
Ancascocha Trail Camping Tents: 03 nights
The overnight stays during the Ancascocha 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 trail 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.
RETAMA MACHU PICCHU: 1 night
The Hotel Hotel Retama Machupicchu is located, 700 meters from the hot springs of Machu Picchu, it is the most beautiful and quiet area of the town, in the Wiñaywayna Park located three blocks from the Peru Rail station, overlooking the river and the moutains; It offers free WiFi and a tour desk. The accommodation offers luggage storage and a currency exchange service. Room service, 45-inch plasma AOC TV, 24-hour hot water, Hair dryer, Towels for thermal baths, Buffet breakfast.
ItineraryItinerary
- Ancascocha Trail – The sacred river of Vilcanota, Viewpoint photo stop
- Ancascocha Trail – Perolniyoc, Archeological Site
- Ancascocha Trail – Soqma Community, Viewpoint photo stop
PACKING LISTPACKING LIST
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING FOR THE ANCASCOCHA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS:
When packing for your Ancascocha Trail to machu picchu , you should keep in mind that it is best to dress in layers due to the weather variation. The variety of clothes that you must pack to dress in layers is key to your walk, from the morning when it is quite cold until mid afternoon when the temperatures rise and reach their peak and then freeze again at night. Stratification is also useful as you ascend high passages that are exposed to winds or descend into shady valleys.
Effective stratification only works if each layer allows moisture to pass and escape into the external environment. In fact, the best layered clothing, such as wool, promotes moisture transfer through its absorbent properties. Cotton and denim absorb moisture and, therefore, should be avoided.
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 pantsFAQFAQ
ALL WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ANCASCOCHA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
The Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu provides trekkers with a fantastic opportunity to hike the Andean mountains while learning the history of the pre columbian people inhabiting what is now called South America and their encounter with the Spaniards ‘conquistadors’.
In this piece, you will find absolutely everything you need to know about the ancient incas trail, which is the most beautiful hiking destination of Peru and South America.
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 $ 300 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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