After a nutritious breakfast, we begin our steady ascent toward the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft). This section of the Ancascocha Trail is one of the most stunning, as you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Huayanay Glacier, the beautiful Ancascocha Lake, waterfalls, and a well-preserved segment of the Inca Trail, carved into the side of a dramatic red mountain — known locally as the “Red Beauty.”

The uphill hike takes approximately 4 hours, and once at the top of the Huayanay Pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes Mountains, including distant views of the towering Salkantay Glacier and sections of the famous Classic Inca Trail.

From the pass, we continue for about 2 hours, walking through a mix of flat and downhill terrain until we reach Quesqa (3,850 m / 12,631 ft).

As always, lunch will give us the energy to continue, and the final section of today’s hike is entirely downhill, taking approximately 3 hours until we arrive at our campsite in Paucarcancha (3,133 m / 10,278 ft).

Before dinner, you’ll enjoy a guided visit to the archaeological site of Paucarcancha, an important but lesser-known Inca site that offers a more intimate connection to Peru’s rich history — away from the crowds.

• Area: Dry Mountain, High Andean Grasslands, Forest.
• Temperature: Cold, Warm and Hot.

Today’s hike is more relaxed as we join a portion of the Classic Inca Trail, walking toward the famous archaeological site of Patallaqta. This scenic section takes approximately 5 hours until we reach KM 82, the traditional starting point of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Along the way, you’ll notice a stark contrast between the off-the-beaten-path Ancascocha Trail and the more crowded Inca Trail, where you’ll likely see several groups of hikers.

Once we arrive at KM 82, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch, then take a local van to Ollantaytambo, a charming Inca town nestled in the Sacred Valley. From there, we board a panoramic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The train ride is a highlight in itself, as the landscape transforms from high Andean mountains to the lush cloud forest of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we’ll have dinner at one of the town’s top-rated restaurants, known for its excellent local cuisine.

Overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.

• Area: Dry Mountain, High Andean Grasslands, Montane cloud forest.
• Temperature: Cold, Warm and Hot.

Today is the highlight of your journey — the day you’ll finally experience the mystical Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched high in the Peruvian Andes. Built from finely carved white granite, this awe-inspiring archaeological site offers a glimpse into the extraordinary engineering and cultural legacy of the Inca civilization.

You’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel with your expert mountain guide, who will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of the site.

If you’ve booked an additional hike, you’ll have the option to climb either Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu after the guided tour — both offering stunning panoramic views from above the ruins.

Once your visit is complete, we’ll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to relax with a coffee, cold drink, lunch, or even a refreshing Pisco Sour as you wait for your train.

You’ll then board the train to either Poroy or Ollantaytambo station. Upon arrival, our team will pick you up and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable adventure along the Ancascocha Trail to Machu Picchu.

• Area: Montane cloud forest.
• Temperature: Chilly, Warm and Hot (it can get hotter than 94fº).

The Ancascocha Trail is considered a moderate to challenging high-altitude trek, best suited for travelers with a good level of physical fitness and some hiking experience. The route involves steep ascents and descents, with mountain passes reaching over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet), such as Huayanay Pass. You’ll be hiking for 6 to 9 hours per day, often at high elevations, so both physical endurance and mental readiness are important.

You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but prior training — such as long walks, uphill hikes, and cardio exercises — is highly recommended. It’s also essential to spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

This trek is ideal for adventure travelers who enjoy nature and want to experience a less crowded yet spectacular route to Machu Picchu. If you’re in good health, accustomed to walking long distances, and excited for an authentic Andes trekking adventure, you’ll be well prepared for the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu.

Altitude is one of the most important factors to consider when doing the Ancascocha Hike. This high-altitude trek in the Peruvian Andes reaches elevations of over 4,600 meters (15,000 feet), particularly at Huayanay Pass, where oxygen levels are significantly lower than at sea level.

As a result, some hikers may experience altitude sickness (also known as acute mountain sickness), which can include symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, or trouble sleeping. While not everyone is affected, it’s essential to acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before starting the Ancascocha Trail.

During the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu, our expert guides monitor your well-being and adjust the hiking pace as needed. We include plenty of rest breaks and offer natural remedies like coca tea to help with altitude adjustment.

To minimize the effects of high elevation, it’s important to stay hydrated, eat light meals, avoid alcohol before the trek, and follow your guide’s advice. Despite the challenge, the breathtaking views, quiet trails, and cultural richness of the Ancascocha Trail make this high-altitude adventure an unforgettable experience.

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu covers approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) over 4 days of trekking through the majestic Andes. This total distance includes scenic mountain trails, high-altitude passes like the Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft), and visits to archaeological sites such as Perolniyoc, Paucarcancha, and Patallaqta, along with a final section of the Classic Inca Trail from km 82.

Each day involves between 6 and 9 hours of hiking, with a mix of uphill climbs, downhill descents, and rolling terrain. Though physically demanding, every kilometer offers stunning views — from snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes to remote Andean villages and ancient Inca ruins.

The Ancascocha Trail is one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, perfect for adventurers seeking a less crowded and more immersive experience in the Peruvian Andes.

The Ancascocha Trail offers a unique and scenic connection to Machu Picchu. After several days of trekking through remote Andean landscapes, the route merges with a portion of the Classic Inca Trail, specifically near km 82, one of the official access points of the Inca Trail network.

From there, you continue hiking a short stretch until reaching the end of the trail, where a private transport will take you to Ollantaytambo. In this charming Inca town, you’ll board a panoramic tourist train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo). This train ride is a highlight in itself, offering stunning transitions from high mountains to lush cloud forest scenery.

The following morning, a bus takes you from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the legendary Inca citadel. This combination of off-the-beaten-path trekking, historical immersion, and comfortable access makes the Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu one of the most rewarding alternatives available.

To fully enjoy and safely complete the Ancascocha Trail, it’s essential to bring the right gear to handle the changing conditions of the Andean mountains. We recommend:

• Comfortable, sturdy footwear, preferably waterproof hiking boots with good traction.
• Layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes: thermal shirt, fleece jacket, waterproof and windproof outer layer.
• Light daypack (20-30 liters) to carry water, snacks, camera, and extra clothing.
• Water bottle or hydration system to stay well hydrated.
• Hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against strong high-altitude sun.
• Trekking poles (optional but recommended) for better stability on descents and uneven terrain.
• Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, especially for camping nights.
• Headlamp with extra batteries.
• Insect repellent and personal items like medication, wet wipes, and biodegradable toilet paper.
• Camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

Keep in mind that weather in the Andes can change rapidly, so waterproof and warm clothing is essential. Your guide will also provide advice before and during the trek to ensure you have everything you need.

The Ancascocha Trail is a challenging trek that crosses high mountain terrain with passes above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) altitude. Therefore, it is not recommended for very young children or older adults with health issues or without prior high-altitude hiking experience.

However, for older children and adults in good physical condition and accustomed to hiking, it is possible to complete the trek with extra precautions. It is essential to:

• Have a good level of physical fitness.
• Adjust the hiking pace according to the group’s abilities.
• Ensure plenty of water, rest, and sun protection.
• Watch carefully for signs of altitude sickness and respond quickly if symptoms appear.

Our guides are trained to care for all participants and tailor the experience to be safe and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend consulting a doctor before the trek if there are any health or fitness concerns.