The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu offers trekkers a unique and immersive experience. Over 4 days and 3 nights, adventurers will journey through stunning Andean landscapes, visit ancient Inca ruins, and explore traditional villages. This personalized trek culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With a focus on small groups and specialized attention, the Ancascocha Trek promises an unforgettable journey for those physically fit enough to take it on. What awaits those who dare to embark on this trekking adventure?
Key Points
- The Ancascocha Trek is a 4-day hiking adventure starting in Cusco, Peru, and ending at the iconic Machu Picchu.
- The trek avoids the crowds of popular Inca and Salkantay trails, offering a more intimate experience.
- Travelers will explore ancient Inca ruins and traditional Andean villages during the trek.
- The small group size ensures personalized attention from a local guide throughout the experience.
- The trek includes two nights of camping and one night at a bed and breakfast in Aguas Calientes.
Trek Overview

The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that starts in Cusco, Peru.
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure that starts in Cusco, Peru.
It’s recommended by 100% of travelers and has 71 reviews with a 5.0 rating.
This trek avoids the crowds of the popular Inca and Salkantay trails, offering a more intimate experience.
The group size is kept small, ensuring travelers receive ample attention from the guide.
Trekkers will hike past ancient Inca ruins and traditional Andean villages before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Itinerary Highlights

During the Ancascocha Trek, trekkers hike past ancient Inca ruins and traditional Andean villages.
They’ll visit Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a guided tour to learn about Inca history.
The trek is designed to avoid the crowds found on the Inca and Salkantay trails.
With a small group size, trekkers can expect more personalized attention from the local guide.
This 4-day trek starts in Cusco, Peru and is recommended by 100% of past travelers, with a 5.0 rating from 71 reviews.
Included in the Experience
As part of the Ancascocha Trek, the experience includes two nights of camping and one night’s stay at a bed and breakfast in Aguas Calientes.
Meals are provided throughout the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The tour also covers national park fees and the round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on the final day.
A local guide accompanies the group, providing expertise and insights into the Inca history and culture.
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco are also included, ensuring a seamless start and end to the trekking adventure.
Physical Fitness Requirement
A strong physical fitness level is required for the Ancascocha Trek. This hike involves:
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Ascending and descending steep mountain trails for several hours each day.
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Carrying a day pack with personal items and supplies.
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Hiking at high altitudes, which can be challenging.
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Camping in basic conditions for two nights.
Travelers must be in good shape and able to handle these demands. The trek isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with serious medical conditions.
This trek is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with serious medical conditions.
A positive attitude and determination are also essential for completing this rewarding journey.
Accessibility Considerations
The Ancascocha Trek isn’t wheelchair accessible.
This challenging trekking adventure involves navigating steep terrain, rugged mountain paths, and remote Andean landscapes.
Individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions may find the trek too physically demanding.
The trek requires a strong level of fitness and stamina.
Hikers should be prepared for steep ascents, long hiking days, and camping conditions.
While the experience offers stunning scenery and culture, it may not be suitable for all travelers.
It’s essential to carefully consider one’s physical abilities before booking this trek to Machu Picchu.
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Age and Medical Conditions
While the Ancascocha Trek offers an enriching cultural experience and breathtaking views, it may not be suitable for all travelers.
The Ancascocha Trek offers an enriching cultural experience and breathtaking views, but may not be suitable for all travelers.
The trek requires a strong physical fitness level, and certain individuals may face challenges:
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Children must be accompanied by an adult, as the trek isn’t recommended for minors alone.
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Travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions may struggle with the demanding hike.
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Pregnant women are also advised against taking on this trek due to the physical demands.
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Those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility will find the trek inaccessible.
Booking Process and Cancellation Policy
Booking the Ancascocha Trek is a straightforward process. The price starts at $730.00 per person, and travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The trek is available year-round, with operating hours Monday through Sunday. To book, visitors can contact the local provider and confirm the start time.
If plans change, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience begins. The trek has a maximum group size of 30 travelers, so it’s recommended to book early.
With a convenient pickup from any location in Cusco city, the Ancascocha Trek is easy to plan and enjoy.
Operating Hours and Pickup Locations
Conveniently, the Ancascocha Trek operates year-round, with Monday through Sunday hours.
Customers can book the trek between 5:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and between 5:00 AM and 7:00 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
The Ancascocha Trek can be booked between 5:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and between 5:00 AM and 7:00 PM on the other days.
The trek includes:
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Pickup from any location in Cusco city
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Confirmation of the start time with the local provider
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An experienced local guide to lead the journey
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Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on the final day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Weather Conditions During the Trek?
The trek experiences a variety of weather conditions. Daytime temperatures are generally mild, but can drop significantly at night. Hikers should be prepared for both sunny and rainy conditions, as the Andes climate can be unpredictable.
Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?
Yes, travelers can bring their own camping gear on the trek. The tour provider allows personal camping equipment, but recommends using their provided gear for convenience and reliability during the 4-day hike.
How Many People Are Typically in a Group?
The group size is typically capped at 30 travelers. This small group size allows for more personalized attention from the guide and a more intimate trekking experience.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter?
The tour allows a maximum of 30 travelers, but it doesn’t mention an option to hire a porter. Travelers would need to carry their own gear during the trek.
Can I Request a Vegetarian/Vegan Meal?
Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or vegan meals for this trek. The provider offers flexible meal options to accommodate dietary needs, so you’ll just need to let them know your preference when booking.
The Sum Up
The Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu offers an intimate, personalized experience for physically fit trekkers. This 4-day adventure showcases stunning Andean landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and the iconic Machu Picchu. With small groups, meals, camping, and a night in Aguas Calientes, it’s an unforgettable journey for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Peru’s rich cultural and natural wonders.
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