From Lima: 2 Days Trekking Through Marcahuasi

The Marcahuasi plateau offers a breathtaking natural escape just outside of Lima. This 2-day trekking tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore the area’s captivating geological formations and serene lagoons. With an expert guide leading the way, you’ll learn about the beauty of this remote destination while enjoying meals, transportation, and a cozy campfire under the stars. Though the $500 price tag may seem steep, the intimate experience and awe-inspiring sights make it a worthwhile investment for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This 2-day trekking tour from Lima takes participants to the Marcahuasi plateau, located 4,000 meters above sea level.
• The tour includes transportation, meals, an English-speaking guide, and a night of camping on the plateau.
• Highlights include witnessing the sunset, stargazing, and exploring unique geological formations and lagoons.
• No upfront payment is required to reserve a spot, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour group size is limited to 15 participants, providing a personalized and intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Marcahuasi trekking tour offers a 2-day adventure for $500.00 per person. Participants won’t need to pay upfront to reserve their spot, and they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The small group size is limited to 15 people. The 2-day itinerary includes visits to a village, the Marcahuasi plateau, lagoons, and geological formations. Meals, transportation, and an English-speaking guide are included.

Campers can rent gear like tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses for additional fees. A good physical condition is required for the trek through the unique landscapes of Marcahuasi.

Itinerary Details

On the first day, participants are picked up from a designated location and visit the village of San Pedro de Casta for lunch.

They then trek for 3 hours through the Marcahuasi plateau, situated 4,000 meters above sea level. At the highest point, they witness the sunset.

Trekking across the Marcahuasi plateau, 4,000 meters high, to witness the sunset at the pinnacle.

In the evening, they enjoy a campfire experience and stargaze.

The next morning, they wake up early and trek again, observing geological formations like the sphinx, extraterrestrial, and alchemist stones.

They also visit the Cachu Cachu and Huacracocha lagoons, and see the Lion King rock and monument to Humanity before returning to San Pedro de Casta for lunch.

Day 1 Highlights

Participants kick off the Marcahuasi trek by getting picked up from a designated location and visiting the picturesque village of San Pedro de Casta for lunch.

The real adventure begins with a 3-hour trek through the Marcahuasi plateau, 4000 meters above sea level. Hikers are rewarded with:

• Breathtaking views at the highest point as the sun sets

• An evening spent around the campfire, stargazing and connecting with nature

• Unforgettable memories of this unique geological wonder

As night falls, campers settle in for a well-deserved rest, anticipating the next day’s exploration.

Sunset and Campfire Experience

As the sun dips behind the mountains, hikers make their way to the highest point of the plateau, eager to witness the breathtaking sunset.

Cameras snap as vibrant hues paint the sky, signaling the end of the day.

Once darkness falls, the group gathers around a crackling campfire, sharing stories and sipping hot drinks.

The serene silence is occasionally broken by the call of a distant animal.

Stargazing reveals a dazzling display of celestial bodies, a humbling reminder of the vastness of the universe.

It’s a peaceful and memorable experience under the open sky.

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Day 2 Highlights

Hikers rise early the next morning, eager to explore the unique geological formations dotting the Marcahuasi plateau.

Hikers rise early to explore the unique geological formations of the captivating Marcahuasi plateau.

They trek towards the renowned sites, marveling at the surreal landscapes.

The highlights of Day 2 include:

• Observing the enigmatic "Sphinx," "Extraterrestrial," and "Alchemist" stones, each with their own intriguing stories.

• Visiting the serene Cachu Cachu and Huacracocha lagoons, reflecting the surrounding natural beauty.

• Standing in awe before the impressive "Lion King" rock formation and the monumental "Monument to Humanity."

After a final lunch in San Pedro de Casta, the group returns to Lima, their minds filled with the wonders of Marcahuasi.

Lagoons and Unique Geological Formations

After completing the trek to the lagoons, visitors are awestruck by the serene beauty of Cachu Cachu and Huacracocha.

The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding geological formations, including the iconic "Sphinx" and "Extraterrestrial" stones.

Trekkers explore these unique landscapes, marveling at the intricate patterns and textures carved by nature over millennia.

The "Lion King" rock and the monument to Humanity stand as testament to the area’s rich history and spiritual significance.

Participants return to San Pedro de Casta, their minds filled with the wonder of Marcahuasi’s captivating natural wonders.

Return to San Pedro De Casta

Upon completing their exploration of the lagoons and geological wonders, the group heads back to San Pedro de Casta.

The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the remarkable sights witnessed:

• The Lion King rock, a unique geological formation that resembles the iconic Disney character, symbolizing the timeless beauty of nature.

• The monument to Humanity, a powerful reminder of our shared connection to the land and its ancient history.

• The leisurely lunch in San Pedro de Casta, a welcoming respite after a day of adventurous trekking.

The trip culminates with an arrival back in Lima, leaving the participants with a profound appreciation for the awe-inspiring Marcahuasi plateau.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour package includes pickup and transfer back to the hotel, transportation by minibus, an English-speaking guide, one night of lodging in the Marcahuasi camp, and all meals: lunch, breakfast, and dinner.

The entrance fee to Marcahuasi is also covered. However, there are additional costs for renting camping gear, such as a tent ($10.50-$18.40), a thermal sleeping bag ($5.30), and a mattress ($2.60).

Travelers can also hire a donkey or packhorse to carry their belongings for $6.60 per leg. These supplementary fees are payable directly to the tour provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is limited to a small group size of 15 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience during the trek through the Marcahuasi plateau.

Can I Reschedule or Change the Tour Date?

Participants can cancel their tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. They can also reschedule the tour date, but this is subject to availability and may incur additional fees.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation?

Yes, there are options to upgrade the accommodation. Customers can choose to rent a higher-quality tent, sleeping bag, or mattress for an additional fee. The tour operator provides these rental items to enhance the camping experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own camping gear. The tour allows you to use your own tent, sleeping bag, and mattress. This can help reduce the additional rental costs if you have the necessary equipment.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $500 per person, regardless of age. However, travelers can bring their own camping gear to save on rental costs.

The Sum Up

The Marcahuasi trekking tour from Lima offers an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the plateau’s captivating landscapes and unique geology. With expert guidance, scenic hikes, and opportunities to stargaze, this two-day experience promises breathtaking views and an intimate connection with nature. At $500 per person, it’s a well-rounded package that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: