Embark on a five-day adventure to Machu Picchu via the Ancascocha Trek. After completing this journey, you’ll have stories that will last a lifetime!
Peru Ancascocha Trek 5 Days: National Geographic recently named the Ancascocha Trail one of the world’s 20 best hikes! Venture through the high mountains of the Andes and the impressive alpine landscapes of the Sacred Valley towards Machu Picchu.
The Ancascocha 5 Day Trek is a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes, offering a breathtaking and less-crowded alternative to the famous Inca Trail. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes hikers through stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and diverse ecosystems. Unlike other treks in the region, the Ancascocha route provides a more authentic and immersive experience, allowing trekkers to connect profoundly with nature and local cultures.
Experience the exquisite beauty of Peru on the Ancascocha Trek!
The Ancascocha Hike may be the perfect option for you. This 5-day trek takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and local villages, all while culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of Machu Picchu.
The 5-day hike takes you through the stunning Andean mountains, passing through remote villages and ancient Incan ruins before arriving at the iconic Machu Picchu. The Ancascocha Trail is a less-traveled route, offering a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Quick itinerary for the Ancascocha Trek 5 Days
Day 1: Cusco-Socma-Waterfall of Perolniyoc-Rayan
Day 2: Rayan, Kuychicassa, and Ancascocha Lagoon
Day 3: Ancascocha Trek Lagoon, Huayanay pass and Paucarcancha
Day 4: Paucarcancha to km 82, Ollantaytambo-PM Train ride to Machu Pichu Pueblo
Day 5: Machu Picchu Guided Tour (PM) Train ride to CUSCO via POROY
Travel from Cusco to Socma and the beginning of the Hike from Socma to Rayan
We drive northeast to Izucchaca. Huarocondo to the trailhead at Socma 3,205 m/10,512 ft., located in the Pomatales Canyon. We’ll begin our best Ancascocha hiking trail, ascending toward the Perolniyoc waterfall.
After observing and taking many photos at the Perolniyoc Inca Falls, we continued hiking until we reached the Perolniyoc Inca Ruins at the top. We camped in the surroundings of Rayan on our first night of camping. The travel team accompanied us on this alternative trek to Ancascocha through the Andes.
A brief description of the beginning of Trek
1L, 1D
2, Moderate
8km (5 miles)
4 Hrs.
Socma: 3,205m (10,512 ft)
None
Rayan: 3,650m (11,975 ft)
We start walking from Rayan to the Laguna de Ancascocha at dawn.
After packing our adventure equipment, we trekked along the ancient Inca trail. The fauna of the place is Andean High Mountain, with its miniature shrubs and extensive grasslands. This place will give you a stunning panoramic view of the sacred valley of the Incas and the glacier mountains.
Essential activity towards the first Pass of Kuychicassa
1B, 1L, 1D.
5, Challenging
18km (11.2 miles)
9-10 Hrs.
Rayan: 3,650m (11,975 ft)
Ancascocha 3,700m (12,136 ft)
Kuychicassa Pass: 4,450m (14,596 ft)
To conquer the Huayanay pass and then descend to the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha
With the adventurous spirit that fills us with the energy to discover new scenic landscapes, we begin the trek to the highest point of the expedition. Ascending towards Huayanay, 4650 meters high (15,300 feet) (a 1-hour hike), we find an original cobblestone-paved Inca trail on a steep zigzag path uphill. On the way, the beautiful waterfall feeds into Ancascocha Lake.
Once we conquer the top, we will appreciate the valleys of Socma and Paucarcancha. We start our long way down, passing through the ruins of Inca Racay and the rural area of Qesqa, until we reach the fertile valley of Paucarcancha.
In Inca times, the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha were a checkpoint for walkers of the Socma Valley—Huayanay, Sacred Valley, Salkantay, and the Inca Trail. Paucarcancha is a planting site for organic agricultural products on the Inca terraces and hillsides. The climate is conducive to such rural activity, and for walkers, it offers a temperate climate to spend the night near the Paucarcancha ruins. From the Inca ruins of Paucarcancha, we are inside the buffer zone of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
1B, 1BL, 1D.
5, Challenging
15km (9 miles)
9 Hrs.
Ancascocha 3,700m (12,136 ft)
Paucarcancha: 3,000m (9,842 ft)
Huayanay Pass: 4,650m (15,298 ft)
Easy walk through the Classic Inca Trail sector until km 82 of the railway line. In the afternoon, a train trip to Aguas Calientes
This day in our Ancascocha hike is like walking between the Inca trails and the archaeological remains. We continue downriver at Km. 82. From Km. 82, we transport to the Ollantaytambo train station to board our train.
At km 82 of the railway “exit of the Inca Trail of Ancascocha,” it is the farewell of our team of muleteers and cooks.
Last hike with our adventure team
1B, 1L.
2, Moderate
13km (8.2 miles)
5 Hrs
Paucarcancha: 3,000m (9,842 ft)
KM 82: 2,750m (9,000 ft)
None
In the morning, we have the guided tour of Machu Picchu, and in the afternoon, we return to Cusco by train via Ollantaytambo.
We have the best plan for you and your party. Our Ancascocha trekking guide will arrive at your hotel to pick you up, walk to the bus station to board one of them, and transport us to the Inca citadel, “25 minutes of travel on a zigzag path”.
Upon arrival, visitors present their entrance tickets along with their original passports. We have the guided tour of Machu Picchu, and we will start at the top of the Inca citadel to have the best view of the city and then start walking around Machu Picchu, exploring and understanding each great site.
After visiting Machu Picchu, clients return to Aguas Calientes to go to the train station and board the rail service to transport us to the Ollantaytambo train station. From Ollantaytambo, we will travel by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.
Activities in Machu Picchu
1, Easy
2Hrs tour
2-hour guided tour
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,065m (6,774 ft)
Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)
Cusco: 3,350m (10,990 ft)
A good daypack: Eagle Creek Afar Backpack—appropriate pack to carry your personal belongings
Follow the Ancascocha trek on a 5-day journey to the mysterious Machu Picchu. Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and enjoy an unforgettable experience with KONDOR PATH TOURS!
* Price based on two people sharing one tent.
PERU TRAINS By PeruRail (Train upgrades)
Upgrade your journey with our three Vistadome train options on Peru Rail, each with a different additional cost: per person
+$498.00 Hiram Bingham train (Inbound Journey: Train MACHUPICCHU-POROY)
+$75 Huayna Picchu
+$75 Montaña
+$75 RE-ENTRY TO MACHU PICCHU
Machu Picchu Fee
College students: $25 off
A journey of exploration awaits you. Take up the unforgettable Ancascocha trek—5 days to marvelous Machu Picchu—and explore one of the most spectacular places in South America!
Take a 5-day journey on the Ancascocha Trek to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu with this incredible adventure!
Visit the Andes of Peru to enter the interconnections of Inca Trails that surround the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu and have a spectacular vacation in the mountain ranges of the sacred valley of Machu Picchu. Welcome to this magnificent adventure through the Ancascocha Trek for 3 days in a complete tourist package.
The Ancascocha Trek is a 5-day hike in the Peruvian Andes that takes you through breathtaking landscapes and ancient Incan ruins.
The Ancascocha trek is challenging due to its altitude and steep terrain. Before attempting this trek, being in good physical shape and acclimated to the length is essential.
The best time to do the 5-day Ancascocha trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to September. The weather is usually clear and dry, with mild temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night.
You should bring warm clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, a sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, and snacks.
It’s highly recommended to have a guide for the 5-day Ancascocha trek. The terrain is challenging, and a guide will ensure your safety and provide valuable information about the area and the Incan ruins.
The cost of the Ancascocha trek varies depending on the tour operator and the level of service you choose. It can range from $300 to $1000 per person.
The highest point on the Ancascocha trek is the Huayanay Pass, at an altitude of 4,650 meters (15,256 feet).
It’s possible to do the Ancascocha trek alone, but it’s not recommended. The terrain is challenging, and having a guide will ensure your safety and provide valuable information about the area and the Incan ruins.
The Ancascocha Trek is a 5-day trek that covers a distance of approximately 49 kilometers.
The scenery on the 5-day Ancascocha trek is breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys.
The accommodation on the Ancascocha Trek 5 Day is usually camping. You will have a tent, a sleeping bag, and a pad.
The food on the 5-day Ancascocha trek is usually straightforward but nutritious. You can expect to have soup, rice, vegetables, and meat.
The Ancascocha trek is generally safe, but it’s essential to be cautious and follow the guidance of your guide. The terrain is challenging, and altitude sickness can be a concern.
The Ancascocha trek is not recommended for children under 12 due to the altitude and challenging terrain.
Absolutely! The Ancascocha trek offers stunning scenery, ancient Incan ruins, and a challenging but rewarding hike. It’s an excellent option for those looking to get off the beaten path and experience the natural beauty of Peru.
Take this five-day journey of discovery to explore Machu Picchu and the wonders of Peruvian nature! On the Ancascocha Trek, you’ll encounter captivating Incan ruins and abundant wildlife.
Embark on a 5-day adventure and explore the mysterious wonders of Peru with the Ancascocha Trek. Discover spectacular mountains and Machu Picchu on this fantastic trekking experience.
HIKING SERVICE: Season 2025. We carry out this trekking circuit along the Ancascocha Inca Trail.
At least two trekkers must take a private service for the Classic Ancascocha Trek: 5 Days to Machu Picchu.
Number of persons | Price per person | |
2 | $ 1 079.00 USD |
To open a shared group service for the Classic Ancascocha Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu, at least three hikers are required.
Number of persons | Price per person | |
$ 848.00 USD |
Ancascocha 5 Day Trek: Join us on the unforgettable Ancascocha Trek, a five-day adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes! Explore Machu Picchu, gorgeous Incan ruins, and an abundance of wildlife.
Take a multi-day hike and explore Peru’s stunning landscapes on the Ancascocha 5-day trek to Machu Picchu. Discover amazing views and cultural attractions along the way!