Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu – 4D/3N

Day 1: Cusco – Ñaupa Iglesias – Soqma – Perolniyoc – Rayanpata Camp

We begin with a short drive from Cusco to the Sacred Valley, where our hike starts. The first section is a 30-minute walk to the Church of Ñaupa Iglesias, an important Inca ceremonial sanctuary.

From there, we continue hiking uphill toward the Andean community of Soqma. Here, our horsemen and porters will join us for the rest of the adventure. The trail then leads us to the impressive Perolniyoc Waterfall, where you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and even take a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls.

Next, we visit the Inca archaeological site of Raqaypata (Perolniyoc), dramatically located on a cliff overlooking the Socma Valley, the Maras Plateau, and the snow-capped Chicón Mountain. Your guide will explain the historical importance of this site and the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

We continue hiking past ancient Inca terraces until reaching Rayanpata, where we enjoy lunch and set up camp for the night.

Day 2: Rayan – Kuychiccasa Pass – Chancachuco Valley Camp

Today is a more challenging trekking day as we ascend toward the Kuychiccasa Pass. Although the climb is demanding, the reward is breathtaking scenery. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of snow-capped peaks, vast Andean valleys, and, if we’re lucky, sightings of condors soaring overhead.

At the pass, we take time to admire the panoramic views of the Chancachuco Valley and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From here, we descend gradually to our campsite, nestled in the heart of the Chancachuco Valley.

As evening falls, we gather around the campfire for a hearty dinner and enjoy the incredible starlit Andean sky.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Lowest Elevation: 3,205 m / 10,512 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,450 m / 14,599 ft
Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
Walking Time: Approximately 5–6 hours

Day 3: Chancachuco – Apu Buena Negra Pass – Cachiccata Quarry – Community Camp

We start the day hiking toward the second mountain pass, crossing Apu Buena Negra, an area ideal for birdwatching and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. After reaching the pass, we descend along an ancient trail to the Intihuatana Temple, where we also visit the Pakaritampu Pyramid.

Continuing downhill, we explore the archaeological site of Choquetacarpo before stopping for lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the Cachiccata Inca Quarry, the largest stone quarry in the Cusco region, which supplied stones for the fortress of Ollantaytambo.

We spend the night camping in the Cachiccata community, enjoying stunning views of the snow-capped Verónica Mountain (Wequewilca).

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast, we transfer to Ollantaytambo and board the train to Aguas Calientes, traveling alongside the scenic Urubamba River. From there, we take a bus up to Machu Picchu.

You will enjoy a complete guided tour of the citadel, learning about its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore and take photos at your own pace.

In the afternoon, we return by train and then transfer back to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable journey.

Additional Trek Information

This trek challenges your fitness as you cross several high mountain passes, including elevations of over 4,500 meters. Throughout the journey, your guide and support crew ensure a comfortable pace with regular rest and meal breaks.

You will camp for three nights in remote and peaceful locations, with high-quality tents already set up upon arrival. Each day ends with a freshly prepared dinner, and each morning begins with hot drinks and a nutritious breakfast. The Andean night skies, filled with stars, are truly unforgettable.

Action Peru Treks is highly recommended by TripAdvisor and Trustpilot. Join hundreds of happy trekkers and experience one of the most breathtaking adventures in the Andes.

Included

• Professional licensed guide (English / Spanish)

• Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead

• Horses to carry camping equipment

• All meals during the trek

• Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, dining tent)

• Entrance fees to archaeological sites along the route

• Train and bus tickets to Machu Picchu

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu

• First-aid kit and oxygen bottle

Not Included

• Meals that are not referenced in the itinerary.
• Alcohol drinks
• Sleeping bag
• Tips for your guide are not included and are optional
• Travel Insurance

Ancascocha & Cachiccata Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu: Prices

The price depends mainly on the type of experience you choose, the size of
your group, and the level of comfort selected. The following rates provide
a general reference for planning your journey. Final prices may vary
depending on availability, hotel category, equipment upgrades and other
personalized services.

We recommend to take

• Original passport (International Student card (ISIC) if applicable)
• Sleeping bag suitable for temperature of trip
• Day backpack for things needed during the day
• Comfortable walking boots
• Rain Gear: poncho/a good rain jacket for wet season
• Canteen or camel back
• Warm jacket for cool evenings
• Woolen sweater or fleece
• Trousers, one waterproof of one normal
• Shorts
• T-shirts or light cotton shirts
• Hat with brim
• Walking pool
• Flash light/head torch (the campsite has its own light but you will need this in your tent
• Personal medications
• Insect repellent
• Sun screen
• Binoculars, camera and film
• Extra money for drinks, tips, souvenirs etc (soles or dollars)
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries
• Travel insurance is essential
• Plastic bag for wet or dirty clothes.