Cusco- Urubamba - Yanacocha Lake - Puma pata

Lake Ancascocha - The first day of this stunning trek begins at dawn when participants are picked up from Cusco or Urubamba and driven to the trailhead at Yanacocha Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,572 masl (15,000 ft). Here, they will meet the mule drivers and start the journey with a gentle ascent lasting about 45 minutes, followed by a slight descent. The pristine and rugged mountains, home only to llamas, alpacas, and condors, will immediately foster a deep connection with nature. The first delightful lunch, primarily made with organic ingredients from the family farm, will be enjoyed at Amarupata (4,400 masl / 14,437 ft) with the majestic Mount Moyuc as a backdrop. From this point, a 30-minute uphill trek leads to the first pass, Kinsa Cruz (4,700 masl / 15,748 ft). After another 1.5 hours of hiking, the group will reach the campsite for the day, where dinner will also be served.

Puma pata - Ancascocha Lake

Lake Ancascocha - Participants will awaken to an indescribable sunrise as the sun emerges between the mountains, providing a stunning view during breakfast. The next section of the trail is among the most picturesque of the entire trek, framed by the Rainbow Mountain and other snow-capped peaks. This segment leads to the next summit at an elevation of 4,925 masl (16,158 ft). After lunch, the trek continues downhill through breathtaking landscapes, including views of the Humantay Glacier. The path is part of the extensive network of Inca trails known as Qhapac Ñan in Quechua, of which the actual Inka Trail is just a small portion. It leads to the Ancascocha Lagoon (4,354 masl / 14,284 ft), the highland lagoon that gives the trek its name. The campsite is set in a truly magnificent location in a beautiful valley overlooking Ancascocha Lagoon.

Ancascocha Lake - Camicancha - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Ollantaytambo - The day begins with a warm cup of tea or coffee, followed by breakfast with the deep-blue Ancascocha Lagoon as a backdrop. The spiritual highlight of the trek follows: a descent to the lagoon to participate in a ceremony with the sacred glacier water. After this profound connection with the lagoon, the descent through the valley continues, likely encountering local inhabitants and their alpaca herds along the way. The next part of the hike traverses a captivating cloud forest adorned with delicate orchids and other flora until reaching the Ancascocha River, which is crossed to arrive at the village of Camicancha. Here, the final lunch is enjoyed, and farewells are made to the hiking team. A private van will then transport participants to the village of Ollantaytambo, a charming town in the Sacred Valley, where they will board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, participants will be taken to their comfortable accommodations.

Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

Machu Picchu - After enjoying an early and hearty breakfast at the hotel, participants will board the bus to the impressive Inca citadel, a journey of about 25 minutes. Arrival at the site is expected by 6 am to begin a 3-hour guided tour, accompanied by the fresh early morning sun, an ideal time to start as larger crowds arrive later. The guide will provide comprehensive insights into the various parts of this significant Inca citadel. If participants have reserved tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, they can embark on the challenging hike around 9 am. After the tour concludes and gratitude is expressed for this remarkable place, the bus will return to Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, participants will board the bus back to Aguas Calientes town, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private van will be ready to transport them back to Cusco, arriving between 6-8 pm.

• Private transportation
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• Professional indigenous chef
• Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. Round trip.
• Dining tent with table and chairs, and a kitchen tent, manned by a professional cooking staff.
• Professional tour guide fluent in English
• Pick up from the airport Cusco to the hotel.
• Horses and muleteers to carry the equipment and 15lbs of the hikers
• Food
• Hotel for 1 night in Aguas Calientes.
• First aid kit and remote doctor’s assistance
• Expedition train leaving Aguas Calientes in the afternoon.
• Camping tent
• Pick up from the train station and transfer to Hotel in Cusco or Urubamba

• sleeping bags
• Hiking poles
• travel insurance

The Ancasocha trail offers a remarkable journey to the stunning Machu Picchu and is one of the lesser-known paths. It is significantly less crowded compared to other trails. Few companies provide tours here due to its remote location, and the breathtaking scenery has earned it a spot on National Geographic’s list of the 20 dream hikes in the world.

Travelers on this trail will encounter Quechua-speaking farming communities and witness their way of life in the more secluded areas of Cusco. Their culture and traditions have remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering a glimpse into life during the Inca era. This trek is a blend of high-altitude hiking in the Andes, captivating history, enriching cultural interactions, natural beauty, and one of the most tranquil routes to Machu Picchu.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.