About this experience
The Yanaqocha Lake trek is a one-of-a-kind and convenient full day Sacred Valley adventure tour offered only by Puma Path Adventures. Yanaqocha means a black lake in the Quechua language (Incan language) it was built by the Incans as a reservoir for the Temple of the Sun because of its pristine location.
The walking takes us through the native Andean forest of Onora with Chachacoma trees that are more than 600 years old. After the 45-minute hike, we’ll connect with the spirit of the forest and the Apus (Sacred Mountains) and see the Waterfall of the Guardians of the Apus. We’ll then cross a mountain pass “El Abra del Diablo” at 12,140 ft / 3700 m. From here there is an incredible view of the Sacred Valley looking toward Machu Picchu and Veronika glacier. We’ll also view the ancient Incan water canals used to transport water from high in the mountains to the Temple of the Sun and the town of Ollantaytambo.
At a glance
- Duration: 12 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
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Ollantaytambo Day Trip From Cusco
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What is included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Private tour guide and Shaman
Not included
- Breakfast
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
The Yanaqocha Lake trek is a one-of-a-kind and convenient full day Sacred Valley adventure tour offered only by Puma Path Adventures. It begins at Antanuca, located only 20 minutes from the market and train station in Ollantaytambo, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
On the way up the mountain you will visit the Incan school Yachaywasy. As a unique add-on we’ll be offering an ancient blessing ceremony in honor of Pachamama (Mother Earth) before you continue to the private and sacred land of Antanuca. We then begin our trek to Yanaqocha Lake. This trek starts from 10,000 ft / 3000 m at Antanuca and finishes at 13,780 ft / 4200 m. Lunch will be served during our trek and after approximately 4 hours of trekking we will arrive at Lake Yanaqocha in time for a relaxing rest. If you’re up for a cool swim the lake is ready for you. This lake is on our private property at Antanunca. Enjoy the exclusive experience.
Yanaqocha means a black lake in the Quechua language (Incan language) it was built by the Incans as a reservoir for the Temple of the Sun because of its pristine location. Our Shaman will perform a purification ceremony for you from the sacred waters.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- As this is a full day trek pick up is at 6am from your hotel in the Sacred Valley. For those staying in Cusco pick up is at 5am. Our aim is to begin the trek by 730a. ** Note, a minimum of 2 travelers is required to operate this private tour **
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Puma Path Adventures Perú - Ollantaytambo
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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