About this experience
The Ancashcocha to Machu Picchu Trek stands out for its remoteness, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural encounters. This lesser-known route offers pristine lakes, glaciers, original Inca paths, and traditional Andean communities rarely seen by travelers.
Unlike crowded trails, this trek delivers true solitude, diverse landscapes, and a meaningful journey that naturally leads to Machu Picchu. It’s the perfect choice for hikers looking for adventure, history, and one of Peru’s most rewarding trekking experiences.
At a glance
- Duration: 96 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 96 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Local guides to help you plan
Choosing the Right Train to Machu Picchu
PeruRail or IncaRail, Vistadome or Expedition, Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The trade-offs nobody explains until you're already at the station.
Machu Picchu Day Trip From Cusco
A Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco is possible, but it requires advance entry tickets, carefully matched transport, and a very early start. Use this practical guide to choose a circuit, build a realistic schedule, compar
Machu Picchu Tickets and Circuits Guide
Choose the right Machu Picchu circuit, understand the 2026 ticket system, and avoid common booking mistakes with this practical guide to routes, identification, seasonal access, and last-minute entry.
What is included
- Pre-departure briefing
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Experienced Mountain Guide
- Inflatable mattress and portable travel toilet.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- One-way bus tickets (Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu).
- Breakfast
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
- Portable travel toilet
- All private transport and transfers during the tour
- Hygiene products (small towel and soap).
- Personal duffel bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb) for your travel gear.
- Water, Tea Time, and daily snacks on the trail
- Personal Belongings Transport
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
- Transportation from Piscacucho (KM 82) to Ollantaytambo
- Expert chef, porters, and horsemen
- Walkie-talkies, satellite phone, oxygen, and first aid kit available at all times.
- Private Camping Facilities & Equipment (tents, tables, chairs, cooking utensils).
- Pickup and return to your hotel in the historic center of Cusco as part of the itinerary.
- Tourist train round-trip ticket (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes).
- Backpack cover.
Not included
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco (Day 4)
- Clothing and personal hiking equipment
- Gear: Sleeping Bag & Trekking Poles
- Travel Insurance (Recommended)
- Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Itinerary and highlights
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco. The pickup time is between 04:00 and 04:30 am.
Languages and tickets
- English — Audio
- English — Guide
- English — Written
- Spanish — Audio
- Spanish — Guide
- Spanish — Written
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Salkantay Trekking
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek so you can get used to the altitude
- Machu Picchu permits are limited and can sell out several months in advance. We recommend booking at least 5 months ahead for travel between May and August.
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
- Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
- Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
- Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
The pickup time is between 04:00 and 04:30 am.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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