About this experience
The Ancascocha + Short Inca Trail offers a rare combination of remote adventure, cultural immersion, and the iconic journey to Machu Picchu, all in just five days.
What truly sets this experience apart is the route. You’ll explore the Ancascocha trek, one of the most dreamed of hikes in the world, far from the crowds. Along the way, you’ll cross high mountain passes, glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and hidden Andean valleys rarely visited by others.
You’ll also connect with traditional Andean communities that preserve their ancestral way of life, adding a deeper cultural dimension to the journey.
Unlike most alternative routes, this trek continues onto the Short Inca Trail, allowing you to walk original Inca paths and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
With altitudes over 4,600 meters (15,091 ft), this is a true adventure, designed for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
At a glance
- Duration: 120 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 120 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
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Guide
Plan the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with practical guidance on permits, the Km 82 route, timing, published access rates, and booking decisions.
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
What is included
- Pre-departure briefing
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Inca Trail permits and entrance tickets.
- Experienced Mountain Guide
- Inflatable mattress and portable travel toilet.
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- All private transport and transfers during the tour
- Round-trip bus tickets (from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu).
- 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
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
- Personal Belongings Transport
- Tourist train round-trip tickets (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes).
- Transportation from Piscacucho (KM 82) to Ollantaytambo
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1 Route C and Circuit 3 Route B).
- 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.
- Backpack cover.
Not included
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco (Day 5)
- 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 04:30 and 05:00 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
- 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 to adjust to the altitude.
- The Inca Trail is highly demanded, specially in high season (May to September). Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure a spot.
- 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 04:30 and 05:00 am.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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