Conquer the Legendary Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N
Highlights:
- Conquer the Challenge: Ascend the breathtaking Huayanay Pass at a staggering 4,650 meters (15,255 ft).
- Immerse in Solitude: Experience the profound silence and untouched beauty of the remote Ancascocha valley.
- Witness Glacial Wonders: Gaze upon stunning turquoise lakes and the mighty Salkantay and Veronica glaciers.
- Explore Incan History: Discover the well-preserved Inca site of Paucarcancha with your expert guide.
- Connect with Culture: Pass through authentic Andean villages, observing a traditional way of life.
- Celebrate at Machu Picchu: Arrive at the legendary Lost City of the Incas for a triumphant guided tour at sunris
Price
Trip Details
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificult
- Housing
Camping (3 nights), Hotel (1 night)
- Language
- Distance
49 km / 30.5 miles
Why Choose Ali Perú Treks for Your Ancascocha Adventure (5 Days / 4 Nights)?
Want to reach Machu Picchu without the crowds? Discover the Ancascocha Trek, Cusco’s best-kept secret. This 5-day expedition, recognized by National Geographic, guides you through turquoise lagoons and across high mountain passes, all the way to the Inca citadel. A journey for true explorers.
Small Groups: A Personalized and Intimate Experience.
With a maximum of 10 people and a minimum of 2, traveling in small groups completely transforms the trek.
- Personalized Attention: Your guide can dedicate more time to you, answer your questions, adjust the group’s pace to your needs, and ensure you are always comfortable and safe.
- Lower Environmental Impact: Smaller groups minimize the impact on the trails and fragile ecosystems of the region, promoting more sustainable tourism.
- Greater Connection: It fosters better interaction with your fellow travelers and the guide, creating a sense of camaraderie and a more enriching experience.
Top-Quality Equipment: Your Comfort and Safety are the Priority
In the mountains, good equipment is essential. Ali Perú Treks ensures that you only use reliable, high-end gear.
- Spacious and Durable Tents: Four-season, 3-person tents are used by only two people, guaranteeing extra space for you and your gear, as well as protection from the Andean climate.
- Complete Camping Gear: Comfortable inflatable sleeping pads, sleeping bags rated for low temperatures, and everything necessary for a restful night’s sleep after a long day of hiking.
- Safety: Oxygen tanks, communication radios, and a comprehensive first-aid kit are available to handle any situation that may arise.
Hotel-to-Hotel Service: Convenience from Start to Finish
Forget about logistical hassles. This all-inclusive service means the agency takes care of everything from the moment they pick you up until they drop you off.
- Pickup and Drop-off: You are picked up from your hotel in Cusco and dropped off at the same location at the end of the tour.
- Private Transportation: Travel comfortably and safely in private transport exclusively for the group to the trailhead and back to Cusco.
- All-Inclusive: You don’t have to worry about coordinating transfers, buying tickets, or finding meeting points.
100% Local and Reliable Company: Supporting the Local Economy
As a company that is entirely from Cusco, your trip has a positive and direct impact on the community.
- In-Depth Knowledge: The guides are locals who know the route perfectly, as well as the history, flora, fauna, and customs of the region. They will offer you an authentic perspective you won’t find with multinational agencies.
- Job Creation: You are directly hiring local guides, cooks, muleteers, and staff, ensuring that the benefits of tourism remain in the region.
- Fair Treatment: Local companies often have a strong commitment to the well-being of their staff, guaranteeing fair wages and good working conditions for the entire team.
The Heart of the Expedition: Their Staff and Muleteers
The human element is, without a doubt, the most valuable asset of a good trekking agency.
- Professional Guides: Licensed, bilingual (Spanish and English) guides with extensive experience in high-altitude mountains and training in first aid and rescue.
- Mountain Chefs: Talented cooks who prepare delicious, nutritious, and varied meals with fresh, local ingredients, adapting to any dietary restrictions. You’ll be amazed at the quality of the food in the middle of nowhere.
- Muleteers and Pack Horses: The muleteers (arrieros) are the unsung heroes of the trail. They are responsible for transporting the heavy equipment on mules, ensuring the animals are treated well and not overloaded. Their ancestral knowledge of the paths is invaluable.
To begin your spectacular Ancascocha to Machu Picchu Trek, we will pick you up from your hotel (in Cusco, Urubamba, Pisaq, or Ollantaytambo) around 6:00 a.m.
After the pickup, we will take a scenic two-hour drive in our private van to Huarocondo (10,925 ft / 3,331 m). We will make a thirty-minute technical stop to buy snacks and explore the town’s colonial church. Then, we will continue our one-hour journey to the trailhead in the village of Soqma (10,515 ft / 3,205 m).
Part 1: Perolniyoc Waterfall and Archaeology From Soqma, we will begin a gradual 2-hour uphill hike until we reach the impressive waterfall of Perolniyoc (approx. 11,647 ft / 3,550 m), a 25-meter drop that enriches the landscape. We will continue for another two hours until we reach the Inca site of Rayan Pata (approx. 12,467 ft / 3,800 m), an important ceremonial and sacrificial location. Your expert guide will explain the history of this site while you explore.
We will continue on the trail until we reach our lunch spot, where the chef from Ali Peru Treks will be waiting for you with a delicious and nutritious lunch prepared with local vegetables.
Part 2: Heading to High-Andean Camp After a well-deserved lunch and a short nap, the chef will provide you with drinking water. We will then prepare for a final two-hour hike to Rayan Village. We will set up our camp in a privileged location with stunning mountain views at 12,795 ft (3,900 m).
In the evening, at 7:00 p.m., we will enjoy dinner. If the sky is clear, your guide will explain the significance of the Andean constellations, providing a magical close to the day’s journey.
🚐 Van Transport: 3 hours (Cusco to Soqma)
🥾 Total Distance: Approx. 5.6 miles / 9 km
⏱️ Hiking Time: 6 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Moderate (Steady ascent)
☀️ Starting Altitude (Soqma): 10,515 ft / 3,205 m
⛰️ Max Altitude (Camp): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
⛰️ Elevation Gain (Net): +2,280 ft / +695 m
💎 Highlight: Perolniyoc Waterfall and Rayan Pata Inca site.
🍽️ Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner.
This day presents a greater challenge with the ascent to the first mountain pass. Our Aliperutreks team will wake you up early at your Rayan camp (12,795 ft / 3,900 m) with a special service: a hot cup of coca tea or coffee delivered directly to your tent. You will have thirty minutes to pack before enjoying a full breakfast.
Part 1: The Ascent to Kuychiccasa Pass After a delicious breakfast, we will leave the camp to head for Kuychiccasa Pass (14,764 ft / 4,500 m). This steady ascent will take us approximately four hours. Upon reaching the summit, you will enjoy a spectacular view of the Andean peaks and the Sacred Valley. From this privileged spot, you will be able to see the colossal Verónica Glacier, situated at 19,334 ft (5,893 m). While you enjoy the mountain views, the chef will offer you a cup of coca tea to relax.
Part 2: Lunch Among the Camelids We will resume the hike for about two more hours over gradually flat terrain, surrounded by a large number of llamas and alpacas, until we reach the lunch spot at Chancachuco (14,147 ft / 4,312 m). After lunch, we’ll take a nap, fill our bottles with drinking water, and prepare for the final hike.
Part 3: Arrival at Ancascocha Lagoon The last hike of the day will last three hours. The landscapes and views become even more incredible, and we will continue walking surrounded by llamas, alpacas, sheep, and cows. Finally, we will arrive at our campsite at Ancascocha Lagoon (13,418 ft / 4,090 m).
Upon arrival (approximately 5:00 PM), the chef will be waiting for you with hot tea. We will spend the night under a starry sky. If the sky is clear, your guide will explain the significance of the Andean constellations.
🥾 Total Distance: Approx. 9.9 miles / 16 km
⏱️ Hiking Time: 9 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Challenging (Crossing the pass)
☀️ Starting Altitude (Rayan): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
⛰️ Highest Point (Kuychiccasa): 14,764 ft / 4,500 m
🌙 Campsite Altitude (Ancascocha): 13,418 ft / 4,090 m
⛰️ Elevation Gain (Net): +1,969 ft / +600 m
💎 Highlight: Panoramic view of Verónica Glacier, High-altitude wildlife.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner.
This is considered the most demanding and visually spectacular day of the trek. There’s no need to set an alarm: the Ali Peru Treks team will wake you at your Ancascocha camp (13,418 ft) and bring hot coca tea or coffee to your tent, followed by a delicious breakfast.
Part 1: Ascent to the Highest Point The hike is a steady five-hour ascent. We will walk alongside the beautiful Ancascocha Lake before reaching the highest point of the trip: the Huayanay Pass (15,255 ft / 4,650 m). Once again, you will walk surrounded by llamas and alpacas, and you will see a section of the Original Inca Trail that once connected Cusco to Machu Picchu.
Part 2: The Ceremony and Colossal Salkantay After conquering Huayanay Pass, we will witness a truly colossal and spectacular view: Mount Salkantay in all its glory. Your guide will perform a small but significant Andean ceremony with coca leaves, a ritual of thanks to the Apus (mountain spirits) that you will witness in this sacred place.
Part 3: Ecological Transition and Lunch From the summit, the hike resumes and is entirely downhill. In just one hour, the landscape changes dramatically from high mountain grasslands (puna) to high jungle (cloud forest). We will arrive at Incaracay (12,467 ft / 3,800 m), our lunch spot.
Part 4: Final Descent to Paucarcancha After lunch, we will continue the descent for three to four more hours to the Paucarcancha campsite (10,170 ft / 3,100 m). This stretch is visually rewarding, as you will see waterfalls, incredible views, and small Inca ruins along the way.
We will rest at Paucarcancha, ready for the final portion of the trek.
🥾 Total Distance: Approx. 10 miles / 16 km
⏱️ Hiking Time: 9 – 10 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Challenging (The trek’s hardest day)
☀️ Starting Altitude (Ancascocha): 13,418 ft / 4,090 m
⛰️ Highest Point (Huayanay Pass): 15,255 ft / 4,650 m
🌙 Campsite Altitude (Paucarcancha): 10,170 ft / 3,100 m
⛰️ Elevation Gain (Net): +1,837 ft / +560 m
🔻 Elevation Loss (Net): -5,085 ft / -1,550 m (Massive Descent)
💎 Highlight: Salkantay View, Original Inca Trail, Andean Ceremony.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
We will begin the day with a comforting breakfast at our campsite in Paucarcancha (10,170 ft / 3,100 m). We will then start a five-hour historical hike following the original route of the Classic Inca Trail.
We will walk past small Andean villages and encounter Inca ruins that we can visit and explore briefly. This hike will lead us directly to the famous Kilometer 82 (8,530 ft / 2,600 m), the official starting point of the 4-day Inca Trail route.
Emotional Farewell and Final Lunch At Kilometer 82, our Ali Peru Treks chef will be waiting for us with the last celebratory lunch of the trek. This is an emotional moment to say a heartfelt goodbye and thank our extraordinary trekking team (chefs, wranglers, and assistants) for making our four-day journey possible.
The Transition to Machu Picchu After lunch, we will board our Ali Peru Treks private van bound for Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m), a picturesque Sacred Valley town. Here, we will take the train to Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m). During the train ride, you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views.
Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, we will check into our hotel for a night of essential rest. This tranquility is the perfect preparation before exploring the Wonder of the World: Machu Picchu.
☀️ Starting Altitude (Paucarcancha): 10,170 ft / 3,100 m
🚶 End of Hike (Kilometer 82): 8,530 ft / 2,600 m
🌙 Final Destination: Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m)
🥾 Total Distance: Approx. 9.3 miles / 15 km
⏱️ Hiking Time: 5 hours
📈 Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate (Mostly downhill)
💎 Highlight: Hike on the Original Inca Trail (Classic Section).
🚂 Transport: Private Van + Train.
🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast and Farewell Lunch.
Today will be a wonderful day! The time has finally come to visit the Wonder of the World.
After an early breakfast at your hotel, the most anticipated day begins. We handle the logistics for your comfort: you will only carry your daypack with the essentials. Your hotel in Aguas Calientes will safely store your main luggage until our return.
You will take the Consettur bus for a scenic 25-minute ascent up the mountain, which brings you directly to the entrance gate.
Once inside the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu (7,972 ft / 2,430 m), the magic begins. Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will lead you on a 2-hour tour. We have secured Circuit 2 for you, widely considered the most complete and classic route.
What does this circuit include? First, your guide will take you to the strategic viewpoints to capture the iconic, classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu that you’ve been dreaming of. Then, you will explore the citadel, learning about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while visiting the main temples, sacred plazas, and urban sectors.
Optional: Huayna Picchu Mountain If you reserved the extra add-on ticket in advance, after the guided tour you will have time to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (8,835 ft / 2,693 m). It is a steep but rewarding adventure with unique aerial views.
After the tour, we recommend taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train departure. This will give you enough time to find a restaurant and enjoy lunch in town (Note: Lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included, giving you the freedom to choose according to your taste and budget).
Finally, you will board your return train to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hours), enjoying the last views of the Sacred Valley. At the station, our Ali Peru Treks staff will be waiting for you with our private transport to take you back to Cusco.
We will close this unforgettable 5-day adventure by dropping you off right at your hotel door.
Main Destination: Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary
Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
Altitude (Huayna Picchu): 8,835 ft / 2,693 m (Optional)
Circuit Included: Circuit 2 (Classic/Complete Route)
Guided Tour: 2 hours
Bus (Up/Down): 25 min each way
Train (Aguas Calientes > Ollanta): Approx. 2 hours
Transport (Ollanta > Cusco): Approx. 2 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast (at hotel). Lunch not included.
Accommodation: N/A (Service ends at your Cusco hotel).
INCLUDES
Briefing:
Your briefing for the Ancascocha to Machu Picchu trek will be held at your hotel at 5:00 PM the evening before your tour departure. The meeting will last approximately thirty minutes. During this time, you will meet your guide, who will go over the final details of the trek and answer any questions you may have.
Duffel Bag:
At the beginning of the briefing, your tour guide will provide you with a duffel bag. This bag has a strict weight limit of 7 kilograms (approximately 15 pounds). Please do not exceed this limit
Professional tour guide:
specialized in hiking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have between five and twelve years of experience in different excursions in the region. They are skilled in handling groups under pressure and are experts in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring with them their cultural heritage. Together with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience.
Chefs:
Trained in local gastronomy schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian foods, international food styles and vegetarian cuisine. They have a deep knowledge of the nutritional properties of their meals and are experts in cooking as fast as possible. And all this, of course, with special emphasis on hygiene and food safety during preparation.
Porters:
Responsible for carrying all the group gear and your 7kg of personal items. They come from various rural communities from the Cusco region, where they still maintain their local customs and traditions. We provide them with accident insurance during the trek and with suitable clothing that allows them to work in comfort. Our porters are also hosts responsible for making your journey an unforgettable experience.
Horses:
We include in this tour horses to carry your luggage during the tour, so you can enjoy your trip at ease.
Emergency horse
in this Ancascocha trek is included an additional horse for our clients in case they need support in the trek due to fatigue or other circumstances.
Hotel
The trek will include two nights camping and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu). We include a 3 star hotel. Your reserved hotel is factored into the cost of your final bill and upgrades are always possible.
Tents:
These are high mountain tents. They can withstand harsh winter weather, including heavy rain and snow.
Sponge sleeping pads:
Our sponge mattresses guarantee a warm and comfortable night’s sleep on the trail.
Dining tent:
Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, gives us all the space we need to enjoy our meals regardless of the weather outside.
Cooking tent:
Comes with all the necessary equipment for our chef to prepare your meals (gas stove and all food preparation utensils).
Bathroom Tents:
These tents have toilets with water pumps, and we will install them at all our lunch spots and campsites.
Transportation:
Bus from Cusco to the trailhead
Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (day 5).
Bus down from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes (day 5)
Round trip train ticket (Expedition class) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo after your visit to Machu Picchu.
Bus from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Emergency equipment:
Satellite phones: Each of our groups carries a satellite phone with them at all times to communicate with our office in case of emergency or for clients to use in case they have a personal emergency anywhere in the world.
Radios: They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks and porters to communicate with each other.
First aid kit: We carry a full complement of over-the-counter medications, including alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, tincture of iodine, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive medical tape, surgical gloves, analgesics for muscle and stomach pains, antipyretics, anti-allergics, anti-inflammatories, oral rehydration salts, laxatives, burn cream, splints, blood pressure devices, and thermometers. If you take prescription medication, you may bring your own medications.
Entrance ticket:
- Ancasccocha admission ticket
- Machu Picchu: Your tour includes a ticket for Circuit 2, the classic route that provides the iconic postcard photo of Machu Picchu.
Water
From the first lunch to the last breakfast, we will provide you with all the water you need. The water will be provided boiled and purified, then cooled before distributing it. You must bring your water bottle and/or camelback. We recommend bringing about 3 liters. You will be able to refill water at each meal.
Small details
We believe it is the attention to the small details that makes the difference. Each hiker receives a small pillow to sleep on, a foam mattress for insulation, a backpack cover to protect your gear while hiking and a rain poncho. We try to improve so you have a better experience.
NOT INCLUDES
Rent:
On this tour every hiker needs a sleeping bag to sleep in the campsites. Inflatable air mattresses and walking poles (with rubber tips) are optional but recommended. If you do not wish to bring any of the above, all are available for rent:
Sleeping bag: $30
Inflatable air mattress: $25
Poles (pair): $20
Lunch:
Lunch after the tour in machupicchu is not included in the tour.
Huayna Picchu:
huayna picchu mountain. it is a 40 minute hike that it will take you to get to the top and another 40 minutes it will take you to go back down. The tour would be done after your tour of Machu Picchu. The additional cost is $70 per person. Upgrades should be made at least one month in advance, due to the popularity and crowdedness of the place. Now regarding the weather, we can not do anything because it does not depend on us.
NOT INCLUDES
- International or domestic flights to/from Cusco.
- Travel insurance (mandatory for this challenging trek).
- Sleeping bag and walking poles (available for high-quality rental).
- Tips for the local guides, porters, and chef (greatly appreciated).
- Lunch and dinner on Day 5 (after the Machu Picchu tour).
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked far in advance).
- Click on the button BOOK NOW
- Select your departure date
- Fill out the form with all requested passport information
- Submit the down payment required to book the Inca Trail
We require an initial deposit of $200 per person to reserve the trek. The initial payment is non-refundable, as it is necessary to purchase Inca Trail Permits, train tickets and book hotels.
Our booking platform offers options for Huayna Picchu mountain,. It is essential to book Huayna Picchu, in advance. Please note that permits can sell out quickly. Trekking poles can be rented in Cusco one day before your tour.
The balance can be paid up to 2 days before the departure date. If you plan to pay in cash, you can do so during the security briefing 1 day before departure.
Although the Ancascocha Trek doesn’t require the special permits of the Inca Trail, we recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during the high season (May-September), to ensure the availability of our expert guides and crew.
Our groups are small, with a maximum of 12 trekkers to ensure a personalized and manageable experience.
We are committed to the ethical treatment of our entire team, including our porters and muleteers. They receive fair wages, proper meals, quality equipment, and we guarantee the humane treatment of all the pack animals that accompany us.
Due to its challenging nature and the high altitudes it reaches, we recommend a minimum age of 5 years old. The participant must be in excellent physical condition and preferably have previous hiking experience. All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Our guides are trained in first aid and in spotting the symptoms of altitude sickness. We carry an emergency oxygen tank, and our itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization.
Absolutely. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking, and our chefs will happily prepare delicious alternative meals for you.
The Ancascocha Trek is a remote route with no permanent facilities. For your comfort and to minimize environmental impact, we provide a private, portable toilet tent for the group’s use at each campsite.
No, there is no electricity or internet signal along the Ancascocha Trek. It’s a perfect opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Andes.
You only need to carry a daypack with your essential items. Our porters and pack animals (mules or horses) will carry all the camping equipment, food, and up to 7 kg of your personal belongings, which will be given to you in a duffel bag during the briefing.
This is a challenging trek. We recommend a consistent training regimen focused on cardiovascular exercise (hiking, running, cycling) and strength training, especially for your legs and core. Practice hiking on varied terrain with a weighted backpack.
Yes, you can store your luggage with us. The hotels where you are staying also offer free luggage storage.
The dry season, from April to October, is the best time for the Ancascocha Trek, as it offers the most stable weather conditions with clearer skies and less rain.
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Ancascocha route does not have an official closing month. However, we strongly advise against trekking in February and during the height of the rainy season (January-March) due to potentially dangerous conditions like heavy rain and landslides.
Both Peruvian Soles (PEN) and US Dollars (USD) are accepted and appreciated for tips. It is often easier to tip in Soles.
Our guides are trained to handle emergencies. If necessary, we will coordinate an evacuation to the nearest medical center. Travel insurance is mandatory for this reason.
We recommend starting the day with at least 2 liters of water. We provide boiled, purified water at each meal stop so you can refill your bottles.
Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep and challenging terrain of the Ancascocha Trek. While not mandatory, using rubber tips is a good practice for trail conservation.
The Ancascocha Trek does not require the special government-issued permits needed for the Classic Inca Trail. This allows for greater flexibility in booking. However, you will still need an entrance ticket for Machu Picchu, which we book for you in advance as part of your tour package.
Yes. On Day 5, you will travel to Machu Picchu for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour. Afterward, you will have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace before returning to Aguas Calientes for your train back to Cusco.
By choosing a lesser-known route like Ancascocha, you are directly supporting the economy of more remote Andean communities. All our guides, porters, and muleteers are from the region, and we are committed to sustainable practices that preserve both the pristine natural environment and the local culture.
Essential Documents & Must-Haves
These are the most important items. Keep them in a waterproof bag inside your daypack.
- Original Passport: (Not a copy). It is mandatory for entering the Inca Trail (if applicable), Machu Picchu, and for checking in at campsites.
- Tickets or Reservations: Confirmation of your trek booking and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Cash (Peruvian Soles and US Dollars): For tipping the crew (guides, cooks, porters), snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and any emergencies.
- Credit/Debit Card: For larger expenses in cities like Cusco or Aguas Calientes.
- Travel Insurance Information: Have your policy and emergency contact numbers readily available.
Clothing & Footwear: The Layering Strategy
The weather in the Andes is unpredictable. The key is to dress in layers that you can easily add or remove. Prioritize synthetic materials or merino wool—never cotton!
Upper Body Layers
- 2-3 Synthetic T-shirts (short or long-sleeved): They wick away sweat and dry quickly.
- 1 Mid-Layer (Fleece Jacket): To keep you warm during morning hikes and at the campsite.
- 1 Warm Insulating Layer (Down or Puffer Jacket): Essential for the cold nights at the camps. It’s lightweight and packable.
- 1 Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: Non-negotiable! It will protect you from rain and wind at high mountain passes. A good quality rain poncho is also an option.
Lower Body Layers
- 2 Pairs of Hiking Pants: Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying. One pair can be the kind that converts into shorts.
- 1 Pair of Thermal Leggings or Tights: To wear under your pants on the coldest days or for sleeping.
- 1 Pair of Waterproof Pants: For days with heavy rain.
Footwear
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: (Already broken in). This is your most important piece of gear. They should offer good ankle support.
- Sneakers, Sandals, or Camp Shoes: To wear at the campsite and give your feet a break.
- 4-5 Pairs of Hiking Socks (Wool or Synthetic): They prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.
Head & Hands
- Warm Hat or Beanie: A must for the cold nights.
- Sun Hat or Cap: The sun at high altitudes is very strong.
- Gloves (Lightweight or Thermal): They will protect your hands from the cold in the mornings and at high passes.
- Buff or Neck Gaiter: Very versatile for protecting your neck, face, or head from the sun and dust.
In Your Daypack
What you need to have on hand during the hike.
- Water: A reusable bottle or hydration reservoir (like a CamelBak) of at least 2 liters.
- High-Energy Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, chocolate.
- Waterproof Jacket and Fleece: The weather can change in minutes.
- Personal First-Aid Kit: With personal medications, pain relievers, band-aids, blister treatment (like Compeed), and altitude sickness pills (consult your doctor).
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+): Essential.
- Insect Repellent (with DEET): Especially for lower elevations and Machu Picchu.
- Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer: A must-have.
- Camera or Smartphone: With extra batteries or a portable charger (power bank).
- Headlamp: Crucial for getting around the campsite at night or for early morning starts.
- Sunglasses.
- Passport and Money.
In Your Duffel Bag
What the mules will carry. Remember the weight limit (approx. 7 kg / 15 lbs).
- Sleeping bag: Must be rated for temperatures down to -10°C (14°F). These can be rented from us.
- Sleeping Pad: We provide a basic foam sleeping pad. An inflatable sleeping pad, which can be rented from us, can significantly improve your night’s rest.»
- Change of Clothes: The rest of your t-shirts, pants, and underwear.
- Camp Shoes.
- Toiletries (Travel Size):
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Biodegradable soap and shampoo.
- Quick-dry microfiber towel.
- Wet wipes (a lifesaver for a quick clean-up).
- Portable Charger (Power Bank): There are no outlets on the trail.
- Additional Medications.
- Plastic Bags: To separate dirty or wet clothes.
Optional but Recommended
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended. They reduce the impact on your knees, especially on descents. They must have rubber tips. You can also rent them.
- Coca Leaves: A local tradition to help combat altitude sickness. Your guide will show you how to use them.
- Book or E-Reader: For downtime at the camp.
- Earplugs: If you are a light sleeper.
- Swimsuit: For the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional).
- Camera with extra lenses and batteries.
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificultad
- Housing
Camping (3 nights), Hotel (1 night)
- Language
- Distance