Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu via Salkantay – 5D/4N

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Salkantaypampa – Pampa Japonesa

Your Ancascocha via Salkantay adventure begins early in the morning with a 5:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From there, you’ll travel by private vehicle through the scenic Andean countryside, leaving behind the city’s colonial streets as the landscape transforms into rolling valleys, traditional farming communities, and snow-capped mountain vistas. After approximately two hours, you’ll arrive in Mollepata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft.), where you’ll have a brief stop to purchase any last-minute snacks, fresh fruit, or supplies before continuing deeper into the mountains. The journey then follows a picturesque mountain road for another hour to Soraypampa (3,850 m / 12,631 ft.), the starting point of your trek. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your trekking team, including experienced horsemen, pack horses, and support staff who will accompany you throughout the adventure. After a short briefing and final preparations, the hike begins with a gradual ascent toward the stunning Humantay Lake. After approximately one hour of hiking, you’ll reach Humantay Lake (4,200 m / 13,780 ft.), one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the Peruvian Andes. Its striking turquoise waters reflect the surrounding glaciers and the towering slopes of Humantay Mountain, creating an unforgettable setting for photos and quiet appreciation of the landscape. Following time to explore and enjoy the scenery, you’ll descend back to Soraypampa before continuing toward Salkantaypampa (4,100 m / 13,451 ft.). Along the way, expansive alpine meadows provide incredible views of the majestic Apu Salkantay (6,271 m / 20,574 ft.), one of the most sacred and revered mountains in Andean culture. A freshly prepared lunch awaits, served in the heart of the mountains with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. After a well-deserved break, the trek continues along a less-traveled route as you gradually gain elevation through rugged terrain and dramatic high-altitude landscapes. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Pampa Japonesa Camp (4,610 m / 15,124 ft.), a remote campsite located at the foot of the mighty Salkantay Mountain. Surrounded by towering glaciers and pristine wilderness, this peaceful setting offers the perfect opportunity to relax and take in the grandeur of the Andes. As evening settles over the mountains, enjoy hot beverages and a freshly prepared dinner while your trekking crew ensures your camp is comfortable and ready for the night. Beneath a sky filled with stars, you’ll rest in one of the most spectacular camping locations of the entire trek, preparing for the challenges and rewards that await in the days ahead.

• meals included: Lunch, Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 4,610m/15,124 ft.
• Accommodation: camping facilities
• Distance: 12 km/7.5 miles
• walking time: 7 to 8 hours.
• Difficulty: Easy/moderate

DAY 2: Pampa Japonesa – Inca Chiriasca – Millpo

Wake up to the soft glow of the morning sun illuminating the surrounding peaks as your trekking team brings a warm cup of coca tea or freshly brewed coffee directly to your tent. After a hearty breakfast of fresh fruit, eggs, local breads, and other nourishing options, you’ll prepare for one of the most challengingand rewarding days of the entire journey. Today is where the wild beauty of the Salkantay region truly meets the remote landscapes of Ancascocha. It’s a day of high mountain passes, breathtaking scenery, and personal achievement. The altitude will be noticeable, and the climbs will test your endurance, but with your guide setting a comfortable pace and plenty of opportunities to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the surroundings, you’ll steadily make your way through some of the most spectacular terrain in the Andes. The day begins with a gradual but demanding ascent of approximately two hours to the Inca Chiriasca Pass (4,960 m / 16,272 ft.), the highest point of the trek. As you climb through rocky alpine landscapes beneath the towering glaciers of Salkantay, every step brings increasingly dramatic views. Reaching the summit is an unforgettable moment. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas stretching across the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges, where snow-covered peaks rise above the horizon in every direction. Take a moment to celebrate, capture photos, and appreciate the incredible achievement of standing nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. From the pass, the trail follows a remarkable section of original Inca Trail for approximately three hours. Walking along these ancient stone pathways offers a unique connection to the past, as the route winds through high-altitude grasslands and remote Andean landscapes rarely visited by other trekkers. By midday, you’ll arrive at Tocto Pass (4,820 m / 15,813 ft.), where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. Surrounded by vast mountain scenery, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved break while taking in the silence and grandeur of the high Andes. In the afternoon, the adventure continues across a series of spectacular mountain passes. The trail leads to Calacocha Pass (4,660 m / 15,288 ft.), where crystal-clear alpine lakes mirror the surrounding peaks, before continuing to Cruz Casa Pass (4,620 m / 15,157 ft.). Each ascent and descent reveals new perspectives of the rugged Andean landscape and a growing sense of accomplishment. A final climb brings you to Millpo Pass, where sweeping views open across remote valleys and towering mountains. From here, a gentle descent leads to Millpo Camp (4,390 m / 14,402 ft.), your home for the night. Upon arrival, settle into camp and relax as the day’s efforts give way to the tranquility of the mountains. Enjoy hot drinks, a delicious dinner prepared by your trekking chef, and a spectacular night beneath the stars in one of the most remote and beautiful corners of the Andes.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 4,960 m /16,272 ft.
• Accommodation: camping facilities
• Distance: 16 km/10 miles
• walking time: 9-10 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

DAY 3: Millpo – Yahuarmaky – Ancascocha

Wake up to the inviting aroma of a freshly prepared breakfast as the first rays of sunlight touch the surrounding peaks. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring pancakes, fresh fruit, cereals, and hot drinks while taking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere before setting out on another unforgettable day in the Andes. The morning begins with a gentle climb to Chusquenay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft.), where the rising sun illuminates an endless panorama of rugged Andean ridgelines. As the morning mist slowly lifts from the valleys below, the scale and beauty of the landscape become even more impressive. From the pass, the trail descends toward Rumi Inca before entering the beautiful Yahuarmaky Valley. Here, the scenery changes once again as alpine terrain gives way to greener slopes dotted with wildflowers and native vegetation. Continuing upward, you’ll reach Aqocasa Pass (4,689 m / 15,383 ft.), one of the most scenic viewpoints of the entire trek. From this spectacular vantage point, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ranges and the towering glaciers of Salkantay, Humantay, and Huayanay. On clear days, you may even catch distant views of sections of the famous Classic Inca Trail, stretching across the mountains in the distance. After taking time to appreciate the scenery, the trail descends toward the fascinating archaeological site of Inca Racay. This little-known Inca settlement, surrounded by mountains and ancient agricultural terraces, offers a glimpse into the ingenuity and legacy of the Inca civilization. While enjoying a freshly prepared lunch nearby, your guide will share stories about the history, culture, and traditions that shaped this remarkable region. In the afternoon, a final ascent leads to Huayanay Pass (4,650 m / 15,255 ft.), where more spectacular glacier views await. From there, the trail gradually descends through increasingly lush landscapes. As you lose elevation, the environment becomes greener and more vibrant, with colorful wildflowers, flowing streams, and occasional encounters with local shepherds tending their llamas and alpacas. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the remote community of Ancascocha (3,700 m / 12,139 ft.), a traditional Andean village nestled among rolling hills and towering mountains. Here, daily life continues much as it has for generations, offering a rare opportunity to experience the authentic culture of the Peruvian highlands. As evening settles over the valley, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your trekking chef before relaxing beneath a sky filled with countless stars.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Highest Elevation: 4,689 m/15,383 ft.
• Accommodation: camping facilities
• Distance: 14 km/8.6 miles
• walking time: 8 to 9 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

DAY 4:  Ancascocha – Silque Valley – Camicancha – Ollantaytambo- Aguas Calientes

After a nourishing breakfast featuring fresh fruit, eggs, oatmeal, and hot drinks, begin the final day of trekking with a scenic descent through the spectacular Silque Valley. This is where the true magic of the Ancascocha region reveals itself a landscape rich in natural beauty, living traditions, and untouched Andean wilderness. As you make your way downhill, dramatic canyon walls rise above the valley while crystal-clear streams wind through fertile terrain. The trail passes through a remarkable variety of ecosystems, home to native orchids, bromeliads, and medicinal plants that have been used by local communities for generations. Along the way, your guide may share fascinating insights into traditional Andean remedies and the deep connection between the people and their environment. The route also offers a unique glimpse into everyday life in the highlands. Passing through small communities such as Chilca, you’ll encounter local farmers working their fields, shepherds tending llamas and alpacas, and families maintaining customs that have endured for centuries. With most of the day’s route descending, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to appreciate the scenery, photograph cascading waterfalls, observe native birdlife, and simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the valley. Keep your eyes on the skies you may even be lucky enough to spot the majestic Andean condor soaring above the mountains. By midday, you’ll arrive at Camicancha (2,900 m / 9,514 ft.), where a special farewell lunch awaits. Surrounded by beautiful valley views, you’ll enjoy one final meal prepared by your trekking chef. After lunch, a local transfer takes you to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca settlements in Peru. From Ollantaytambo, board the scenic train around 4:00 pm to Aguas Calientes. As the train follows the winding Urubamba River through lush cloud forests, the landscape gradually transforms into the subtropical environment that surrounds Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,692 ft.), check into your comfortable hotel and enjoy a well-deserved opportunity to relax. A hot shower, comfortable bed, and free time to explore the town provide the perfect reward after several days in the mountains. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a celebratory dinner at one of Aguas Calientes’ local restaurants.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
•  Highest Elevation: 3,700 m /12, 139 ft.
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
•  Distance: 11 km/6.8 miles
•  walking time: 5-6 hours
•  Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

The final day of your adventure begins early with breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Afterward, you’ll board one of the first shuttle buses to Machu Picchu, enjoying a scenic 25-minute ride up the mountain as the surrounding cloud forest gradually awakens. Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you’ll enter the citadel with your guide for a comprehensive tour of one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Over the course of approximately two to three hours, you’ll explore the most important sectors of the ancient Inca city, including ceremonial temples, agricultural terraces, residential areas, and sacred spaces while learning about the history, architecture, and engineering achievements of the Inca civilization. As you walk through the site, your guide will explain how Machu Picchu functioned as an important ceremonial and administrative center, sharing insights into Inca culture, astronomy, and daily life. Throughout the visit, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to admire the spectacular mountain scenery and capture photographs of this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the guided tour, you’ll have free time to further explore designated areas of Machu Picchu according to your entrance ticket circuit. Travelers who have secured permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain may complete their additional hike at the scheduled entry time (subject to availability and advance reservation). After your visit, you’ll return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the train station, a private transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where your Ancascocha via Salkantay adventure comes to an end. This journey offers much more than a trek to Machu Picchu it is an immersive experience through some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, combining breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic cultural encounters, and the lasting satisfaction of completing one of Peru’s most unique trekking routes.

• Meals included: Breakfast
•  Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
•  Difficulty: Easy