Ancascocha Trek

See some of the best views you’ll ever see in the stunning Andean mountain range.

Ancascocha Trek

One of the lesser known routes to Machu Picchu is the Ancascocha Trek. This means it’s far less crowded than the others. However, that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. National Geographic actually named it one of the 20 dream walks to complete around the world.

On this route you’ll get to visit some rarely visited Inca Archaeological sites as well as extensive fields where peasants have worked the land for generations and some traditional Andean towns. Don’t forget the incredible views of the mountains that will surround you all the way.

You’ll witness some of the most incredible landscapes you’ve ever seen from beautiful crystal lagoons and splashing waterfalls to the outstanding Salkantay Mountain.

Ancascocha Trail Package

There are two options for this incredible and remote trek to Machu Picchu that will take you 4 or 5 days. The one you opt for will depend on the type of challenge you want and how much time you have in Cusco.

Ancascocha Trek To Machu Picchu 5 Days

5 Days & 4 Nights
Easy - Moderate
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From $600$

Ancascocha Trek And Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 7 Days

7 Days & 6 Nights
Easy - Moderate
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From $1000

Ancascocha Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days

4 Days & 3 Nights
Easy - Moderate
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From $550

Ancascocha Travel Guide

Ancascocha Highlights

Here are the top highlights that you’ll enjoy on the tour:

  • See some of the best views you’ll ever see in the stunning Andean mountain range.
  • Enjoy a trek through nature in peace and quiet.
  • Visit ancient archaeological sites and learn more about the Incas.
  • Witness different Andean flora and fauna along the way.
  • See how the locals live in remote regions of the mountains.
  • End your trek at one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu

Where is Ancascocha?

The trek begins about 2 hours from Cusco in the Sacred Valley in a place called Socma. The community of Ancascocha itself sits at 3,700 masl. You’ll be heading up to 4, 650 masl maximum.

Ancascocha Facts

Here are some interesting facts about the trek.

  • It’s far less popular than the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek, but is just as stunning and offers some spectacular views.
  • The highest point of the trek is the Huayanay Pass (4,650 masl / 15,255 fasl).
  • The trek starts in the Sacred Valley from Socma at 3,205 masl.
  • It’s one of National Geographic’s 20 dream hikes on their World Best Hikes list.
  • The Ancascocha trek requires no special permits, so it’s always available.
  • The overall distance of the 5 day trek is 56 km/34.8 miles.

Ancascocha Tips

Take a look at these tips to help you with your trek preparation.

  • Arrive to Cusco a few days before your departure date to help you acclimate to the altitude.
  • Go on plenty of hikes back home to get your body used to walking a lot. Weekends away trekking are a great idea to accustom yourself to a few days in a row of strenuous activity.
  • Create an exercise routine to help build up your muscles for the walk.
  • Consider walking poles to help you with the ascents and descents. They can be a great help for your knees and ankles.
  • Stay hydrated along the route, as you can get very dehydrated at high altitude with the sun much closer.
  • Take your time on the trek. There’s no need to rush and the altitude will tire you out quickly.