Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 to 7 Days (2025 Complete Guide)

The Ancascocha Trek is one of Peru’s hidden gems, often referred to as the “Super Inca Trail” due to its combination of stunning landscapes, remote trails, and Inca ruins. This trek offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure that eventually connects with part of the Classic Inca Trail before reaching Machu Picchu.

For travelers seeking a challenging hike with fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery, the Ancascocha Trek is a perfect choice.

🏔️ What is the Ancascocha Trek?

The Ancascocha Trek is a high-altitude route through the Vilcabamba mountain range, passing glacial lakes, ancient Inca trails, and snowcapped peaks. The trek’s name comes from the Ancascocha Lake (4,150 m), surrounded by dramatic landscapes. Unlike the heavily trafficked Inca Trail, this route remains quiet and pristine, offering an authentic trekking experience.

💡 Ideal for experienced hikers who want to combine rugged landscapes with Inca history.

🌄 Why Choose the Ancascocha Trek?

• ✅ Remote and uncrowded route, far from mass tourism.

• ✅ Passes through authentic Andean villages and high passes.

• ✅ Stunning scenery with snowcapped mountains and blue lakes.

• ✅ Connects to the Classic Inca Trail before arriving at Machu Picchu.

• ✅ Rich cultural experience combined with natural beauty.

🥾 Ancascocha Trek Itinerary (6-Day Version)

The trek can be done in 5, 6, or 7 days. Below is a typical 6-day itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Rayan

• 🚐 Transfer to Soqma (3,200 m).

• 🌊 Visit the Perolniyoc Waterfall and nearby Inca ruins.

• ⛺ Camp at Rayan (3,700 m).

Day 2: Rayan – Kuychiccasa Pass – Ancascocha

• 🧗 Cross Kuychiccasa Pass (4,450 m) with incredible views.

• 🏞️ Descend to the stunning Ancascocha Lake.

• ⛺ Camp near the lake.

Day 3: Ancascocha – Huayanay Pass – Qesqa Valley

• 🧗 Ascend to Huayanay Pass (4,650 m), the highest point of the trek.

• 🌿 Descend into the Qesqa Valley, passing small Andean settlements.

• ⛺ Camp at Qesqa.

Day 4: Qesqa – Paucarcancha – KM 82 – Ollantaytambo

• 🏛️ Visit Paucarcancha, an impressive Inca archaeological site.

• 🚶 Follow part of the Classic Inca Trail to KM 82.

• 🚐 Transfer to Ollantaytambo.

• 🏨 Overnight in a hotel.

Day 5: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Machu Picchu

• 🚆 Train to KM 104 for the Short Inca Trail section.

• 🏞️ Hike past Wiñay Wayna and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

• 🏨 Overnight in Aguas Calientes.

Day 6: Machu Picchu – Cusco

• 🚌 Early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour.

• 🚆 Afternoon train and return to Cusco.

✨ Highlights of the Ancascocha Trek

• 🏞️ Ancascocha Lake, a hidden jewel surrounded by mountains.

• 🧗 High mountain passes over 4,500 m with breathtaking views.

• 🏛️ Inca archaeological sites like Paucarcancha.

• 🏔️ Snowcapped peaks such as Salkantay and Veronica.

• 🌿 Connection to the Classic Inca Trail for a Machu Picchu arrival.

🧗 Difficulty Level & Preparation Tips

The Ancascocha Trek is rated challenging due to its high altitudes and steep ascents.

• 🥾 Distance: ~55–60 km

• ⛰️ Highest point: Huayanay Pass (4,650 m)

• ⏳ Duration: 5–7 days

• 💡 Preparation tips:

  • Acclimatize in Cusco for 2–3 days before the trek.

  • Be prepared for cold nights and long hiking days.

  • Carry trekking poles for support on steep descents.

🌤️ Weather on the Ancascocha Trek

The weather is cold at night and variable during the day due to high altitudes.

• ✅ Dry Season (May–September): Best conditions. Days 15–18°C, nights 0–5°C.
• 🌧️ Rainy Season (November–April): Trails can be muddy and slippery.
• 🌿 Transition Months (April & October): Fewer crowds, lush scenery, but occasional showers.

🌡️ Average Temperatures on the Ancascocha Trek (Monthly)

🎒 Packing List for the Ancascocha Trek

• 🥾 High-quality hiking boots.

• 🧥 Warm layers for cold nights.

• ☔ Rain jacket and poncho.

• 🪶 Sleeping bag rated for -5°C.

• 🎒 Daypack and trekking poles.

• 🧢 Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).

• 💧 Water purification tablets.

• 📸 Camera for landscapes and ruins.

🎟️ Permits, Tickets & Reservations

• ✅ No special permit is needed for the Ancascocha Trek itself.

• 🎫 Machu Picchu entrance tickets must be booked in advance.

• 🚂 Train tickets should also be reserved early.

• 🔐 Booking with Oneclick Expeditions ensures all logistics are covered.

❓How difficult is the Ancascocha Trek?

It is a challenging trek due to high elevation and long hiking days, recommended for experienced hikers. Good physical condition is required. However, we recommend you contact to your doctor previously the trip and ask about your health and if you are ready to take this amazing trip.

❓Do I need to acclimatize?

Yes, at least 2–3 days in Cusco before starting is essential to avoid altitude sickness. The first days of your arrival in Cusco is important to rest and for the acclimatization, it is advisable to drink water, eat light food, avoid alcoholic drinks, and try to walk around the city or take some trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

❓When is the best time to hike the Ancascocha Trek?

The dry season (May–September) offers the best weather, although it gets cold at night. Any of the seasons you choose to take this wonderful trek, do not forget to carry a good camping gear to avoid any unfortunate situations during the experience.

❓Does the trek include Machu Picchu?

Yes! The trek connects to the Short Inca Trail and concludes with a guided tour of Machu Picchu. The permit of the short inca trail has included the Machu Picchu ticket, it comes together and can not be separated.

❓Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, because Machu Picchu tickets and trains sell out quickly, especially in peak season. Also, to get the inca trail permits you need to book in advance because the spots are limited.

🚀 Why Book Your Ancascocha Trek with Oneclick Expeditions?

The Ancascocha Trek is a hidden treasure in the Peruvian Andes, offering a perfect mix of remote wilderness, ancient history, and a Machu Picchu finale. This challenging but rewarding route is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Andean experience.

• ✅ Expert high-altitude guides specialized in remote treks.

• ✅ Top-notch camping equipment for extreme conditions.

• ✅ Seamless organization from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

• ✅ Unique adventure on a trail few travelers experience.

🔥 Ready to hike one of Peru’s most stunning secret trails?

👉 Book your Ancascocha Trek with Oneclick Expeditions today and hike one of Peru’s best-kept secrets!