Ancascocha + Inca Trail 6 Day to Machu Picchu

Start your day gently with a warming cup of tea or coffee and a hearty breakfast before setting off on an unforgettable trek through some of the most spectacular Andean landscapes. From camp at Rayan, you’ll begin a steady uphill journey of approximately four hours toward the impressive Kuychiccasa Pass (around 4,450 m / 14,500 ft). Along the way, take in breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rolling valleys, and grazing llamas and alpacas. Keep your eyes open—you might even spot a majestic Andean condor soaring overhead, the largest bird in the region with a wingspan of up to 10 feet.

At the summit of Kuychiccasa Pass, pause to absorb panoramic vistas: on one side lies the dramatic Chancachuco Valley, and on the other, the historic Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is a perfect spot to catch your breath and appreciate the vastness of the Andes.

Afterward, you’ll descend gently into a narrow, scenic valley, trekking through the serene Chancachuco meadows—a high-altitude ecosystem vital to local Andean farmers and their livestock. This stretch of “Inca flat” terrain is both captivating and unique, offering a peaceful rhythm to your hike.

Your mid-day break comes at approximately 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) in the beautiful valley of Ancascocha, surrounded by pristine mountain scenery. Here, your chefs will prepare a delicious lunch to refuel your energy for the afternoon.

The final leg of the day includes a moderate uphill trek to your campsite nestled beside the crystal-clear Ancascocha Lagoon at 4,100 meters (13,451 feet)—the tranquil heart of this stunning trek and the source of its name. As the sun sets, relax and reflect on the day’s awe-inspiring landscapes: towering peaks, rushing streams, and the serenity of this Andean valley.

Spend the evening enjoying a well-deserved meal and restful night in your tent, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the Andes, ready to recharge for the adventures ahead.

Day 4 marks an exciting shift in your trek as you join the legendary Classic Inca Trail—one of the most iconic hiking routes in South America. Early in the morning, you’ll say farewell to your horses and horsemen and meet your dedicated team of porters who will carry your gear for the remainder of the journey.

From Paucarcancha, the trail descends gently for about 25 minutes to the quaint village of Wayllabamba (3,331 meters / 9,944 feet), the last settlement before the challenging ascent ahead. Here, you enter the enchanting Polylepis forest, home to unique native trees called unca, and traverse the lush cloud forest and puna ecosystems.

After a well-deserved rest and lunch at Llulluchapampa, you’ll tackle the most demanding section of the trek—the ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (Abra de Warmiwañusca), the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). This steep 5-hour climb rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Andean mountains, including the glaciers of Watanay, the Wayanay Pass of Ancascocha, and the sprawling Sacred Valley below. This milestone offers a moment of triumph and reflection, marking one of the greatest achievements on your Inca Trail adventure.

Following the summit, you’ll descend nearly 550 meters down ancient Inca stone steps, marveling at the craftsmanship that has withstood centuries. The descent lasts about 1.5 hours, leading you to the serene Pacaymayu Valley, where your campsite awaits at 3,625 meters (11,893 feet). Nestled beside the "hidden river," this peaceful camp offers the perfect setting to relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and rest under the vast Andean sky, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

Today marks the incredible finale of your trek as you arrive at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your day begins early—around 3:30 to 4:00 a.m.—with a nourishing boxed breakfast and water to fuel your final journey.

You’ll start by walking approximately one hour from the campsite, following the ancient Inca Trail to reach Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,923 ft). This spectacular vantage point offers your first breathtaking glimpse of the majestic Machu Picchu citadel bathed in the soft morning light. Take a moment to savor the serenity and panoramic views as the sun rises over the Andes.

From the Sun Gate, it’s a roughly 40-minute downhill hike along stone paths into the heart of the Lost City of the Incas. Once inside, you’ll have a brief rest before embarking on a detailed 1.5 to 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Explore the impressive temples, terraces, palaces, priest’s houses, sundial, agricultural terraces, and the intricate water systems—masterpieces of Inca engineering that remain partly mysterious even today.

If you’ve booked the optional Huayna Picchu climb, your ascent begins around 10 a.m., offering stunning panoramic views over the ruins and surrounding valleys.

After fully immersing yourself in the history and magic of Machu Picchu, you’ll take a scenic bus ride down to Aguas Calientes for a final meal at a local restaurant (not always included). Then, board the comfortable train to Ollantaytambo, a journey of about 1 hour and 45 minutes alongside the picturesque Urubamba River.

At Ollantaytambo, a representative from your tour operator will greet you and provide private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco. Depending on your train schedule, you can expect to arrive in Cusco by late afternoon or early evening, concluding an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes.