Highlights
- Follow a route linking Soqma, Perolniyoc, Rayan rather than treating each stop as an isolated attraction.
- Continue through Puka Kasa, Ancascocha Lake, Huayanay Pass with context on landscape, architecture and local use.
- Finish through Paucarcancha, Machu Picchu, where the route’s main physical or heritage goal comes into view.
- Prepare for dry mountain trail, steep passes, stream crossings, grassland and Inca stone paths, with practical guidance on footwear, weather and pace.
- Follow local guidance in areas associated with Soqma, Ancascocha and Qesqa-area settlements, including respectful photography, purchases and private spaces.
- Receive a pre-departure briefing that explains altitude, weather, equipment and the next stage’s physical demands.
- Use a professional guide who can adjust explanations to the group rather than repeating a fixed script.
- Choose private service for more control over stops and rhythm, or group service for a lower per-person rate and a social setting.
Trip details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 days / 4 nights |
| Region | Cusco |
| Start and finish | Begins and ends in Cusco unless the final itinerary states another city |
| Maximum altitude | about 4,650 m / 15,256 ft |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Terrain | dry mountain trail, steep passes, stream crossings, grassland and Inca stone paths |
| Main transport | private road transfer, horse-supported trekking, train, shuttle bus and return transfer |
| Accommodation | three supported camps and one hotel night in Machu Picchu Pueblo |
| Suggested minimum age | 15+ |
| Typical group limit | 16 |
| Best preparation | Acclimatize when altitude is involved, train for the stated walking level and review equipment before payment |
Trip overview
- Best for: travelers interested in a quieter trek through high lakes and Andean communities.
- Main places: Soqma, Perolniyoc, Ancascocha Lagoon, Huayanay Pass and Machu Picchu.
- Physical demand: strenuous, with terrain including remote mountain trails, high passes, camps and steep descents.
- Logistics: final pickup time, inclusions and ticket conditions are reconfirmed before the service.
Before departure, the operations team confirms pickup location, start time, required documents and any dietary, medical or mobility notes. Travelers should review the route conditions, bring the essentials listed below and keep the phone number used for booking active on the day of service.
Itinerary
Cusco – Sacred Valley – Soqma – Perolniyoc – Rayan
The private vehicle leaves Cusco and crosses the Sacred Valley toward Soqma, the trailhead at roughly 3,205 meters. Muleteers organize the camp load while the guide checks water, clothing and the daypack. The first walk follows a side valley toward Perolniyoc waterfall, then climbs to the archaeological remains above it. After the interpretation, the trail continues toward the Rayan camp. The day is deliberately shorter than the next two stages, allowing the body to adjust to altitude and the group to settle into camp routine. The ground is generally dry, but loose stone appears near the waterfall and archaeological area. Day highlight: Reach Rayan after following the day’s main route at a measured pace. Technical details – Road transfer: about 1 hour 40 minutes – Walking: about 8 km / 5 mi – Walking time: about 4–5 hours – Highest point and camp: about 3,700 m / 12,139 ft – Terrain: dry valley trail, stone and steady ascent – Meals: lunch and dinner
Rayan – Puka Kasa – Chancachuco – Ancascocha Lake
The route climbs for several hours toward Puka Kasa. This is the first major pass and often the moment when the scale of the Vilcabamba range becomes clear. Wind and strong sun are common, while cloud can remove the view in minutes. After crossing the pass, the group descends toward Chancachuco for lunch. The trail then turns into the Ancascocha valley, with Mount Veronica visible in clear conditions. A final ascent reaches camp near Ancascocha Lake. This is normally the coldest night, and warm clothing should be placed in the daypack before reaching camp rather than left with the horse load. Day highlight: Reach Ancascocha Lake after following the day’s main route at a measured pace. Technical details – Walking: about 16 km / 10 mi – Walking time: about 8–10 hours – Highest point: about 4,450 m / 14,600 ft – Camp altitude: about 4,090 m / 13,419 ft – Terrain: dry high pass, loose descent and final climb – Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Ancascocha Lake – Huayanay Pass – Incaraqay – Qesqa Valley
After breakfast, the trail climbs toward Huayanay Pass, the highest point of the trek. The ascent is steep but shorter than the previous day’s total effort. From the pass, ridges, lakes and sections of the wider Inca-road network can be seen when weather permits. Condors sometimes cross the area, though sightings cannot be promised. The descent reaches Incaraqay for lunch, then continues for several hours into greener vegetation and the Qesqa valley. The change from exposed puna to lower plant cover is gradual, and the downhill distance can be tiring. Camp is prepared near the community area. Day highlight: Reach Qesqa Valley after following the day’s main route at a measured pace. Technical details – Walking: about 14 km / 9 mi – Walking time: about 8–9 hours – Highest point: about 4,650 m / 15,256 ft – Camp altitude: about 3,650 m / 11,975 ft – Terrain: steep pass, highland path and long descent – Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Qesqa – Paucarcancha – Km 82 – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu Pueblo
The trail follows the valley toward Paucarcancha, an Inca complex positioned above the route to the Sacred Valley. The guide leads a focused interpretation before the group continues toward Km 82. Sections near Willkaraqay give views toward Patallacta and the opening of the Classic Inca Trail corridor. Lunch is served near the end of the walking stage. A vehicle then transfers the group to Ollantaytambo for the scheduled train to Machu Picchu Pueblo. On arrival, the hotel check-in and Machu Picchu briefing are completed. The day is easier in altitude but still long because it combines walking, road travel and rail timing. Day highlight: Reach Machu Picchu Pueblo after following the day’s main route at a measured pace. Technical details – Walking: about 13 km / 8 mi – Walking time: about 6–7 hours – Lowest point: about 2,792 m / 9,160 ft – Transport: vehicle to Ollantaytambo and train to Machu Picchu Pueblo – Accommodation: hotel – Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner when confirmed
Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
The shuttle bus and entry are timed according to the ticket. The same guide normally leads the confirmed Machu Picchu route, relating the citadel to the valleys and Inca sites crossed during the trek. The ticket permits only its assigned circuit, and optional mountain routes require a separate reservation. After leaving the site, travelers return to town and board the scheduled train. A road transfer waits at the arrival station for the final journey to Cusco. Lunch is normally not included unless the package states otherwise. Day highlight: Complete the return to cusco after following the day’s main route at a measured pace. Technical details – Altitude: about 2,430 m / 7,972 ft – Guided route: according to the confirmed ticket – Terrain: stone stairs and uneven paths – Transport: shuttle bus, tourist train and road transfer – Meals: breakfast
Discounts
- 18 to 25 years old: proposed agency reduction of US $30, subject to the official ticket category. A valid physical student card must show the institution, student name, photo and validity period. A clear copy is required at booking.
- Under 18 years old: proposed agency reduction of US $30. A passport copy is required when booking.
- Under 11 years old: proposed agency reduction of US $40. A passport copy is required when booking.
- Government, rail and entrance rules may change. A reduction is not final until Andean Peru Treks confirms the approved ticket and fare class.
Optional Extras and Upgrades
- Insurance of any kind, international air tickets, domestic flights, departure to the airport (US $ 31 per person for international flights and US $ 7 for domestic flights) taxes, visa fees or excess baggage. Additional nights are not included during the trip due to flight cancellations, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, snacks, laundry, phone calls and entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Hiking poles – US$15.00 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – 4 season – US$30.00
- Private Tent – US$30.00
- air mattress -$15
- Train upgrade to Vistadome: US$50.00 one way (Departing from Aguas Calientes)
- Huayna Picchu: price is US$65.00 per person and there are 2 turns (at 7am and 10am) for Only 400 people can hike Huayna Picchu per day.
- Sleeping bag rental: quoted according to temperature rating and route length
- Trekking-pole rental: quoted per pair
- Personal tent or single-room supplement: quoted on request
Notes About Our Service
- Hotel pickup and return: Pickup is limited to the confirmed service area. Narrow streets, traffic controls or hotel access rules may require a nearby meeting point. The return time is approximate and can change because of traffic, weather or operations.
- Luggage storage: Large luggage should remain at the hotel or at the Andean Peru Treks storage area when that service is confirmed. Trekking duffels must stay within the stated weight limit.
- Payment conditions: A deposit is used to secure permits, entrances, trains, hotels and third-party services. Once issued, many of these items cannot be transferred, changed or refunded. The balance deadline appears on the booking confirmation.
- Operational changes: Weather, strikes, road blocks, rail instructions, site closures or safety concerns may require a different order, route or cancellation. The operations team coordinates the safest workable option with the traveler.
Availability
Machu Picchu availability depends on the selected date, entry time and ticket route. Booking up to six months ahead is advised. A late booking may require a different route, time, train or extra night, and Andean Peru Treks cannot guarantee the traveler’s preferred option after official inventory sells out.
Health and Travel Restrictions
This route requires preparation and may involve high altitude, steep ascents, long descents, cold, heat, mud or remote terrain. It is not appropriate for an unassessed heart, respiratory, neurological or serious joint condition. Older travelers and anyone with a relevant medical history should obtain approval from their treating doctor. Pregnancy, recent surgery or an injury that changes balance or load-bearing must be reported before booking.
Machu Picchu Circuit Information
The ticket is issued for one official route, entry time and traveler name. It does not allow free movement between all sectors.
Circuit 1 contains panoramic routes; Circuit 2 covers classic upper and lower routes; Circuit 3 covers lower royal sectors and mountain-linked routes. Seasonal routes operate only on dates authorized by the Ministry of Culture.
For 2026, travelers entering through the regulated Inca Trail network are linked to Route 3-B under the current official rule. Other programs use the route confirmed at booking.
Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, Huchuy Picchu, Intipunku, the Inca Bridge or the Great Cavern require the corresponding route and cannot simply be added after entry.
Train Services to Machu Picchu
The standard package may use an Expedition-type or comparable tourist train, depending on the operator and schedule.
Panoramic services such as Vistadome, Vistadome Observatory or a comparable product require an upgrade when not included.
Train schedules, stations and bimodal bus-train operation change by season. The final voucher controls the actual service.
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
After the confirmed Machu Picchu route, travelers normally take the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo, board the scheduled train and meet a road transfer at Ollantaytambo, Poroy or the station named on the voucher.
Arrival in Cusco is approximate. Rail delays, road traffic and seasonal station changes may alter the final time.
Accommodation
The planned lodging is three supported camps and one hotel night in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Hotel names and room types depend on the selected category and written confirmation. Basic remote lodges may have limited hot water, heating, electricity or internet.
Single rooms, upgraded hotels and extra nights carry an added cost unless included.
Included Transportation
The route uses private road transfer, horse-supported trekking, train, shuttle bus and return transfer.
Seat assignments, vehicle size and exact pickup time depend on the final passenger list and operational plan.
Private service means the vehicle is allocated to the booking group for the stated sector; it does not remove official traffic, rail or site restrictions.
Inclusions
- Pre-departure service confirmation and operations contact
- Professional guide in the language stated in the booking
- Transport explicitly listed in the confirmed itinerary
- Basic first-aid kit and emergency coordination protocol
- Trekking support team appropriate to the route
- Meals stated in the final itinerary, prepared by the trekking cook when applicable
- Group camping equipment: tents, dining shelter, kitchen equipment and basic hygiene setup
- Boiled or treated water from the stated service day onward
- Duffel bag and permitted cargo allowance when stated in the booking
- Machu Picchu entry only when expressly confirmed on the booking voucher
- Train, shuttle bus and road transfers only in the sectors stated in the selected package
- International and domestic flights unless expressly stated
- Travel insurance, medical expenses and evacuation costs
- Tips for guides, drivers, cooks, muleteers, porters, boat crews or host families
- Personal snacks, bottled drinks, alcohol, laundry, phone calls and personal purchases
- Services not written on the final booking voucher
- Personal sleeping bag, trekking poles and inflatable mattress unless the package states otherwise
- Extra porter, pack animal or baggage above the confirmed limit
- Breakfast on the first day and meals after the final included meal, unless stated otherwise
- Mountain routes such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain unless the ticket is named on the voucher
- Train-class upgrades and extra hotel nights
- Meals in Machu Picchu Pueblo unless listed
Upgrades
- Private guide or private transport, subject to availability
- Hotel category upgrades for multi-day programs
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Special entrance, train, meal or activity upgrades when available for the route
Group Price
The group rate is confirmed on request according to date, number of travelers, service type, ticket availability and operational costs. Some routes require non-refundable third-party services once issued. Ask the reservations team for the current rate before making payment.
Private Prices
| Group size | Proposed or reference price |
|---|---|
| 1 traveler | US $1,575 per person |
| 2 travelers | US $1,015 per person |
| 3 travelers | US $915 per person |
| 4 travelers | US $855 per person |
| 5 travelers | US $820 per person |
| 6 travelers | US $790 per person |
Why Private Service May Be the Better Choice
- The group walks or tours at one agreed rhythm rather than matching unrelated passengers.
- The guide can spend more time on the group’s main interests and shorten explanations that are less relevant.
- Families and friends keep the same vehicle or guide team through the stated private sectors.
- Meal preferences and rest stops are easier to coordinate, though official schedules and access rules remain fixed.
Custom quote
Based on date, travelers and service level
Recommended for families, private groups, photographers and travelers who want a more flexible pace. Final inclusions are confirmed before payment.
Why choose us
- Route knowledge: The operations team plans around dry mountain trail, steep passes, stream crossings, grassland and Inca stone paths, not only the names shown in the itinerary.
- Local respect: Staff brief travelers before passing through Soqma, Ancascocha and Qesqa-area settlements, including guidance on photographs, purchases and private spaces.
- Clear service limits: Andean Peru Treks states which entrances, meals, transfers and optional activities are confirmed before collecting final payment.
- Professional guiding: Explanations can be adapted to the traveler’s interests, while safety instructions remain direct and practical.
- Equipment chosen for the route: Trekking programs use sleeping, dining, kitchen and emergency equipment suited to the altitude and expected weather; day tours use inspected tourist transport and basic first-aid support.
- Trekking meals: The cooking team works with safe food-handling procedures and varied menus. Dietary needs must be reported before departure; extensive private-menu customization may carry an added cost.
Times are approximate and are confirmed according to season, access rules and the selected service type. The guide may adjust the order of visits to reduce waiting time or improve safety. Travelers with medical conditions, reduced mobility or strict dietary needs should advise the agency before payment so the operations team can confirm what is realistic for the route.
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