Ancascocha Trek: A Journey to the Hidden Inca Trail

Overview

Difficulty: Hard.
Duration: 4-5 days.
Key Landmarks: Ancascocha Pass, Ancascocha Lake, hidden Inca sites, waterfalls, and views of snow-capped peaks.

Preparing for the Trek

Acclimatization: This trek requires at least 3-4 days of acclimatization in Cusco.
Recommended Gear: A tent, a warm sleeping bag, a rain jacket, warm layers, trekking poles, plenty of water, and cooking equipment.
Navigation: The trail is not well-marked, and it requires pre-downloaded maps (on AllTrails or Maps.me). It is highly recommended to hire a private guide or a local porter.

Step-by-Step: The Detailed Route

(This is a general itinerary that can vary depending on the specific route you choose)

Step 1: Starting Above the Sacred Valley

The trek usually begins near the village of Urquillos or Choque, adjacent to the Sacred Valley. The first day is a moderate climb that includes eucalyptus forests and green fields.

Step 2: Ancascocha Pass

The second day is the most challenging, and it includes a climb to the Ancascocha Pass, at an altitude of over 4,600 meters (15,090 feet). At the top of the pass, you will be met with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Andes Mountains, snow-capped peaks, and colorful lakes.

Step 3: Trekking Along Lakes and Waterfalls

In the following days, the trail descends into the valley, passing through a series of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and green landscapes. This part of the trek includes a wide variety of scenery and points of interest.

Step 4: Arriving at Aguas Calientes

The trek usually ends at a viewpoint of Machu Picchu, followed by a descent to the town of Aguas Calientes, from where you can take a train back to Cusco.

Practical Information: The Ancascocha Trek

Difficulty: Hard.
Duration: 4-5 days.
Key Landmarks: Ancascocha Pass, Ancascocha Lake, hidden Inca sites, waterfalls, and views of snow-capped peaks.
How to Get There: The trek usually begins near the village of Urquillos or Choque, adjacent to the Sacred Valley. It typically ends at Aguas Calientes, where you can take a train back to Cusco.
Admission: (The provided text does not mention a specific admission fee. It’s a good idea to advise travelers that small local fees may apply.)

Sacred Reveal Tip for the Experienced Hiker

The Ancascocha Trek is a beautiful and challenging trek. It is recommended only for hikers with prior experience in advanced and high-altitude treks. Before you go, be sure to:

Hire a Guide: It is highly recommended to hire a private guide or a local porter.
Be Prepared: Bring a tent, a very warm sleeping bag (the nights are very cold), and appropriate gear for high altitudes.
Acclimatize: Be sure to spend at least 3-4 days in Cusco before starting the trek.

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Entities:

Places: Ancascocha, Ancascocha Pass, Sacred Valley, Urquillos, Choque, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Andes Mountains.
Concepts: Advanced trek, high altitude, physical challenge, acclimatization, Inca ruins, serenity, remote location, wild landscape, multi-day hike.
Activities/Services: Hiking, camping, trekking, visiting Inca ruins, guide rental, porter rental.
Objects/Terms: Tent, sleeping bag, rain jacket, hiking poles.