This trip combines an exceptional alternative trek with the principle archaeological sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu. We begin by visiting the Pisac ruins and market, then drive into the Cordillera Vilcanota for a short hike to the Andean community of Quishuarani. On the second day we pass waterfalls and turquoise glacial lagoons to reach Pachaqutec pass (4700m.) while surrounded by other soaring peaks of the Vilcanota range. On day three the trail returns us to the Sacred Valley with a gentle descent along the Cancha Cancha River. In the afternoon we tour the astonishing ruins and village of Ollantaytambo and spend the night here in a comfortable hostel. Day four begins with the early train to Aguas Calientes for a professionally-guided tour of Machu Picchu Sanctuary and free time to explore before departing for Cusco in the afternoon.
day
1
Cusco / Pisac / Quisharani Distance: 3K / 1.8 miles
We depart Cusco in the morning and drive to Pisac, where we tour the ruins perched high above the Sacred Valley, visit the local artisan's market and have lunch in the charming Main Square. From here we continue through the Sacred Valley and climb by vehicle into the Cordillera Vilcanota. We have a short acclimatization hike to the village of Quishuarani, our first campsite.
Quisharani / Cancha Cancha Distance: 13.5K / 8 miles
Following the trail out of Quishuarani community, we climb past a series of cascading waterfalls and lagoons. An original Inca stone path leads us steeply up the ridge to Pachaqutec pass (4700m.), the highest point on our trek. Nearing the top, we enjoy spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks of Pitusiray (5750m.) and Chicon (5530m.). The trail leads down into the opposite corridor to the brilliant glacial lakes of Suirococha and Yuraccocha. Here we can see several bird species, including Andean Ibis and Andean geese. Descending further, we begin to see the thatched-roof stone houses and corrals of Cancha Cancha community, our last camp site.
Cancha Cancha / Huaran / Ollantaytambo or Cusco Distance: 9K / 5.4 miles
Today our hike follows the Cancha Cancha River down into a fertile green valley replete with flowers, plants, and birds of the region. After a gentle descent of approximately 3-4 hours, we reach the village of Huaran where we have lunch before driving to Ollantaytambo for an afternoon tour of the ruins and town. For those continuing on to Machu Picchu, we provide accommodation in a comfortable hostel. Others will return to Cusco by private transport.
(Optional): Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu to Cusco
In the morning we board the train and enjoy beautiful scenery for approximately 1 ½ hours to Aguas Calientes. From here we take the bus up to Machu Picchu and enjoy an official tour of these spectacular Inca ruins. There is time to explore on your own before the afternoon train departs Aguas Calientes. We arrive to Cusco at approximately 8:00pm.
Meals provided: Breakfast
Andina Travel Peru
Plazoleta Santa Catalina Nº 219 Cusco - Peru
Tel/Fax: +51 84 251892 / andinatravel@terra.com.pe
The Prices are calculated to the type of currency change in “Soles” S/.2.90 (Peruvian Currency)*
*The price can change in agreement to the type of change of the day at the moment that you pay.
The Prices are calculated to the type of currency change in “Soles” S/.2.90 (Peruvian Currency)*
*The price can change in agreement to the type of change of the day at the moment that you pay.
Available Discounts:
Trek only:
SAE members: $10
Machu Picchu extension:
Students with vaild ISIC cards:
$18 (University ID or Youth Travel cards NOT valid)
Teenagers up to 15 y.o.: $18
Children up to 10 y.o.: $53
NOTE: Please send scanned or faxed copy of ISIC cards or passports at time of booking for these discounts.
Included:
Hotel collection and private transport
Guided tours of Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins
Lunch in Pisac
Entrance tickets to Pisac and Ollantaytambo
Professional English-speaking guide and camp staff
Plentiful, nutritious meals (Vegetarian option available) and snacks
Drinking water provided throughout trek
Hot water for washing in the morning
High quality, double-occupancy tents and equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen tent, and latrine tent)
Pack animals (horses and llamas) to carry baggage and equipment
Emergency horse(s) for riding in case of illness or injury
