DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING
DAY 1
Cusco to Chillca (3,800 m/12,500 ft) (L, D)
Departure at 08:30 am to take a bus from Cusco along the fertile Vilcanota Valley to the town of Checacupe (1½ hr). After a visit to the colonial temple of the Immaculate, we start ascending the Pitumarca valley, along the spectacular Japura gorge that leads to Chillca, where we will be greeted by the community. (1½ hr, 42 km). From there, it is a short and easy walk to the first “Tambo” (45min). Once at the lodge there will be time to relax and enjoy the music provided by the locals of Chillca.
Estimated Trekking Time: approx. 15km.
Trekking time: 6 hrs
Overnight at Andean Lodge.
DAY 2
Chillca to Machuracay (B, L, D)
Our hike begins at 08:30am in the wide valley of Upis where impressive glaciated mountains loom above the valley offering majestic views. The trail narrows as we make our way towards the waterfalls descending from the Santa Catalina Mountain. This path is mostly used by the wandering llamas of the area and once we reach the small Paloma lagoon the countryside will be dotted with these animals, and also a large number of alpacas. After hiking along a second lagoon and crossing a long series of moraines, we will reach the Machuracay Tambo, located right at the bottom of the Apu Ausangate.
Estimated Trekking Time: approx. 15km.
Trekking time: 6 hrs.
Overnight at Andean Lodge.
DAY 3
Machuracay to Anantapata (B, L, D)
After a demanding ascent of the Palomani pass at an elevation of 5,200 m. / 17,000 ft., we will descend to Ausangatecocha. Tremendous views of the glaciated south face of the “apu” will inspire us as we continue towards the red sandstone formations of the “Nevado del Inca”.
Estimated Trekking Time: approx. 15km.
Trekking time: 6 hrs.
Overnight stay in the Anantapata Lodge.
DAY 4
Anantapata to Huampococha (B, L, D)
A spectacular part of the trail finds us hiking in the middle of mountains with red, ochre, and blue strata. This section offers a glimpse of marvelous geological wonder and natural beauty. Also, be on the lookout for groups of gracious vicuñas, as they are frequently spotted in this isolated area. We will sleep that night in the Huampococha Tambo, in the heart of large rock formations near a lagoon where “huallatas” (Andean geese) make their nests.
Estimated Trekking Time: approx. 15km.
Trekking time: 6 hrs.
Overnight at Huampococha Lodge
DAY 5
Huampococha to Cusco (B, L, D)
After a last climb over the Anta pass, we will gradually make our descent. In this section the first crops and houses come into view. The landscape changes quickly as the red sandstone formations are followed by the carsten erosion of limestone, forming a one of a kind stone forest, and a perfect habitat for “vizcacha” (members of the chinchilla family). By the time we get down the valley, our bus will be waiting for the return trip to Cusco.
Estimated Trekking Time: approx. 15km.
Trekking time: 6 hrs.
Notes: |
| 1 |
Recommended period: April to October. |
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Minimum age permitted: 14. |
| 3 |
Private Service Fixed Departures Dates: every day except Friday. |
| 4 |
Group Service Fixed Departure Dates: every Friday from April to October. |
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