“DISCOVER MARCAPATA: NEW ALTERNATIVE TREKKING ROUTES”
4 Days & 3 Night
Group Size
Up to 8 people
Transportation
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude
4200 m.s.n.m
Difficulty
Challenging
Service
Group
Duration:
4 Days
NEW 4-DAYS ALTERNATIVE TREK TO MARCAPATA – THE HIDDEN GEM OF THE ANDES
Embark on a Captivating 4-Day Expedition to Marcapata — a hidden gem in the Cusco region where the majesty of the Andes blends seamlessly with Peru’s rich cultural heritage. This exclusive adventure takes you across breathtaking landscapes, traditional indigenous communities, and ancient archaeological sites, creating an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
Perched at 3,200 m / 10,498 ft above sea level, Marcapata is renowned for its lush valleys, towering snow-capped peaks, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life, discover the region’s extraordinary biodiversity, and uncover the timeless history etched into every corner of this remarkable destination.
4-DAYS MARCAPATA ADVENTURE – TRIP DETAILS
DAY 1: CROSSING THE ANDES — CUSCO, OCONGATE & PIRHUAYANI PASS TO MARCAPATA
We begin our unforgettable adventure at 4:30 a.m., when we pick you up from your hotel in our adventure bus. Our journey starts toward the town of Urcos, and then continues to Ocongate (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), where locals still proudly wear their traditional clothing. If they allow, you’ll have the chance to take some unique cultural photos.
Next, we drive one more hour to reach the stunning Abra Pirhuayani Pass (4,725 m / 15,502 ft), part of the majestic Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft) – the highest peak in Cusco. Here, you may stretch your legs, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and even release your stress with a liberating shout that echoes across the Andes.
We then continue our scenic ride for another 1.5 hours, descending into the edge of the Peruvian Amazon. By 8:30 a.m. we arrive at the picturesque town of Marcapata, where a delicious breakfast awaits, followed by a warm local accommodation.
Your Machupicchu Condor Trek guide will then take you to explore the highlights of Marcapata:
Phuyutarki Viewpoint – offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Amazon edge and surrounding valleys.
Geyser Viewpoint – to admire impressive glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
Colonial Temple of San Francisco de Asís, often called the Sistine Chapel of the Andes for its beauty.
After an incredible morning of culture and nature, we enjoy a well-deserved lunch at 1:30 p.m.
In the afternoon, we visit the Andean ceremonial temple, once a sacred place where the Incas made offerings to the Sun God. Here, you can also see the fascinating Inca Face silhouette carved naturally into living rock.
Finally, after a day full of exploration, we relax with a soothing bath in the healing thermal waters of Marcapata, a perfect way to end the day. We return to our lodge for dinner and a briefing about the adventures to come.
Day 1 Summary: Cusco – Marcapata
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Approx. 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Tour Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Tea Time & Dinner
DAY 2: SCENIC MARCAPATA WATERFALLS – MONKEY VIEWPOINT EXPERIENCE
Today will be a calm yet extraordinary day, filled with the wonders of nature. We start early with breakfast at 6:00 am, then drive for about 30 minutes in our private van to the trailhead. Upon arrival, we will be greeted by an Andean shaman (priest) who will guide us through a traditional offering ceremony to Mother Earth (Pachamama). This intimate ritual is a unique opportunity to connect with local culture and spirituality.
After receiving positive energy from this ceremony, we begin our hike towards the crystal-clear waters of the Marcapata Waterfalls. Here, you will have plenty of time to take breathtaking photos of the surrounding nature. For those who wish, a refreshing dip in the cool waters is highly recommended to recharge your energy.
Our journey continues to the Monkey Viewpoint, where—if we are lucky—we might spot the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird, along with beautiful species of orchids. At this scenic spot, we will enjoy a delicious lunch while listening to the songs of local birds.
After a short rest, we return by van to Marcapata. On the way back, you may choose to relax in the thermo-medicinal hot springs (optional), before heading to your lodge for dinner.
Day 2 Summary: Cusco – Marcapata
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Distance: Approximately 15 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner
DAY 3: MARCAPATA – PHUYUTARKI GLACIERS – PUERTO KALIZ PASS – LOIS COUNTRY HOUSE ADVENTURE
This day will be both challenging and rewarding, as we ascend to one of the highest points of the journey: Abra Puerto Cáliz (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Fortunately, we will take our private van to reach the upper section, giving us more time to enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way.
On this route, we will have the chance to observe llamas, alpacas, and wild vicuñas in their natural habitat, as well as local shepherds who still preserve their traditional colorful clothing. Upon reaching the summit of Abra Puerto Cáliz, we will connect with the spirit of the Andes. Here, our Andean shaman (priest) will perform a sacred offering ceremony, asking the protective mountain gods (Apus) for blessings and the well-being of our group—an experience that is both magical and unforgettable.
After this ancestral ritual, and with the permission of the Apus, we begin our hike. A gentle 30–40 minute walk leads us toward the majestic glaciers of Phuyutarki. The total trek lasts about 2 hours, where the breathtaking scenery will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into the world of Ice Age. During the journey, we’ll pause for snacks and relaxation inside an ice cave, while admiring panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and diverse Andean flora and fauna.
Following our break, we hike back (30–40 minutes) to meet our van, which will take us back to Marcapata for a hearty and well-deserved lunch. Here, we will also say goodbye to the dedicated support team who accompanied us throughout this unforgettable adventure. After lunch, we return by private transport to the city of Cusco (approx. 3–4 hours).
Day 3 Summary: Cusco – Marcapata
- Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging
- Distance: Approximately 13 km
- Duration: 6–7 hours
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner
DAY 4: SCENIC JOURNEY FROM LOIS COUNTRY HOUSE – SOQTAPATA CAMANTI – QUINCEMIL – BACK TO CUSCO
On the final day of our adventure, we immerse ourselves once again in nature—this time, exploring the edge of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.
We start the day early, waking up at 5:30 am, followed by a delicious and energizing breakfast. Afterward, we set off in our private van for about 1 hour towards the Soqtapata area (Camanti–Quincemil sector). Along the way, we will enjoy the beauty of the lush Peruvian jungle until we reach Louis’ country lodge, the starting point of our day’s exploration.
Here, we’ll encounter an impressive variety of orchids, wildflowers, and butterflies of different sizes and colors. As we continue, we’ll see crystal-clear natural pools, centuries-old native trees, monkeys, and parrots in their natural habitat. With some luck, we might spot the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird. For those seeking extra adventure, there will also be the chance to safely observe (and even touch) boas and learn about the fascinating arachnids of the region, guided by our expert nature guide from Machupicchu Condor Trek.
This day offers a true celebration of biodiversity and natural beauty. You will also have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the clear jungle rivers, a highly recommended experience. Afterward, we return by van to Marcapata for our final lunch together, where we will bid farewell to the support team who accompanied us during this unforgettable journey.
At around 3:00 pm, we begin our drive back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 pm
Day 4 Summary: Cusco – Marcapata
- Destination: Soqtapata & Wildlife Exploration
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
- Distance: Approximately 10 km
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks
WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU
- Original passport required (the same used for booking your trek)
- Daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: 2-3 L (Camelbaks are encouraged)
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet paper
- Good rain gear
WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFEL BAG
- 3 t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants at least
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 sets of hiking socks
- Fleece/ Thermals
- Warm clothes, down jacket .
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
- Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
- Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
- Large plastic bags will be provided at the office to line your duffel
- Insect repellent
TOILETRIES
- Face moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
- Wet wipes
INCLUYE
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cusco is optional
- Information about the ALTERNATIVE TREK TO MARCAPATA at our office; it will be held the night before your trip at 5:00 pm.
- Pick up from your hotel .
- Private transportation from Cusco to Marcapata y others.
- You will only need one backpack to carry what you need during the day.
- Professional guides with experience in trekking.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank.
- Entrance permits for the various attractions in Marcapata
- Hostel in Marcapata, Lodge & Facilities with private shower and bathroom.
- Taxes.
NO INCLUYE
- Other additional or off-hours transportation
- Special or technical clothing
- Travel insurance
- Additional costs of delay beyond our control
- Tips for our staff
- Last Dinner in Cusco
PRECIO Y DISPONIBILIDAD DEL CAMINO INCA CLÁSICO A MACHU PICCHU
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek is available on any date that is best suited to you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers
GROUP SERVICE – $757 USD per person
- Personal Porter is included in the price!
- Discount of $30 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons
PRIVATE SERVICE:
- $997 USD per person – 2 to 3 persons
- $897 USD per person – 4 to 6 persons
- $777 USD per person – 7 to 8 persons
DISCOUNTS
- Sleeping Bag –$20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and !warm)
- Air Mattress –$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
- Walking Poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (Professional poles that can be extended)
- Personal tent- $30 USD- (For solo travelers only)
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From $55 USD per person (depending on availability)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade – $67 USD per person (For the return to Cusco at 4:43pm)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
**Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
Marcapata new adventure
4Days
Price
$
500
USD
Per Person
Group Size
Up to 16
Activity Level
Moderate
INCA TRAIL TREK DAILY VIDEOS: SEE WHAT EACH DAY IS LIKE!
THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK DIFFERENCE
Since its inception, Machu Picchu Condor Trek has been dedicated to providing authentic and enriching tours to Machu Picchu, combining exploration of archaeological sites with immersion in local culture. With a team of expert local guides and meticulous attention to detail, the agency has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional experiences that go beyond travelers’ expectations.
Camping Equipment
7 kg personal porters included
Tiendas de baños privados
Safety on the Inca Trail
Social Projects
¡The best trekking food in Peru!
MEET THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK TREKKING TEAM!
The majority of our team has been with us from the beginning, witnessing the evolution of Roots & Rhythms and contributing to the unique bond we share with our city. We are grateful to have such a dedicated, talented and happy team who share our mission of delivering authentic and transformative experiences. With Roots & Rhythms, you’ll not only explore New Orleans, but you’ll also fall in love with the people who make it special.”
Our Super Porters
Equality Matters
Our Guides
Our Chefs
VIDEOS OF MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK STAFF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
At Machupicchu Condor Trek, we understand that travel can present logistical problems, so we are committed to making your experience as safe as possible. We have a detailed manual that covers all logistical aspects, from proper storage of camping equipment to recommendations on accommodation and restaurants in Cusco. In addition, our staff is available at all times to answer any additional questions you may have. From your arrival to your last day in Cusco.
SIMILAR TRIPS IN CUSCO
The traditional Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a unique experience and the most requested in Latin America, Machupicchu Condor Trek takes you on a trek of 04 days and 03 nights, where we will have the joy of enjoying a unique experience, there is no similar trek for its ecological and archaeological diversity.
It is a wonderful classic Inca Trail 05D/04N route and sleeps in quieter campsites away from the hustle and bustle of the other groups. It is also recommended for families with children and seniors, and it all culminates in the Sacred Inca City of Machu Picchu, with the perfect guided tour.
This 7 days Salkantay and Inca Trail trek is the best for those who want to live a unique experience in the middle of nature, enjoying views of the snow-capped Salkantay and the original Inca Trail. In addition, you will visit Inca constructions such as Wiñay Wayna, a wonderful Inca city located on the side of a mountain near Machupicchu.
If your dream is to visit Machupicchu through the Inca Trail and you only have a few days, we offer you this exciting trip by train and trek to Machupicchu. The 2-day Inca Trail combines beautiful scenery and archaeological sites. This trek is ideal for those who have limited time to visit the Inca Trail and Machupicchu.
Walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in only 2 days and see impressive Inca constructions. The ‘Inca Trail’ crosses the national park and enters through the Sun Gate, where you will see spectacular views of Machu Picchu. Excited to start the adventure trek, and camp in the dense vegetation.
TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS
Our goal at Machupicchu Condor Trek is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.
THEY SUPPORT US
