Huarocondo Trek To Machu Picchu

Peru is a natural wonder, full of tourist attractions and sights that will take your breath away. Ancient indigenous cultures, Spanish colonial influence, the quest for independence, cultural mixture, and an astonishing geography have all shaped Peru throughout the centuries. For that reason:

• The Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu that follows the path of the Incas is celebrated and considered by foreign visitors to be one of the premier treks in the region of Cusco.

• Hike along the winding Huarocondo trail with the mountain’s tallest peak right before your eyes (Day 1 and Day 2).  Enjoy the best look out where Cusco city is seen from this point. (Day 1 and Day 2).

• Enjoy your trekking through the panoramic view of the valleys, countless flora and fauna,  Andean geese, Andean flickers, endemic trees and so on (Days 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5).
• You will hike along part of the famous Inca Trail and you will enjoy as much as possible of the Sacred Valley. ( Day 4)

• Explore the astonishing lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu (Day 5).

• Create an unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu via PeruRail or Inca Rail Train (Day 5).

Day 1 : Cusco –Huarocondo (Parupiso) – Wata -Chillipawa

Early morning pick up from your hotel or accommodation at approx. 6:00 am in Cusco, then you will begin the 1-hour drive to the trail head in Parupiso. You’ll pass through the small town of Huarocondo-Pachar and continue to Parupiso.  Once you are there, you will meet our team and start trekking. You will hike approximately 3.5 hours steadily uphill, following a wide path north, above the west bank of the river Huaracondo.  You will enjoy valleys, mountains, archaeological sites, and the impressive Inca site of Wata, an important pre-Inca fortress that dominates the crest of a hill at 3,855 meters.  You will have lunch at the midpoint of the trail, then you will keep on going uphill to Chillipawa (3,750 m.a.s.l.), where you will spend the night.  We will also have the opportunity to participate in the daily life of the local people and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Day 2 : Chillipawa -Chancachuco

After an early breakfast, you will get ready to test your physical condition, because it’s your biggest day. You will tackle Paca Orco/Accoccasa Pass, located at a dizzying height of 15,157 feet (4,625 m). For 3.5 hours or so, you will climb gradually through farming fields, the trees of polylepys, indigenous villages and then continue on your way up to the highest point. Here we will enjoy a breathtaking view of the immense, snowy peaks, and you might even see the Cusco city from this point. You will feel the full extent of the Andean sky with its’ cold and dry air.  Later you will enjoy an easy walk down to reach our camp in the spacious Chancachuco Valley (4,350 m.a.s.l.), opposite the glaciers of the Cordillera Huaynay to enjoy your dinner.

Day 3 : Chancachuco-Cachiccata

After a healthy breakfast, you will descend gradually into the upper valley for around 4 hours or so.  You will have lunch at midpoint of the trail nearby the head of an Incan aqueduct. Basically, it will be a day full of culturally significant learning experiences.  Later on you will reach you final step at 3,940 m.a.s.l. and visit the Incan sanctuary of Punku Punku (Door of the Wind), known as the gateway to the Andes.  From there you will have a breathtaking view of snowing Veronica/ Wakaywillka Mountain (5,682 meters).  After that, you will descend into the valley.  Then you will continue with the hike to reach Cachiccata (3,525 m), where you will spend the night surrounded by large Inka terraces and irrigation canals at the edge of a huge quarry with the same name.

Day 4: Cachiccata-Ollantantaytambo-Aguas Calientes

Like previous mornings, after your delicious breakfast you will start your trek to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m.a.s.l.). You will hike between 5 and 6 hours all day along a steady gradual downhill.  Along the way you will descend a wide Incan road, through an area of quarries.  Then we will carry on downhill, crossing the Vilcanota River and finally arriving at the famous Ollantaytambo town. You will have time to explore the  living Inka town by yourself before taking the train that will take you to Aguas Calientes (2040 m.a.s.l) in the afternoon.  Once you get to Aguas Calientes, you will check in to your hotel, then have dinner at a pre-selected restaurant and finally have a well deserved rest.

DAY 5: Private Machu Picchu Tour. Return to Cusco.

Day 5 will be one of the more remarkable and busy days, because you will visit one of the 7 new wonders in the world and thus, will need to wake up early and go up to Machu Picchu sanctuary by bus with your guide. You will have a memorable walking tour through the “lost city of the Incas” and let yourself be swept away by the magical landscape that surrounds this important ruin. Finish up with last photos and then return to Aguas Calientes town for the return trip to Cusco.  Note: you will take your train at 14:55/15:20 P.M for the return trip with the Expedition train to the Ollantaytambo train station where you will catch our private van back to Cusco and your hotel. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 19:00 pm.

Upgrade options:

Climb Huayna Picchu for views over the ruins or add an extra day in Machu Picchu.

INCLUDED

Pre-departure briefing in our office or your hotel. Time to be determined by the company.
Private Accommodation: 3 nights camping on the Huarocondo trek and 1 night of accommodation in a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. The hotel you book will be listed on your invoice. Upgrading hotels are always possible at additional cost.
Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, portable toilet tent, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by the horses).
Inflatable mattress: Thermarest air mattresses that are 3 inches thick, which add a lot of comfort to sleep and rest.
Pillow, rain ponchos and duffel bag.
Transportation: You will be provided with all transportation for this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 6:00 A.M., and brought to the trail head. A roundtrip bus ticket is included from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu Inca City and return. The train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy will be on the Expedition Class Train and will be included in your trip (Day 5). You also have the option to upgrade to the Vistadome train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, our van will take you back to your hotel in Cusco (Day 5).
Professional Guides: English speaking, professionally educated guides. All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in the Cusco region, and are committed to teaching others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe, sound and happy so you can enjoy your time worry-free!
Trekking Chef: A chef and his assistant specialized in cooking on the trail, will prepare all of your delicious meals along the journey to replenish your energy.
Cargo Mules: On days 1, 2, 3 and 4, cargo mules will carry all camping equipment and your personal baggage allowance (7 kgs/15.4 lbs). On days 1, 4 and 5 your duffel bags will be carried by car or train to your destination.
1 Saddle horse or emergency horse: This service will only be available the first 2 days of the trek, as those are the most challenging ones, starting on the 3rd day there are vehicles available for the transportation of holdall.
Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), 5 Snacks, 4 happy hours. All these meals are prepared by our Chef.
Water: We will provide you water for your morning hike every day and again during lunch. We suggest to bring your camel bag and extra energy drinks for this trek, because being well hydrated is the key to feeling great in the mountains.
Products for hygiene: You will be provided with a small towel, soap and hand sanitizer before each meal to clean your hands.
Entry ticket to Machu Picchu Archeological Site and Huarocondo trail.
First-Aid Kit: Our guides have received training in first aid from physicians. Our guides will bring an emergency oxygen bottle, as well.
Satellite Phones: Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Discover Satori has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well.

NOT INCLUDED

Sleeping Bags:You can rent one from our company if you do not have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use and have a maximum usage of 30 trips. (Cost: USD $20).
Walking Sticks:You can rent a set from our company if you would like (Cost: USD $15/pair).
Last Day: Lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes (Extra cost).
Travel Insurance.
Tips for our staff:Tipping is of course 100% voluntary and should only be done if you feel like your guide, porters, horse men and Chef have done an amazing job for you.
Additional costsor delays out of control of the management (landslides, bad weather condition, itinerary modification due to safety concern, altitude sickness, change of government policy, political instability/strike, etc.).
Hayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (Cost: USD $75): These hikes sell out fast and must be booked in advance. Please let us know at the time of booking if you wish to do one of these additional hikes.

OPTIONAL SERVICE:

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are the mountains that stand next to Machu Picchu Inca City. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep if you are scared of heights. You would do this after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is USD $75 each. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity. Please understand that the inclement weather is out of our control.

This premier Huarocondo trek is available almost all year, this tour IS CLOSED in February due to heavy rainy season and landslides during this month. On the other hand, Peru usually  celebrates annual festivities, special events, special occasions and activities such as: The Feast of the Sun, Easter Sunday procession, Folkloric Parade, Carnival, Christmas Day, Bullfighting, and so on, occasionally, unforeseen events such as: Solar and Lunar eclipses would be a surprising experience for you.  For this reasons, Discover Satori guarantees your departure dates. BOOK now! Only your confirmation is needed.

CLICK here to check your availability for Annual Festivities, Events & Machu Picchu.

Availability

IMPORTANT REMINDER:

For this trek you will need one hold-all or duffel bag, which we will provide. However, you will be carrying your small day pack while hiking. Please pack as light as possible. A light backpack is key to feeling great!

• Passport (very important)
• Valid STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
• Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbacks or bottles are good for this trek
• Water for the beginning of your hike. We will re-supply you at lunch
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles) and sandals. (very important)
• 5 Wicking/Hiking T-Shirts & and 2 hiking pants
• Nice shirt and pants for Machu Picchu day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho, warm jacket, down jacket, fleece or sweater, scarf, wool hat, sunglasses, gloves and 5 pairs of socks
• Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes )
• Sun protection cream and sun hat (very important)
• Insect Repellent
• Camera
• iPhone/iPod for music
• Flashlight or head lamp with spare batteries (very important)
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
• TOILETRIES
• Face moisturizer
• Hand Sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Personal medications
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

We require a deposit of 50% of the total price per person, in order to book and secure any trek or city tour with Discover Satori. The deposit can be made by PayPal, which will incur a 5.5% merchant fee paid by the traveler, or by wire to Bank of America or Citibank (for free if you are a fellow account holder).

Please notify us if paying by wire transferor Paypal the address to send your deposit to is [email protected]. All deposits are fully non-refundable and non-transferable. In the event that you need to cancel your trip, cancellation fees will be assessed as outlined below under our cancellation policy. If canceling, you may not transfer your deposit to another person’s trek.

Bank Account Number: XXXXXXX (US DOLLARS)

Paying Bank:  Bank of America, TX

Account Holder: Discover Satori

Swift Code: XXXXX

NOTE. Non-Refundable, Non-Transferable Deposit

WAYS TO PAY

1) Credit card Visa, American Express. Diners Club, Mastercard payments will incur an additional credit card merchant service charge of 8%

2) Paypal payments will incur an additional merchant service charge of 5.5%.

3) Western union payments will need to be addressed as follows:

Receiver:

Full name: FREDY CUSI HUAMAN

Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú

Please don’t forget to send us the tracking code (MTCN) in order to pick up the deposit and confirm your booking.

GROUP PRICE  (2020) FROM USD $631 PER  PERSON
Private Tours are based on Group Size (2020)
Number of Trekkers		Price per Person
2		USD  $1002
3		USD  $831
4		USD  $715
5		USD  $694
6		USD  $652
7 or more		USD  $631

Permit permitting, we are excited for this opportunity of a lifetime to guide you through the Huarocondo trek and into Machu Picchu.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

 

Please read the following information carefully as it will help answer all of your questions about our services and the Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu.

 

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our representatives and taken to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Upon your arrival, locate our representative holding an orange board bearing our company name Discover Satori. You must exit the terminal, in order to find our representative (they are not allowed to come inside the terminal).

THE BRIEFING

Your briefing will take place at our office at 6:00 or 6:30 P.M. the night before your trek, depending on your confirmation email details.  Our office is located at Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu, your luggage(s) can be stored at our office or at your hotel at no cost to you.  Please pack things you will only need during your Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu.

HOW TO BOOK HUAROCONDO TREK TO MACHUPICCHU

FIRST, the following personal information is necessary when completing our booking form

1. Full Name (as it exactly appears on your passport)
2. Gender
3. Passport number
4. Date of Birth (DD / MM / YYYY)
5. Nationality

 

Note: We require copies of everyones’ passport as they are required when purchasing permits.

 SECOND, we require a deposit of 50% of the total price per person in order to secure your Salkantay trek to Machupicchu. Paying by VISA or PayPal online incurs 5.5% service charge. Please pay to the following email address: [email protected]

WHAT I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN

The Peruvian Government has strict limited capacity of people permitted on the Hayna Picchu Mountain for 2020 (permits are available only for 400 people per day, which are split into two groups).

First Group of 200. Available at 7:00 A.M

Second Group of 200. Available at 10:00 A.M

Therefore, we recommend that you reserve your space far in advance as possible.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The remaining balance will need to be paid at our office in Cusco no more than 2 days before your tour start date; cash is preferable (we accept both US dollars and Peruvian soles). There are several ATM machines in Cusco city center, otherwise, PayPal and Visa credit card is also acceptable, however, will incur 5.5% service charge.

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

According to Peruvian Law, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu to qualify for a discount.

Note: If you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.

• 11 to 17 years old, the discount is $30 USD
• 6 to 11, the discount is $40 USD
• 0 to 2, they are free

All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the student discount. Email us a copy at: [email protected]

MAY I CHANGE THE DATE AFTER THE PERMITS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED?

Unfortunately, the answer is NO. Once the Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu permits have been bought from the Peruvian government, changes are not allowed.  Machu Picchu permits are not transferable nor refundable.  The deposit is not refundable if you cancel your Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE HUAROCONDO TREK?

YES! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport you sent us to book your Huarocondo trek to Machu Picchu and other reservations. Passports will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu, during your hotel stays and to board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permits and we can change it when you get your new passport. Please send a copy of your new Passport or updated Passport as soon as possible.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EASY, MODERATE, AND CHALLENGING TREKKING?

There is a grading system that classifies the difficulty degree of trekking trails.  Easy, moderate, and challenge. The reason we have categories is to help our client’s choose a trek in the Andes that is suitable for their level and don’t be exhausted. Clients are encouraged to have a good level of physical fitness and adequate physical training ahead of time is necessary.

Easy treks: It could be suitable for all people who love it outdoors this is for the hikers who do not have previous experience, or are not looking for a difficult physical, they typically involve walking up to 6 hours a day.

Moderate treks: Only for those who have previous experience in hike or outdoors activities, these treks usually vary from 1-3 days and can reach up to an altitude of 2,700m to 4,000m. This grade is recommended for any trekker looking for something a little more challenging than just a simple walk. These trekking areas are mostly Lares trek, Inca quarry trek, Huarocondo trek.

Challenging Trekking: We recommend to our clients that you have previous easy and moderate trekking experience.  Difficult treks include walking through rough trails for 8-10 hours each day and crossing high passes. Challenge treks are both long rugged terrain and altitude increases as you move higher through the scale. These are genuine expeditions where trekking skills, experience fitness and endurance is necessary (Ausangate 5days, Choquequirao to Machupicchu).

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend to always dress in layers as it is easier to adjust to the different climates.  Remember, we have only two official seasons in Cusco, rainy season from November to April and dry season from May to October.

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Av. Max Temp ºC	20	21	21	22	21	21	21	21	22	22	23	22
Av. Max Temp ºF	68	70	70	72	70	70	70	70	72	72	73	72
Av. Min Temp ºC	5	7	6	3	-5	-4	-1	1	4	6	6	7
Av. Min Temp ºF	45	45	45	40	25	28	30	34	40	43	43	45

 

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is of 10 people.  Mostly our groups are between 2-6 people. Discover Satori specializes in small and private groups and provide a personalized service.

CAMPING TENTS SHARING

Please note, by default all Camping Tents are twin size.

Couples/partners: When you book for more than one person, we will by default group you together in a Camping Tents (unless you specifically request us not to). If you are unequal numbers (3, 5, 7 etc.) the remaining traveler will be roomed with another passenger of the same gender. Single travelers: If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge – you will share a double tents with another passenger of the same gender. single travelers who wish to have a private tent, if you request in advance you are going to make helpful for logistic staff and then in return they will choose for you a comfortable gear and make you don’t be worried.

ARE WE GOING TO BE PICKED UP AND DROPPED OFF AT MY ACCOMMODATION AFTER THE TREK?

Absolutely, Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included with all of our packages. If you booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there.

WHAT TIME DOES THE TRAIN DEPART FROM AGUAS CALIENTES?

It will depend on the train availability but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco while on the train. Therefore, you will take the train at 2: 55 P.M. or 3:20 P.M. This train Schedule will allow you more than 7 hours to enjoy Machu Picchu!

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE HUAROCONDO TREK?

In case you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue or other reasons, Discover Satori will assist you in getting to the nearest town for medical assistance. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases it is highly recommended to head back to Cusco and take plan B, but you will cover your own expenses (Travel insurance required). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek. However, Discover Satori may provide you with car transportation. Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo or Cusco and if you recover quickly, they then continue the journey to Aguas Calientes (again cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary, it is of great significance for the staff who will take care of you during the trek.  It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Discover Satori destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you would like, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is just voluntary and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE?

Yes! We are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know, understand and respect the sacred places and the local people.

TREKKING SUMMARY
Duration and Trip Type:	5 days/ 4 nights. Hiking, adventure, history, culture and nature
Tour Location:	1-hour drive from Cusco. Departure from Parupiso (trail head)
Good for	Moderate physical fitness or better
Distance per Day :	Total Distance:40 km Day 1: 10.5 Km /6.5 miles (7 to 8 hours) Day 2: 9 km/5.5 miles ( 6-7 hours ) Day 3: 12 km/ 7.4 miles (7-8 hours ) Day 4: 9 km /5.5 miles (5-6 hours) Day 5: 0km/ 0 miles Note: Walking times depend on the group’s hiking ability. The guide may change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the group’s progress.
Difficulty Level:	Moderate to Challenging, but rewarding hike
Elevation:	2,050 m (6,627 ft) to 4,625 m (15,200 ft)
Campsites Altitude:	Night 1: 3,750 m (12,300 ft) Night 2: 4,350 m (14,270 ft) Night 3: 3,525 m (11,564 ft) Night 4: 2,050 m (6,725 ft)
Season and Weather:	May – October: Dry season November – April:Changeable weather – cold, windy, rainy, warm, hot and humid
Group Size:	Fully customized Private Service.
Suppliers’ Services	Horses, Peru Rail train/ Inca rail train, Bus Transport and Accommodations
Activities:	Journey 1 hour by private car to the trail head, hike for 4 days, visit Inca quarry and Incan sites, see flora and fauna around the valleys and enjoy Machu Picchu tour.