Published on May, 2019
It’s a dark, early morning start 4:00 - 4:30am.
From Cusco city it’s about a 3 hour journey on the road , with a stop for a quick breakfast in one of the rural restaurants. The coffee is good and there are toilet facilities.
It’s a slow, bumpy ride up the mountain on a dirt road.
As it gets higher, it gets cooler.
At the mountain, the toilet facilities are VERY basic and cost one sol.
The REAL challenge is the ALTITUDE that slows the pace down. The hike up the mountain is pretty flat with the exception of two Elevations.
Horses can be rented to go up and down, the handlers will quickly guide the horses for you. Each horse has its own pace, so If you’re traveling with your family or friends, it’s best you ALL rent horses or walk not to get Separated. The horse ride is bumpy, so there is not much chance for photos. We rented horses to go up and walked down. Going down is much easier than than going up.
The views are truly AMAZING!!
The locals have stands selling water, soft drinks, coca sweets, chocolates and salty snacks.
The hike is about 3 to 4 hours depending on fitness levels and individual reaction to altitude.
After the hike the drive down the mountain is quicker. There is a stop for lunch at a rural restaurant and back to Cusco.
The scenery on the drive back is IMPRESSIVE!
Very recomendable.