Trekking to Marcahuasi

Impressive monuments with human and animal shapes accompany the way to the Marcahuasi plateau, one of the Seven Wonders of Peru. The enigmatic history surrounding it creates an atmosphere of mysterious peace for adventurers who enjoy Trekking.

Photo: luisparodi.wordpress.com

It is almost mandatory to engage in this discipline if you want to visit Marcahuasi, as access roads can only be traversed on foot, horseback, or with a donkey, although this option becomes challenging due to the steep terrain along most of the route.

Trekking Route to Marcahuasi

To reach Marcahuasi, one needs to be in good physical condition, as the hike requires considerable endurance. The adventure begins in the district of San Pedro de Casta, one of the 32 districts of the Huarochirí Province. A huge church stands in its uneven square, and from there, the journey to Marcahuasi begins.

This circuit can be done on horseback (three hours) or you can choose between two paths. The shorter one takes two to three hours and leads you to the Monument to Humanity, standing at 25 meters high; the second, longer path takes you to the amphitheater area, the best place to camp due to its wind-protected location.

- Walking Distance

The distance is over 12 km, passing through slopes, more than 15 ravines, and very narrow dirt paths. Along the way, you will see attractive landscapes, brown and green mountains, feeling like you are ascending to the sky.

- Difficulty Level

The route is very challenging due to the terrain, distance, and especially the high altitude of the location. It is recommended to undertake this activity for individuals in good physical condition, with an intermediate level of trekking experience.

- Duration of the Journey

It takes approximately 4 hours to reach Marcahuasi.

- Season

The best time to visit Marcahuasi is between April and October when rainfall decreases.

What to Bring

• Sneakers or trekking shoes with good grip
• Camping tent (preferably for high altitudes)
• Flashlight
• Camera
• Matches or lighter
• Still water 2 to 5L
• Dried fruits (raisins, pecans, etc.), chocolates, lemon candies, etc., for quick energy replenishment
• Sunscreen, cocoa butter for lips or lip balms, gloves, scarf, caps, and/or woolen hats
• Two sets of clothes: jacket (preferably waterproof or fleece), warm pants
• Sleeping bag
• First aid kit containing primarily an inhaler

Trekking Video in Marcahuasi

Video: TraveleandoPeru

Recommendations

If you are camping, bring warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly at night, also a good tent that can withstand cold and strong winds.

Bring all necessary items before leaving San Pedro de Casta because you won't find any commerce in Marcahuasi.

Reserve pack animals in advance, as on busy days, the rental of donkeys and horses can get saturated. If you prefer not to carry your luggage for 4 hours, it's better to arrange this ahead of time.

Reference:

reference: municipalidadsanpedrodecasta.gob.pe