Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for extreme altitude and cold nights. Find out how to reach the trailhead, what gear is essential, and how to choose your hiking path.
Getting there
Options for reaching the base town.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus: Take a colectivo from Paseo Colón or Javier Prado in Lima to Chosica (Parque Echenique), then board a local minibus to San Pedro de Casta. | 1 hour to Chosica, then 3 hours to San Pedro de Casta | 20-30 PEN total one way | Minibuses from Chosica to San Pedro de Casta do not run constantly; they typically depart around 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. |
| Tour: Book a 2-day/1-night guided excursion from a Lima-based operator, which generally includes private 4x4 transport, winter camping gear, meals, and guided hikes. | 2 days | $150 - $350 USD | Highly recommended if you do not have your own cold-weather camping equipment, as renting gear locally can be limited. |
| Walk: Hike from San Pedro de Casta to the Marcahuasi plateau via the 'Long Trail' (Amphitheater route) or 'Short Trail' (Monument to Humanity route). | 2 to 4 hours | Included in entry fee | The long trail is less steep and recommended for acclimatization. You can hire a horse in town to carry gear. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. Skies remain clear for stargazing. Trail conditions are safer and less muddy than in the rainy season.
What to bring
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Nighttime temperatures on the plateau frequently drop well below freezing (0°C).
Pack a sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C.
How the day runs
Sample timelines for your trip.
A two-day self-guided trip focusing on acclimatization and stargazing.
- Depart Lima
Take a colectivo from Lima to Chosica.
- Transfer in Chosica
Board the minibus to San Pedro de Casta (departs around this time).
- Arrive and Acclimate
Register at the tourist office, pay the 20 PEN fee, and eat a local trout meal.
- Hike the Long Trail
Ascend gradually to the plateau to minimize altitude sickness.
- Set up Camp
Pitch your four-season tent in the Amphitheater area before temperatures drop.
A fully organized excursion from Lima for those short on time.
- Hotel Pickup
Your operator collects you in Lima in a 4x4 or minibus.
- Breakfast in the Highlands
Stop for an included local breakfast before reaching the trailhead.
- Hike to the Plateau
Begin the guided ascent to Marcahuasi from San Pedro de Casta.
- Explore Formations
View the Monument to Humanity and the pre-Columbian chullpas.
- Descent and Return
Hike back to the vehicle and begin the drive back to Lima.
Acclimatization and Safety
Marcahuasi sits at approximately 4,000 meters. Altitude sickness is a major risk. Spend at least an hour in San Pedro de Casta (3,180m) before hiking. Drink plenty of water and consider chewing coca leaves.
There are no garbage facilities or firewood on the plateau. Pack out all your trash. If you plan to make a fire in the designated camping areas, you must purchase firewood in town and carry it up.
Easiest way to do it
Exclusive Full-Day 4x4 to Marcahuasi Hiking in Lima
10 h to 12 h 4.8 (24)
- Breakfast in the Santa Eulalia town
- Bottled water
- Tours available from 1 person in shared service. Max 4–5 passengers per vehicle. Only bookings are treated as private tours for a more personalized experience.
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$150per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How hard is the Marcahuasi hike?
The difficulty depends on the route. The 'Short Trail' is steep and demanding. The 'Long Trail' is less steep and takes 3 to 4 hours, which is better for acclimatization.
What equipment should I pack for camping?
You need a warm sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C, a wind-resistant four-season tent, thermal layers, and sturdy hiking boots. A headlamp and high-calorie snacks are also necessary.
Are there guided tours from Lima?
Yes. You can book 2-day camping excursions or full-day 4x4 hiking trips from Lima. These typically include transport, a guide, and basic first aid equipment like oxygen.