On this trek, we will admire the pristine Can Can lagoon, beautiful waterfalls, and smaller alpine tarns formed by seasonal rains. The peaceful ascent is dominated by the imposing presence of Apu Pitusiray, one of the most significant sacred mountains in the Sacred Valley. Revered as an ancestral guardian and a symbolic source of water, this sacred site channels an energy of profound calm, warmth, and deep connection with nature high above the province of Calca.
- Difficulty level: High-to-intermediate
- Altitude: 4,100 to 4,500 meters (13,451 to 14,763 feet)
- Hiking time: 6.5 hours
- Departure time: 6:30 AM
- Return time: 5:00 PM
Itinerary:
We will depart from Calca’s main square at 6:30 AM via private transportation, arriving at the trailhead around 7:00 AM. Before starting our hike, we will share a local breakfast and perform a traditional Andean permission ritual using coca leaves to bless and protect our path, connecting ourselves right from the start with the energy of the mountain.
We will begin our trek pacing ourselves along high-altitude trails, opening our senses to connect with the environment: the rustle of the wind, flowing stream water, mountain birds, and the absolute silence of the Andes. Along the way, we will traverse wide landscapes blanketed in ichu grass and open ravines with stunning valley views. We will reach Can Can lagoon between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM, taking a well-deserved break to contemplate the pristine water mirror and absorb the tranquility of the area.
Afterward, we will continue our ascent up the trail for approximately two and a half hours until we reach the base of the sacred mountain. In this majestic setting, we will perform an offering ceremony to Pachamama (Mother Earth) in gratitude for our journey, for life, and for all future path-making. We will then share a light snack surrounded by the immense and quiet beauty of the Andean landscape.
Following a period of rest and contemplation, we will begin our descent along the same trail, enjoying the changing afternoon views over the lagoon and mountain peaks. Finally, our private transportation will take us back to Calca, arriving at approximately 5:00 PM.
Includes:
- Hotel pick-up and private transportation (Calca–Trailhead–Calca)
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) throughout the entire trek
- 1 local breakfast at the trailhead
- 1 light snack / refreshment in the mountains
- 1 ancestral offering ceremony to Pachamama
Does not include:
- Lunch
- Tips
- Personal expenses not mentioned in the itinerary