The first day of the Huchuy Qosqo Trek begins with pickup in Cusco and transfer to the Inca site of Puca Pucara.
The hike ascends to a pass at 4,100 meters, with panoramic views of Cusco and the surrounding valleys.
The guide explains Inca history and the arrival of the Spanish while walking through Andean landscapes.
The trail continues toward Lake Queullacocha, surrounded by high Andean puna and local fauna.
Then it descends along the shores of Lake Qoricocha until reaching the village of Quencco, where the camp is set up.
There, time is shared with local families to learn about their Andean way of life.
On the second day, the walk heads toward the Inca complex of Huchuy Qosqo along sections of the ancient Inca Trail.
The landscape changes to a fertile valley with abundant vegetation and views of snow-capped mountains.
At Huchuy Qosqo, visitors explore temples, agricultural terraces, and Inca reservoirs.
Afterward, the descent continues to the Sacred Valley down to Lamay and then on to Ollantaytambo.
At night, travelers take the train to Aguas Calientes to rest.
On the third day, Machu Picchu is visited at sunrise and a guided tour of the citadel is conducted.
Optionally, one can hike up to Huayna Picchu or to the Sun Gate.
Finally, return is made to Aguas Calientes and then to Cusco, concluding the experience.
To begin your Huchuy Qosqo Trek, we pick you up from your hotel at 6 a.m. and take you to the Inca site called Puca Pucara (3,700 meters). It is only 20 minutes from the city of Cusco. We will begin hiking gently, uphill for an hour and a half until we get to the first pass (4,100 meters), where we’ll have spectacular views of two valleys. To your right, you will see the capital of the Incas, Cusco, with stunning mountains surrounding it. Your tour guide will tell you about how and where the Incas arrived to this area, and about the conquest of the Spaniards. There are two Inca sites at the bottom of the valley and on your left, there will be a beautiful landscape of mountains and farmlands. From the pass, we will follow along the side of the valley, making our way towards the top, to cross over to the other side. It’s about a 45 minute walk to the top end of the valley. Once we get there, we’ll cross a small stream that divides the valley, and begin making our way to our lunch spot, at Queullacocha Lake. The scenery at the lake is quite barren because the whole area is a high puna between the mountains, and is covered with tough, Andean grass, called Ichu. It may be possible to see a variety of bird life, such as Andean Geese, Lapwings, Partridges, among others.
You will be awakened with a cup of hot coca tea. When you are packed, we will enjoy a tasty breakfast. We begin our walk from Quencco to the Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo. After about two hours of walking, we will reach a stretch of the original Inca Trail, just below the village of Pumamarca. Along the way, we’ll pass by many local people who will be tending to their llamas. Once we reach the Inca Trail, the scenery changes from the high mountains to a secluded valley. This valley is a beautiful micro-climate, full of lush vegetation. There are many small birds that can be seen, including a variety of hummingbirds that feed off of the flowers. As we make our way down the valley, we will be able to see snow-capped mountains and the famous Urubamba mountain range. There will be ample time to take advantage of the many picturesque vistas.
Machu Picchu is the most important part of our trip. We suggest waking up wake to get on one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. These buses are all first come, first serve and begin at 5:30 a.m. Once we get up to the citadel, your tour guide will bring you to a great spot to watch the sunrise over the mountains, weather permitting. Following, you will begin your two hour tour around the complex. After you tour, you will have some time to wander on your own through these ancient ruins (with the options of climbing Huayna Picchu – (this is a separate entrance ticket and costs $75 per person), or climb up to the Sun Gate. Both options have breathtaking views. After you have taken in all of Macchu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes on your own by park buses, and enjoy some lunch in the town, before boarding your train to Ollantaytambo. Once you arrive, you will board a bus and return to Cusco at approximately 8 p.m.
The trek is considered moderate. It includes uphill hiking on the first day (reaching 4,100 m / 13,451 ft) and downhill sections afterward. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
No, prior experience is not required, but it is helpful. This trek is a great option for beginners with good physical condition.
The highest point is 4,100 meters (13,451 ft) on the first day.
Yes, it is highly recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco before starting the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
All meals during the trek are included and freshly prepared. You will enjoy local and nutritious dishes, with vegetarian options available upon request.
Yes, the tour includes entrance to Machu Picchu, as well as train and bus transportation according to the itinerary.
No, the entrance to Huayna Picchu is not included. It requires an additional ticket (approximately $75 USD) and must be booked in advance.
Yes, you will visit and interact with local families in Quencco, learning about traditional Andean lifestyle and culture.
Essential items include:
Yes, you should carry only a small daypack, as this is a light trek without pack animals included.
The tour includes:
The trek runs in most weather conditions. Proper gear (especially rain protection) is essential. In extreme cases, guides will prioritize safety.
No, tips are optional, but appreciated for guides and staff.
This experience combines:
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