Patabamba Trek: 2 Days to Huchuy Qosqo

Trek Snapshot

• Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night (Option to extend to Machu Picchu)
• Difficulty: Moderate (Due to altitude and steep sections)
• Starting/Ending Point: Cusco Hotel
• Tour Type: Adventure, Cultural, and Historical
• Departure: Daily (Private and Group Services available)
• Max Altitude: 4,200m (13,779 ft) at Pukamarka Pass

Difficulty & Acclimatization

The Patabamba Trek is rated Moderate. While the trail does not require technical climbing skills, the challenge lies in the altitude. You will be hiking above 3,800m (12,400 ft) for most of the journey, peaking at the Pukamarka Pass (4,200m).

• Preparation: We strongly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize.

• Terrain: Expect a mix of gradual ascents, high pampas (grassy plains), and a steep, zig-zagging descent into Lamay on Day 2.

Best Time to Go

This trek runs year-round, but the experience varies by season:

• Dry Season (May – September): The most popular time. Expect sunny days, clear spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks, and cold nights.

• Shoulder Season (April & October): Fewer crowds and pleasant weather, though occasional showers are possible.

• Wet Season (November – March): The landscape is lush and green, but rain gear is essential.

Trek Highlights

• The Balcony of the Sacred Valley: Walk along ridges offering the best panoramic views of the Sacred Valley below.

• Huchuy Qosqo Ruins: Explore the “Little Cusco,” an ancient estate of the Inca Wiracocha.

• Homestay Experience: Sleep in a comfortable local lodge and cook dinner with a Quechua family.

• Siwa & Pukamarka Passes: Conquer high-altitude passes surrounded by native straw grass and stone formations.

• Leon Punku: Trek through the dramatic “Lion’s Gate” ravine, a geological wonder.

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo We depart Cusco at 6:30 AM for a scenic drive to the community of Patabamba (3,800m). From here, we begin our hike through the Siwa Pass and Pukamarka, enjoying lunch amidst Inca ruins. We traverse the spectacular Leon Punku ravine before arriving at Huchuy Qosqo. We spend the night in a local homestay/lodge, enjoying a family-style dinner.

Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Cusco (or Connection to Machu Picchu) We start with a guided tour of the impressive Huchuy Qosqo archaeological complex. After exploring, we descend a zigzag trail to the village of Lamay in the valley floor.

• Trek Only Option: Private transport returns you to Cusco by late afternoon.

• Machu Picchu Option: Transfer to Ollantaytambo to catch the train to Aguas Calientes for the next day’s visit to the Citadel.

Detailed Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Ccorao – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo

The Adventure Begins We begin with a 6:30 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. A scenic 1.5-hour private bus ride takes us through the mountains to the Patabamba community (3,800m / 12,464 ft), famous for its high-quality textiles.

The Hike Our trek starts with a gradual ascent towards the Siwa Pass, which we reach after approximately two hours. From there, we hike another 45 minutes to the Siwa community before pushing upward to the Pukamarka Pass (4,200m / 13,779 ft). Along this ridge, you are treated to awe-inspiring views of snow-capped giants: La Veronica, Pitusiray, Chicón, and San Juan. We descend briefly to the Pukamarka ruins for a delicious lunch surrounded by the native vegetation of the Andes.

The Canyon & The Ruins Post-lunch, we enter the mystical Leon Punku (Lion’s Gate) ravine. This narrow canyon features dramatic rock formations and remnants of ancient Inca trails. As the canyon opens up, we arrive at the magnificent terraces of Huchuy Qosqo.

The Homestay We settle into a cozy lodge run by a local family near the archaeological site. This is a highlight of the trip: you will have the chance to engage with the family, help prepare a traditional dinner, and learn about their heritage. Enjoy comfortable beds and private bathrooms for a restful night.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Local Homestay / Lodge
• Max Altitude: 4,200 masl (13,779 ft)
• Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
• Distance: 14 km

Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Return to Cusco

Exploring History We wake up early (07:00 AM) to enjoy breakfast with views of the Sacred Valley. We then enter the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site. Your guide will provide a comprehensive tour of the temples, storehouses (Colcas), and the impressive three-story hall built by Inca Wiracocha. You will have ample free time to explore and take photos.

The Descent Around mid-morning, we begin our descent toward the town of Lamay situated on the banks of the Urubamba River. This section is steep and scenic, taking approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Lamay, we enjoy a final lunch together.

The Conclusion

• For Trek-Only Guests: Our private transport will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving approximately at 4:30 PM.
• For Machu Picchu Guests: You will be transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel (Plan continues to Day 3).
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Max Altitude: 3,800 masl (12,467 ft)
• Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
• Distance: 12 km

What is Included?

Transportation & Logistics

• Private Transport: Pick-up from Cusco hotel to Patabamba (Day 1) and transport from Lamay back to Cusco (Day 2).

• Machu Picchu Extension Only: Transport from Lamay to Ollantaytambo, round-trip Expedition Train (Ollantaytambo-Aguas Calientes), and bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu.

• Safety: First Aid Kit and Emergency Oxygen Bottle carried by the guide.

Accommodation

• Day 1: 1 Night in a comfortable local lodge/homestay at Huchuy Qosqo (Private bathrooms, hot water).

• Machu Picchu Extension Only: 1 Night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Team & Meals

• Professional Guide: English-speaking, medically trained guide (2 guides for groups of 8+).

• All Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners (prepared by professional trekking chefs). Vegetarian/Vegan options available.

• Hydration: Boiled water provided for refilling bottles.

Permits & Fees

• Huchuy Qosqo: Entrance fee to the archaeological site.

• Machu Picchu Extension Only: Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Citadel.

What is Excluded?

• Breakfast Day 1: Please eat at your hotel before pickup.

• Final Dinner: (Or Lunch/Dinner on Day 3 if extending to Machu Picchu).

• Huayna Picchu Hike: Optional extra hike at Machu Picchu (US$75, must book in advance).

• Sleeping Bag: Not required for the lodge, but brings extra warmth if preferred.

• Tips: Gratuities for the guide and support staff are appreciated.

Essential Packing List

To ensure a comfortable adventure, we recommend packing light but smart.

Gear & Clothing

• Daypack: 25-30L backpack for essentials.

• Footwear: Broken-in, sturdy hiking boots with ankle support.

• Outerwear: Waterproof rain jacket or sturdy poncho (weather is unpredictable).

• Layers: Warm fleece/down jacket, trekking pants (zip-off are great), thermal base layers for the night.

• Accessories: Sun hat, wool beanie, scarf, and warm gloves.

Personal Items

• Hydration: Reusable water bottle (2L capacity recommended).

• Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm.

• Hygiene: Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, small towel, and wet wipes.

• Electronics: Headlamp (flashlight) with extra batteries, camera, and portable power bank.

• First Aid: Personal medication, band-aids/moleskin for blisters, insect repellent.

• Cash: Peruvian Soles for snacks, tips, or souvenirs.

Pricing Options

Choose the experience that fits your schedule.

Option 1: Patabamba Trek Only (2 Days)

Perfect for those who have already visited Machu Picchu or are short on time. Price: US$380 per person

Option 2: Patabamba Trek + Machu Picchu (3 Days)

Extend your adventure to include a night in Aguas Calientes and a visit to the Citadel. Price: US$595 per person

Private Service Rates (Trek Only)

Enjoy a personalized experience with your own guide and private transport.

• 2 People: US$520 pp

• 3–5 People: US$460 pp

• 6+ People: US$450 pp

Note: We can schedule a new departure date to match your preferred schedule. Minimum 2 participants required.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How difficult is the Patabamba Trek? This trek is rated Moderate. While the distances are manageable, the altitude (reaching 4,200m) makes it challenging. There are some steep ascents on Day 1 and a steep descent on Day 2. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for at least 2 days prior.

2. Do I need a sleeping bag? For the standard itinerary, we stay in a local lodge/homestay with beds and blankets. However, it can get very cold at night. If you tend to get cold easily, bringing a sleeping bag liner or a light sleeping bag is a good idea for extra warmth.

3. What is the difference between the “Trek Only” and “With Machu Picchu” options?

• Trek Only: Ends on Day 2. After the hike to Lamay, we drive you back to your hotel in Cusco.

• With Machu Picchu: On Day 2, instead of returning to Cusco, we drive you to the train station. You sleep in Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu on Day 3, returning to Cusco that evening.

4. Is there electricity at the lodge? Yes, the lodges at Huchuy Qosqo generally have electricity for charging devices, but it can be unreliable during storms. Bringing a portable power bank is highly recommended.

5. What is the bathroom situation? The homestay/lodge on the first night has flush toilets and running water. On the trail, nature calls!

6. Can I hike Huayna Picchu? If you choose the “With Machu Picchu” option, yes. However, Huayna Picchu permits sell out months in advance and cost an additional US$75. You must request this at the time of booking.