📋 At a Glance: Trek Facts

🌟 Why Choose This Trek? (Highlights)

• Epic Andean Landscapes: Traverse a dramatic landscape of snow-capped peaks (Apus), rolling green valleys, and mirror-like high-altitude lakes.
• The Hidden Gem: Explore Huchuy Qosqo, an archaeological masterpiece perched above the Sacred Valley. Admire the agricultural terraces and stone halls without the crowds found at other sites.
• Living Culture: Walk through remote communities where the Quechua lifestyle remains untouched. Witness traditional farming, weaving, and the daily rhythm of the Andes.
• Biodiversity: Trek through changing ecosystems filled with native wildflowers and Andean flora. Keep your camera ready for llamas and alpacas grazing freely along the path.
• The Grand Finale: Conclude your journey at Machu Picchu. After days of quiet trekking, the reveal of the ancient Inca Citadel is a moment you will never forget.

📅 Short Itinerary: 

Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Pucamarca
Start your trek with an early departure from Cusco, heading to the historic site of Tambomachay. Hike through scenic highlands and valleys, arriving at the peaceful village of Pucamarca for an evening amidst stunning mountain views.

Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Visit the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, enjoying incredible Sacred Valley views. Descend into the valley and travel to Ollantaytambo to board a train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll rest for the next day’s adventure.

Day 3: Machu Picchu
Explore the legendary Machu Picchu with a guide, marveling at its ancient architecture and history. After a memorable visit, return to Aguas Calientes and head back to Cusco, ending your 3-day journey.

Itinerary: Huchuy Qosqo Trek & Machu Picchu

Join our exclusive Huchuy Qosqo Trek & Machu Picchu Tour for an unforgettable journey through the Andes’ most enchanting sights. Please note: While we strive to adhere strictly to this itinerary, local conditions or unexpected challenges may occur; consider this schedule a flexible guide to your adventure.

Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Pucamarca

Theme: Ancient Water Cults, High Mountain Passes & The Puna Camp Elevation: 4,010 masl

Morning: The Water Temple and The Ascent Your exhilarating adventure begins with a hotel pickup at 7:00 AM. We leave the city behind for a scenic drive to Tambomachay (3,800 masl). Here, you will explore an ancient Inca temple dedicated to the water cult, famous for its precision stonework and ceremonial fountains that still flow today.

From here, the trek truly begins. We hike into the breathtaking Puna landscapes, traversing the Sicllaccasa Pass (4,020 masl). Keep your camera ready—this section captures the essence of the Andes, featuring hidden archaeological treasures and vibrant fields of quinoa.

Mid-Day: Peaks, Lakes, and Wildlife As we ascend toward the Queulloca Pass (4,185 masl), the horizon opens up to reveal a stunning panorama. You will be surrounded by the majestic snow-capped peaks of Veronica, Pitusiray, Sawasiray, and Chicon.

Below the peaks lies the tranquil Queullococha Lake. Tread significantly and keep an eye out for local wildlife; it is common to spot huallatas (Andean geese), wild ducks, and small fish in these pristine waters.

Afternoon: The Quarry and The Camp Scaling greater heights, we conquer the Challu Challu Pass (4,220 m) before reaching our highest lunch spot near the awe-inspiring Rumicruz Pass (4,230 masl). Here, we will refuel with a delicious, energy-boosting lunch.

Before descending, we visit the historic Inca Stone Quarry (4,220 masl). This site offers a fascinating connection to history, as it was the very source of the pink rocks used to construct the royal estate of Huchuy Qosqo.

As the sun begins to set over the mountains, we descend to the charming Pucamarca Community (4,010 masl). We will set up camp here for the night. Enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars, surrounded by the legends and silence of this mystical land.

🥾 Day 1 Trekking Facts

Day 2: Pucamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Aguas Calientes

Theme: Hidden Canyons, Royal Estates & The Train to the Jungle

Hotel Elevation: 2,040 masl (Aguas Calientes)

Morning: The Leon Punku Canyon & The Hidden Gem

Wake up to the fresh mountain air and enjoy a nourishing breakfast before we begin an invigorating descent. Our path takes us toward the spectacular Leon Punku Ravine (“Lion’s Gate”). Here, you will tread upon a genuine, well-preserved ancient Inca trail and cross a historic Inca bridge, connecting you directly to the past.

By mid-morning, we arrive at the archaeological complex of Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 masl). Perched high on a plateau, this “Little Cusco” offers commanding, awe-inspiring views of the Sacred Valley and the winding Urubamba River (Sacred River) far below. Your knowledgeable guide will lead a fascinating two-hour tour, revealing the history of this royal estate which served as a refuge for the Inca King Viracocha.

Afternoon: Descent to the Valley & The Scenic Train

After soaking in the history, we begin our final descent to the village of Lamay (2,800 masl). Here, our private transport will be waiting to whisk us away on a picturesque drive through the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station.

Board the train for a relaxing two-hour journey that is an experience in itself. As the train winds along the river, watch the landscape transform from high Andean peaks to lush cloud forest through panoramic windows.

Evening: Aguas Calientes & Rejuvenation

We arrive at the charming town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). After checking into your comfortable hotel, you have the evening at your leisure. We highly recommend soothing your trekking muscles in the town’s famous natural thermal baths, ensuring you are fully rejuvenated for the grand finale tomorrow.

🥾 Day 2 Trekking Facts

Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Theme: The Lost City, The Sunrise & The Return

Max Elevation: 2,430 masl (Machu Picchu)

Morning: The Grand Reveal

Today is the day you have been waiting for. We begin with an early breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the adventure. To witness the citadel at its quietest and beat the crowds, we aim to board the first buses at 5:30 AM.

• Note on Luggage: Most hotels in Aguas Calientes offer free luggage storage. We recommend leaving your main bags there and carrying only your daypack with essentials (water, camera, sun protection) to the ruins.

The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes, winding up the zig-zag Hiram Bingham Highway. For those with boundless energy who prefer a more active start, there is an option to hike up from the town to the entrance (approx. 1.5 hours) instead of taking the bus.

Mid-Day: Guided History & Exploration

Upon entering the sanctuary, your local guide will take you immediately to the prime viewpoints. Weather permitting, you will have the chance to capture that world-famous photograph of the sun casting its first rays over the Inca citadel.

Your guide will then lead a comprehensive 2.5-hour walking tour. You will explore the most significant sectors of this ancient marvel, learning about the engineering genius and spiritual significance of the Inca legacy.

Optional: Huayna Picchu Hike

For those who have pre-booked: After the guided tour, adventurers with a reservation will hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain ($75 per person). This steep, thrilling climb offers a bird’s-eye view of the ruins and takes about 2 hours round-trip. Please coordinate closely with your guide regarding timing.

Afternoon: The Seamless Return

After soaking in the magic of the Andes, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. To ensure a stress-free departure, we recommend leaving Machu Picchu at least 2 hours before your scheduled train.

You will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the final views of the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival at the station, our team will be waiting at the exit with private transport to drive you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your extraordinary journey.

🥾 Day 3 Logistics Facts

Huchuy Qosqo Trek: Inclusions & Details

Join our memorable three-day Huchuy Qosqo Trek with confidence. We provide a fully supported experience, ensuring that from your first step to your final view of Machu Picchu, your only focus is the adventure.

✅ What is Included?

🚙 Transportation & Logistics

• Door-to-Door Service: We begin with a hotel pickup (approx. 5:45 AM) in a private vehicle for a relaxing drive to the trailhead at Tambomachay.

• Transfers: Private transport from the trek end point (Lamay) to Ollantaytambo station.

• Scenic Train: Expedition Service train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (Upgrade to Vistadome available upon request).

• The Return: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private bus transfer directly back to your hotel in Cusco.

• Machu Picchu Buses: Round-trip bus tickets (Consettur) from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu citadel and back.

👨‍🌾 Professional Team & Safety

• Expert Guide: An experienced, English-speaking guide to share local insights, history, and ensure your safety throughout the route.

• Trekking Chef: A dedicated chef to prepare fresh, nutritious meals in our mobile kitchen tent.

• Pack Horses & Porters: Horses to carry all camping equipment, food, and cooking gear.

• Personal Luggage Allowance: We provide a duffle bag for your personal belongings (up to 4 kg/9 lbs per person) which will be carried by our horses, allowing you to hike with just a light daypack.

• Safety First: A full first-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank are carried by the team at all times.

⛺ Camping & Accommodation

• High-Quality Gear: Spacious 4-season tents (double occupancy) designed for mountain conditions.

• Sleeping Comfort: A comfortable foam roll mattress or Therm-a-rest is provided to ensure a good night’s sleep under the stars.

• Camp Facilities: A dining tent equipped with tables and chairs for cozy meals, plus a kitchen tent for the chef.

• Hygiene: Warm water provided in bowls for washing up at the start and end of each trekking day.

• Hotel Stay: One night in a comfortable Hotel/Hostel in Aguas Calientes (Day 2), featuring a private double room and en-suite bathroom.

🍽️ Meals & Nutrition

• Full Board: Nutritious meals prepared fresh on the mountain, including 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 2 Dinners.

• Hydration: Boiled and cooled water is available to refill your personal water bottles (morning, lunch, and evening) upon request.

🎟️ Permits & Tours

• Huchuy Qosqo Entry: Entrance fees to the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site.

• Machu Picchu: Official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu citadel.

• Guided Tour: A comprehensive 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 3.

❌ What is Not Included?

While we cover the essentials, there are a few out-of-pocket expenses to plan for:

• First Breakfast: Breakfast on Day 1 is not included (usually provided by your Cusco hotel before pickup).

• Final Meals: Lunch and Dinner on Day 3 (in Aguas Calientes) are at your own expense. Expect to spend approx. $15–$20 USD per meal.

• Sleeping Bag: Hiking sleeping bags are not included but can be rented from us if you do not have your own.

• Hot Springs: Optional entrance to the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes (approx. $6 USD / 20 Soles).

• Huayna Picchu Hike: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked months in advance).

• Tips: Gratuities for the guide, chef, and horsemen are not included and are at your discretion.

Huchuy Qosqo Trek: Pricing & Departure Details

Flexible scheduling, transparent costs, and daily departures.

We are excited to accommodate your preferred travel dates! Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a group of friends seeking adventure, we have a pricing option to fit your needs.

🗓️ Daily Departures

We operate this trek every day of the year (except February, during trail maintenance), provided we have a minimum of 2 participants. Just let us know your preferred start date, and we will make it happen.

🎒 Standard Group Service

Join a small group of like-minded travelers. This is our most popular option, balancing social interaction with personal attention.

Price: US$ 550.00 per person

✨ The “7kg” Advantage:

Unlike many other operators, our price includes a 7kg (15 lbs) Personal Porter.

• What this means: You only carry a light daypack (water, camera, sunscreen). Our horses/porters will carry up to 7kg of your personal gear (clothing, sleeping bag, toiletries) to the campsite for you.

💎 Private Service Options

For those seeking exclusivity, a flexible pace, and a more intimate experience with their own guide and team, our Private Service is the perfect choice. The price is determined by the size of your group—the more friends you bring, the lower the cost per person.

🤝 Why Choose Our Private Service?

• Your Pace: Walk as fast or as slow as you like; the schedule revolves around you.

• Privacy: Enjoy the dining tent and camping experience exclusively with your friends or family.

• Focus: Your guide is 100% focused on your specific interests and needs.

📝 Important Booking Notes

• Group Size: Our Huchuy Qosqo Trek is designed for intimate groups to ensure a high quality of service.

• Solo Travelers: If you are traveling alone, please contact us! We can often pair you with an existing group to open a departure date.

• Student Discounts: Do you have a valid Student ID? Ask us about our student discount rates at the time of booking!

Essential Information: Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Preparation is the key to a successful adventure. Here is everything you need to know about logistics, health, and what to expect before you step onto the trail.

✈️ Arriving in Cusco

The Gateway to the Andes Most travelers arrive by plane. Please note that Cusco’s airport (CUZ) currently handles domestic flights only.

• The Lima Connection: Even if you book a through-ticket internationally, you must clear customs in Lima, pick up your bags, and re-check them for your domestic flight to Cusco.

• Airline Choice: We recommend LATAM Airlines for the most reliability. While they may be slightly more expensive, they have the most frequent flights and better options for rebooking in case of weather delays.

• By Bus: For those with extra time, the bus from Lima to Cusco is a scenic 20+ hour journey. However, to maximize your time in the Sacred Valley, we strongly recommend flying.

📝 The Pre-Trek Briefing

Meet Your Team & Get Ready When: 6:00 PM the evening before your trek. Where: Your Hotel or our Office (confirmed upon arrival).

This is a mandatory (and exciting!) session. You will meet your guide, receive your duffel bag for the trek, and review the final itinerary details. This is the perfect time to ask last-minute questions, check your gear, and get mentally prepared for the adventure.

🎒 Luggage & The “Duffel Bag” System

We have a two-part system to handle your luggage so you can hike comfortably.

1. Excess Luggage Storage (Left Behind) You cannot take your large suitcases on the trek.

• Where does it go? You can store excess luggage safely at your hotel in Cusco (most provide this service for free) or at our office.

• Safety: Your belongings will remain secure until you return from Machu Picchu.

2. The Trekking Duffel Bag (Carried by Horses) At the briefing, we provide you with a duffel bag.

• Weight Limit: 7 kg (15.4 lbs) maximum. This includes your sleeping bag and air mattress.

• How it works: Our horsemen/porters will carry this bag from campsite to campsite. You will not have access to this bag while hiking. You will only see it when you arrive at camp in the evening.

• What goes in here: Sleeping bag, change of clothes, toiletries, camp shoes.

• What you carry: A small daypack with water, sunscreen, rain jacket, camera, and snacks.

🏔️ Understanding Altitude (Soroche)

Acclimatization is Key The Huchuy Qosqo trek reaches altitudes of over 4,200 meters (13,779 ft). The air is thinner here, and your body needs time to adjust.

• The Golden Rule: We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek begins.

• Prevention Tips:

  • Hydrate: Drink more water than usual.

  • Diet: Eat light meals for the first few days.

  • Avoid: Alcohol, smoking, and sleeping pills, as these inhibit oxygen absorption.

  • Medication: Consult your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox) or Dexamethasone before you travel.

• Symptoms: If you feel persistent headaches, nausea, or extreme fatigue, inform us immediately. Our guides are trained to handle altitude issues and carry oxygen for emergencies.

🌦️ Weather & Gear Strategy

Expect the Unexpected The Andes are famous for having “four seasons in one day.”

• Dry Season (April – October): generally sunny days, but nights can drop below freezing.

• Wet Season (November – March): Warmer nights, but rain is frequent.

The Layering Strategy: Regardless of the month, you must dress in layers.

1. Base: Moisture-wicking shirt.

2. Mid: Fleece or sweater.

3. Outer: Waterproof jacket/poncho (essential) and windbreaker.

4. Camp: A warm down jacket and beanie for the cold evenings.

🛡️ Travel Insurance

Peace of Mind Trekking in the Andes involves physical activity in remote areas. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance.

• What to look for: Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, evacuation (up to 4,000m), trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

• In the event of illness or an unexpected event, insurance protects your financial investment and ensures you get the best medical care without delay.

Frequently Asked Questions: Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Got questions? We have answers. Here is everything you need to know about preparing for this incredible journey to Machu Picchu.

🏔️ About the Trek & Experience

Q: What exactly is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek? A: The Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco) Trek is a unique three-day adventure that takes you off the beaten path. Unlike the crowded Classic Inca Trail, this route traverses picturesque Andean landscapes, hidden canyons, and the impressive Huchuy Qosqo archaeological complex. It is the perfect blend of nature and history, culminating in a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.

Q: Why do I need a guide? Can’t I go alone? A: While the trail is physically there, a certified guide transforms the experience. We highly recommend (and provide) professional guides to ensure your safety in the remote mountains. Beyond safety, they unlock the secrets of the landscape—sharing deep knowledge of Inca history, local traditions, and the ecology of the Andes that you would miss on your own.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see? A: The route meanders through diverse ecosystems, acting as a living nature reserve. You will frequently see herds of llamas and alpacas grazing on the hillsides. If you are lucky and look up, you might spot the majestic Andean Condor gliding on thermal currents. The trail is also lined with native flora, from resilient high-altitude cacti to vibrant wildflowers.

Q: Will I experience local culture? A: Absolutely. This is one of the most culturally immersive treks available. Because the route passes through inhabited communities, you will witness authentic Andean life. You will see locals working the land, weaving textiles, and maintaining traditions that have survived for centuries—offering a connection that goes far beyond standard tourism.

🥾 Preparation & Difficulty

Q: How difficult is the trek? What fitness level do I need? A: We classify this trek as Moderate. While you do not need to be an Olympic athlete, you should be in good health and reasonably fit. The trail includes steep ascents, descents, and varied terrain that can be challenging.

• Preparation Tip: We recommend engaging in cardiovascular activities (walking, running, cycling) in the weeks leading up to your trip to build stamina.

   

Q: How does altitude affect the trek? A: Altitude is the biggest challenge on this route, with passes reaching 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). At this elevation, oxygen is thinner.

• How to manage it: The key is acclimatization. We strongly advise spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco (or a similar elevation) before starting the trek. Drink plenty of water, ascend gradually, and listen to your body.

Q: What is the best time of year to go? A: The ideal time is during the Dry Season (May through September). During these months, you can expect clear blue skies, sunnier days, and spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks.

• Shoulder Season: April and October are also excellent choices; you may encounter a shower or two, but you will be rewarded with greener landscapes and fewer crowds.

🎒 Gear & Essentials

Q: What are the absolute essentials to pack? A: While we provide a detailed packing list, your “must-haves” include:

• Footwear: High-quality, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.
• Clothing: Layers are essential. Waterproof jacket/pants for rain, and warm fleece/down for the cold evenings.
• Hydration: A reusable water bottle or CamelBak.
• Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (the sun is strong at altitude).
• Extras: A walking stick is highly recommended for the steep downhill sections to protect your knees.

3-Day Huchuy Qosqo trek & Machu Picchu Map