Huchuy Qosqo Trek To Machu Picchu 3D/2N

Tour Highlights

• Unique Route into the Sacred Valley –
  Hike from Cusco to the Sacred Valley along ancient Inca paths, far from the crowds
  and bus-only tours.
• Hidden Inca City –
  Explore the monumental Huchuy Qosqo ruins with terraces, temples, storehouses, and
  advanced water channels overlooking the valley.
• Immersive Andean Culture –
  Walk through remote villages, see llamas and alpacas along the trail, and meet local
  families who still live by traditional customs.
• Pachamanca Feast –
  Enjoy a special Pachamanca barbecue—meats and vegetables slow-cooked under hot stones,
  just as the Incas did.
• Scenic Camps & Starry Skies –
  Camp in Pukamarca at 3,800 m with wide open views, crisp mountain air, and a sky
  full of stars.
• Machu Picchu Finale –
  Finish your journey at Machu Picchu, arriving early to explore before the biggest crowds
  and capture stunning photos.
• Comfortable Logistics –
  Horses carry your main luggage, you carry only a daypack; at the end, relax in a cozy
  hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Socially Responsible Travel –
  By booking this trek, you help support our ongoing
  social projects
  in Andean communities.
• Flexible & Secure Booking –
  Low deposit, flexible balance payments, and the option to pay online with no hidden
  booking fees.

Turn a short trip from Cusco into three unforgettable days of landscapes, culture,
and Inca history—ending at Machu Picchu.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 | Cusco – Tambomachay – Koricocha – Pukamarca (3,800 m)

Distance: 13 km / 8.1 mi •
Hiking Time: ~7 h •
Campsite Altitude: 3,800 m

Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (around 07:00) and short drive
(20 minutes) to Tambomachay, the starting point of your trek. Begin with a steady
4-hour ascent across open puna grasslands to reach Koricocha Lake, where you’ll enjoy
a freshly prepared lunch with mountain views.

In the afternoon, continue hiking for about 3 hours through rolling hills, local
communities, and herds of llamas and alpacas until you reach the scenic village of
Pukamarca (3,800 m). Your camp will be ready on arrival with hot drinks, snacks,
and a hearty dinner.
Fall asleep under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the silence of the Andes.

• Campsite altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
• Distance: 13 km / 8.1 mi
• Duration: ~7 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping (Eureka tents)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2 | Pukamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Distance: 8 km / 5 mi •
Hiking Time: ~7 h •
Overnight Altitude: 2,000 m

Wake up with a hot drink in your tent and a nourishing breakfast before starting a
gentle 2-hour descent through a narrow canyon and ancient Inca trail towards Huchuy
Qosqo. Explore this impressive archaeological site with your guide: agricultural
terraces, ceremonial plazas, storehouses, and sweeping views of the Sacred Valley below.

From Huchuy Qosqo, hike for about 1 hour down to Lamay, where you’ll enjoy a
traditional Pachamanca lunch cooked under hot stones. After lunch, drive to
Ollantaytambo for an early dinner and board the train to Aguas Calientes. Your hotel
is just a short walk from the station.
Rest well tonight—tomorrow is Machu Picchu.

• Town altitude (Aguas Calientes):
  2,000 m / 6,562 ft
• Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
• Duration: ~7 hours (hiking + site visits)
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Difficulty: Easy–moderate

Day 3 | Machu Picchu – Optional Hikes – Cusco

Tour Time: 3–4 h guided tour •
Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (add-on)

Start the day with an early bus up to Machu Picchu, aiming to arrive for the soft
morning light and fewer visitors. Enjoy a 2–3-hour guided tour exploring terraces,
temples, plazas, and sacred viewpoints while your guide brings the citadel’s history
to life.

If you’ve pre-booked, you can hike
Huayna Picchu (about 2 hours round trip) or
Machu Picchu Mountain (about 3 hours round trip) for spectacular
panoramic views. Later, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch
(not included), and board the Vistadome panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, where your
private transport will be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco.

• Tour duration at Machu Picchu:
  3–4 hours (approx.)
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
• Difficulty: Easy
  (optional hikes are more demanding)

Everything That’s Covered

• Airport transfers on request (Cusco)
• Pre-departure briefing in Cusco
• Professional native tour guide(s)
• Second guide for groups of 9+ travelers
• Hotel pick-up in Cusco
• All transportation during the 3 days (bus, train, private transfers)
• Trekking chef, porters, and horsemen
• Emergency horse for tired or injured hikers
• Horses to carry food, camping equipment, and up to 7 kg of your
  personal gear in a duffel bag
• Duffle bag (7 kg personal allowance)
• 1 night comfortable camping + 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, plus snacks and tea time
• Boiled drinking water provided during trekking days
• Snacks, hot drinks, and hot water for washing
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free menus available on request
• Eureka tents (4-person tents used for 2 travelers)
• Sleeping mattress, pillows, blankets, and hot water bottles at camp
• Comfortable camping equipment + private portable toilets
• First-aid kit, oxygen, and satellite phone for emergencies
• Entrance tickets to Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu
• Round-trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu
• Vistadome panoramic train from Aguas Calientes back toward Cusco

Price & Add-Ons

Standard Group Price

Price per person: USD $490

To book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, make an initial payment of $200 per person. The
remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or in Cusco with any credit
card—no booking fees.

Discounts

• Student Discount: Travelers under 17 receive $40 off.
• Travelers 25 or under may receive the discount with a valid student ID
  (ISIC or university card).

Optional Add-Ons

• Huayna Picchu Mountain:
  +$75 per person (approx. 2-hour round trip; must book early).
• Machu Picchu Mountain:
  +$75 per person (approx. 3-hour round trip; must book early).
• Sleeping-bag rental, hiking poles, and inflatable mattress: available on request.

Deposit: $200 pp secures your spot •
Balance: flexible payment options before arrival or in Cusco •
Booking Fees: 0% when paying online through our secure system.

Smart Packing Guide

Horses carry up to 7 kg in your duffel; you carry only a small daypack. Pack
light, layer smart, and be ready for sun, wind, and cool Andean nights.

Essentials

• Passport (required to enter Machu Picchu and for train tickets)
• Small daypack (20–30 L) with rain cover
• Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots
• Light sneakers or sandals for camp and Aguas Calientes
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (minimum 1.5–2 L)
• Sleeping bag suitable for around 0 °C to –5 °C (or rental)
• Trekking poles with rubber tips (can be rented)

Clothing Layers

• 2–3 moisture-wicking T-shirts or base layers
• 1 pair of thermal leggings or base-layer bottoms
• 1–2 pairs of comfortable trekking pants (quick-dry)
• Fleece or light down jacket for cold evenings
• Waterproof / windproof shell jacket
• Waterproof pants or rain poncho
• Warm hat, buff or neck gaiter, and light gloves
• Sun hat or cap
• 3 pairs of trekking socks (preferably wool or synthetic)

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap or wipes
• Small quick-dry towel
• High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent (especially in Machu Picchu area)
• Personal medications and basic first-aid (blister care, painkillers)
• Hand sanitizer and tissues

Extras

• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Camera or smartphone with charger / power bank
• Plastic bags or dry sacks to keep clothes and electronics dry
• Soles cash for tipping, snacks, and local purchases
• Swimsuit if you plan to visit hot springs in Aguas Calientes

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek and where does it end?

The trek is 3 days and 2 nights. You hike for two days from Cusco to Huchuy Qosqo and
then travel by train to Aguas Calientes. The final day is spent at Machu Picchu before
returning to Cusco in the evening.

How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

This is considered a moderate trek. You hike up to 13 km on the longest day with
some steady ascents and descents. Previous hiking experience is helpful but not
essential; a basic level of fitness and a couple of days of acclimatization in Cusco
are highly recommended.

What is the maximum altitude?

The highest point of the trek is around 3,800 m / 12,467 ft near Pukamarca.
This is lower than the highest passes on other treks, but you may still feel the
effects of altitude. Walking at a steady pace, staying hydrated, and following your
guide’s advice will help.

Where do we sleep during the trek?

On Night 1 you sleep in a comfortable campsite at Pukamarca in spacious tents with
sleeping mattress, pillows, and blankets. On Night 2 you sleep in a 3-star hotel in
Aguas Calientes with private bathroom and hot shower.

Can you accommodate special diets?

Yes. We can cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary
requirements at no extra cost. Please let us know your needs when booking so we can
plan your meals accordingly.

What should I do with my extra luggage?

Any luggage you don’t need on the trek can be safely stored for you in Cusco. You’ll
carry only a daypack; the rest of your gear (up to 7 kg) goes on horseback in a
provided duffel bag.

Do I need to book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance?

Yes. Both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain have limited daily permits and often
sell out quickly during high season. If you want to add one of these hikes, please
request it when you reserve your trek so we can secure your spot.

What safety and hygiene measures do you follow?

We keep groups small, regularly sanitize equipment and vehicles, provide hand
sanitizer, and carry a full first-aid kit with oxygen and a satellite phone. Our team
is trained in first aid and emergency protocols to keep you safe throughout the trek.

When is the best time to do this trek?

The dry season (April to October) offers the clearest skies and best trail conditions.
The rainy season (November to March) has fewer people and greener landscapes, but you
should be prepared for showers and muddy sections.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 2–3 months in advance for high season (May–September),
especially if you want to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. For low season,
1–2 months is usually enough, but earlier is always better for train and hotel
availability.

How to Book Your Huchuy Qosqo Trek

1. Check your dates:
   Click Book Online on our website to view real-time availability for the
   Huchuy Qosqo Trek.
2. Choose your group details:
   Select the number of travelers (Adult / Student), choose your preferred room type
   in Aguas Calientes, and add any optional hikes (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu
   Mountain).
3. Secure your spot:
   Pay a USD $200 deposit per person to confirm your booking. You can
   choose to pay the remaining balance online in installments or in Cusco by card—no
   booking fees.
4. Share your information:
   Complete the passenger form with passport details, contact information (including
   WhatsApp), and your hotel in Cusco so we can coordinate pick-up.
5. Receive confirmation:
   You’ll get a detailed confirmation email with your itinerary, packing tips, and
   important information for your trek.
6. Get ready to hike:
   Attend the pre-departure briefing in Cusco, meet your guide, and ask any
   last-minute questions before setting off into the Sacred Valley.

Reserve today with a small deposit and let us handle the rest—you just show up ready
to enjoy Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu.