Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days

Your Huchuy Qosqo trek begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We then travel to Tambomachay, where you will meet the guide, trekking chef, muleteers, and support team accompanying you through the mountains.

The hike starts with a steady ascent across the Cusco highlands. We will maintain a comfortable pace while climbing toward the first mountain pass, stopping along the way to rest and enjoy views of the surrounding valleys.

After lunch prepared by our trekking chef, the trail continues across open grasslands and rolling mountain terrain. This remote section offers a quiet introduction to the Andean landscape before we arrive at the Quencco campsite.

Our team will have the tents and dining area ready. After settling in, you can rest and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner beneath the Andean night sky.

Day 1 at a glance

• Starting elevation: 3,700 m (12,139 ft)
• Highest elevation: 4,100 m (13,451 ft)
• Walking distance: 14 km (8.6 miles)
• Hiking time: Approximately 6–7 hours
• Overnight: Mountain campsite at Quencco
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

The morning begins with a hot drink followed by breakfast at the campsite. We then continue across the highlands before starting the scenic descent toward Huchuy Qosqo.

Upon arrival, your guide will take you through the archaeological complex, including its agricultural terraces, stone structures, ceremonial spaces, and buildings constructed with stone and adobe. Its elevated position also provides panoramic views across the Sacred Valley.

After the guided visit, we follow the descending trail toward Lamay. Some sections are steep and uneven, so trekking poles are useful during this part of the hike.

Our private transportation will meet us in Lamay and take us through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. From there, we board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the evening available to rest before visiting Machu Picchu.

Day 2 at a glance

• Starting elevation: Approximately 3,600 m (11,811 ft)
• Highest elevation: Approximately 4,000 m (13,123 ft)
• Walking distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
• Hiking time: Approximately 5–6 hours
• Main attraction: Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site
• Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Difficulty: Moderate, with a prolonged descent

After breakfast, we take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The uphill journey normally takes approximately 25 minutes.

Inside the citadel, your professional guide will lead an approximately two-hour visit following the circuit assigned to your entrance ticket. You will learn about the history, construction, and cultural importance of Machu Picchu while visiting the principal areas available along your designated route.

After the guided tour, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes. You will have time to purchase lunch before boarding the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo.

Our driver will be waiting at the train station for the final transfer to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival is expected at approximately 7:00 p.m., although the exact time will depend on the confirmed train schedule and road conditions.

Day 3 at a glance

• Aguas Calientes elevation: Approximately 2,040 m (6,692 ft)
• Machu Picchu elevation: Approximately 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
• Guided visit: Approximately 2 hours
• Return transportation: Bus, train, and private vehicle
• Estimated arrival in Cusco: Approximately 7:00 p.m.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate