Huchuy Qosqo means little Cusco in Quechua. It is an Incan ruin perched on a hilltop overlooking the Sacred Valley of Incas. This was a royal estate of the eighth emperor of the Inca empire, Viracocha.
Unlike Salkantay Trek or Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Huchuy Qosqo Peru Trek to Machu Picchu is not as popular. Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu offers an off the beaten track experience. This is the shortest trek to Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Qosqo means little Cusco in Quechua. It is an Incan ruin perched on a hilltop overlooking the Sacred Valley of Incas. This was a royal estate of the eighth emperor of the Inca empire, Viracocha.
The Incas did not impose a tax system, instead, they controlled the land and labor. This allowed the Incan emperors to obtain a large amount of wealth and power which was inherited by their descendants.
Later during Viracocha’s rule, he faced a revolt from the Chanca people. He took refuge in Huchuy Qosqo and handed over the throne of the Cusco region to his son, Pachacuti. Pachacuti in turn dethroned his father and took over his throne.
On his death, Viracocha’s mummified corpse was stored in Huchuy Qosqo. When the Spanish troops led by Gonzalo Pizarro looted the site, they burnt the mummy of Viracocha.
Huchuy Qosqo Peru Trek
Huchuy Qosqo Peru Trek is one of the most beautiful treks. On this three-day trek, you will be able to see the beauty of the Andean landscapes. You will also get an insight into the life and culture of the Andean community.
This is a high-altitude trek. It is highly recommended to spend at least 4 days in Cusco City before the trek to avoid altitude sickness. The highest point of the trek is at 4100 meters above sea level.
Huchuy Qosqo is a part of the Peruvian Andes. It is subject to two seasons, dry season and rainy season. Since most of the trek is through dirt roads, it could get slippery during the monsoon.
We offer this experience both as a private tour or as a small group tour.
Here’s a detailed introduction to Huchuy Qosqo Trek Peru.
At 6:00 AM, we will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. Then in our private transport, we will be driving you to Tambomachay. It is 20 minutes away from Cusco City. Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu begins here.
We will begin the experience with a two hours uphill hike to our first pass at 13451 ft/4100 m. From the summit, you will get a panoramic view of the valley rimmed with the Urubamba mountain range. We will have free time to take photos and admire the views.
Once you have had your fill of this view, we will descend to the lunch camp. It normally takes three hours.
After relishing a local Andean meal, we will be hiking through some beautiful terrains to our campsite in Quencco (11811 ft/3600 m).
After breakfast, we will begin hiking up the hill for almost an hour and a half. We will then descend for two hours to our lunch camp. Our lunch camp is closer to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo at 1811 ft/ 3600 metres.
From here, you will get a panoramic view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and snow capped Andean peaks.
After lunch, we will be giving you a detailed tour of the Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological complex. We will be visiting some of the prominent sites. Our local expert will walk you through the ancient Inca buildings, sacred temples, storehouses, and Inca terraces for their agriculture and the Inca reservoir.
After the tour, we will descend for an hour and a half to the village of Lamay. Here we will be taking our private transport for a short drive to Ollantaytambo. Here you will be boarding the train to Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu.
Our local representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. You will have the rest of the day to explore the town of Aguas Calientes.
What to do in Aguas Calientes?
If you love history then the Machu Picchu Museum is a great place to visit. The museum highlights pre-Inca times with a collection of Inca artifacts. The Orchid Gardens is another location to visit which is about a 30 minute walk from Aguas Calientes.
The site has a rustic feel filled with a variety of beautiful orchids on display. Or enjoy the rest of the day relaxing in the thermal waters of the Hot Springs, in Aguas Calientes.
Highlight of your trip to Peru.
Early in the morning, we will be boarding the tourist bus for a thirty minutes ride up the hill to visit Machu Picchu.
The tour guide will be meeting you at the entrance of the citadel and will assist you in clearing the security control to enter the citadel. Please note that you will have to show your Entrance ticket and original passport that you have used at the time of booking.
We will then give you a detailed two hours guided tour. During the tour, we will take you to the most important temples and enclosures. After the tour, you will have free time for exploring Machu Picchu on your own.
We will then direct you to the trailhead of Huayna Picchu mountain.
After the full day trip of Machu Picchu, you will be taking a bus back to Aguas Calientes. Here you will board the train to Ollantaytambo train station. Here, our representative will be meeting you and will be driving you back to Cusco. We will arrive at Cusco City at around 7:00 p.m.
Departure & Return Location
Cusco Hotel Transfer
Departure Time
4:30 a.m.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Packing list
Useful Info
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu (3 days) is a 3-day trek that connects the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo with the famous Inca city of Machu Picchu. It is a less crowded, more intimate alternative to the Inca Trail, perfect for those seeking a unique experience surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, local culture, and the ancient history of the Andes.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu is a moderately difficult trek recommended for people in good physical condition with some trekking experience. While it is not as challenging as the Inca Trail, the high altitudes and some steep sections can pose a challenge for less experienced trekkers.
During the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 days, trekkers enjoy a fascinating journey through the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, spectacular mountain landscapes, local communities, and the famous view of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you can appreciate the biodiversity of the Andes and the living culture of the Andean communities.
For the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu (3 days), we recommend bringing comfortable, breathable clothing, sturdy trekking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light backpack with essentials (water, snacks, camera). Camping equipment and meals are provided by the tour operators.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu (3 days) covers a distance of approximately 25 to 30 kilometers (15 to 18 miles). The trek is split over three days, with the first day covering 10 to 12 km from the Valley of Lares or Ollantaytambo to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo. The second day also covers 10 to 12 km as trekkers make their way toward Ollantaytambo. On the third day, the distance is shorter, with the focus on reaching Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo and then ascending to Machu Picchu itself. The trek is moderate in length but can be challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain.
Yes, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu (3 days) is ideal for groups. Many tour operators offer group packages, which can make the experience more affordable and enriching. Additionally, traveling in a group allows you to share this unique experience with friends or family.
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