Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days 2 Nights: Inca Ruins, Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

Cusco 3 Days / 2 Nights

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Machu Picchu Classic Viewpoint Sunny Day

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Availability Daily departures
Transport Hotel pickup
Languages Español, Inglés
Service type Not specified
Cancellation policy Not specified
Maximum altitude 4,200 m (13,780 ft) m.s.n.m.

Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Recommendations
FAQs
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About this activity

If you are looking for a Cusco trek that steers away from the busiest routes, the Huchuy Qosqo trek is one of the best choices available. The name means “Little Cusco” in Quechua and refers to an Inca archaeological complex perched on the mountains above the village of Lamay, right in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Unlike longer, more crowded treks, this 3-day, 2-night itinerary combines a hike accessible to most travelers with sweeping views of the Urubamba mountain range, remarkably well-preserved Inca agricultural terraces, and a far quieter experience, ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a genuine high-altitude adventure. The trip closes with a full visit to Machu Picchu.

Itinerary

Day 01

Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo

The journey begins at approximately 5:00 AM with hotel pickup in Cusco and a drive to Patabamba, located at around 3,800 m / 12,470 ft above sea level. From there, the hike begins with a 3- to 4-hour uphill section to the highest point of the day, at approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

The route then continues downhill through the Pucamarca area until reaching the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site. Overnight accommodation will be provided in local lodging or at a campsite.

Day 02

Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The day starts at approximately 7:00 AM with a guided visit to the terraces, ceremonial structures, and Inca storage buildings of Huchuy Qosqo. After the visit, the route continues with an approximately 2-hour downhill walk to the village of Lamay.

From there, a vehicle transfer takes you to Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon. Overnight accommodation will be at a hotel.

Day 03

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

The final day begins at approximately 5:30 AM with a bus ride up to the Machu Picchu citadel. You will then enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours through the main sectors of the sanctuary.

Afterward, there will be free time to explore further or take an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to advance booking and availability. Finally, you will return by train to Ollantaytambo and continue by vehicle to Cusco, with arrival expected at approximately 8:00 PM.

What's included

Inclusions

Included
- Ground transportation Cusco – Patabamba and Lamay – Ollantaytambo
- Professional Spanish-speaking guide throughout the trek
- Entrance fees to Huchuy Qosqo and the Machu Picchu citadel
- Round-trip tourist train ticket between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
- Bus transfer up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Accommodation for nights 1 and 2
- Meals as specified in the itinerary (breakfasts, lunches, and dinner)
- First-aid kit with emergency oxygen
- Rain poncho

What's Not Included

Not included
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Optional entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for rent)
- Tips for the guide and support staff
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses

Recommendations

Moderate difficulty: suitable for travelers with a reasonably good fitness level, no prior mountaineering experience required.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days in advance to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
Pack warm layers, since temperatures drop significantly at night at altitude.
Essentials: sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and enough drinking water.
Wear broken-in, comfortable trekking shoes — this is not the trip to try out brand-new boots.
Bring cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses, tips, and purchases along the way.
Consult a doctor beforehand if you have a history of altitude sickness or cardiorespiratory conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo trek compared to other Cusco treks?

It's considered a moderate-difficulty trek. Since it's shorter than the classic Inca Trail or the Salkantay trek, it's a great option for travelers with limited time or those looking for a first high-altitude trekking experience.

Do I need previous trekking experience?

No prior experience is required. A reasonably good fitness level and altitude acclimatization are recommended, but no technical mountaineering skills are needed.

Does the tour include Machu Picchu entrance?

Yes, the 3-day program includes entry to the Machu Picchu citadel on the final day, along with a guided tour.

What's the best time of year to do this trek?

The dry season, from April to October, offers the best weather conditions. That said, the trek can be done year-round except during occasional extreme weather.

What makes this trek different from other routes to Machu Picchu?

Huchuy Qosqo is a much less crowded alternative to other popular routes. It covers a rarely visited archaeological site, with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba mountain range, on a shorter yet equally authentic route.

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