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Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days

Take the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days and step off the beaten path into remote Inca trails and hidden archaeological sites. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes before arriving at Machu Picchu. Wake up early to witness the magical sunrise over the Lost City!

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$ 450
Huchuy Qosqo, Sun Gate, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Physical level

Moderate

Trip style

Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure

Max altitude

3300msnm

Group size

Group Service

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Pucchu offers an immersive journey through intriguing Inca ruins, charming rural communities, stunning snow-capped peaks, lush vegetation, and a diverse range of ecosystems. This trek will guide you over high Andean passes and through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, culminating at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This trek is specially crafted for adventure seekers! You’ll traverse the Andes, interact with local communities, and discover secluded Inca villages. On the second day, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu with a two-hour guided tour.

Trip details
Highlights
Itinerary
DAY 1

Cusco – Tauca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Depart from your hotel at 6 am and travel to the small village of Tauca (3,750m/12,303ft), which marks the start of your trek. Initially, the terrain is flat, featuring typical Andean valleys with fields of corn, quinoa, and potatoes. As you climb toward the pass at (4,050m/13,287ft), the landscape transitions to the High Andean Savannah or Puna, characterized by sparse vegetation, primarily high-altitude grass known as “ichu.” Enjoy breathtaking views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, including the snow-capped peaks of Veronica, Pitusiray, Chicon, and San Juan. After crossing the pass, descend towards the Huchuy Qosqo plains, following a path to the Cauca Ravine, where you can observe archaeological sites and intriguing wild plants that were used by the Incas and are still consumed locally, such as tarwi and various cacti.

Continue your descent to the Leon Punku ravine, where remnants of an Inca bridge and trail can be found. This canyon features dramatic geological formations with towering rocks and boulders directing a small river towards Huchuy Qosqo at 3,650m/11,975ft. Huchuy Qosqo, which means “Little Cusco” in Quechua, is a notable Inca site with intricate stone structures, including a large Kallanka (rectangular hall), residential and defensive areas, and interesting two-story buildings made of stone and adobe. Located on a plateau surrounded by Inca agricultural terraces, it offers superb views of the Vilcabamba range. Your guide will share the rich history of this site.

Following the visit, descend to Lamay at 2,900m/9,514ft, where you will catch transport to Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a group dinner at a restaurant before continuing by train to Aguas Calientes. On arrival, check into your hotel. You can explore this charming town, do some shopping, or simply unwind after a thrilling day.

Meals Included: Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Hiking Time: 7 hours
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Accommodation: Hotel Ferre’ Machu Picchu (3-star)

DAY 2

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

The day you’ve been eagerly anticipating is here! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise. This awe-inspiring site is a must-see. Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which lasts about two hours, highlighting the main areas of the Citadel and explaining its division into agricultural, residential, and religious sectors.

After soaking in the spectacular views, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may have some time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the local museum or hot springs.

Catch the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, traveling along the scenic Urubamba River. The narrow canyon near Aguas Calientes features stunning whitewater sections, and you might spot Wiñay Wayna on the steep canyon walls. Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, a driver will meet you at the train station to take you back to your Cusco hotel in a private vehicle, arriving by around 7:00 pm.

Meal Included: Breakfast
Entrance Tickets: Machu Picchu

Important:

  • You may upgrade to the Vistadome Train at the same departure times (2:55 pm, 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm) for $67 USD.
  • Early trains can be arranged upon request at the time of booking.
Inclusions

Included:

  • Private transportation to and from your hotel
  • All meals as outlined in the itinerary
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
  • Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
  • 2 bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back to Aguas Calientes
  • Accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Intipunku Machu Picchu or Wiracocha Inn Hotel

Not Included:

  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu – $75 USD
  • Walking poles – $15 USD
  • First breakfast and last lunch
  • Upgrade to Vistadome Train – $67 USD (return only)
  • Optional hotel upgrades
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook, and porters of INCA EXPEDITIONS

Note: Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within the Machu Picchu Citadel that does not include a guide. Typically, this climb is done independently after your Machu Picchu tour. If you prefer a guided trek to Huayna Picchu, please request it in advance; there is an additional cost for this service.

Pricing

Price
This trek can be arranged on any day, provided we have a minimum of 2 trekkers!

  • $450 USD per person

Discounts

  • 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD discount. Please provide information on the student card, including the university name, student name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at the time of booking for government approval.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD discount. Please send a copy of the passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD discount. Please send a copy of the passport at the time of booking.

Extras

  • Optional hotel upgrade
  • Vistadome train upgrade: $67 USD per person (return only)
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu: $75 USD
  • Walking poles: $15 USD
  • Single hotel supplement: $30 USD for single travelers

Note: Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within the Machu Picchu Citadel that does not include a guide. The climb is usually done independently after the Machu Picchu tour. If you would like a guided hike to Huayna Picchu, please request it in advance. An additional cost applies for this guided tour.

Added Values at No Extra Cost

  • Oxygen Tank: Available throughout the trek.
  • Small Group: Limited to a maximum of 8 people, typically between 2 to 6 hikers.
  • English-Speaking Guide: Fluent in English.
  • Early Train: Return to Cusco on the 2:55 or 3:20 PM train.
What to bring

What You Should Bring:

  • Lightweight, waterproof day pack with a change of clothes (approximately 30 liters)
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm clothes and trekking pants
  • Layers of clothing, including thermals, for varying temperatures
  • Camera with extra film and batteries
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Extra plastic bags, especially during the wet season
  • Waterproof clothing or rain poncho
  • Water bottles
  • Personal medical kit
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
  • Walking poles (rentable)
  • Favorite snacks
  • Toilet paper
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Swimming suit (optional for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
  • Original passport and university card if applicable
Travel guide
Aditional information

Important Information

Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your flight details at least 14 days before your arrival. Look for our representative with an orange Inca Expeditions board at the arrival terminal exit.

The Briefing
A briefing will be held the evening before your trek at 6 PM at our office

Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?
Yes! During the Huchuy Qosqo trek, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel. Please note that the train only allows carry-on sized duffels or suitcases.

How to Book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu

First, to book your Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu, complete our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or through the provided BOOK NOW link.

Be prepared with the following information for each participant in your group. We cannot purchase trek permits or train tickets without this information:

  • Full name (as per passport)
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • Date of birth (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

We require passport copies at the time of booking.

Second, a deposit of $211.00 USD per person is needed to secure your trek permit. You can make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL icons on our homepage or booking page.

 

What About the Balance?

To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can settle your balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. Numerous ATMs are available within the historical center for cash withdrawals. Alternatively, you may choose to pay via VISA or PAYPAL online, though a 5.5% service fee will apply. For PAYPAL payments, log into your account and use our email address: incasexpeditions@gmail.com.

How Do I Qualify for the Student Discount?

Peruvian law stipulates that to qualify for a student discount, you must be under 18 at the time of your trek or tour to Machu Picchu. Students aged 18 and above must present a valid university ID card. For instance, if you are 17 at the time of booking but turn 18 before the trek, a valid university ID is required.

University students need to provide a copy of their ID card, showing a photo, university name, and card expiration date, valid only for the current academic year.

  • Discount for students aged 11 to 17: $30 USD.
  • Discount for children aged 2 to 11: $40 USD.
  • Children under 2 years: Free.

All students must submit a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Please email it to info@incasexpeditions.com.

Can I Change the Date After the Tickets Have Been Bought?

Unfortunately, once Machu Picchu tickets are purchased, they cannot be changed as per Peruvian government regulations. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Contact our office immediately if you need to adjust your date. Please note that the deposit for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek Machu Picchu is non-refundable.

Do I Need to Bring My Original Passport on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

Yes, it is essential to bring your original passport, which must match the copy used for booking your trek and other reservations. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us the details of your old passport to secure your permit. We can update it when you receive your new passport number or name change for a fee of $25 USD per person. You must provide copies of both your old and new passports. If you choose not to pay this fee, you must bring both passports with you to Peru. You will need both to enter Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, or board the train.

What Is the Weather Like on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

Weather conditions are highly unpredictable, so we recommend dressing in layers to adapt to rapidly changing weather patterns.

What About Altitude Sickness?

To mitigate altitude sickness, it’s advisable to engage in regular exercise and spend 1-2 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The recommended remedies include WATER, COCA TEA, and OXYGEN if needed; our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness. For more detailed information, refer to our Altitude Sickness link.

How Many People Are There Per Group?

We limit our groups to a maximum of 8 participants, with typical group sizes ranging from 2 to 6. Inca Expeditions specializes in small, private groups to provide a more personalized experience.

Hiking Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Before starting your trek, you will receive a small duffel bag for packing your clothes. The train only allows carry-on-sized duffels or suitcases. During the trek, a day backpack of about 30 liters is sufficient to carry personal items like a warm jacket, rain gear, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water.

Is the Trek Difficult? Do I Need to Be Fit?

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek covers 16 km (10 miles) through the Andes, reaching an altitude of 4,200 m (13,779 ft). The trek is of easy to moderate difficulty. A moderate fitness level and regular exercise are recommended. Prepare by walking 15 km a day or visiting a fitness club leading up to the trek. Acclimatizing to the altitude is crucial; spending 2-3 days in Cusco (3,350 m / 11,047 ft) or the Sacred Valley is advised.

What Happens If I’m Unable to Finish the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

In the rare event you cannot complete the trek due to health issues, Inca Expeditions will assist with transportation to the nearest town. Oxygen is carried on the trek for respiratory problems, and in extreme cases, a helicopter pickup can be arranged at your own expense (travel insurance required). Refunds are not provided for incomplete treks. Generally, those needing assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo, and if they recover, they may continue to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu as planned (cost incurred by the trekker).

Will We Be Dropped Off at Our Hotel After the Trek?

Yes, the package includes drop-off at your hotel on the final day. If you have booked accommodation in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well. If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there too.

At What Time Is the Train Departure?

Train departure times depend on availability, with high season potentially affecting booking. We aim to give you ample time in Machu Picchu and to enjoy the return journey. Typically, trains are booked for 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM.

How Much Is the Vistadome Upgrade?

The Vistadome train offers upgraded seating, panoramic windows, and additional amenities such as snacks and a dance show. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. This train service operates from Aguas Calientes to Poroy, where we will pick you up for a 25-minute drive back to Cusco. Please request this upgrade in advance.

Tipping

While tipping is not compulsory, it is greatly appreciated if you are satisfied with the services provided. Tipping motivates our staff to continue delivering excellent service and is a customary practice in the tourism industry in many Inca Expeditions destinations. Tip amounts should reflect your perception of the service quality and the duration of your trip.

Are We Sustainable?

Yes, we are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. We adhere to universal tourism principles, protecting the environment and benefiting local communities by respecting their culture and traditions. All our local staff are trained to understand and honor the local environment and its people.

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