Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Start a Conversation
Hello! Have questions about our destinations? Chat with one of our team members on WhatsApp
Moderate
Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure
3300msnm
Group Service
We presents the adventure on the huchuy qosqo trek 3 days, leading you through captivating Inca ruins, charming indigenous villages, breathtaking snow-capped peaks, and lush vegetation. The trek follows a less-traveled path, crossing high Andean passes, exploring the Sacred Valley with its stunning views, and visiting Moray, known as “the Greenhouse of the Incas,” and the Maras Salt Mines. The journey culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the Wonders of the World. No other trekking agency offers this unique experience!
Your Andean journey begins at 6 am with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a drive in private transport to Patabamba (3,800m/12,467ft), located just an hour from Cusco. Once there, we’ll begin a gentle 3-hour hike uphill to reach the trek’s highest point (4,200m/13,779ft), where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and valleys. We then descend towards Pucamarca to explore Inca ruins.
We’ll continue along a section of the original Inca trail to the Inca city of Huchuy Qosqo. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore before heading to our homestay. Here, the local family will show you to your room and the bathroom with a proper toilet. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area and the Inca city. In the late afternoon, savor tea and dinner with the local family, and marvel at the star-filled sky, far from city lights, with your guide pointing out Inca constellations.
Meals Included: Picnic lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Homestay at a local family’s home with a proper toilet
Distance: Approximately 13km/8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Following a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour of the Huchuy Qosqo Inca City, exploring its impressive structures, sacred temples, agricultural terraces, storerooms, and water channels. Learn about the intriguing history of Huchuy Qosqo and its impact on Inca history. Afterward, we descend to Lamay for a 2-hour journey, where our private van will take us to Urubamba for lunch.
Next, we visit Moray, also known as “The Greenhouses of the Incas,” an extraordinary site with multiple terrace levels carved into a large basin. These terraces, used by the Incas to discover optimal growing conditions, create varied microclimates. After exploring Moray, we drive to Maras to see the Pre-Inca Salt Mines (Salineras). Here, you can observe traditional salt extraction from naturally pink saltpans.
Our journey continues to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll explore the impressive Inca City known for its astronomical significance. After dinner at a local restaurant, we board the 7:04 pm train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stay overnight at a hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
Distance: Approximately 7km/4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Today is the highlight of your adventure! After an early breakfast at your hotel, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise—a truly remarkable sight. A guided tour of the site, lasting about two hours, will cover the essential parts of the Machu Picchu Citadel, including its agricultural, residential, and religious sectors.
Once you’ve taken in the incredible views of Machu Picchu, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you might have some time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition train will depart for Ollantaytambo at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, following the scenic Urubamba River. Look out for Wiñay Wayna on the steep canyon wall. At Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the train station to return you to your Cusco hotel in our private vehicle, arriving by approximately 7:00 pm.
Meal Included: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
For those who have pre-booked an additional hike to Huayna Picchu, this tour does not include a guide.
IMPORTANT: You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for departures at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, as well as 4:22 pm or 4:43 pm for an additional $67 USD. Early train departures can be arranged upon request at the time of booking.
Included:
Not Included:
Huayna Picchu: This is an optional trek within the Machu Picchu Citadel that does not include a guide. The climb is usually done independently after your Machu Picchu tour. If you prefer a guided hike, please request this in advance for an additional fee.
Price:
The package is all-inclusive, covering hiking, cultural tours, homestay with local families, and Machu Picchu. Entrance tickets to the Salt Mines, Moray, and Ollantaytambo Inca Ruins are included.
Discounts:
Extras:
Added Values:
What to Bring:
Important Information
Please review the following details to help address your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu.
Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your complete flight details at least 14 days before your arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS sign at the airport exit.
The Briefing
A briefing will be held the night before the trek at 6 PM at our office
Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?
Yes, you can store your main luggage either at our office or your hotel during the trek, whichever is more convenient for you.
How to Book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
To book the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, complete our booking form by clicking on “BOOK NOW” on our homepage or use the provided link.
You will need the following information from each participant to process the booking:
Deposit and Balance
A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to secure your permit for the trek. You can pay this deposit via VISA or PAYPAL on our website.
For the remaining balance, you can avoid high credit card fees in Peru by paying in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office. ATMs are available in the historical center for cash withdrawal. Alternatively, you can pay online via VISA or PAYPAL, with a 5.5% service fee. Use our PAYPAL email address incasexpeditions@gmail.com to complete the payment.
Changing the Departure Date
Unfortunately, once Machu Picchu tickets are purchased, the government does not permit changes. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Contact our office as soon as possible if you need to change your date. Note that the deposit is non-refundable if you cancel.
Passport Requirements
You must bring the original passport used for booking. If you’re renewing or changing your passport, provide your old passport details to secure your permit. We can update your information for a $25 USD fee. If you prefer not to pay this fee, bring both old and new passports to Peru. You will need both passports to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or board the train.
Weather Conditions
The weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions. We recommend packing warm clothing and good rain gear.
Altitude Sickness
To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, exercise regularly and spend 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for acclimatization. Drink plenty of water, coca tea, and use oxygen if necessary. Our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness. For more details, check our link on Altitude Sickness.
Hiking the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
The evening before the trek, you’ll receive a small duffel bag for your belongings, with a weight limit of 7kg/14lbs. Porters will carry this bag along with food and camping gear. During the trek, use a day backpack for personal items such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A 30L backpack is usually sufficient.
Difficulty and Fitness Level
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a 20 km/12-mile hike through the Andes, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,200m/13,779ft. It is considered easy to moderately difficult. Regular exercise and good acclimatization are important. Prepare by walking 15 km daily or going to the gym in the months leading up to the trek. Spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting.
If Unable to Finish the Trek
If you cannot complete the trek due to health issues, INCA EXPEDITIONS will assist with transportation to the nearest town. We carry oxygen for respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, a helicopter pickup can be arranged at your expense (travel insurance required). There are no refunds if you are unable to finish the trek. Generally, those needing assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo and, if recovered, may continue to Aguas Calientes (at trekker’s cost) and visit Machu Picchu as planned.
Hotel Drop-Off
We provide drop-off at your hotel after the trek, including in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba). If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up there as well.
Train Departure Time
Train departure times depend on availability. During peak season, trains may book out quickly. We aim to maximize your time at Machu Picchu and usually book trains for 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM.
Tipping
While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated if you are satisfied with the service. Tips are a meaningful way to reward excellent service and are customary in many tourism destinations. You can tip according to your perception of service quality and trip duration.
Sustainability
We are committed to sustainable and responsible tourism, respecting the environment and local communities. Our local staff is trained to understand and respect the cultural and environmental aspects of their work.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
