HIKE TO HUCHUY QOSQO IN 1 FULL DAY
Enjoy a unique impressive trek to small Cusco!
3650 m / 11975 feet
Daily Departures
Difficult
Not included
Small Group
Short Hike
TRAVEL DESCRIPTION
Discover the mystery of the Huchuy Qosqo 1-Day Trek with Illa Kuntur Travel. Free your adventurous spirit and escape the bustle of Cusco to immerse yourself in the magic of the Andes.
Huchuy Qosqo, which means “Little Cusco” in Quechua, awaits you with its imposing Inca ruins, guardians of ancestral secrets. This “Huchuy Qosqo tour from Cusco” is ideal for those seeking an authentic experience high in the Sacred Valley.
The Huchuy Qosqo hike surrounds you with breathtaking landscapes: cross ancient Inca trails, traverse mountains, and connect with Andean communities where tradition is still alive. Enjoy panoramic views and get close to llamas and alpacas grazing freely.
Guided by expert guides, embark on a cultural and natural journey that will leave you speechless. Huchuy Qosqo awaits to gift you a unique experience, far from the bustle of the city!
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Cusco – Tambomachay – Sicllaccasa Pass – Qoricocha Lagoon – Patabamba Community
Enjoy a unique hike to Huchuy Qosqo, an ancient Inca center located high in the Sacred Valley. The journey begins in Tauca (Chinchero), crossing Andean landscapes, local communities, and ravines.
Huchuy Qosqo Trekking Itinerary
DAY 01: Cusco + Qorao + Patabamba Community + Qoricocha Lagoon + Huchuy Qosqo + Lamay (Sacred Valley) + Cusco
- We begin the experience with a transfer to Tambomachay, the ancient Inca water temple. From there, we start our hike, gently ascending along trails surrounded by mountains, grasslands, and small high-Andean lagoons. Along the way, it is common to see llamas and alpacas grazing freely while we enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range.
- As we move forward, we cross ancient Inca trails that connect us with history and the life of Andean communities. After crossing the highest point of the route, we begin the descent toward the mystical León Punku canyon, a narrow passage adorned with rock formations and Inca walls that reflect the greatness of their architecture.
- Finally, we arrive at Huchuy Qosqo, an archaeological site that rises above the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will explore its agricultural terraces, stone enclosures, and viewpoints with impressive views of the Vilcanota River and the valley’s villages.
- After the visit, we will enjoy a box lunch in the middle of this unique setting. The journey continues with a descent to the town of Lamay, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
-
- Meals: Box lunch
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hiking Distance: (12 km / 7.46 miles) – (6 to 7 hours)
- Altitude: (3,700 m / 11,975 ft – 4,100 m / 13,451 ft)
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TRAVEL?
Quality and Safety Service
- Pre-departure briefing.
- Professional certified guide (Spanish/English speaking).
- First aid kit and portable oxygen.
- 24/7 customer support.
Meals
- Box lunch (vegetarian or vegan option available upon request).
- Energy snack (cereal bar or fruit).
- Bottled water for the hike.
Transportation
- All tourist transfers guaranteed.
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
- Private tourist transport with air conditioning.
Permits and Entrance Fees
- Entrance ticket to Tambomachay (starting point).
- Entrance ticket to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo.
Meals
- Breakfast and dinner (only the box lunch during the hike is included).
Personal Equipment
- Clothing and hiking gear (trekking poles, trekking shoes, backpack, etc.).
- Travel insurance (we recommend purchasing comprehensive insurance before traveling).
Tips
- Tips for guides and support staff.
- Tipping is a common practice on tours in Peru. Although all our team members receive a fair salary, an extra is always appreciated as a token of gratitude.
Additional Costs Beyond Our Control
- Expenses caused by landslides, bad weather conditions, or delays.
Clothing and Footwear
- Light and breathable clothing for the day (long-sleeve shirt, comfortable pants).
- Warm jacket or fleece for the afternoon and evening.
- Rain jacket or poncho, essential during the rainy season.
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good traction and comfortable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Cotton or wool socks to prevent moisture.
- Wool hat or chullo for the cold at high altitudes.
Sun and Weather Protection
- Wide-brim hat or cap.
- Sunglasses with UV filter.
- High-protection sunscreen (SPF 50 recommended).
- Lip balm with sun protection.
- Light gloves (during the cold season).
Hydration and Food
- Reusable water bottle or canteen (minimum 1 liter).
- Energy snacks: nuts, cereal bars, cookies, chocolates, or coca candies.
Accessories and Extras
- Small daypack (25–30L) to carry only the essentials.
- Trekking poles (optional, but very useful on descents).
- Camera or cellphone with charged battery and free storage.
- Portable charger (power bank).
- Toilet paper and personal trash bag.
- Cash in soles for entrance fees, tips, or local purchases.
- ID card or passport.
What is the best season to visit the Huchuy Qosqo trek?
The best season to visit Huchuy Qosqo is during the Dry Season, between April and October, because during the rainy season this wonder cannot be fully appreciated as it is often covered by clouds, in addition to the rapidly changing weather.
Can I be affected by altitude sickness during the Huchuy Qosqo trek?
The altitude of the places on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is higher than that of the city of Cusco; however, to avoid symptoms of altitude sickness, we recommend spending one or two days acclimatizing in the city of Cusco, walking without much effort.
What are the altitudes of the sites along Huchuy Qosqo?
The altitudes vary depending on the site to visit:
Chinchero: 3,760 m.a.s.l.
Pucajasa Pass: 4,400 m.a.s.l.
Huchuy Qosqo: 3,700 m.a.s.l.
How to make a reservation?
Contact us through the different available channels. The price is also indicated in the “Cost” section, and you can set the date of the activity.
TRAVEL PRICES
HUCHUY QOSQO EXCURSION IN 1 FULL DAY Price Per Person - From 1 person |
|
PRIVATE SERVICE
From 1 person
|
US$ 220.00 |
PRIVATE SERVICE
From 2 people
|
US$ 160.00 |
Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.
Recommendations
Before the Tour
- Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 1 or 2 days beforehand to avoid altitude sickness.
- Get a good night’s sleep before the hike and have a light breakfast prior to departure.
- Avoid excessive alcohol or heavy meals the day before.
During the Hike
- Walk at a moderate pace, without rushing, to better enjoy the experience and avoid fatigue.
- Stay hydrated at all times and take short breaks when needed.
- Respect nature and do not leave trash; carry a personal bag for waste.
- Always follow the guide’s instructions, especially on narrow trails or steep slopes.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes (strong sun, light rain, cold).
Additional Tips
- Purchasing travel insurance before arriving in Peru is highly recommended.
- Bring only the essentials; carrying extra weight can make the hike more demanding.
- Support local communities by buying products or handicrafts directly from them.
- Keep a positive attitude: Huchuy Qosqo combines adventure, culture, and history enjoy it to the fullest!
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