Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu - 3D/2N
Expedition Overview
Experience a fantastic short trek combining high Andean landscapes, local communities, and two spectacular Incan archaeological sites. The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a peaceful and uncrowded alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, perfect for those with limited time. Starting near Cusco, you will hike over mountain passes, past high-altitude lakes, and through a spectacular limestone canyon on an original Incan pathway. After exploring the impressive 'Little Cusco' palace, you will take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, culminating in a majestic guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Qoricocha – Pucamarca
We pick you up early and drive to Tambomachay (3,700m), just outside Cusco, where we begin our trek. We hike up through the puna, crossing a high pass at 4,200m that offers sweeping views of the Cusco valley. We descend towards Lake Qoricocha (Golden Lake) where we enjoy our lunch. In the afternoon, we continue hiking through rolling hills and agricultural terraces until we reach the traditional Andean village of Pucamarca (3,800m), where we will set up our first camp. • Trekking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles • Estimated Time: 6-7 hours • Highest Altitude: 4,200m / 13,779ft • Campsite Altitude: 3,800m / 12,467ft
Day 2: Pucamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we leave Pucamarca and enter a spectacular, narrow limestone canyon. We walk along a beautifully preserved original Incan trail complete with stone bridges and stairs. The canyon suddenly opens up to reveal the magnificent ruins of Huchuy Qosqo (3,600m) overlooking the Sacred Valley. Your guide will provide a full tour of the site. After lunch, we descend a steep zigzag trail for 2 hours to Lamay (2,900m). From here, our transport takes us to Ollantaytambo, where we board the late afternoon Expedition train to Aguas Calientes. We check into our hotel and have dinner. • Trekking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles • Estimated Time: 5-6 hours • Highest Altitude: 3,800m / 12,467ft • Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040m / 6,692ft
Day 3: Machu Picchu Exploration – Return to Cusco
The big day has arrived! We wake up early to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. You will enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the lost citadel, learning about the history, architecture, and significance of the site. Afterwards, you have free time to explore the ruins on your own or hike Huayna Picchu (if permits were booked in advance). In the afternoon, we head back down to Aguas Calientes to catch our train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Cusco. • Trekking Distance: Exploration of Machu Picchu • Estimated Time: 2-3 hours guided tour • Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400m / 7,874ft
Guaranteed departure dates, official DIRCETUR entrance permits, and zero intermediary commission fees when you reserve directly with our Cusco headquarters.
✅ What is Included
- ✓Briefing before departure at your hotel
- ✓Private transportation from Cusco to Tambomachay (trailhead)
- ✓Professional bilingual trekking guide
- ✓Chef and Assistant Cook
- ✓Horsemen and mules to carry camping equipment and food
- ✓Personal allowance of 7kg carried by mules
- ✓High-Quality 4-season tents and foam sleeping mats
- ✓Meals during the trek (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners)
- ✓Entrance fees to Huchuy Qosqo
- ✓Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- ✓One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Bus tickets (round trip) to Machu Picchu
- ✓Official entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 or 3 depending on availability)
- ✓Return Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco
- ✓First aid kit and emergency oxygen
✕ Not Included
- —Sleeping bags (Available for rent)
- —Trekking poles (Available for rent)
- —Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits
- —First day breakfast and last day lunch
- —Travel Insurance
- —Tips for the trekking team
Need Custom Itineraries or Private Dates?
Speak instantly with our experienced mountaineering coordinators in Cusco for immediate itinerary customization and permit verification.