Huchuy Qosqo trek 1 day from Cusco | Sacred Valley Hike

1-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek from Cusco – Sacred Valley Views

Spend a day exploring the heart of the Andes on a route that blends peaceful landscapes, history, and a bit of adventure. After leaving Cusco, the journey takes you through the quiet town of Ccorao and up to the highland village of Patabamba, where wide-open views set the tone for the day. The hike begins by Qoricocha Lake, climbing gently to Apacheta Pass, the highest point, before easing into a long, enjoyable descent through green valleys and the striking Puma Punku canyon.

Along the way, you’ll walk a restored section of the original Inca Trail, a rare and memorable experience. The path leads to Huchuy Qosqo, an archaeological site perched above the Sacred Valley, where your guide will bring its terraces, temples, and ancient water systems to life. After lunch, a final descent takes you to Lamay, where your transport back to Cusco awaits. It’s a day filled with calm, beauty, and authentic Andean charm.

Cusco | Ccorao I Comunidad de Patabamba I Laguna Qoricocha I Huchuy Qosqo I Lamay (Sacred Valley) I Cusco

Duration of the trip:

Full Day

Total Distance

25 km

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

4,200 m / 13,780 ft (Apacheta Pass)

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 ppl Min - 08ppl Max

Huchuy Qosqo trek 1 day overview:

TOUR NAME: Huchuy Qosqo Trek Full Day
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Salkantay Trek Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 7:30 pm Approx
DEPARTURE: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco
HIKING DISTANCE: 15 km = 9.32 miles (approx.)
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. Huchuy QosqoTrek requires some physical preparation and we Also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days befor we begin the Salkantay Trek
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft (Apacheta Pass)
TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Patabamba (for our Passengers and staff)
MEALS: 1 Box Lunch

Huchuy Qosqo trek Full day short itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Ccorao – Comunidad de Patabamba – Laguna Qoricocha – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay (Sacred Valley) – Cusco

Huchuy Qosqo 1 day highlights:

Scenic drive from Cusco through traditional Andean towns.
High-altitude start at Qoricocha Lake with stunning mountain views.
Reach Apacheta Pass the highest point at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.
Walk a restored section of the original Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan).
Explore the historic community of Pukamarca.
Cross the dramatic Puma Punku canyon, known as “The Puma Gate.”
Guided visit of Huchuy Qosqo, an impressive Inca archaeological complex.
Discover ancient terraces, temples, and Inca water systems.
Enjoy a panoramic descent toward the Sacred Valley.
End in the charming village of Lamay with private return transport to Cusco.

DAY 1
Cusco – Ccorao – Comunidad de Patabamba – Laguna Qoricocha – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay (Sacred Valley) – Cusco+

Your adventure begins with a 7:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel. We’ll drive approximately 30 minutes to the traditional town of Ccorao (Qorao), and then continue along a scenic mountain route toward the Andean village of Patabamba, located at 3,850 m / 12,631 ft. After an additional 15-minute transfer, we reach Qoricocha Lake (4,050 m / 13,287 ft), the official starting point of the trek, an area known for its striking high-Andean landscapes.

From here, a 45-minute ascent leads to Apacheta Pass, the highest point of the route at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. The remainder of the hike consists of a gentle, predominantly downhill trail of approximately 2 hours.

Our first stop is the historic community of Pukamarca, where we take a short break before continuing through verdant valleys and the impressive Puma Punku canyon, also known as “The Puma Gate.” This section features an original Inca Trail segment restored through the Qhapaq Ñan project, an exceptional opportunity to walk along an authentic piece of Inca history.

The path then leads to the secluded archaeological complex of Huchuy Qosqo, situated at 3,600 m / 11,811 ft, overlooking the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, your guide will provide an in-depth tour of the site, highlighting its temples, storage structures, agricultural terraces, and an ancient water reservoir used during periods of drought. It is a remarkable location that offers valuable insight into Inca engineering and daily life.

After the guided visit, enjoy a well-prepared boxed lunch before beginning a 2-hour descent toward the village of Lamay (2,941 m / 9,649 ft), nestled beside the Urubamba River. From Lamay, private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll have the rest of the evening free to unwind and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Time of Bus Trip: 1 hour and 30 minutes from Cusco to Patabamba.
Hiking Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours of trekking.
Weather: Cold, high-altitude climate; mornings and the pass can be especially chilly.
Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft at Apacheta Pass.

Huchuy Qosqo trek 1 day includes

Hotel pickup in Cusco
Private transportation (Cusco – Patabamba / Lamay – Cusco)
Professional, certified tour guide (English/Spanish)
Entrance tickets to Huchuy Qosqo
Boxed lunch
Snacks & hot drinks (según operador)
First aid kit (incluye oxígeno de emergencia)
Inca Trail segment fee (Qhapaq Ñan)
Drop-off in Cusco

Huchuy Qosqo trek 1 day doesnt include

Tips (optional)
Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

ADITIONAL INFO:

BRIEFING: for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 5:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
STORAGE: Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

Huchuy Qosqo trek full day (Prices for 2026)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We won’t cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information, as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance, which will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$160

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 08 Persons (Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: Upon Request

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Person Minimum)

What you need to bring on Huchuy Qosqo trek

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocketknife.
Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Small towel and swim wear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
1 pair hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Sun block
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
Flashlight (head light recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Huchuy Qosqo Trek Full Day FAQs

How long is the hike?

The total hiking distance is 15 km / 9.32 miles.

What is the maximum altitude?

The highest point is Apacheta Pass at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.

How difficult is the trek?

It is considered moderate, with one initial ascent followed by mostly downhill terrain.

Do I need to be very fit?

A basic–moderate fitness level is enough. Previous hiking experience is helpful but not required.

How long does the entire tour take?

It is a full-day experience of about 10–11 hours including transport and hiking.

What time does the tour start?

Pickup is generally around 7:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes, Huchuy Qosqo entrance fees are included (if you want, I can adapt this to your service).

Is a guide included?

Yes, a professional, certified guide in English/Spanish accompanies the entire route.

Is food provided?

A boxed lunch is included. Breakfast and extra snacks are not included.

What should I bring?

Water (1.5–2 L), sunscreen, hat, trekking shoes, light jacket, snacks, and possibly trekking poles.

Can I rent trekking poles?

Yes, trekking poles are available for rent.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

The trek reaches high elevation, so staying acclimatized in Cusco for at least 1–2 days is recommended.

Is transportation included?

Yes, private transportation from Cusco to Patabamba and from Lamay back to Cusco is included.

What happens if it rains?

The tour operates in most weather conditions. Rain gear is recommended during the wet season (Nov–Mar).

Is this trek suitable for children?

It is suitable for teenagers and adults with good mobility. Not recommended for small children.

Book now with us

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sara D 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend!
We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Matthew W 
 
 
 
 Verified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend
We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arianna O 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions
I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   naomiammar 
 
 
 
 Verified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it
One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   cade c 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome trek
We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lola U 
 
 
 
 Verified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team
I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Julia C. 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff
The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Emelie A 
 
 
 
 Verified Hike of a lifetime!
We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

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