Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days | Inca Trail Adventure

Early Start & Mountain Trek:
At 6:00 a.m., we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive to the archaeological site of Tambomachay, the starting point of our trek. From here, we begin hiking through the high-Andean puna, surrounded by expansive landscapes and impressive mountain scenery.

Our trail climbs steadily toward the Sicllaccasa Pass (4,020 m / 13,186 ft) before descending into the Ccauca ravine. Along the way, we encounter ancient archaeological remains, native Andean crops such as tarwi, and distinctive high-altitude vegetation, including numerous cacti.

We continue ascending toward the Queullococha Pass (4,185 m / 13,727 ft), where spectacular views open toward the snow-capped peaks of Verónica, Pitusiray, and Chicon. We then pass Queullococha Lake, a peaceful alpine setting where you may spot Andean birds, ducks, and small fish.

The route continues to the Challu Challu Pass (4,220 m / 13,842 ft), offering panoramic views of the Chinchero plains and the Piuray and Qoricocha lagoons. From here, we make our final ascent to Rumicruz Pass (4,230 m / 13,874 ft) and continue toward an ancient Inca rock quarry, where stone was extracted for the construction of Huchuy Qosqo.

Finally, we descend to the traditional Pucamarca community (4,010 m / 13,153 ft), arriving in the afternoon. Here, we enjoy a well-deserved dinner and spend the night at our private campsite, surrounded by the peaceful landscapes of the Andes.

Summary:

• Start: 6:00 a.m. from your hotel in Cusco
• Starting point: Tambomachay
• Highest altitude: 4,230 m / 13,874 ft
• Highlights: Sicllaccasa Pass, Queullococha Lake, Challu Challu Pass, Rumicruz Pass, Inca rock quarry & Pucamarca
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Accommodation: Camping in Pucamarca

After an early breakfast, we leave our campsite at 7:00 a.m. and continue our trek toward the remarkable archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo. We begin with a scenic descent through the Leon Punku ravine, following an ancient Inca trail and passing the remains of an Inca bridge. The narrow canyon is surrounded by impressive rock formations and enormous boulders, creating a dramatic natural corridor that guides us toward the Sacred Valley.

We eventually reach Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m / 11,808 ft), one of the most fascinating Inca archaeological complexes in the Cusco region. Here, we explore its impressive stone structures and expansive ceremonial area while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Vilcanota River. Our professional guide will provide a detailed explanation of the site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance.

After exploring Huchuy Qosqo, we continue hiking for approximately two hours, ascending toward higher Andean terrain before beginning a scenic descent of around two hours to Taucca, where a delicious lunch awaits us.

After lunch, our private transportation takes us to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, we board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we check into a comfortable hotel and have the evening free to relax and prepare for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Summary:

• Departure: 7:00 a.m. from the campsite
• Highlights: Leon Punku ravine, Inca bridge, ancient Inca trail & Huchuy Qosqo
• Huchuy Qosqo altitude: 3,600 m / 11,808 ft
• Lunch: Taucca
• Transportation: Private transfer & scenic train to Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes

We begin the final day with an early start at approximately 4:30 a.m. After breakfast at the hotel, we make our way toward Machu Picchu. You may choose to take the bus up to the citadel or begin the ascent on foot.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its most remarkable sectors, including the Main Plaza, Royal Quarters, Temple of the Three Windows, Circular Tower, Sacred Sun Dial (Intihuatana), ceremonial areas, ancient residences, terraces, and stone pathways. Your professional guide will share fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this extraordinary Inca sanctuary.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the archaeological site and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Depending on your confirmed entrance ticket, you may also have the opportunity to visit Inti Punku (Sun Gate) or Huayna Picchu.

After completing our visit, we walk downhill from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, following the ancient stone steps and enjoying the surrounding scenery. The walk takes approximately 1–1.5 hours, depending on your pace.

Once in Aguas Calientes, we have time to enjoy lunch on your own before boarding the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco and your hotel.

Summary

• Start: Approximately 4:30 a.m.
• Machu Picchu: Guided tour + free exploration
• Highlights: Main Plaza, Intihuatana, Temple of the Three Windows, Royal Quarters & Inca terraces
• Optional: Inti Punku or Huayna Picchu, subject to ticket availability
• Descent: Walk from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, approximately 1–1.5 hours
• Return: Train to Ollantaytambo + private transfer to Cusco
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel