Huchuy qosqo trek, is a hiking alternative in the city of Cusco, this archeological site of Huchuy Qosqo is located north of Cusco. It is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level, and very close to the city of Lamay in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Huchuy qosqo trek, is part of the tourist circuits of Cusco, in this tour you can observe a great variety of landscapes.
Among a large number and variety of buildings, some of stone and other mixed (adobe and stone), which had communication with the city of Cusco and other cities through the Inca trail system. Huchuy Qosqo Trek is ideal to get out of the classic tours of the city of Cusco. This place in the colony was completely abandoned, now it is a beautiful place to observe the entire Sacred Valley and the Andes mountain range.
Overview
The Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek is one of Cusco’s best-kept secrets, offering a rewarding hike through stunning Andean landscapes, remote villages, high-altitude lakes, and an impressive Inca archaeological site overlooking the Sacred Valley. Ideal for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this one-day trek combines breathtaking mountain scenery with fascinating Inca history, all without the crowds found on more popular routes.
Huchuy Qosqo, meaning “Little Cusco” in Quechua, is an ancient Inca settlement that sits above the town of Lamay in the Sacred Valley at approximately 3,650 meters (11,975 ft) above sea level. Historians believe that the Incas built the site as a royal estate for the ruler Viracocha during the 15th century, and it features agricultural terraces, ceremonial buildings, irrigation canals, plazas, and remarkable stone-and-adobe architecture.
*Difficulty level depends very much on your fitness and acclimatization
Useful Information
- Duration: Full Day
- Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highest Elevation: Approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
- Archaeological Site Elevation: 3,650 m (11,975 ft)
- Starting Point: Tambomachay or Tauca
- Ending Point: Lamay, Sacred Valley
- Best Season: April – October
- Distance: 17 Km
Itinerary
DAY: CUSCO – HUCHUY QOSQO.
We will leave the city of Cusco very early, in our private vehicle, taking the road to the province of Urubamba, passing through Chinchero, here we will take a detour to reach the community of Tauka, the starting point of our walk.
We will have a few minutes to have breakfast and organize our backpacks. Here we will start our walk through Andean countries accompanied by flora and fauna of the area, we will ascend gently until we reach the highest point, we will be able to observe the presence of different animals, llamas, alpacas and sheep. From the highest point we can see the great Andes mountain range and the snowy peaks that accompany it. We will slowly descend on the plateau that dominates the mountain until we reach the ruins of Huchuy Cusco.
On this journey we will be able to observe and use part of the original Inca trail that linked the town of Chinchero with Huchuy Qosqo. The ruins are structures made of stone and adobe (mud brick). The beauty of this Inca town in the mountains is unique, with a magnificent location that dominates the entire sacred valley.
Here we can see the entrance road, its agricultural terraces, its water sources, palaces and houses for domestic use. After relaxing in the shade of the Qeuña (Polylepis) trees and having a delicious Andean lunch, we begin the zigzagging path up the mountainside, crossing the Urubamba River, where our private bus will take us back to Cusco in the afternoon.
Includes
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- Professional Guide
- Tourist transport.
- Breakfast (optional)
- Lunch
- Entrance.
What to bring?
- Rain jacket or poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
- Warm clothes, including jacket, fleece and sweaters
- Hat or cap for sun protection, rain or cold
- Sunscreen
- Snack: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, etc.
- water bottle
Price & Add - ons
Group: U$: 150
Private: U$: 230
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is 02 people; one person may book a group trek if Pacha Expeditions Travel Peru, is able to join that person with additional groups.
Rentals
- Hiking poles – U$: 15 (pair)
Map (Huchuy Qosqo Trek)
Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek – FAQs
What is the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
The Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek is a full-day hiking adventure from Cusco to the ancient Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo, located above the Sacred Valley. The trek combines spectacular mountain scenery, traditional Andean villages, and fascinating archaeological ruins.
What does Huchuy Qosqo mean?
Huchuy Qosqo means “Little Cusco” in Quechua, the language of the Incas. During the Inca Empire, the Incas likely used this site as a royal estate and administrative center.
How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
You will hike for approximately 6 to 8 hours through mountain trails and high-altitude terrain. This moderately challenging trek requires a reasonable level of fitness.
What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?
The highest point of the trek is approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. The archaeological site itself is located at around 3,650 meters (11,975 feet).
Do I need previous hiking experience?
No prior hiking experience is necessary. However, participants should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven terrain and at high altitude.
How long is the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
The tour lasts a full day, typically between 10 and 12 hours, including transportation, hiking, sightseeing, and return to Cusco.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Since the trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters, travelers should spend at least 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before hiking to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
What is included in the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
Most tours typically include:
- Professional bilingual guide
- Tourist transportation
- Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo
- Breakfast or lunch (depending on the operator)
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
Inclusions may vary, so always check the tour details before booking.
What is the best time of year for the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
The best months are during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are generally sunny and trails are easier to hike.
Can I do the trek during the rainy season?
Yes, the trek operates year-round. However, from November to March, trails may be muddy and weather conditions can change quickly, so extra preparation is necessary.
Are there bathrooms along the route?
Bathroom facilities are limited. Local communities or the archaeological site may offer some basic facilities, but hikers should prepare for limited services.
Is Huchuy Qosqo crowded like the Inca Trail?
No. Huchuy Qosqo receives significantly fewer visitors than the Classic Inca Trail, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking a quieter and more authentic trekking experience.
What can I see at Huchuy Qosqo?
Visitors can explore:
- Inca terraces
- Ceremonial structures
- Ancient irrigation canals
- Storehouses (Qolqas)
- Stone and adobe buildings
- Panoramic views of the Sacred Valley
Is the trek suitable for families?
Yes. Families with children and teenagers who are used to walking can enjoy the excursion, keeping in mind that the route is not technical, but the altitude is a factor to consider.
Can I see wildlife during the trek?
Yes. Depending on the season, hikers may spot:
- Andean birds
- Hawks and falcons
- Native flora
- Llamas and alpacas
- Local farm animals
How far is Huchuy Qosqo from Cusco?
The archaeological site is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Cusco, above the Sacred Valley near Lamay.
Is transportation included?
Most organized tours include round-trip transportation from and back to Cusco. Private transportation options are also available.
Do I need a permit for the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
Visitors only need their entrance ticket to the archaeological site. Guided tours often include it. No special permit is required for hiking in this area.
Why choose the Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek?
The Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek is perfect for travelers looking for:
- A less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail
- Incredible Andean mountain scenery
- Authentic cultural experiences
- Ancient Inca history
- A rewarding full-day adventure near Cusco
Book Your Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek
Experience one of the Sacred Valley’s hidden treasures on a memorable journey through the Andes. The Huchuy Qosqo Day Trek offers the perfect combination of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable addition to your Peru adventure.
