Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days to Machu Picchu

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days / 1 Night is a short yet rewarding adventure that combines stunning Andean landscapes, fascinating Inca history, and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this trek offers an excellent alternative to longer routes while providing a unique cultural and archaeological experience before visiting Machu Picchu.

The journey begins in the highlands above Cusco, where hikers traverse scenic mountain trails surrounded by panoramic views of the Andes. Along the route, travelers pass through traditional Quechua communities, rolling grasslands, and remote rural landscapes that have changed little over the centuries. The trail offers incredible opportunities to experience authentic Andean culture and witness the daily lives of local families.

The highlight of the trek is the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, whose name means “Little Cusco” in Quechua. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Sacred Valley, Huchuy Qosqo was an important royal estate believed to have been established by the Inca ruler Viracocha Inca. The site features impressive stone structures, agricultural terraces, ceremonial buildings, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Overview

Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 days, a good hiking alternative, to enjoy the magic of the Andes, where you can enjoy nature and wonderful landscapes. In Spanish it means "Small Cusco." Located in the province of Calca, and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Located at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level. Built by the government of the Inca Wiracocha, Huchuy Qosqo Trek, it is a new hiking alternative, this Inca site is strategically located on the hill of the mountain.

You can see a variety of buildings, some of stone, some of adobe, in the Inca era had communication with the city of Cusco through the Inca Trail. (around 1450) After the Inca Revolution of Manco, Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 days, it is a recommended tour for those people who love nature and like to walk, it extends through the sacred valley of the Incas and part of the mountain range of the Andes.

*Difficulty level depends very much on your fitness and acclimatization.

Useful Information

Distance: 17 Km
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
When to go: April to November.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Destination: Machu Picchu, Peru
Best Season: April to October

Overview Day to Day

Day 1: CUSCO – CHINCHERO – LAMAY – AGUAS CALIENTES:
Day 2: MACHU PICCHU - RETURN TO CUSCO

Itinerary

Day 1.- CUSCO – CHINCHERO – LAMAY – AGUAS CALIENTES:

Huchuy Qosqo Trek. We pick you up early from your hotel in our private transport, then we will leave the city of Cusco, heading towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to reach the town of Chinchero and its community of Tauca at 3750 meters above sea level.

Here our walk begins. It will be 2 hours through a beautiful valley, to reach the highest point, called the Huchuy Qosqo pass, 4050 meters above sea level. On the way we will see part of the Andes mountain chain, after the pass, it will only take 15 minutes of descent to reach a beautiful rocky canyon, where we will be able to observe a lot of flora and fauna of the area, we will walk for 1.30 hours, to reach the Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco).

Also known as Wiraccocha Palace. for its beauty in its buildings and location in the highest part of the mountain, from where you can see the entire sacred valley of the Incas. Here the specialized guide will explain and show you all the constructions. After the visit we will have a country lunch.

We will descend zigzagging downhill for approximately 1.5 hours to reach the town of Lamay, here our private transport will be waiting for us to continue to Ollantaytambo. Where we will have dinner and then we will board the train at 19:00. p.m, we will have a 2-hour trip to get to the town of Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night (Hostal 3 stars).

Meals: Lunch & dinner
Hiking time: 7 hours
Tourist transportations to Ollantatytambo
Accomodation: Hotel

Day 2.- MACHU PICCHU - TO - CUSCO.

Breakfast is at the hotel, then we will board the first bus, in the direction of the Inca city, the trip lasts 25 minutes, here we will present the entrance ticket and the passport at the control, to then enter and enjoy the wonder of the world Machu Picchu. Start a 2-hour guided tour, to learn about the history and the main places of this Inca city.

If you bought the entrance tickets to the Wayna picchu mountain in advance, you will be able to climb the mountain, otherwise you will have more time to visit the Inca city. Once you are done exploring the Machu Picchu complex on your own, take the bus back to the town of Aguas Calientes.

Here we will have time, for lunch, and then walk to the train station to board the return train, from Aguas Calientes to the Ollantaytambo station. Our company representative will be waiting for you outside the train station, from here you will board the return transportation to the city of Cusco and your hotel.

Meals: breakfast
Tickets: included

Includes

WHAT IS INCLUDED.

Private transportation from and to your hotel
All meals as indicated in the itinerary
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu, Continental or similar)
First-aid including emergency oxygen bottle
Huayna Picchu ticket (U$.50 - optional)

THIS IS NOT INCLUDED.

Any meal not specified
1 way bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes… It can be hiked.
Optional tips for the staff
Notes: Tips for porters, cooks and guides are always welcome. The porters are also very grateful for a small donation, for example clothes or school equipment for their children.

What to bring ?

Small backpack with rain shelter (30 or 40 litters is well enough).
Clothing for warm and cold climate like a waterproof jacket.
Trekking shoes.
Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs).
Woolen or synthetic socksand a sweater.
Long- and short-sleeved polo’s/T-Shirts.
Rainponcho and a hat.
Bathing suit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
Sunscreen, insect repellent, disinfecting alcohol, gel, and toilet paper.
Camera (wrapped in plastic bag), a flash light and batteries.
Some snacks like chocolate bars and dry fruit.
Original passport, original ISIC student card (In case you are student) and extra money in soles

OPTIONAL SERVICES (NOT INCLUDED):

Walking sticks U$.20
Daypacks U$.15

Price & Add-ons -2026

Group: U$: 480
Private: U$: 570

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.

Discounts

Under 18 years Discount: U$: 20
Under 07 years Discount: U$: 35

Rentals

Hiking poles – U$: 15 (pair)

Upgrades

Return Vistadome train – U$: 90 per person
Hiram Bingham train– U$: 580 per person
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – U$: 445 Per person
Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – U$: 90 Per person

Map (Huchuy Qosqo Trek)

FAQs – Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2D/1N

What is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2D/1N?

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a short 2-day, 1-night hiking adventure that combines beautiful Andean landscapes, traditional villages, and the fascinating archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, followed by a visit to Machu Picchu.

What does Huchuy Qosqo mean?

Huchuy Qosqo means "Little Cusco" in Quechua. The site was an important royal estate of the Inca Empire and offers spectacular views over the Sacred Valley.

How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

The trek is considered easy to moderate. It is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and is one of the best options for those looking for a shorter and less demanding trek to Machu Picchu.

How long do we hike each day?

On the first day, hikers typically walk between 5 and 7 hours, depending on the route, pace, and weather conditions. The second day is dedicated to visiting Machu Picchu.

What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point is approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level before descending toward Huchuy Qosqo and the Sacred Valley.

Do I need previous trekking experience?

No. The trek is suitable for beginners and first-time hikers, although a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes. Since the trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters, it is advisable to spend at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the hike.

What are the highlights of the trek?

Highlights include:

Exploring Huchuy Qosqo
Spectacular views of the Sacred Valley
Traditional Andean communities
Scenic mountain trails
A guided visit to Machu Picchu
Train travel through the Sacred Valley

Is Machu Picchu included in the tour?

Yes. Most Huchuy Qosqo Trek packages include a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.

Are Machu Picchu entrance tickets included?

Most tour operators include Machu Picchu entrance tickets as part of the package. Advance booking is recommended because availability is limited.

Is a permit required for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

No special trekking permit is required for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek. However, a valid Machu Picchu entrance ticket is necessary.

How do we get to Machu Picchu after the trek?

After descending from Huchuy Qosqo, travelers usually continue to Ollantaytambo, where they board a train to Aguas Calientes. The following day, they take a bus to Machu Picchu.

What accommodation is included?

Most itineraries include one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before the Machu Picchu visit.

What meals are included?

Most tour packages include:

1 breakfast
1 lunch
1 dinner
Snacks during the trek

Specific inclusions may vary by operator.

What should I pack?

Are trekking poles necessary?

They are not mandatory but can be helpful, especially during descents and uneven sections of the trail.

Is drinking water provided?

Most operators provide purified or filtered water during the trek. Travelers should bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack.

What is the best time to do the trek?

The best months are from April to October during the dry season, when weather conditions are generally more stable and views are clearer.

What is the weather like?

Days are usually mild and sunny, while mornings and evenings can be cool, especially at higher elevations. Weather conditions can change quickly in the Andes.

Can children join the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

Yes. The trek is suitable for active families and children who enjoy outdoor activities and hiking.

Are there bathrooms along the trail?

Facilities are limited. Basic restrooms may be available at certain points along the route and at archaeological sites.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking at least 2–3 months in advance is recommended, especially during the high season, to secure Machu Picchu tickets and train reservations.

What makes the Huchuy Qosqo Trek different from other treks?

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek:

Is shorter and less demanding than most alternative treks.
Offers exceptional views of the Sacred Valley.
Features an important but less-visited Inca archaeological site.
Requires no trekking permit.
Is ideal for travelers with limited time.

Is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek worth it?

Absolutely. The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine hiking, culture, archaeology, and a visit to Machu Picchu in a short and accessible itinerary. It offers a rewarding experience with stunning scenery and fewer crowds than many other trekking routes in the region.