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Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu 3 Days

Explore the Huchuy Qosqo Trek in 3 days from Cusco

Summary

Embark on a unique 3-day adventure from Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu, combining nature, history, and authentic Andean culture. This scenic trek takes you through ancient Inca trails, traditional highland communities, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Discover the fascinating archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo — “Little Cusco” — perched high above the Sacred Valley, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and terraced valleys. Continue your journey through the Sacred Valley until reaching Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night before exploring the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. A perfect short trek for those seeking a less-crowded route filled with culture, beauty, and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Andes.

Itinerary

Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu

The first day begins early with a pick-up from Cusco and a drive to the community of Patabamba, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast. From there, you’ll start the hike toward Ccallarayan, surrounded by mountains, green valleys, and stunning views of the Andes.

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit the picturesque village of Quenqo and interact with local residents. After lunch in Siwar, the hike continues with an ascent to the Siwar Pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The day ends with your arrival at the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, where you’ll explore ancient Inca structures before enjoying dinner and camping overnight.

Tour Summary

  • Pick-up: 5:30 am from the hotel in Cusco
  • Breakfast: Patabamba
  • Hike: From Patabamba to Ccallarayan (3 hours to Siwar)
  • Visit: Quenqo Village
  • Lunch: Siwar
  • Ascent: Siwar Pass (1.5 hours)
  • Exploration: Arrival at Huchuy Qosqo (2-hour hike)
  • Camping & Dinner: Huchuy Qosqo
Huchuy Qosqo Day 2

On this second day, you’ll experience one of the most exciting parts of the trek. The day begins with an Andean breakfast in the heart of Huchuy Qosqo, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and followed by a guided tour through its impressive Inca constructions.

After the exploration, you’ll start descending toward the Lamay Valley, enjoying unique panoramic views of the Andes. There, you’ll have lunch and say goodbye to the porters. Afterwards, you’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town, where you’ll learn about its history before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night.

Tour Summary

  • Breakfast: Huchuy Qosqo (includes coca tea)
  • Exploration: Guided visit to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo
  • Hike: Huchuy Qosqo to Lamay (approx. 2 hours)
  • Lunch: Lamay
  • Farewell: to the porters (end of the hike)
  • Transport: Lamay to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit: Living Inca town of Ollantaytambo
  • Dinner: Ollantaytambo
  • Train: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (7:00 p.m.)
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Huchuy Qosqo Day 3

Information

Day 3 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco: Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Aguas Calientes to take the Consettur bus to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. You will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 3 hours, exploring its main temples, terraces, and sectors, while learning about its history and significance within the Inca culture. After the visit, we’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco — concluding this unforgettable experience.

Day Summary

  • Pick-up: From the hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Transportation: Consettur bus to Machu Picchu (30 min)
  • Guided tour: Visit to Machu Picchu (approx. 3 hours)
  • Lunch: Not included (optional in Aguas Calientes)
  • Train: Return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Transportation: From Ollantaytambo to Cusco
  • Tour type: Culture – History – Adventure

Inclusions

Includes

  • Informative briefing about Huchuy Qosqo before the trek at your hotel or our office (please indicate your accommodation in Cusco).
  • Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide specialized in Huchuy Qosqo.
  • Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (between 4:30 and 5:00 am).
  • Private transport to Ccorao - Patabamba (starting point).
  • Round-trip tourist train (Expeditions or optional) Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hrs) and return bus to Cusco (approx. 1 hr 45 min).
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
  • Meals: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and 2 afternoon snacks (tea, cookies, and popcorn).
  • High-quality 4-season mountain tents – tent for 4 people used by 2 (extra space for backpacks).
  • Camping equipment: kitchen tent, dining tent, tables, and chairs.
  • Thick synthetic sleeping mats for comfort.
  • Cook responsible for meal preparation.
  • Horses, muleteers, or porters to carry camping equipment and up to 7 kg of personal belongings per traveler.
  • 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes hotel.
  • Courtesy coca tea served in the tent for wake-up (Day 2).
  • Free duffel bag for personal belongings.
  • Emergency oxygen tank.
  • Hot water in the morning and evening for personal hygiene.
  • Boiled water to refill bottles (morning, evening, and at lunch upon request).
  • 2.5-hour guided tour in Machu Picchu (main temples of the Sanctuary).
  • Round-trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
  • Individual tents and vegetarian menu available at no extra cost.
  • “I Survived” t-shirt and certificate (for those who complete the trek).
  • Transfer from the train or bus station to your hotel in Cusco.
  • First aid kit.
  • Free luggage storage in Cusco (at hotels or the agency office).

Note: The included train is the Expeditions service. Train schedules are confirmed once the tour is paid (first available train 2:00 pm, last 9:00 pm). Return transportation to Cusco is arranged by bus or Mini Van.
Optional: Upgrade to Vistadome train (panoramic windows optional).

Not Included

  • Entrance to Aguas Calientes hot springs (S/10).
  • Sleeping bag (goose down, -15°C, available for rent at US$20, includes hygienic liner).
  • Last lunch in the town of Aguas Calientes.
  • Travel and health insurance (highly recommended). It is suggested to have coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and medical evacuation.
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain.
  • Machu Picchu Mountain.
  • Tips.

Price - per Person

Sacsayhuamán Qorikancha

Huchuy Qosqo 3 Days

Price $790.00

Recommendations for the Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu 3-Day Trek

To make the most of your Huchuy Qosqo 3D/2N trek experience, we recommend bringing the following items:

What to Bring

For your Huchuy Qosqo 3D/2N trek, remember to bring the following:

What to Bring

  • Valid passport or ID (required for the Machu Picchu entrance).
  • Trekking backpack of 25–30 liters for personal items (you have an additional 7 kg carried by horses/porters).
  • Sleeping bag (available for rent if you don’t bring your own).
  • Light clothing for hiking and warm layers for cold nights in the mountains.
  • Rain poncho or waterproof jacket (weather in the Andes can change quickly).
  • Comfortable and resistant trekking shoes for rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Light sandals to rest at the campsite and for your night in Aguas Calientes.
  • Trekking poles (one may be included, but recommended to bring your own if preferred).
  • Headlamp with extra batteries.
  • Sun hat or cap, UV-protection sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Lip balm and insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle or canteen (1–2 liters; boiled water is provided in the mornings, evenings, and at lunch).
  • Energy snacks such as nuts, granola bars, or chocolate to complement the meals included.
  • Personal hygiene items and a small fast-drying towel.
  • Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
  • Personal medication and altitude sickness tablets (if needed).
  • Camera or mobile phone with a charged battery; a power bank is recommended.
  • Swimsuit and small towel if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (entrance not included).
  • Extra cash in soles for snacks, extra meals, optional entrances, or tips.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu Trek (3 Days)

It is a short cultural trek connecting Cusco with the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, continuing through the Sacred Valley and ending with a visit to Machu Picchu. It combines Andean landscapes, Inca history, and local communities.

The full trek lasts 3 days and 2 nights. The first day involves hiking to Huchuy Qosqo, the second day includes travel to the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, and the third day is dedicated to visiting Machu Picchu.

The trek is of moderate difficulty. On the first day, you will hike 5 to 6 hours, reaching passes up to 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) above sea level. No prior trekking experience is required, but a basic fitness level and prior acclimatization in Cusco are recommended.

It includes transportation from Cusco, a professional bilingual guide, full meals, camping equipment, pack horses, entrance to Machu Picchu, round-trip tourist train, Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu bus, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

No prior experience is needed. It is ideal for those seeking a cultural hike with Andean landscapes and a connection to Machu Picchu on a shorter itinerary than the classic Inca Trail.

The best season is from April to October (dry season). During the rainy season (November to March), trails may be more slippery and the weather less predictable.

It is recommended to bring light clothing for the day and warm clothes for the night, a waterproof jacket, trekking boots, poles, a small backpack, headlamp, sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

The first night is spent camping near Huchuy Qosqo in a prepared campsite. The second night is at a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

Yes, it includes a guided tour of approximately 2.5 hours at Machu Picchu, covering the most important temples and sectors of the citadel.

Yes, as long as it is done with an authorized agency. Guides are trained in first aid, and an emergency kit is carried during the hike.

PAYMENT METHODS

The agency requires a 50% deposit of the total cost of the contracted services. This deposit can be made through any of the authorized payment methods. The remaining balance must be paid 1 day before your tour.

OPTION A: BANK TRANSFER (INTERBANK)

Bank transfer to our company account.

Account Holder: VICUÑA EXPEDITIONS S.R.L.

INTERBANK – Business Accounts:

OPTION B: WESTERN UNION / MONEYGRAM

OPTION C: BCP (BANK TRANSFER)

Account Holder: JULIAN PEREZ CONCHA

OPTION D: IZIPAY (PAYMENT LINK)

We accept all types of credit and debit cards via payment link. + 5% commission applies to the total amount.

Holder: VICUÑA EXPEDITIONS S.R.L.

  • Soles Account: 420-3005150123
  • CCI Soles: 00342000300515012374
  • USD Account: 420-3005951869
  • CCI USD: 00342000300595186973
  • SWIFT: BINPPEPL
  • Recipient: JULIAN PEREZ CONCHA
  • DNI: 25318323
  • City: Cusco – Perú
  • Holder: JULIAN PEREZ CONCHA
  • Account: 28592748012025
  • CCI: 00228519274801202555

All cards accepted via payment link. + 5% commission.

Travel associations and certifications

Contacto

Find us

Calle Nueva Baja 585, Primer Piso Oficina 1,
Cusco, Cusco, Perú

📞 +51 968 163 793

✉ sales@vicunaexpeditions.com

Contacto
Mapa

Tour Information – Huchuy Qosqo

Maximum Altitude: 3,600 m.a.s.l.

Duration: 3 Days

Group Size: Minimum 2 people

Physical Level: Easy to Moderate

Travel Style: Cultural / Historical / Archaeological

Type of Accommodation: Not included

Mapa