Overview
Destinations :
Cusco | Patabamba |Huchuy Qosqo | Ollantaytambo | Aguas Calientes| Machu Picchu
Daily Outline
Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1 Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 7:00 a.m. We first drive to the traditional Andean village of Ccorao, located about 30 minutes from Cusco, before continuing along a scenic mountain road to the Patabamba Community at 3,850 m (12,631 ft). From here, we continue for another 15 minutes to Qoricocha Lake (4,050 m / 13,287 ft), the starting point of our trek.
Upon arrival, we begin a gradual ascent of approximately 45 minutes to the Apacheta Pass, the highest point of the day at 4,200 m (13,780 ft). From this spectacular viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Andes, surrounding valleys, and snow-capped peaks.
From the pass, the trail gently descends through beautiful highland landscapes toward the ancient community of Pukamarca, where we take a short break before continuing into the impressive Puma Punku Canyon (“The Puma Gate”). Along this section, we follow an original stretch of the Inca Trail, carefully restored as part of the Qhapaq Ñan Project, the vast network of roads that once connected the Inca Empire.
The trail then leads us to the remarkable archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo (“Little Cusco”), perched above the Sacred Valley at approximately 3,600 m (11,811 ft). Here, your guide will provide a fascinating tour of the site, including its temples, agricultural terraces, storehouses, ceremonial structures, and ancient water reservoirs while explaining the importance of this royal Inca settlement.
After the guided visit, we enjoy a delicious box lunch surrounded by spectacular views of the Sacred Valley. Following a short rest, we begin a scenic descent of approximately two hours to the village of Lamay (2,941 m / 9,649 ft), located beside the Urubamba River.
Upon arrival in Lamay, transportation will be waiting to transfer you to Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to Aguas Calientes. After checking into your hotel, enjoy dinner and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Day 2 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After an early breakfast at your hotel, we take one of the first shuttle buses up the winding road to Machu Picchu, allowing us to arrive early and experience the magical atmosphere of the citadel surrounded by mist-covered mountains.
Enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, during which your expert guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of the Inca citadel. Visit its most important sectors, including temples, terraces, ceremonial areas, and viewpoints.
After the guided visit, you will have free time to take photos, appreciate the spectacular scenery, and absorb the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Later, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable adventure through the Andes and the ancient Inca world.
Note: If Circuit 2 is sold out for your date, we will secure the best available alternative, usually Circuit 1 or Circuit 3, depending on official availability.
What's Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop off
- English-speaking tour guide
- Pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Cusco.
- Transportation from your hotel to the trailhead
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Circuit – 2 by default when available
- Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo
- Round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on day 2.
- Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Poroy or to Ollantaytambo.
- Transport by private vehicle from Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station to Cusco.
- One-night accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
- Meals: 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Lunch on Day 2
- Tips, optional
Additional Services
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu US$ 75.00 per person
- Upgrade to Vistadome Train US$ 65 USD (Return only)
- Upgrade to Vistadome Observatory train US$ 75.00 ( Return Only )
- Walking Poles: US$10.00 per pair
Price
GROUP TOUR
Minimum 1 Persona requiredPRIVATE TOUR
Minimum 2 people required* For groups of 4+ travelers, please contact us directly to unlock special volume discounts.
FAQs
Is the Trek Difficult? Do I Need to Be Fit?
No, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is not considered a difficult trek, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The hike involves approximately 5–6 hours of walking on the first day, including some uphill sections and high-altitude terrain reaching 4,200 m (13,780 ft). The trail is easy to moderate difficulty trek. We recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize and reduce the effects of altitude.
What Is the Weather Like on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. Days are often sunny and warm, while mornings, evenings, and higher elevations can be quite cold. Rain is more common during the wet season (November to April).
$560/pp — This rate applies to every traveler, regardless of age.
Adults
18+ · $0/pp
Students
18-25 · $0/pp
Children
0-17 · $0/pp
If Circuit 2 tickets are sold out for your travel date, we’ll secure the best available alternative: Circuit 3 or Circuit 1. To secure your preferred circuit and times, we highly recommend booking your Machu Picchu trip as early as possible; tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
