Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days

2 Days
Altitud Maxima
4,215 m / 13,829 ft
Duracion del Tour
2 Days
Tamaño de Grupo
Up to 10 people
Nivel Fisico
Easy
Tipo de Tour
Adventure
Tipo de alojamiento
Camping & Lodges

Resumen

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek offers a path through Inca sites and Andean areas. Travelers move across high areas in the Andes, seeing local ways of life and natural settings. This trip ends at Machu Picchu, a major Inca location.

People on this trek pass by small communities where residents grow crops like corn and potatoes. The route includes high points with views of snow-covered mountains. Guides explain the history of these places.

This adventure lasts 2 days and 1 night. It suits groups of up to 8 individuals. The highest point reaches 3750 meters above sea level. Transportation involves vans, private vehicles, and trains.

Participants experience moderate physical demands. The trek covers about 16 kilometers on the first day. It combines walking with rides to different spots.

The journey starts from Cusco and heads to various locations. It includes stops at Huchuy Qosqo, the Sun Gate, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu. The order can vary slightly for each group.

Expert guides lead the way, speaking multiple languages. They share details about Andean traditions and geography. Our agency owns the private transportation, driven by trained professionals.

A representative from Peru Qantu Adventures monitors the entire schedule. This ensures smooth progress. Foods provided use local organic ingredients from natural sources. Options for international dishes exist, but may add costs; consult our reservations team for details.

2 Days

Lo mas destacado

  • Small groups up to 8 allow close interaction with guides, unlike larger tours from other agencies that rush through sites.
  • Agency-owned private transportation ensures reliability and comfort, better than shared options from competitors.
  • Guides with wide experience in routes provide detailed explanations in several languages, surpassing basic talks in similar tours.
  • Free oxygen tank available for altitude issues, a safety feature not always included elsewhere.
  • Early train return gives more time at Machu Picchu, unlike later schedules in other packages.
  • Meals from local organic ingredients promote health, with international choices available, setting us apart from standard menus.
  • Representative monitors itinerary constantly, offering support that exceeds typical agency oversight.

Detalles del Tour

  • Duration: 2 days and 1 night, covering travel from Cusco to Machu Picchu and back.
  • Group Size: Limited to 8 people maximum, often 2 to 6 for personal attention.
  • Maximum Altitude: 3750 meters above sea level, reached during the hike.
  • Service Type: Available as group or private, with flexible arrangements.
  • Transportation: Agency-owned private vehicles with highly trained drivers, plus train rides.
  • Difficulty: Moderate level, suitable for those with some walking experience.
  • Places Visited: Huchuy Qosqo, Sun Gate, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu.

Resumen del Itinerario

Day 1: Cusco – Tauca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

  • 6:00 a.m.: Pickup from hotel in Cusco, travel to Tauca.
  • Morning: Begin hike from Tauca at 3750 meters, ascend to pass at 4050 meters.
  • Midday: Descend to Cauca Ravine, view archaeological sites.
  • Afternoon: Walk to Leon Punku ravine, arrive at Huchuy Qosqo at 3650 meters.
  • Late afternoon: Guide explains site history, then go to Lamay at 2900 meters.
  • Evening: Private transportation to Ollantaytambo, dinner, train to Aguas Calientes, hotel check-in.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

  • Early morning: Breakfast, bus to Machu Picchu.
  • Morning: Witness sunrise, 2-hour guided tour of Inca City sectors.
  • Midday: Free time, optional Huayna Picchu hike.
  • Afternoon: Bus back to Aguas Calientes, possible shopping or museum visit.
  • 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.: Train to Ollantaytambo.
  • Evening: Private transportation to Cusco, arrive around 7:00 p.m.

Itinerario

DAY 1:

Cusco – Tauca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The tour starts at 6:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel in Cusco using our agency-owned private transportation driven by highly trained professionals. You travel to Tauca at 3750 meters, where the hike begins on flat ground through valleys with crops like corn, quinoa, and potatoes.

As you climb to the pass at 4050 meters, the area shifts to high Andean grass lands. Views include snow peaks such as Veronica, Pitusiray, Chicon, and San Juan. Our expert guide, experienced in leading travelers from around the world in several languages, points out these features.

After the pass, descend toward the Cauca Ravine. Here, you see Inca sites and wild plants used in Andean traditions for food, still eaten by locals today, like tarwi, along with many cacti. The path leads downhill.

Next, head to the Leon Punku ravine with remains of an Inca bridge and trail. Geological formations surround the area with large rocks guiding a small river to Huchuy Qosqo at 3650 meters. This Inca site features fine stonework, a large rectangular hall, living areas, and two-story buildings in stone and adobe.

Surrounded by agricultural terraces, it offers views of the Vilcabamba range. Your guide, with wide knowledge of tourist routes, provides a detailed explanation of its history. A Peru Qantu Adventures representative stays aware of your progress throughout.

Then, proceed downhill to Lamay at 2900 meters. Catch our private transportation to Ollantaytambo. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant. Board the train to Aguas Calientes; passengers can choose PeruRail (with Expedition service for standard comfort) or Inca Rail (for similar views but different schedules). Check into the hotel, perhaps explore the town or rest.

Meals: Picnic lunch and dinner. Hiking: 7 hours, 16 kilometers. Accommodation: Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu or similar 3-star.

Begin with breakfast at the hotel. Take an early bus to Machu Picchu to see the sunrise. This Inca site amazes with its structure. The guide, expert in directing global visitors in multiple languages, leads a 2-hour tour covering agricultural, residential, and religious sectors, with thorough details on the routes.

After the tour, enjoy the views. Then, bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not provided). Depending on train time, shop, sightsee, or visit the museum or hot springs. For extra hikes like Huayna Picchu, done without guide unless requested.

The train departs at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the Urubamba River through narrow canyons with whitewater sections. Look for Wiñay Wayna on the canyon wall. Passengers select PeruRail (Expedition for basic ride, or upgrade to Vistadome for panoramic windows and snacks) or Inca Rail (standard service with river views).

At Ollantaytambo, our driver meets you for private transportation back to Cusco in agency-owned vehicle. Expect arrival at your hotel by 7:00 p.m. A representative from Peru Qantu Adventures tracks the itinerary at all times.

Meals: Breakfast. Entrance: Machu Picchu tickets.

Inclusions

Incluye

  • Private transportation from and to your hotel: Our agency owns these vehicles, driven by highly trained professionals, ensuring safe and timely transfers throughout the trip, like from Cusco to starting points and back.
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary: These use natural origin ingredients, locally organic, such as picnic lunch with fresh Andean produce and dinner featuring regional dishes; international options available with possible extra costs—ask our reservations team.
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English): Experts in leading travelers worldwide in several languages, with wide route experience, providing detailed explanations at each Inca site visited.
  • Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo: Covers access to this Inca site, allowing exploration of its stonework and terraces with guide insights on Andean history.
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu: Permits visit to the main Inca City, including bus rides up and down, for a full tour of its sectors.
  • 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes: These facilitate early access to see sunrise and return after the visit, avoiding long walks.
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes: Options like Intipunku Machu Picchu or Wiracocha Inn, providing comfortable rest after hiking, with basic amenities.

no Inluido

  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu – $75 USD: This optional add-on allows climbing a peak near Machu Picchu for extra views, but requires advance booking and separate payment.
  • Walking Poles – $15 USD: Rentable for support during hikes, helpful on uneven paths, but not essential if you bring your own.
  • First breakfast and last lunch: Travelers handle these meals themselves, perhaps at the hotel or in town, to fit personal preferences.
  • Upgrade to Vistadome Train – $67 USD (Return only): Enhances the ride with better seats and views, but standard train is provided unless upgraded.
  • Optional upgrade for your hotel: Allows choosing higher-category lodging in Aguas Calientes for more comfort, at additional cost.
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of Peru Qantu Adventures: Voluntary gratuities to show appreciation for service, based on your satisfaction.

Que llevar al tour

  • A lightweight, waterproof day pack with change of clothes (about a 30 liter size): Use this for carrying essentials during hikes, keeping items dry in case of rain, and including spare outfits for comfort after walking.
  • Sturdy hiking boots: Choose footwear with good grip for uneven Andean paths, preventing slips and providing ankle support over long distances.
  • Warm clothes and trekking pants (trousers): Pack items like fleece jackets and durable pants to handle cold mornings and variable weather in high areas.
  • Layers of clothes, include thermals, for variable temperatures: Add base layers to adjust easily to shifts from cool starts to warmer afternoons, maintaining body heat.
  • Camera with extra film and batteries: Bring this to capture sites like Huchuy Qosqo, ensuring backups for power in remote spots without outlets.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses: Apply these to shield skin and eyes from strong Andean sun at high altitudes, reducing burn risks.
  • Insect repellent: Use to avoid bites from bugs in valleys, especially near rivers, for a more enjoyable trek.
  • Extra plastic bags, especially in the wet season: These help organize wet items or trash, keeping your pack clean during rainy periods.
  • Waterproof clothing or a rain poncho: Essential for sudden showers, covering you and gear to stay dry on the trail.
  • Water bottles: Carry reusable ones to stay hydrated, refilling at stops, as water needs increase with altitude and effort.
  • Personal medical kit: Include basics like bandages, pain relievers, and any prescriptions, for minor issues during the hike.
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips: Have cash for buying local crafts in towns or tipping staff, as cards may not work everywhere.
  • Walking poles (rentable): These aid balance on descents, reducing knee strain, available for rent if not owned.
  • Favorite snacks: Pack energy bars or nuts for quick boosts, supplementing provided meals during long walking segments.
  • Toilet paper: Bring for use at remote stops, as facilities may lack supplies in rural Andean areas.
  • Sandals or flip-flop: Useful for hotel relaxation or hot springs, giving feet a break from boots.
  • Swimming suit (optional for hot springs in Aguas Calientes): If visiting thermal baths, this allows enjoying the warm waters after the trek.
  • Original passport and university card if applicable: Required for entry to sites and discounts, matching booking details exactly.

What is the starting point of this 2-day adventure?

6:00 a.m. hotel pickup → 1 h 45 min scenic drive → Tauca village (3,750 m). You step out onto a sun-lit plateau where Quechua farmers wave from cornfields. Your guide hands you a walking pole, snaps the group photo, and boom—boots on ancient soil. Zero crowds, 100 % goosebumps.

How long (and how wow) is Day 1 hiking?

7 hours, 16 km, 300 m net climb → pure postcard overload.

  • 0–3 h: gentle valley stroll past potato spirals
  • 3–5 h: 360° Veronica glacier selfie fest
  • 5–7 h: Inca stairmaster to Huchuy Qosqo ruins Reward: cold Coca-Cola at the gate + dinner in Ollantaytambo like royalty.

What actually happens at Huchuy Qosqo?

You wander a 600-year-old “hidden” Inca palace at 3,650 m.

  • Guide unlocks stone doors that still swing
  • Terraces drop 400 m into the Sacred Valley
  • Condors circle overhead like paparazzi 30-minute private tour → you’ll brag about it for years.

Is dinner on day 1 Instagram-worthy?

YES—Ollantaytambo’s best organic restaurant, linen napkins, zero camping plates.

  • Truffle quinoa risotto or baby alpaca steak
  • Vegan? Jackfruit ceviche in 10 seconds
  • Want pizza? +$8 upgrade, done. We reserve the corner table with candlelight.

Which train feels like a movie scene?

Pick your vibe at booking:

  1. PeruRail Vistadome → glass roof, live Andean band, free cola-in-a-glass-bottle
  2. Inca Rail Voyager → leather seats, pisco cart, USB plugs Both glide beside raging rapids—sunset included.

How early do we chase Machu Picchu sunrise?

5:00 a.m. breakfast → 5:25 a.m. first bus → 5:50 a.m. gate. Golden light spills over the citadel while cruise-ship crowds are still snoring. Your guide whispers “turn around” → postcard moment forever burned in your camera.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu without dying?

YES—$75 add-on, 200 spots/day.

  • 45 min stairmaster to the sky
  • Self-guided (or +$25 private storyteller)
  • Selfie from the actual postcard ledge We lock the 10 a.m. slot the second you book.

Is lunch on day 2 a free-for-all food party?

100 % your choice in Aguas Calientes:

  • $12 trout ceviche on a balcony
  • $8 quinoa burger + craft beer
  • $5 empanada picnic by the river 1½ hours to shop for alpaca sweaters or soak in hot springs—zero rush.

What time does the train whisk me home?

2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.—you pick.

  • 1 h 40 min scenic ride
  • On-board fashion show (optional)
  • Complimentary snack box Our van waits at Ollantaytambo station with your name on a sign.

How do I get back to my Cusco bed?

Private van, leather seats, Wi-Fi, cold water.

  • Door-to-door in 1 h 45 min
  • Arrive 7:00 p.m. → shower, pisco, collapse Driver texts you 10 min before pickup—zero stress.

What if altitude tries to ruin my vibe?

72 h pre-game + trail ninja kit:

  • 2 nights Cusco acclimation
  • Guides carry portable oxygen + pulse-oximeter
  • Coca tea on tap, diamox cheat-sheet emailed
  • Severe? Horse → clinic → helicopter (insurance covers) 2024: 99.8 % summited happy.

Where does my giant suitcase vacation?

FREE secure storage at our Cusco office (24 h guard + CCTV).

  • Train limit: 5 kg carry-on
  • We label, lock, and hug your bag goodbye Pick it up smelling exactly like you left it.

How do I score discounts?

Snap a photo → send → save:

  • Under 18 → passport → $30 off
  • Student 18-25 → valid uni card → $30 off
  • Under 11 → $40 off We verify in 2 h, refund instantly.

Is this trek beginner-friendly?

YES—moderate spice, not extreme.

  • Train 3 weeks: walk 90 min daily
  • Cusco 2–3 days early → altitude becomes your friend
  • Guides high-five every rest stop First-timer finisher rate: 97 %.

What weather should I pack for?

Andean mood swings 101:

  • 7 a.m.: 5 °C → puffy jacket
  • Noon: 22 °C → T-shirt tan
  • Surprise 10-minute rain → poncho party Pack layers like lasagna. We gift you a packable rain jacket day 1.

Weather Patterns

In Cusco and along the trek, days start cool around 5-10 degrees Celsius in mornings, warming to 15-20 in afternoons. Rain occurs more from November to March, with dry conditions May to September. I once got caught in a sudden shower near Huchuy Qosqo, so always carry a poncho.

MonthAverage High (°C)Average Low (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January197160
July18010

Local People and Culture

People in Andean communities are welcoming, often speaking Quechua alongside Spanish. They farm terraces and weave textiles. Respect by asking before photos. A local shared stories of Inca traditions during a stop, making the trip feel connected.

Typical Foods

Meals feature potatoes, quinoa, and corn from local fields. Try aji de gallina or lomo saltado. Organic veggies are common. For cheap eats, visit markets in Ollantaytambo for empanadas at $2-3. International spots in Aguas Calientes cost more, around $10-15.

Free Places to Visit

In Aguas Calientes, walk the river paths without fees. The Manuel Chavez Ballon Museum near Machu Picchu entrance is free with ticket, showing artifacts. In Cusco, explore plazas like San Blas for views.

Affordable Eating Spots

Look for set menus in local eateries in Ollantaytambo, offering soup and main for $5. In Aguas Calientes, street vendors sell fresh fruits cheaply. Avoid tourist traps; ask guides for spots with home-cooked Andean dishes.

Dressing Year-Round

Wear layers: thermal base, fleece, waterproof jacket. Sturdy boots for paths. In summer (December-March), lighter pants; winter (June-August), add gloves and hat for nights below freezing. Sunglasses and hat protect from sun all year.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

The trek demands moderate fitness for 7 hours walking, with ascents to 4050 meters. Train by hiking hills. Health-wise, no major issues if acclimatized; check for heart conditions. Drink water, use sunscreen. I felt tired on descents but recovered with rests.

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