Full Day Hike the Inca Trail to Huchuy Qosqo

Full Day Hike the Inca Trail to Huchuy Qosqo

Explore and hike the incredible Inca Trail to Huchuy Qosqo, a Quechua word which means "Samall Cusco", In route we will appreciate snow-covered peaks and deep, cerulean lagoons as you meander through the Sacred Valley towards Huchuy Qosqo, an ancient pre-Inca and Inca settlement perched improbably within the folds of the Peruvian Andes.

This  one day trek  is ideal for those who want to venture off the beaten path, view the untouched Andean villages, and explore picturesque ruins. Bear in mind to plan on a few days at altitude in Cusco before setting out on this amazing day trek, so that you can fully enjoy the mountain landscapes.

CUSCO - CHINCHERO - HUCHUY QOSQO - LAMAY - CUSCO

After breakfast at your hotel, our guide will pick up from your hotel and we will drive through winding hills towards the Sacred Valley until reaching the Piuray Lagoon, located near the town of Chinchero. In the nearby community of Tauca, you will start the 7 to 8 hours hike. As you set out on the trail, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking sight of the sun’s early morning rays on Mount Veronica, slowly lighting up the entire Vilcabamba Range. You will gradually head uphill towards the Pucajasa Pass, where you will enjoy incredible views of the mountain range that surrounds the Sacred Valley. The crossing at the pass is about 200 meters long, and located at over 14,000 feet (4393 meters). From here you will begin to descend again and start to see sections of an Inca trail. Along the way the landscape will change as you head towards lower altitudes. Upon arrival at Huchuy Qosqo, located at 12,099 feet (3688 meters), you will stop to enjoy our Boxed Lunch and snacks. After a short rest, you will begin to explore this archeological complex where you will see well-preserved ruins that are characterized by double jamb doorways, three story houses, and mixed constructions of stone and adobe, sprawling over the mountain top and surrounded by spectacular views of the surrounding mountain terrain. After exploring Huchuy Qosqo, you will continue hiking across open country before descending along a steep trail into the village of Lamay. Here you will meet our private transport and start your drive back to your Cusco hotel.

Distance: 9.07 miles (14.60 km)

Maximum altitude: 14,557 feet (4437 meters)

Gradient: Moderate to Challenging

Optional: We can end this tour in any hotel at the Sacred valley OR at Ollantaytambo train station if you have a connection train to Aguas Caliente (Machupicchu town).