Our Huchuy Qosqo trek is one of Peru's most beautiful and rewarding treks to Machu Picchu. This 3-day/2-night trek will take you through some of the country's most stunning scenery, sweeping mountain vistas, beautiful lakes, and lush green valleys. You will also experience a wide variety of Inca ruins, including the little-visited site of Huchuy Qosqo, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the Sacred Valley. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Machu Picchu in a completely different light, so don’t miss out.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery near Cusco, visit native Andean villages, and experience spectacular views of the Sacred Valley heading to Machu Picchu. Book now with us!
3 Days Huchuy Qosqo trek - Overview
Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 days takes you to one of the most important archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley. We'll pick you up very early from Cusco and drive to Tambomachay. After, we hike 4 hours uphill to Q’ellwacocha Lake for lunch, then continue 3 hours to Pukamarca to camp under the stars. Next day, after breakfast, trek 3 hours to Huchuy Qosqo, explore the Inca site built over 500 years ago, and descend 1 hour to the Sacred Valley for lunch.
In the afternoon, take the train to Aguas Calientes and sleep at a hotel. The next day, tour Machu Picchu, learn its history, and ride the Vistadome train back, arriving at your hotel at night. Total hiking time is about 10 hours over two days at high altitude; train and hotel included.
Tour Highlights
- Hike from Cusco to the Sacred Valley using an ancient Inca Trail.
- Explore local villages, lakes, llamas, and the alpaca land.
- Visit the Huchuy Qosqo above the valley: terraces, storehouses, and broad viewpoints.
- Sleep under Andean skies in Pukamarca and finish with a guided visit to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2).
- Return on the Vistadome train.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek review
Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Pukamarca
TreXperience team will pick you up from your hotel at around 7:00 am and drive for 20 minutes to Tambomachay, just outside Cusco. Here, you will start with a 4-hour uphill trek to our lunch spot at Q’ellwacocha Lake, 3,700 m (12,139 ft). Then, hike another 3 hours to Pukamarca (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). We camp in comfortable tents under the stars.
Day 2: Pukamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, hike for 3 hours to Huchuy Qosqo Inca ruins at 3,600 m (11,811 ft). Explore this archaeological place built by the Inca Empire more than 500 years ago. After exploring it, you will descend for 1 hour into the Sacred Valley, where lunch will be served. Afternoon, train to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a hotel.
Day 3: Discover Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Explore the great Inca city of Machu Picchu with an expert tour guide, and learn the history of this spectacular Inca citadel with your tour guide following Circuit 2. Take the Vistadome panoramic train to return, arriving at the door of your hotel around 7:30 pm.
Included
- Pre-departure safety briefing
- Professional Tour Guides
- Pick up from your hotel on the day of the tour
- All transportation is included during the 3 days
- Trekking Chefs, Porters, and Horsemen
- Horses to carry food, equipment
- Duffle bags where you can put up to 7 kilos
- 1-night camping
- 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Drinking water (boiled and cooled) on Days 1 and 2
- Snacks, tea times, and hot water were provided during the hike
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available
- 4-person tents for each two travelers
- Mattresses, pillows, warm blankets
- Comfortable Camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs, portable toilets)
- First aid kit, oxygen tank, satellite phones
- Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu - Circuit 2
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu (Round trip)
- Panoramic Vistadome trains returning
Not included
- Breakfast on the first day
- Sleeping bag (You can hire it with us with extra cost)
- Air mattresses (You can hire it with us with extra cost)
- Trekking poles (You can hire it with us with extra cost)
- Lunch on the last day after the Machu Picchu tour
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu Mountain
- Travel insurance
Machu Picchu Circuit included
- Circuit 2: This is the most comprehensive route to visit Machu Picchu. It allows you to visit the Quarry, the Square of Temples, the Sacred Rock, the Twelve Niches, the Warehouses, among others, and the possibility of having awesome views of Machu Picchu!
It is the most popular option as it allows you to visit almost the entire archaeological complex. If tickets for the Machu Picchu Circuit 2 are sold out, we will secure tickets for Circuit 1 or Circuit 3. We strongly recommend booking as early as possible. For more details, visit Machu Picchu Entrances & Circuits 2026.
Optional hikes after the Machu Picchu tour
- Private service: You can upgrade to a private experience. Contact us for special pricing.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – Additional US$ 68 per person (2 hours round-trip).
- Machu Picchu Mountain – Additional US$ 68 per person (3 hours round trip).
You can only hike one of these mountains, and it is done after the guided tour in Machu Picchu. Advance booking is required for both hikes.
Why book with TreXperience?
- Local Expert: Get the best prices and best service with a 100% Peruvian tour operator company.
- Expert Tour Guides: Our tour guides are professionals and fluent in English.
- TreXperience always has a solution: Contact us, we always have other tour options for you.
- Want more?: We can provide you with a Huchuy Qosqo + Short Inca Trail.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek To Machu Picchu 3D / 2N Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Pukamarca
TreXperience team will pick you up from your hotel around 7:00 am and drive you the short distance to Tambomachay, just 20 minutes outside Cusco city. Here you will start trekking to Machu Picchu! The first part starts with a 4-hour uphill trek to our lunch spot at Q’ellwacocha Lake. You will pass through beautiful Andean landscapes, get awesome views of Qoricocha Lake 3,700 m (12,139 ft), and see numerous llamas, alpacas, and birds along the way. Lunch will be served at the banks of the Q’ellwacocha lake. After lunch, if we have time, we could visit Kenko Village, a beautifully small village nestled in the Peruvian Andes at 3,800 m or 12,467 ft, with few inhabitants who survive and live mostly from agriculture, producing potatoes and beans and raising llamas, alpacas, and sheep.
Then you will continue for another 3 hours, gradually uphill and downhill, through an ancient Inca Trail recently restored, until we reach Pukamarca (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Here you will spend the night. Pukamarca is a quiet place where you will have warm water to wash, tea time, dinner, and sleep in comfortable tents.
- Campsite Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
- Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Meals: Snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Pukamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Today is a relatively comfortable and relaxing day. After breakfast, we’ll begin the last part of the path. The hike starts with a 3-hour hike to Huchuy Qosqo Inca Site 3,600 m (11,811 ft). A spectacular Inca Site anchored on top of the Sacred Valley, the Inca culture built this archeological complex more than 500 years ago. The ancient citadel boasts farming terraces, temples, storehouses, water channels, big plazas, and spectacular views controlling the Sacred Valley, Urubamba River, and the Peruvian Andes.
You will have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the beautiful Inca sites’ architecture and energy. After exploring the Inca complex, hike for another hour downhill to Lamay, where your trekking chef will be waiting for a delicious picnic lunch. After lunch, our private bus will take you to Ollantaytambo, “Last Living Incan City,” also known as the “World Capital of the Native Americans.” Explore the Inca city's ancient streets that have been continuously inhabited since the 14th century. After dinner in a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo, you will take the 7:00 pm train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) to spend the night in a hotel.
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,560 ft
- Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
- Duration: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco
On our final day, we have to get up very early to prepare for the highlight of your TreXperience, visiting Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. After breakfast in the hotel, take the 30-minute bus ride to Machu Picchu and explore the fabulous Inca city with our expert guides through Circuit 2. The tour starts with the best in Machu Picchu, with ancient stone buildings, temples, palaces, and streets, and takes time to relax on your own. After the guided tour, which usually takes around 3 to 4 hours, you can take an extra hike to Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked as far in advance as possible, and you can only choose one of them).
Once you finish with the Inca citadel, you will take the bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, take the Vistadome Panoramic Train back to Ollantaytambo. Our team will wait for you and transfer you back to Cusco. The drop-off will be back at your hotel around 7:30 pm.
- Guide tour duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
- Difficulty: Easy
Price for the Huchuy Qosqo hike
We organize small group tours to ensure a personalized and intimate travel experience. For those traveling with a large party or seeking an exclusive adventure, we offer a private Huchuy Qosqo hike 3 days like this trail tailored specifically to your preferences, in private form. Contact us today, and we'll provide a customized price and design the perfect tour to meet your needs, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
Price per person
- From US$ 550 - Adults
- From US$ 520 - Children and students
Student Discount
- US$ 30 off
Applies to all travelers under 17 years old and students under 25 with a valid university ID. The ID must include:
- Student name, photo, and university name.
- Have a valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
- ISIC cards are not valid.
The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, you must submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is rejected, you will be charged the adult rate. Please email us at info@trexperienceperu.com at the time of booking to receive your discount.
Booking and payment
- Deposit: US$ 200 per person (to reserve your spot).
- The remainder can be paid online or at our office in Cusco, using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer.
- Contact us to see alternative payment options.
Before you book
- Check your desired travel dates and contact us.
- Your passport must be valid and have at least 6 months' validity from the date of your entry into Peru.
- If you are a vegetarian, vegan, or have any dietary restrictions, please let us know when you make your reservation.
How to book
To book this tour:
- Click on the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, and select the tour option of your choice (group or private service).
- Fill in all the requested details with your passport data.
- Finally, enter your credit/debit card details and make the payment.
- Our team will contact you shortly to reconfirm your payment and give you more information.
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Packing List for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a beautiful and challenging trek in the Cusco region of Peru, and it is important to be prepared with the right gear. Here is a recommended packing list:
You don’t need to take all your luggage on the tour. At the pre-departure briefing the day before, TreXperience will give you a duffel bag for the clothes and personal items you’ll use during the trip. Leave the rest of your luggage in your Cusco hotel’s storage.
If you’re moving to another hotel after the tour, you can leave your large suitcases with us. When you return to Cusco, pick them up and continue to your new hotel.
Bags and limits
- 1 duffel bag up to 7 kg (15 lb): Provided by us. TreXperience porters carry it from camp to camp. You won’t have access to it during the day, so keep daytime needs in your daypack.
- 1 daypack up to 5 kg (11 lb): For what you’ll use while hiking, water, snacks, light layers, sunscreen, etc. You carry this yourself. Bring your own; we recommend a 25–35 liter pack with a rain cover. Large backpacks aren’t allowed in Machu Picchu; if needed, store them in the lockers. This rule is based on size, not capacity, so if yours is slightly larger but not bulky, it’s fine.
Clothing
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Sandals or comfortable shoes for camp
- Waterproof jacket
- Fleece jacket or warm sweater
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Hiking pants
- Thermal underwear
- Hiking socks
- Sun hat
- Warm hat or beanie
Duffel Bag - 7Kg
- Backpack (35-40 liters)
- Sleeping bag (rated for at least 0°C/32°F)
- Inflatable mattress
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Biodegradable soap breaks down safely and won’t harm the trail or wildlife.
- Wet wipes, pack plenty, dusty trails make them essential.
- Toothbrush and paste, choose compact, travel‑size options for camping.
- Face moisturizer, high altitude, and strong sun can dry and damage skin.
Daypack - 5 Kg
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Book or journal
- Snacks or energy bars
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Basic first aid kit (including any necessary medication)
Note: Please be aware that the weather in the Andes can change quickly, so it is important to bring appropriate layers and gear to stay comfortable and safe.
Huchuy Qosqo Hike to Machu Picchu 3 Day Travel Information
Huchuy Qosqo
Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m or 11,811 ft) is an Inca site located in the Cusco Region of Peru. The site consists of a series of terraces, buildings, and plazas and is thought to have been used as a royal estate or country retreat. The name Huchuy Qosqo means "Little Cusco" in Quechua, the language of the Inca. Huchuy Qosqo was built in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti. It is believed that Pachacuti ordered the construction of the site as a summer retreat for himself and his family.
The Huchuy Qosqo was likely abandoned after the fall of the Inca Empire in the 16th century. Today, it is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the site's ruins, including several buildings and plazas. There is also a museum on-site that contains artifacts from the Huchuy Qosqo and other Inca sites.
What tickets are included on this tour
During this 3-day Huchuy Qosqo trek, we include the tickets you need to enter the main sites we explore.
- Day 2 – Huchuy Qosqo: Entrance ticket to this archaeological site.
- Day 3 – Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu entrance with Circuit 2 is included by default. If it’s sold out, we’ll secure Circuit 1 or Circuit 3 for the same date/time and confirm it on your voucher.
Vistadome train (Return)
The Vistadome offers wide windows for open views of the Andes and passes small villages and historic sites on the way to Machu Picchu. Cars with lounge seating lets you relax with a complimentary hot or cold drink.
There are many departures at day and the service is inspired by Andean traditions, with traditional outfits and props.
Machu Picchu entry: circuits, time slots & one-way routes
Since June 1, 2024, entry uses 3 circuits with 10 one-way routes. You must follow the route printed on your ticket; there is no re-entry after exit. We aim for Circuit 2; if it’s sold out, we’ll book the best option for your date/time. Booking early helps secure your preferred circuit and morning slots.
Circuit 1 — Panoramic (viewpoints)
- 1-A Machu Picchu Mountain: Citadel access + mountain hike with broad views. Max visit: up to 7 h.
- 1-B Upper Terraces: High viewpoints and classic photos; less time in the urban area. Max: 2 h 30 m.
- 1-C Intipunku (Sun Gate): Panoramic approach; high season only. Max: 4 h.
- 1-D Inca Bridge: Short walk to the bridge viewpoint; high season only. Max: 3 h.
Best for: Elevated postcard angles or the Mountain hike.
Circuit 2 — Classic (citadel-focused) — our usual choice
- 2-A Designed: Complete guided walk through key spots (Intiwatana, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor) plus lookouts. Max: 2 h 30 m.
- 2-B Lower Terraces: Similar depth with lower-terrace viewpoints. Max: 2 h 30 m.
Why we prefer it: The most complete walk through Machu Picchu’s core areas within a comfortable time window.
Circuit 3 — Lower entrance / urban areas (mountain add-ons)
- 3-A Huayna Picchu: Citadel access + Huayna Picchu hike. Max: up to 6 h.
- 3-B Designed (lower sector): Key temples and urban areas with gentler slopes. Max: 2 h 30 m.
- 3-C Great Cavern / Temple of the Moon: Long hike on the Huayna side; high season only. Max: 7 h.
- 3-D Huchuy Picchu: Shorter hike on the Huayna side; high season only. Max: 3 h 30 m.
Time slots & tips: Entries are hourly. Arrive before your assigned time, use restrooms before entering, and bring only a small daypack. Once you exit, re-entry is not allowed.
The bus up to Machu Picchu (how it works)
Day one and two cover the Huchuy Qosqo trek and end with a check-in at night in Aguas Calientes. The day three, after breakfast, you board the shuttle buses to Machu Picchu. The first buses leave around 5:30 am and then every few minutes; your round-trip ticket is included.
In high season, lines are common; your guide will set a meet-up time so you can reach the entrance comfortably for your assigned slot.
There’s also a hiking path up and down. It’s popular, but we don’t recommend it for this plan, it takes time and energy you’ll want for the guided visit. Our 3-day tour includes the shuttle both ways to keep things easy and save time.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
We typically reach Aguas Calientes around 8:45 pm, check in, and rest for the next day. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) is compact and walkable, no taxis or public traffic, and most hotels are near the train and bus stations, so it can feel busy and a bit noisy.
We partner with well-reviewed 3-star hotels such as Ferre Machu Picchu. The exact hotel is confirmed closer to your date based on availability and group size. You can request a specific hotel or ask for an upgrade.
Meals & dietary needs for this tour
Day 1 and 2: Lunch is included, Picnic style. In the evening, enjoy dinners made local ingredients.
Day 3: Breakfast at the hotel is included. If your Machu Picchu entry is early, you can request a boxed breakfast. Lunch on this day is not included, so you’re free to choose where to eat.
We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Please tell us your preferences when you book.
Huchuy Qosqo Journey - Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this trek the best way to see Machu Picchu?
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the best way to see Machu Picchu because it takes you through some of Peru's most amazing scenery. The trek starts in Cusco, where you will spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude before embarking on the 3-day journey to Machu Picchu. The first two days are spent trekking through the stunning mountains of Cusco and the Sacred Valley. On the third day, you will reach the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu.
What will you see on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
On the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, you will see llamas, alpacas, Andean lakes, local villages, canyons, ancient Inca Sites, and finally, arrive at Machu Picchu.
How to get to the Huchuy Qosqo hike starting point?
To begin the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu, you must make your way to Tambomachay, located just 15 minutes outside Cusco City.
How difficult is this Trek experience?
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is challenging due to the altitude, but it is doable for people with moderate fitness levels. The first day is the most difficult, with a steep ascent to the highest mountains of Cusco. After that, the remainder of the trek is relatively easy. However, there are still some challenges along the way. The scenery is breathtaking, though, and well worth the effort required to complete the trek.
How many acclimatization days do you recommend before starting the hike?
At higher elevations, the air contains less oxygen than at sea level, so your body has to work harder to get enough. After several days in thin air, your body gradually adjusts to the reduced oxygen. For this reason, we recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before starting any trek. If you can stay longer, even better. Cusco is a wonderful city with lots to do and see, so you won’t be bored.
What is the best time of year to do the Trek?
The best time of year to do the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is from April to October. The weather is dry and warm during these months, making for ideal trekking conditions. Plus, you'll have the chance to see some of the area's most beautiful flora and fauna in bloom.
How long does it take to complete the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
The Huchuy Qosqo trek, including Machu Picchu, takes approximately 3 days to complete.
The total distance covered is around 25 km in the first two days of hiking.
Are there any age or fitness requirements for the trek?
No, there are no age or fitness requirements for the trek. This trek is doable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The total distance of the tour is 25 kilometers (16 miles) and can be completed in 2 days. On the 3rd day, you visit Machu Picchu.