Trek Huchuy Qosqo to Machupicchu 3D/2N
Dificulty
Moderate
Duration
3 Days / 2 Nigths
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,200 msnm
Description
Embark on a fascinating 3-day journey through the heart of the Andes, where the magic of Huchuy Qosqo meets the grandeur of Machu Picchu. This unique expedition offers the perfect combination of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes.
Your adventure begins by exploring the enigmatic ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, an ancient Inca settlement full of history and mystery. Walk among its imposing stone structures, immerse yourself in its past and visualize the life of those who inhabited it centuries ago. Along the way, you will be amazed by the majestic Andean peaks, green valleys and crystal-clear lakes that frame this impressive archaeological site.
Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to interact with local communities and discover their ancestral traditions. This cultural exchange will allow you to live an authentic and enriching experience, getting to know the warmth and hospitality of the Andean people up close.
The trip culminates in the legendary Machu Picchu, the amazing Inca citadel that inspires admiration throughout the world. Explore its impressive stone constructions, walk through its temples and terraces, and let yourself be enveloped by the mystical energy of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This adventure encapsulates the best of the Andes in an accessible and exciting tour, without the need for an extensive itinerary.
Join us on this 3-day expedition to Huchuy Qosqo & Machu Picchu and live an extraordinary experience full of exploration, nature and culture. Dare to discover the soul of the Andes!
Day 1: Cusco | Tambomachay - Qoricocha Lake - Patabamba Community - Qencco
Your adventure begins early! At 6:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel and head to the Inca site of Puca Pucara (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), just 20 minutes from Cusco. From there, we will begin a gradual uphill hike for about 1.5 hours until reaching the first pass at 4,100 m (13,451 ft), where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of two valleys.
To your right, you’ll see the city of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas, surrounded by majestic mountains. To your left, you’ll enjoy a stunning landscape of farmlands and Andean peaks. Your guide will share insights about the Incas, their arrival in this region, and the Spanish conquest. From this natural viewpoint, you will also spot two ancient archaeological sites in the valley below.
From the pass, we will continue for another 45 minutes towards the upper valley. After crossing a small stream, we will arrive at our lunch spot on the shores of Queullacocha Lake. This area, known as the high puna, is covered in ichu, a hardy Andean grass. Here, you can observe various bird species, including Andean geese and partridges.
After a well-deserved rest and lunch, we will resume our hike toward our campsite in the village of Quencco. The route takes us over a mountain ridge before descending along the shores of Qoricocha Lake (Golden Lake). This section takes approximately 2.5 hours, and upon reaching the village, we will be warmly welcomed by the locals.
Once in Quencco, you can enjoy a hot coca tea to relax. We will visit a local family to learn about their lifestyle and ancestral traditions. If you brought a small gift, this is a great moment to share it. Afterward, you’ll have time to rest and learn more about Andean culture from your guide.
🍽 Meals included: Lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Camping
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 14 km / 8.69 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 7 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
📍 Campsite elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Day 2: Qencco | Huchuy Qosqo - Lamay - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
Our team will wake you up with a hot coca tea to start your day. After packing your belongings, enjoy a delicious breakfast before beginning the hike from Quencco to the Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo.
After approximately 2 hours of hiking, we will reach a section of the original Inca Trail, just below the village of Pumamarca. Along the way, you will see many locals herding their llamas. Once on the Inca Trail, the landscape transitions from high mountains to a secluded valley with a unique microclimate, filled with lush vegetation. You’ll spot many small birds, including hummingbirds feeding on the flowers. As we continue, you will be treated to stunning views of snow-capped mountains and the famous Urubamba mountain range.
We will then pass through an Inca gate and arrive at the incredible Huchuy Qosqo site (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), which overlooks the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, you will explore remarkable Inca structures, including sacred temples, food storage buildings, agricultural terraces, and an ancient reservoir used to store water during the dry season.
Your guide will give you an in-depth tour of the site’s history. Afterward, you will have free time to explore on your own before lunch.
From Huchuy Qosqo, we will begin our descent into the Sacred Valley, a hike that takes around 2 hours. We will arrive at Lamay (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), where our private transportation will be waiting to take us to Ollantaytambo, known as the “Last Inca City.” You will have time to explore its ancient streets and canals, which have been in use since the time of the Incas.
Later, we will head to the train station and board the 4:00 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner, and have the opportunity to explore the town.
🍽 Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Hotel
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 7 km / 4.34 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 4 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
📍 Hotel elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Day 3: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Today is the highlight of your journey—Machu Picchu! You will wake up early to catch the first bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, a 25-minute ride.
Once inside, your guide will take you to a strategic viewpoint where you will capture postcard-perfect photos of Machu Picchu. Then, you will begin a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the main sections of the citadel. Throughout the tour, you will learn more about Inca history and culture.
At the end of the guided visit, you will have free time to take more photos and explore on your own. If you have booked a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will show you where to begin:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: A steep but rewarding climb with incredible aerial views of the citadel (round-trip time: 2 hours). Limited spaces available; advance booking required ($60 USD per person).
Machu Picchu Mountain: A more challenging hike that takes around 3 hours round-trip. Limited spaces available; advance booking required ($60 USD per person).
After exploring, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may have time to explore the town, visit the museum, or relax in the hot springs.
You will board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the scenic Urubamba River. The canyon is narrow, and the river features beautiful rapids. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transport will take you back to Cusco, where you can expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
🍽 Meals included: Breakfast
🗺 Machu Picchu guided tour duration: 2–3 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Easy
📍 Machu Picchu site elevation: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
📈 Huayna Picchu Mountain elevation: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
📈 Machu Picchu Mountain elevation: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
Incluye
✓ PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION MEETING:
- Se reunirá con su guía un día antes de la caminata en su hotel para una orientación antes de su caminata. La reunión será a las 6:00 p.m. Y también se le proporcionará una bolsa de lona que le permite empacar hasta 7 kilos de sus pertenencias personales.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCE TICKETS:
- ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE HUCHUY QOSQO
- ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE.
- ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE MACHU PICCHU
- ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE.
El ticket de ingreso a Machu Picchu. Existen varios circuitos para explorar la ciudadela y le aseguramos la mejor opción disponible al momento de realizar su reserva.
- Circuit 2:
Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, que lo lleva al icónico mirador panorámico y le permite explorar alrededor del 70% de la ciudadela. - Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, que también ofrece el mirador clásico y acceso al 60% de Machu Picchu.
✓ FIELD STAFF:
- Professional guides:
Especializados en trekking y seleccionados de universidades acreditadas. Nuestros guías dominan el inglés y tienen de tres a diez años de experiencia en diferentes caminatas de la región. Son expertos en el manejo de grupos bajo presión, primeros auxilios y técnicas de rescate. La mayoría de ellos provienen de diferentes comunidades andinas y traen consigo su patrimonio cultural. Junto al resto del equipo de campo, nuestros guías harán que su viaje sea una experiencia única. - Chefs:
Formados en escuelas de gastronomía locales, son expertos en cocina andina moderna, comida tradicional peruana, estilos de cocina internacional y cocina vegetariana y vegana. Conocen a fondo las propiedades nutricionales de sus comidas y son expertos en cocinar de la manera más eficiente posible, siempre con un fuerte énfasis en la higiene y seguridad alimentaria. - Horsemen team and horses:
Nuestro equipo de arrieros y sus caballos son esenciales para el éxito de la experiencia, ya que son responsables de transportar todo el equipo de campamento, suministros de alimentos y otras cargas necesarias a lo largo de la ruta. Los caballos también llevan las bolsas de lona con hasta 7 kilos de pertenencias personales por participante, incluidos los sacos de dormir. De esta manera, puede caminar solo con una pequeña mochila con sus elementos esenciales, mientras nuestro equipo transporta su equipaje de un campamento a otro, lo que le permite disfrutar plenamente de la caminata.
✓ DUFFEL BAG SERVICE FOR THE TRIP (7 KILOS):
- Durante la sesión informativa, se le proporcionará una bolsa de lona que le permite empacar hasta 7 kilos de sus pertenencias personales. Nuestro equipo transportará estas bolsas de lona en caballos durante todo el recorrido, asegurándose de que tenga acceso a ellas en los campamentos. Este servicio le permite caminar cómodamente con solo su mochila.
✓ MEALS.
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, hot chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet-style, with soup, 2-4 different main courses, and hot drinks. The main courses include Peruvian classics, such as lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and ají de gallina (creamy, mildly spicy chicken stew), among other options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are also available.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, vegetables.
- Wake-up tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent to keep you warm before starting the day.
- Tea time or happy hour: Popcorn, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Snack on the way every day: Fresh and dried fruits, sweet and salty cookies (chocolate, other sweets).
- Water: We will provide boiled water from the first lunch until the second day’s lunch.
- Hygiene products: We will provide a small towel and soap for handwashing before each meal.
✓ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT.
- Tents:
High-altitude, four-season tents that can withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy rain and snow. - Sleeping pads:
Our Thermarest inflatable sleeping pads ensure a warm and comfortable night’s sleep along the trek. - Dining tent:
Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, provides all the space needed to enjoy meals regardless of the weather. - Kitchen tent:
Equipped with all necessary cooking equipment for our chefs to prepare meals (gas stove and all cooking utensils).
✓ TRANSPORTATION.
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in private transportation with the group to the trek’s starting point.
- Day 3: Round-trip Consettur bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Day 3: Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
- Day 2: Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 3: Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Normally, the train ticket is scheduled for 14:30, 14:55, or 15:20, depending on availability. You will have time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Be sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The train ride to Ollantaytambo lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, a Bestrek agency transfer will be waiting for you with your name. Then, you will travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, with drop-off at Plaza Regocijo. Expect to arrive in Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
✓ Pack mules:
- During the trek, the pack mules will carry all camping equipment and your allowed luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lb). The horsemen will take care of your duffel bag and personal belongings.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
- Radios:
They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies, allowing communication between our guides, cooks, and porters. - First aid kit:
Includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive medical tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, and antipyretics. If you take prescription medication, please bring your own. - Portable oxygen tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
Please note that only a medical professional can prescribe medication. Our guides do not have the authority to prescribe treatments to clients during the trek. Any medication provided will be administered with your consent and under your own responsibility. If you have a prescription, we recommend that you bring your own medication.
No Incluye
× SLEEPING BAG:
If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available for $10 USD at Bestrek agency).
× REKKING POLES:
With extra rubber tips included in our service, they are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair at our company.
(Rental available for $10 USD at Bestrek agency).
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain is located behind the citadel and is commonly seen in images as the background in every classic Machu Picchu photo. Only 400 spots are available per day, distributed in 2 shifts: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spots) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spots). Tickets are required and sell out months in advance. It takes only 45 minutes to reach the summit, with a round-trip journey lasting approximately 2 hours. Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of this hike is the 360-degree panoramic view from the top, overlooking the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu River (Urubamba), and the lush mountain landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu Mountain. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Putucusi Mountain, the winding Wilkamayu River (Urubamba), the lush mountain scenery, and the final section of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not particularly dangerous or difficult, but it requires considerable effort. The time required to hike to the summit depends on a person’s physical condition and can vary between 1 to 1.5 hours to climb and 2 to 3 hours for a round-trip.
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 3.
× PERSONAL TREKKING CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase it in case of flight delays or unexpected health issues. Please check whether your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies become void above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS:
- Delays beyond management’s control (landslides, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW:
- Tipping is standard in tourism and any excursion. While we pay fair wages to our entire team, extra tips are always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Usually, group participants collect their tips to distribute among the porters, chefs, and guides.
✓ Why tipping is important:
- Recognizes the worker’s effort.
- A way to express gratitude for good service and treatment.
- Contributes to the local economy in tourist destinations and communities.
- Encourages excellent service, as tips motivate staff to provide outstanding support and hospitality.
- Strengthens positive relationships between hikers and the support team.
- Shows appreciation: Tipping is a meaningful way to thank the porters, cooks, and guides who work tirelessly 24/7 to ensure your trek is comfortable and memorable.
✓ Original Passport:
- If you booked the service with your old passport and later renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. Please inform us so we can update this information.
✓ Backpack:
- You will need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. Choose one that is comfortable to wear and has a capacity of at least 30-40 liters.
✓ Water Storage:
- Bring 1.5 to 2 liters of water; consider a Camelbak or a similar system. Choosing a water bottle that keeps water cold is essential.
✓ Hiking Boots:
- Lightweight, comfortable, and well-fitted. Ensure your shoes are neither too tight nor too loose. They should provide enough space for your toes to move freely.
✓ Headlamp:
- Essential for visibility in the early morning or late at night. It will not only illuminate the path in the dark but also keep your hands free for other tasks. Consider brightness, weight, and comfort when choosing a headlamp.
✓ Power Bank/Battery Charger:
- Use your phone in airplane mode and bring a power bank or external battery. We recommend one with 20,000 mAh capacity.
✓ FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG:
- 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of hiking pants
- 3 sets of underwear
- 3 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for varying temperatures
- Comfortable camp shoes and sturdy hiking boots
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are fine)
- Rain jacket/poncho for heavy rain
- Quick-dry towel (larger than the provided one, if preferred)
- Small soap bottle for personal hygiene
- Battery charger
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items
- Sleeping bag (at least -10°C resistant for cold nights)
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer for skin protection
- Wet wipes for quick cleanups
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene
- Toilet paper for personal use
- Personal medication and a basic first aid kit
✓ INSIDE YOUR BACKPACK:
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided later.
- Rain gear and fleece jacket: Stay adaptable to weather changes.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture your memories.
- Music: An iPhone or similar device for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Extra money for additional purchases and tips (recommended in soles).
- Earplugs: For a peaceful rest.
✓ NOTES:
- Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Use well-fitted and comfortable footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essential items handy.
✓ PRICE PER PERSON
- $540 USD – Adults
- $520 USD – Children & Students
To book the Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu tour, a $270 USD deposit per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ STUDENT DISCOUNT
- All travelers under 17 years old receive a $20 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can obtain the discount with a valid student ID. Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ VALID STUDENT ID REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHU PICCHU
- To qualify for the student discount, travelers must present a valid ID that meets the following criteria:
✓ Important Note about the ISIC Card
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is widely recognized, the Peruvian government does not accept it for student discounts at Machu Picchu. A valid student ID must meet all Peruvian government requirements. If you do not meet these requirements upon arrival, you may have to pay the full entrance price, subject to availability.
✓ ADD-ONS AND UPGRADES
Enhance your experience with these optional services:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Private Hotel in Aguas Calientes: $30.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
You can rent the following items for your trip:
- Sleeping bag: $10.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $10.00 USD
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Please read all important tour information before booking.
✓ HOW TO BOOK
- Booking the Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu trek is easy. Reserve your spot online through our website. Our booking platform will guide you step by step. Payments can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can pay in your local currency for convenience.
✓ RESERVATION PROCESS
- To secure your spot, we require a non-refundable deposit of $270 USD per person. This deposit ensures your place on the tour and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets and train tickets, which must be booked well in advance.
✓ PAYMENT OPTIONS
- Deposit Only: Pay the initial deposit plus any selected add-ons. The remaining balance is due one day before the tour in Cusco.
- Full Payment: Pay the total tour cost online at the time of booking.
✓ REMAINING BALANCE PAYMENT
If you opt to pay only the deposit, the balance must be paid in Cusco one day before departure. Payment options include:
- Cash (USD or Peruvian soles)
- Credit/debit card (5% additional fee)
- Online payment via our website (5% additional fee)
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY
Bestreks has the following cancellation policies:
- Non-refundable permits: Once your reservation is confirmed, all permits and entrance tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable due to strict regulations from the Machu Picchu National Park.
- Cancellations 30+ days in advance: You will lose your deposit but retain your entrance tickets.
- Cancellations 2-3 days before departure: Considered a “no-show,” requiring full payment. You will still receive entrance tickets, train, and bus tickets, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Early termination of trek: If you choose to leave the trek early, you forfeit all included services. Any additional expenses (meals, transportation, accommodation) will be your responsibility. However, you may rejoin the group at Machu Picchu for the guided tour.
✓ UNFORESEEN EVENTS
- Uncontrollable circumstances such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel/flight overbooking may impact your trip. If this occurs, we will suggest alternative arrangements where possible, but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ RECOMMENDATIONS
- Please carefully read all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure a smooth reservation process and a hassle-free experience on your Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu adventure.
✓ BRIEFING MEETING
- All briefing meetings are held the evening before your trip at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. Your guide will also provide you with the duffel bag. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you are unable to attend, you must coordinate another time via email or phone call.
✓ PAYMENT OF THE HIKE BALANCE (IN CUSCO)
- If you have a pending balance, you must pay it one day before your hike/tour; otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed. It is recommended to pay in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco or during the briefing. You can also pay by credit/debit card or via IZIPAY, either online or in person, with an additional 5% service charge.
✓ CLIENT PICK-UP
- All pick-ups are made within the city of Cusco. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a good location. Our guide or staff will confirm the pick-up time the day before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, the pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes. Cusco has narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels and Airbnbs are in areas with no vehicle access. We recommend choosing easily accessible accommodations.
✓ HEALTH
- If you have medical restrictions for any activities included in your reservation, consult your doctor about the risks before taking the tour.
✓ WEATHER
- Cusco’s weather is unpredictable. The dry season runs from April to October, but it can still rain in June or be sunny in December. Be prepared with waterproof gear: jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Additionally, due to Andean microclimates, wear layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes and bring a warm jacket for cold nights.
✓ ALTITUDE SICKNESS (SOROCHE) AND STOMACH ISSUES
It is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least two days before the hike to acclimate.
- Altitude sickness: Symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Diamox, Sorochi Pill, or Alti Vital can help. If symptoms persist, we have oxygen and trained staff available for assistance.
- Stomach issues: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily, preferably hot beverages like coca tea. Eat soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Avoid fried or heavy foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Huchuy Qosqo comes from the Quechua compound word “Huchuy,” meaning “small,” and “Qosqo,” meaning Cusco. It refers to the archaeological capital of South America, known as the city of the Incas, collectively meaning “Little Cusco.”
- Exact location: Huchuy Qosqo is on the northern slope of the Sacred Valley, at an altitude of 3,600 meters, in the district of Lamay, Calca province.
- Distance: While it is often said to be 5 km from Calca, this is a straight-line distance. The hiking routes from Lamay or Tambomachay are longer, ranging between 7 and 10 km, depending on the starting point.
- Access: You can reach Huchuy Qosqo by hiking from Tambomachay (near Cusco) or from Lamay in the Sacred Valley.
Absolutely! If you are vegetarian, vegan, or have any food allergies, simply inform us when making your reservation. Our team will arrange suitable meal options for you at no extra cost.
It is highly recommended to bring your own snacks, which you can buy in Cusco or Calca, or as a last resort, in Ollantaytambo. During the first two days of trekking, you will only find small, improvised stalls selling basic snacks and some rehydration drinks. Make sure to carry cash in Peruvian soles for purchases.
There are no regulations prohibiting children under 12 or adults over 60 from doing the Huchuy Qosqo trek. However, as a responsible agency, BESTREKS recommends that children be at least 12 years old and that adults not exceed 55 years old. That said, anyone can participate as long as they meet the following recommendations:
- Minors must always be accompanied by a responsible adult to ensure their safety.
- If you are over 50, it is essential to be in good health, have physical endurance, and undergo a medical check-up before the trek.
- Acclimatization: At least 3 days in Cusco before the trek is recommended.
- Medical needs: If you require specific medications, bring them with you and inform our sales team and guide before starting the trek.
Yes, absolutely. While the route is not extremely difficult, the altitude can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Cardio exercises: Strengthen your respiratory and cardiovascular endurance, as you will ascend above 4,000 meters, where oxygen levels are lower.
- Strength training: Strengthen your legs and back, as you will be carrying a personal backpack and walking approximately six hours per day.
- Practice trekking or hiking: Train with progressively challenging hikes to adapt to physical exertion.
- Mental preparation: Keep a positive mindset, as this will help you enjoy the experience despite any physical challenges.
Most people say that you need to be in relatively good physical condition for the trek. The hike itself is not extremely difficult, but preparation for altitude is crucial.
The Huchuy Qosqo trek does not usually sell out, as it is not a highly frequented route. However, booking in advance is recommended to ensure that your chosen tour operator has enough time to organize your trek on the desired dates. Last-minute bookings may be challenging if the agency is fully booked with other treks.
Yes, the trek is safe if you prepare adequately and follow safety guidelines. Most tourists complete the hike without serious issues, but it’s important to be aware of altitude risks and changing trail conditions. By following safety recommendations, the trek is an incredible experience.
On average, you will walk 5-6 hours per day. The total duration depends on your physical condition, group members, and any specific needs (e.g., photographers may take longer). Our guides are experienced in adapting the trek to the group’s pace.
- Dry season (May to October): The best time for the trek, with minimal rain, making the trail safer and more comfortable. Days are sunny, nights are cold, and visibility is excellent.
- Rainy season (December to February): While the trek is still possible, the wet conditions can make the trail slippery and more challenging.
- By plane: The most common route is to fly to Lima (Peru’s capital) and then take a domestic flight to Cusco, which takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Airlines include LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air.
- By bus: A bus ride from Lima to Cusco takes 20-24 hours, but flying is recommended for comfort and time savings.
- From other countries: Some direct flights to Cusco exist from neighboring countries (e.g., Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador), but they are less frequent than flights to Lima.
- At least 2-3 days in Cusco before starting the trek is recommended. During this time, take it easy and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
- If you have been in other high-altitude areas (Arequipa, Puno, Sacred Valley) before arriving in Cusco, acclimatization may be faster, and 1 day in Cusco could be enough.
Yes. Ankle-supporting hiking boots are highly recommended, especially for those not used to long hikes or uneven terrain. The steep inclines and rocky paths require stability, and proper footwear can prevent injuries. High-top hiking boots are ideal.
Trekking poles are not mandatory but highly recommended as they help reduce knee strain and improve balance on uneven, rocky, and steep trails.
- For ascents: Poles help push with your arms, reducing leg fatigue.
- For descents: They provide control, reducing the risk of slipping or falling.
Any luggage that is not needed for the trek should remain in Cusco. Most hotels in Cusco offer free luggage storage. If you do not have a place to store your bags, you can leave them at our office until the trek is over—we will ensure they are kept safely.
Many of our travelers say the food is a highlight of their trip!
- Our professional chefs prepare delicious, nutritious meals using fresh, local ingredients.
- The menu includes a variety of food groups to provide the energy needed for trekking.
- You will have the chance to try traditional Peruvian dishes.
- If you have dietary restrictions (allergies, vegetarian, vegan), inform us in advance, and we will accommodate your needs at no extra cost.
- In addition to meals, we provide afternoon snacks and hot beverages before dinner.
Send Us a Message