Huchuy Qosqo Trek 1 Day
Your exciting Huchuy Qosqo trek 1 day experience begins at 7:00 am with convenient pick-up directly from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive northwest, passing through stunning Andean landscapes, charming traditional villages, and renowned archaeological landmarks, including Sacsayhuaman and Puca Pucara. After briefly traveling through the picturesque village of Ccorao and ascending to the mountain community of Patabamba (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), you’ll arrive at the peaceful Qenqo community 3,600m (11,811 ft), the starting point of your exhilarating Huchuy Qosqo hike.
The hike begins with a gentle, rewarding one-hour ascent to Siwar Pass, the highest elevation point of your trek at 4,000 m (13,500 ft). From here, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Veronica and Chicon, capturing awe-inspiring photographs of the magnificent Andes and the Sacred Valley sprawling below.
After descending from the Siwar Pass, the journey continues through the ancient and picturesque village of Pucamarca, offering an ideal spot for a short rest. Following this pause, you’ll continue your Huchuy Qosqo trek along beautifully restored sections of the original Inca Trail. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the impressive Puma Punku canyon (“The Puma Gate”), an extraordinary natural landmark that showcases the incredible ingenuity and rich cultural heritage of Inca civilization.
Continuing along this historic trail, you’ll soon arrive at the mysterious archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo (“Little Cusco”), strategically perched at 3,650 m (11,975 ft) above the Sacred Valley. Here, an expert guide will take you on an insightful 40-minute guided tour, unraveling fascinating stories of the site’s intriguing history. You will discover intricate stone architecture, ceremonial buildings, storerooms, and marvelously preserved agricultural terraces. Additionally, visitors can explore ancient Inca irrigation channels, a testament to their sophisticated engineering skills.
The panoramic vistas from Huchuy Qosqo are truly unforgettable, offering dramatic views over the Sacred Valley, Urubamba River, Chincon Glaciers, and the picturesque town of Calca. This tranquil and historically rich location provides a profound connection with Peru’s remarkable Inca heritage.
After immersing yourself in the wonders of Huchuy Qosqo and enjoying a relaxing box lunch surrounded by serene natural beauty, you’ll begin a leisurely 2-hour descent along scenic trails. These lush valleys are abundant with vibrant tarwi flowers, small native cacti, and beautiful Queñua trees, guiding you gently towards the charming village of Lamay (2,941 m / 9648 ft), located alongside the tranquil Urubamba River.
From Lamay, your private transportation will comfortably return you to your hotel in Cusco or directly to the Ollantaytambo train station, perfectly positioning you for the next stage of your Peruvian adventure—such as exploring the iconic Machu Picchu.