Explore the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
This site is situated on a plateau with stunning views overlooking the Sacred valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba range.
The name Huchuy Qosqo means ‘little Cusco’ in the Quechua language. It’s an archaeological site north of Cusco that was a military and administrative centre to the Incas. Many believe the Spanish gave it this name as it resembled the city of Cusco a little.
You’ll explore this unique site as you enjoy a spectacular view over the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Along the hike you’ll see some wonderful views and experience Andean life in the mountains.
The name Huchuy Qosqo means ‘little Cusco’ in the Quechua language. It’s an archaeological site north of Cusco that was a military and administrative centre to the Incas. Many believe the Spanish gave it this name as it resembled the city of Cusco a little.
You’ll explore this unique site as you enjoy a spectacular view over the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Along the hike you’ll see some wonderful views and experience Andean life in the mountains.
Locally Owned & Operated
We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!
Expert Local Guides
Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.
Fantastic Meals
Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture.
Eco-Friendly Tours
Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.
Small Groups
Average groups of 10; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.
Our Best Seller
If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Huchuy Qosqo Trek & Machu Picchu 3 Days is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.
Our Best Seller
Huchuy Qosqo Trek & Machu Picchu
Is your idea of the perfect vacation a trek to Machu Picchu but away from the crowds? If the answer is yes, look no further than the 3-day Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu trek. Enjoy this incredibly picturesque hike through stunning landscapes as you observe beautiful towns, find llamas and alpacas, and witness soaring mountain peaks and a surprising variety of local flora and fauna.
Is your idea of the perfect vacation a trek to Machu Picchu but away from the crowds? If the answer is yes, look no further than the 3-day Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu trek. Enjoy this incredibly picturesque hike through stunning landscapes as you observe beautiful towns, find llamas and alpacas, and witness soaring mountain peaks and a surprising variety of local flora and fauna.
You’ll also make new friends in local communities where you can immerse yourself in their world and learn all about their customs and traditions as you walk in the footsteps of their ancestors on parts of the mythical Inca Trail. This is the perfect trip for those short on time who want a real, rural Andean experience. Join us on the trail for the adventure of a lifetime today!
Huchuy Qosqo Trek Packages
For this site there are tours from just one day up to three days, depending on how much time you have in Cusco. Take a look at the 3 options we have on offer below.
The Best Adventure trek to Machu Picchu
Every journey we design is carefully curated and completely bespoke, fine-tuned to your passions and interests. Experience jaw-dropping natural wonders, mysterious ancient civilisations, diverse indigenous culture and unique wildlife with some of the best trek combinations in Peru and South America.
The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camps Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,215 m / 13,829 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best trekking routes in South America. Walk in the footsteps of our Inca nobility ancestors to their incredible Inca fortress, Machu Picchu, and dare to discover their secrets.
The Inca Trail is where those most daring choose to trek to Machu Picchu, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit unique archaeological sites that can only be accessed on foot along this route and become enveloped in the stunning Andean mountain landscape and thick vegetation. You’ll be challenged along the way but will receive the most amazing reward when you enter through the Sun Gate to look over mystical Machu Picchu for the first time.
The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best trekking routes in South America. Walk in the footsteps of our Inca nobility ancestors to their incredible Inca fortress, Machu Picchu, and dare to discover their secrets.
The Inca Trail is where those most daring choose to trek to Machu Picchu, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit unique archaeological sites that can only be accessed on foot along this route and become enveloped in the stunning Andean mountain landscape and thick vegetation. You’ll be challenged along the way but will receive the most amazing reward when you enter through the Sun Gate to look over mystical Machu Picchu for the first time.
The Classic Lares Trek 4 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camp & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,700 m / 15,420 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
Our exciting four-day trek from Lares to Machu Picchu offers a magical and breathtaking experience that you’ll never forget! It’s a wonderful option for those who want to enjoy an off-the-beaten-path trek and see incredible scenery while in great company.
Along the trail, you’ll find rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views of the Andes mountain range's snow-capped peaks. If you’re interested in Andean Culture, this trail is the perfect choice. You’ll get to visit various countryside communities where they raise sheep, llamas, and alpacas and get up close and personal with the communities.
Our exciting four-day trek from Lares to Machu Picchu offers a magical and breathtaking experience that you’ll never forget! It’s a wonderful option for those who want to enjoy an off-the-beaten-path trek and see incredible scenery while in great company.
Along the trail, you’ll find rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views of the Andes mountain range's snow-capped peaks. If you’re interested in Andean Culture, this trail is the perfect choice. You’ll get to visit various countryside communities where they raise sheep, llamas, and alpacas and get up close and personal with the communities.
Classic Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Lodge, Hotel & Domes Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,350 m / 14,272 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
The Classic Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect excursion for those passionate about exciting activities and thrills. Not only will you be hiking, but you’ll also be biking, rafting, and even ziplining! We think you’ll agree it’s quite an adventure.
You’ll pass by Inca archaeological sites through stunning landscapes and the luscious jungle until you reach the small town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. On your last day, you’ll enter the great Inca citadel, one of the World's New Seven Wonders. Let the magic of the Incas envelop you and wrap you up in its mystical history as you explore and unravel secrets. Are you up for the challenge?
The Classic Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect excursion for those passionate about exciting activities and thrills. Not only will you be hiking, but you’ll also be biking, rafting, and even ziplining! We think you’ll agree it’s quite an adventure.
You’ll pass by Inca archaeological sites through stunning landscapes and the luscious jungle until you reach the small town of Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. On your last day, you’ll enter the great Inca citadel, one of the World's New Seven Wonders. Let the magic of the Incas envelop you and wrap you up in its mystical history as you explore and unravel secrets. Are you up for the challenge?
Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camp & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,500 m / 14,764 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path trek to Machu Picchu, then the Inca Quarry Trail is an excellent alternative. Over the years, it’s managed to stay off the list of traditional tourist routes. That doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting, though.
This route is perfect for those looking to delve further into the Inca’s history and see firsthand how life in the Andes is for the locals who live in remote regions. You’ll get up close and personal with small communities and witness their day-to-day lives. On this route, you’ll also see some unique Inca sites that very few people get to see, even those from Cusco!
If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path trek to Machu Picchu, then the Inca Quarry Trail is an excellent alternative. Over the years, it’s managed to stay off the list of traditional tourist routes. That doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting, though.
This route is perfect for those looking to delve further into the Inca’s history and see firsthand how life in the Andes is for the locals who live in remote regions. You’ll get up close and personal with small communities and witness their day-to-day lives. On this route, you’ll also see some unique Inca sites that very few people get to see, even those from Cusco!
The Inca Quarry was recently included in the top six Alternative Routes to Machu Picchu by National Geographic, making it an excellent trek to choose from.
The Classic Salkantay Trek 5 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camp & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
After spending some time in the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, join us on the Classic Salkantay Trek to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the stunning Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Mountain, through the fascinating cloud forest, and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.
You’ll spend each night in comfortable accommodation and enjoy some of the tastiest food around - in the middle of the mountains! Experienced guides will be with you all the way to teach you about the history and nature of the region. Enjoy this route in comfort and great company.
After spending some time in the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco, join us on the Classic Salkantay Trek to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu. The best alternative route to the Inca citadel will take you to the stunning Humantay Lake, the imposing Salkantay Mountain, through the fascinating cloud forest, and then to the edge of the Peruvian jungle.
You’ll spend each night in comfortable accommodation and enjoy some of the tastiest food around - in the middle of the mountains! Experienced guides will be with you all the way to teach you about the history and nature of the region. Enjoy this route in comfort and great company.
The Classic Ancascocha Trek 5 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camp & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,650 m / 15,255 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
One of the least known routes to the incredible Machu Picchu is the Ancascocha trail. It’s far less crowded than other tourist treks, and not many people travel along the route. In fact, not a lot of companies offer the tour because it’s so off-the-beaten-path. Despite these facts, it’s still considered one of South America’s best treks and was declared as one of the 20 dream hikes by National Geographic on their best walks in the world list.
Along the route, you’ll spot Inca constructions and quaint villages, as you’re accompanied by the beautiful mountain views of the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges. Spectacular landscapes are everywhere, and you’ll get some fantastic photo opportunities. This trip combines high altitude Andes hiking, fascinating history, fantastic cultural elements, and rare solitude on arguably the best route to Machu Picchu.
One of the least known routes to the incredible Machu Picchu is the Ancascocha trail. It’s far less crowded than other tourist treks, and not many people travel along the route. In fact, not a lot of companies offer the tour because it’s so off-the-beaten-path. Despite these facts, it’s still considered one of South America’s best treks and was declared as one of the 20 dream hikes by National Geographic on their best walks in the world list.
Along the route, you’ll spot Inca constructions and quaint villages, as you’re accompanied by the beautiful mountain views of the Vilcabamba and Urubamba mountain ranges. Spectacular landscapes are everywhere, and you’ll get some fantastic photo opportunities. This trip combines high altitude Andes hiking, fascinating history, fantastic cultural elements, and rare solitude on arguably the best route to Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao & Machu Picchu 8 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Treks]()
Camps & Hotel Accommodation -
![Highest altitudes in Peru]()
4,650 m / 15,256 ft Max. altitude -
![Trekking Difficulty Level]()
Challenging to Strenuous Difficulty
This exhilarating expedition will take you to two of Peru’s most famous and significant archeological sites: Choquequirao e Machu Picchu. Both of these ancient cities were considered towns of nobles and priests, and this meant that they were of great importance to the Incas.
On this epic adventure, you’ll get the chance to learn about the legends and treasures left behind by the Inca and listen to the stories the majestic mountains are aching to share with you. These towns marked the beginning of the end of the Inca empire and were abandoned before the Spanish conquerors were able to follow them there and exploit their treasures. Join us on this trek to experience untouched beauty, revel in fascinating history, and hike in the final steps of one of the world's most influential ancient cultures—the Incas.
This exhilarating expedition will take you to two of Peru’s most famous and significant archeological sites: Choquequirao e Machu Picchu. Both of these ancient cities were considered towns of nobles and priests, and this meant that they were of great importance to the Incas.
On this epic adventure, you’ll get the chance to learn about the legends and treasures left behind by the Inca and listen to the stories the majestic mountains are aching to share with you. These towns marked the beginning of the end of the Inca empire and were abandoned before the Spanish conquerors were able to follow them there and exploit their treasures. Join us on this trek to experience untouched beauty, revel in fascinating history, and hike in the final steps of one of the world's most influential ancient cultures—the Incas.
Why Travel With Us?
We are dedicated and commited to our clients, to the environment, and to our fellow compatriots
Our Horsemen & Horses
All of our horsemen are from Mollepata, which is the starting point of our trek. We make sure to employ responsible people that are serious about what they do. This way, they do an excellent job at transporting everyone’s items along the trail with mules and are in charge of getting your gear safely to each campsite where it will be waiting for you.
Our horsemen are very content with us receiving a good salary and benefits at the end of each season. Salkantay Trekking provides all the mountain gear and uniforms to the horsemen. These guys can be of great help in an emergency because they know the area and trail like the back of their hand.
In addition to the trekking and camping equipment, each horse carries 40kg of the trekkers’ belongings. You’ll have 7kg of allowance for your gear.
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Knowledgeable Tour Guides
Salkantay Trekking relies on an extensive network of highly trained guides and expert ambassadors as a premise to guarantee excellence in our services. We are fully conscious that an excellent guide is key to making your trip a memorable experience, which is why we are extremely demanding when recruiting and regularly training our guides.
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Our Chefs
In all of our trekking trips, the chef ensures high-quality meals on time, an adequate diet both in its quality and quantity. The secret lies in the careful selection of our team of chefs, whose top-quality restaurant background, creativity and passion for their jobs provide an unequalled touch to all of our meals. We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip.
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The Best Trekking Food in Peru
We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip. We provide general guidelines, guest information on dietary restrictions and preferences and, most especially, the tools for a constant updating of our cooks’ knowledge in both Peruvian and International cuisine through specialization courses and training.
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The Best Camping Equipment
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in our spacious Eureka tent. All our tents are built to be four man tents, but you will only have to share with one other trekker. This leaves a lot of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffels. They are an A-frame design, with entrances on both sides of the tent. They also include a vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks. We are proud to be the only company to use these tents.
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Find the Perfect Destination in Peru
With astonishingly varied landscapes, stunning scenery, compelling history, and a legacy of fascinating cultures, there is truly something for everyone. Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek Travel Guide
Before You Go, What You Should Know
We hope that this Peru & Huchuy Qosqo Trek travel guide will serve as a reference for you to prepare for and undertake an exceptional and seamless journey through this “Empire of Hidden Treasures.”
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Huchuy Qosqo Trek Highlights
Here are the top highlights that you’ll enjoy on the excursion:
- Enjoy stunning landscapes and spectacular views.
- Explore the rarely visited site of Huchuy Qosqo.
- Take in the surrounded snowy mountain peaks.
- Witness daily life in Andean communities.
- Escape the city for some peace and quiet.
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What to Expect on the Trail
Here’s a small guide regarding what to expect on the trek to help you better understand if it’s a good option for you or not.
Small Andean Villages
Along the route you’ll see some small communities that give you an excellent insight into what life is like high up in the hills.
Visit a Rarely Visited Site
The actual archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo isn’t frequented by many visitors. It’s a great option for those who love an off the beaten path hike and to not be surrounded by many other tourists.
Beautiful Views
There’s no doubt that the Andes has a lot to offer in regards to spectacular landscapes, and the Huchuy Qosqo trek is no different. In fact, it offers some of the best as you get a great view over the Sacred Valley from up high.
Learn More About the Incas
This hike is a great opportunity to learn more about the Incas and their way of life. It’s perfect for history lovers.
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Where is Huchuy Qosqo?
Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site sits high up in the Sacred Valley of the Incas above the small town of Lamay (2,800 masl / 9,186 fasl). It’s about one and a half hours from the city of Cusco. Its altitude is 3,650 masl / 11,800 fasl.
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Difficulty Level
This trek is one of the easier ones in the Cusco region. It doesn’t ascend and descend as much as others and most of the terrain is in a relatively good state. However, you’ll still have the challenge of the altitude, so make sure to pace yourself.
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Packing List for the Huchuy Qosqo
To make sure you have everything you need for the hike, take a look at our packing list.
- Sunblock, hat, and sunglasses for the strong Andean sun
- Warm clothes for the evenings
- Thin layers that you can take off and put on easily
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Walking poles
- Sleeping bag
- Hiking socks
- Water bottle (not plastic)
- Snacks
- Cash in small denominations
- Waterproofs or poncho
- Good quality camera
- Passport
- Personal medication
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Huchuy Qosqo Tips
Now for some tips to make sure everything goes smoothly.
- Make sure you go on hikes back home in the few weeks leading up to your trip to be physically prepared.
- In addition, start a daily exercise and stretching routine.
- Get to Cusco a few days before you set off on the hike to make sure you’re properly acclimated.
- Take it easy upon arrival in Cusco. Don’t drink alcohol and make sure you eat lightly. It’s also a good idea not to overexert yourself in the first couple of days.
- The sun can be very strong this high up, so make sure you use the right protection and stay hydrated along the walk.
- Go at your own pace. If you;re part of a bigger group, you don’t all need to walk at the same speed. Walking faster than you’re able to will tire you out quicker and can make you feel ill.
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Recommendations
To have a carefree vacation and hike, take into consideration our recommendations for the Huchuy Qosqo trek.
Book Ahead
To avoid being let down upon arrival, book in advance. This will make sure that your tour operator has guides available. It will also save you worrying about having to find a space last minute when trying to enjoy your vacation.
Be Prepared
Take our advice and hike and exercise back home so you’re ready. Make sure you’re prepared for the altitude by speaking to your doctor back home and asking about the possibility of medication to help. Also make use of the coping methods available in Cusco including coca tea and oxygen.
Pack Lightly
Use our packing list to ensure you have everything you need, but don’t pack any more than that. You’ll be carrying your own bag, so don’t want it to weigh you down throughout the day.
Get Insured
Travel insurance is a must when hiking in Cusco. Health care is expensive if you need it and you won’t be able to go on treks if you can’t prove you have it.
Extra Snacks
Even though you’ll be well fed on the trip, it’s a good idea to have some extra energy boosting snacks in case you need them along the way. This could be anything from nuts and dried fruits to your favourite chocolate bar.
Quality Service
For us quality of experience is only second to safety
We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.
I and my 14 and 12 year old kids took the Huchuy Qosqo trek in July and it was an unforgetable experience. The trail is fine for kids (just a little tough on the first day) with breathtaking views all the way. Our guide Joel did an amazing job and was very helpful through all our journey. The food was excellent too! I really recommend this trip for those with kids.
ANDRÉ N
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