Mystical Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu (3 Days)

Discover a lesser-known side of the Andes on this three-day journey, designed for travelers who want a meaningful escape without needing extra time. Huchuy Qosqo offers a rewarding hike through dramatic mountain scenery, a ceremonial gratitude offering with an Andean shaman, an overnight stay with a local family, and a memorable visit to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Overview

A short but enriching Andean adventure blending mountain landscapes, local hospitality, and spiritual connection.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Gratitude Ceremony – Local Homestay

In the early morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven for about one hour to the community of Taucca in the Sacred Valley. The trek begins with an ancestral ceremony guided by our Andean shaman, offering a reflective moment to give thanks, connect with the spirits, and set an intention for the journey ahead.

From there, a 3-hour climb leads to the highest point of the trek, where several lagoons and sweeping mountain views create a stunning backdrop. At the pass, take in the snow-capped peaks and the Sacred Valley below. The descent continues to the village of Pucamarca, then to the ancient Inca ruins of Patabamba, before following the original Inca trail to Huchuy Qosqo (3650m / 11,975 ft), or “Little Cusco” in Quechua.

Once an important Inca site for rituals and offerings, Huchuy Qosqo still carries a powerful sense of history. In the late afternoon, you will meet a local family, learn about their customs, and enjoy a traditional dinner before settling in for the night.

Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast at the homestay, your local guide will share the history of this remarkable archaeological site. You will have time to explore the sacred temples, farming terraces, storehouses, water channels, and the original Inca reservoir.

Next, a 2-hour downhill hike brings you to the community of Lamay. From there, private transport takes you to Ollantaytambo for lunch. In the afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you will stay overnight at a hotel.

Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast, take the shuttle bus to the world wonder of Machu Picchu. With your local guide, explore the site’s most important highlights, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, Sun Dial, Quarry, House of the Inka, urban sectors, and agricultural terraces. There will also be time for photos, and you may choose to visit Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain, with advance notice required and an additional cost.

After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, take the train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy and enjoy the scenic views of the Sacred Valley before transferring back to your hotel in Cusco.

Inclusions and Additional Information

What is included?

• One night with a local family and one night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals: lunch and dinner on day 1, all meals on day 2, and breakfast on day 3.
• All activities listed in the itinerary.
• Professional English-speaking guide.
• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Huchuy Qosqo.
• Pick-up and drop-off in Cusco.
• Transportation to the trek starting point.
• Shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
• Transfer from Ollantaytambo or Poroy back to your hotel in Cusco.

What is not included?

• Breakfast on day 1, lunch and dinner on day 3.
• Trekking poles, available for rent for $15.00 per person.
• Any activities or meals not listed in the itinerary or marked as optional.
• Gratuities for staff.
• National or international flights.
• Travel insurance.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

If you need to cancel or would like more information about refunds, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. If anything is unclear or you have questions, feel free to get in touch with us. We are here to help and make everything easy to understand.

FAQ about this trek

How challenging is the Huchuy Qosqo trek?

This trek is considered moderate and is best suited for people with a reasonable level of fitness. It includes both uphill and downhill sections across varied terrain, so comfortable trekking gear is recommended.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?

You will spend the first night with a local family and the second night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

No camping equipment is needed. A box lunch is provided during the trek, and meals on the first night are freshly prepared by the local family at the homestay. The accommodation is simple but comfortable, and trekking poles can be rented for 15 USD if arranged in advance.

What is the spiritual purpose of Huchuy Qosqo for the Incas?

Huchuy Qosqo held deep spiritual importance for the Incas and is believed to have served as a ceremonial center and religious retreat. It was likely used for rituals and ceremonies, as well as for connecting with the sacred forces of nature. Its location above the Sacred Valley reflects its role in Inca cosmology and their relationship with the landscape.

What's the best time of year to visit Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu?

The dry season, from May to September, is generally the best time to visit, offering clearer skies and more stable weather. June through August is the busiest period. April and October can also be excellent choices, with fewer visitors and still relatively dry conditions. Since Machu Picchu is popular year-round, advance planning is always recommended.

What should I pack for the spiritual Huchuy Qosqo trek?

Please note that the train company allows only carry-on baggage, such as a duffle bag or small backpack, weighing no more than 5kg/11lb and measuring up to 62 linear inches/157 cm in total. Larger luggage will not be permitted.

Clothing:

• Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
• Light, moisture-wicking trekking clothing.
• Warm layers for colder evenings.
• Rain jacket or poncho.

Daypack essentials:

• Daypack for your trek essentials.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Personal first aid kit and any required medication.
• Reusable water bottle.

Personal items:

• Toiletries.
• Towel and wet wipes.
• Camera or smartphone.

Optional items:

• Trekking poles, available for rent at 15 USD.

Original passport:

Required for entry to Machu Picchu.

Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, but please let us know in advance. There is an additional cost of $60 USD for this option, and availability is limited because tickets sell out quickly.