1 Day
Daily Tour
16 people
English, Espanol
Embark on a breathtaking trek through the picturesque landscapes of Chinchero, where you’ll admire impressive Inca terraces and intricate stone architecture. Along the way, you’ll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the natural richness of the region.
Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Huchuy Qosqo was built by order of Inca Wiracocha as a royal retreat. Its well-preserved ruins and serene atmosphere will transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into the life of the Inca elite. The name, meaning “Little Cusco”, reflects its architectural and historical significance.
More than just a hike, this journey is a fusion of nature and history, where each step reveals the grandeur of the Inca civilization. Whether you seek cultural exploration or breathtaking landscapes, this unforgettable adventure will provide a deep connection to the Andes and its ancient legacy.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek: A journey that spans approximately 8 hours of trekking (including breaks, lunch, and a tour of the archaeological site), this adventure takes you through diverse ecological zones such as Quechua, Suni, and Puna, each with its unique flora and fauna.
Early Morning Departure: We start our day early, departing from Cusco and heading north towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. As we drive towards the town of Chinchero, you’ll be captivated by the vast agricultural fields that have been cultivated since ancient times. Our journey continues along the shores of Piuray Lagoon, leading us to the community of Tauca (3762 meters / 12343 feet above sea level), where our trek begins.
Ascending the Andes: The trek starts along an old, disused dirt track with a gentle incline that takes us towards the Pucajasa Mountain Pass (4393 meters / 14413 feet above sea level). From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Urubamba mountain range. The pass itself is about 200 meters long, offering a dramatic transition as we descend into a new ecological zone.
Discovering Huchuy Qosqo: As we make our way down, we encounter remnants of the Inca Trail and witness striking changes in the landscape as we move through different ecological levels. We eventually arrive at Huchuy Qosqo (3688 meters / 12099 feet above sea level), where we’ll pause for lunch amidst the historical surroundings. After a refreshing break, we’ll embark on a guided tour of this fascinating archaeological site, learning about its historical significance and architectural marvels.
Descent to Lamay: Following our exploration, we begin our descent towards the village of Lamay (2938 meters / 9639 feet above sea level). The changing scenery provides a picturesque backdrop as we conclude our trek. In Lamay, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, bringing our adventure to a satisfying close.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is considered a moderate trek. It involves a full day of hiking, with some steep ascents and descents. The trek is suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. However, the altitude can be challenging, so it’s recommended to acclimatize in Cusco for a few days before the trek.
You should bring comfortable trekking shoes, layers of clothing for varying weather conditions, a hat, sunscreen, a rain jacket, a daypack, a water bottle, and snacks. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes! Walking sticks can also be useful and are available for rent.
Altitude sickness can be a concern due to the high altitudes reached during the trek, particularly at the Pucajasa Mountain Pass (4,393 m / 14,413 ft). It's advisable to spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude location to acclimatize before the trek. Staying hydrated and walking at a steady pace can help mitigate symptoms.
The best time to do the Huchuy Qosqo Trek is during the dry season, from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally clear and dry, offering the best conditions for trekking. The wet season, from November to March, can make the trails muddy and slippery, and there is a higher chance of rain.
Yes, solo travelers are welcome to join the Huchuy Qosqo Trek. You can join a group tour, which is a great way to meet other travelers and share the experience. If you prefer a more personalized experience, private tours are also available.
The trek package typically includes hotel pickup in Cusco, professional bilingual guide services, private transportation to and from the trailhead, entrance to Huchuy Qosqo, meals (a box lunch per hiker), an oxygen tank, and a first aid kit. Additional items, such as walking sticks and tips for the support staff, are optional extras.
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