4 Days
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
mbark on a Unique Adventure: This 4-day trekking journey invites you to explore the lesser-known wonders of the Andes, including intriguing Inca ruins, vibrant rural communities, and awe-inspiring snow-covered peaks. The route takes you off the traditional paths, guiding you over high Andean passes and through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. Your adventure concludes with a trek on the Short Inca Trail, leading you to the world-renowned Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This exclusive trek is an opportunity that few agencies offer, making it a truly distinctive experience!
Discover the History of Huchuy Qosqo: The Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, believed to have been established during the reign of the eighth Inca ruler, Wiracocha, offers a glimpse into the past. The Inca rulers acquired expansive royal estates not only to demonstrate their influence and amass wealth but also to pass on to their descendants. These estates served multiple purposes, from being elegant retreats to acting as strategic fortresses. The name “Huchuy Qosqo,” meaning “Little Cusco,” suggests that it was designed as a royal estate or an administrative center inspired by the grandeur of the Inca capital. Your guide will share fascinating details about the historical importance of this magnificent site, enriching your understanding of its role in Incan history.
A Trek Like No Other: This journey combines the beauty of nature with the allure of ancient history, offering a unique perspective on the rich cultural heritage of the Incas. Whether you are drawn to the stunning landscapes or the deep historical roots, this trek promises an unforgettable experience, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Pick-Up from the Hotel at 6:00 a.m.: Begin your adventure with a private transfer from your hotel to the archaeological site of Tambomachay. Our trek will start from this point, continuing through the high-altitude landscapes of the Puna region.
Scenic Trek: We’ll ascend over the Sicllaccasa Pass (4020 m / 13186 ft), traversing an ancient Inca trail that leads us through the Ccauca Gorge. Along the way, we’ll encounter intriguing archaeological remains and lush wild crops such as tarwi, as well as an abundance of cacti.
Queullococha Pass: The journey takes us to the Queullococha Pass (4185 m / 13727 ft), where we’re surrounded by breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Veronica, Pitusiray, and Chicon. As we walk past Queullococha Lake, we might spot huallatas (Andean geese), ducks, and small fish.
Challu Challu Pass: From here, we ascend towards the Challu Challu Pass (4220 m / 13842 ft). This vantage point offers panoramic views of the Chinchero Plains and the Piuray and Qoricocha Lagoons.
Rumicruz Pass: We continue our trek to the Rumicruz Pass (4230 m / 13874 ft), the fourth pass of the journey, before making our way to the Inca Quarry (4220 m / 13842 ft). This quarry was historically used to extract stones for the construction of Huchuy Qosqo.
Descent to Pucamarca: We then descend to the village of Pucamarca (4010 m / 13153 ft), where we will arrive in the afternoon. Here, we will enjoy a hearty dinner and set up camp for the night.
7:00 a.m.: We will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately 1 hour. During this transfer, you'll have the opportunity to admire the Sacred Valley of the Incas, with its agricultural lands and majestic snow-capped peaks.
Train Journey to Km 104: In Ollantaytambo, board the train that will take you to Km 104. The train ride lasts about 1 hour.
Inca Trail Short Trek: At Km 104 (2,200 m / 7,217 ft), we will begin the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Cross the bridge over the Urubamba River, also known as Willkamayuc, which translates from Quechua as Sacred River, a vital part of Incan culture. At the checkpoint, you'll need to present your identification documents, such as a passport, foreigner's card, or national ID.
Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy: A 15-minute walk from the checkpoint brings us to the Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy archaeological sites, hidden within the semi-tropical forest. After exploring these sites, we will continue our hike up stone stairways, offering views of the Sacred Valley, cascading waterfalls, and diverse orchids native to the forest.
Arrival at Wiñaywayna: After about 3 hours of hiking, we will reach Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), an excellent example of Inca agricultural practices, with numerous circular terraces used for farming. Wiñaywayna means "Eternally Young" in Spanish, named after a beautiful orchid that grows abundantly in the area. The site features over 20 structures, including the Rainbow Temple, also known as the Temple of Fertility. We'll spend approximately 1 hour exploring Wiñaywayna before enjoying a box lunch to recharge our energy.
Final Trek to Machu Picchu: After lunch, we will proceed to the Wiñaywayna checkpoint and continue our hike for about 2 hours through Andean plains, stone steps, and rest areas known as tambos, until we reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) (2,720 m / 8,923 ft). This ancient gateway served as the entrance control to Machu Picchu. From Inti Punku, you'll enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley.
Descent to Machu Picchu: Descend for approximately 30 minutes to the breathtaking Machu Picchu (2,490 m / 8,169 ft). After exploring the iconic site, take a 25-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) (2,160 m / 7,086 ft), where you will spend the night in a very comfortable hotel.
Evening in Aguas Calientes: If you're not too tired, you can visit the nearby thermal baths, located just 10 minutes from the town for a cost of 10 soles. For those who enjoy nightlife, Aguas Calientes offers a variety of bars and restaurants, and there is an ATM available for cash withdrawals. We’ll also enjoy a delightful dinner à la carte at a cozy restaurant in the town.
Overnight Stay: Enjoy a restful night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Early Start: We’ll begin our day with an early start and breakfast. Then, we will head to the station to board the bus for a 30-minute journey to the Machu Picchu Citadel.
Guided Tour: Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the most significant sites and learn about the rich history of this ancient wonder. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can opt to hike to the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also choose to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for an additional cost of $70 USD per person.
Return to Aguas Calientes: At an appropriate time, we will descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can enjoy lunch at one of the many varied restaurants in the town.
Train to Cusco: In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Cusco. Please ensure you arrive at the train station 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Transfer to Cusco: Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, a representative from our company will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco. The drive to Cusco will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Early Start: We’ll begin our day with an early start and breakfast. Then, we will head to the station to board the bus for a 30-minute journey to the Machu Picchu Citadel.
Guided Tour: Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the most significant sites and learn about the rich history of this ancient wonder. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can opt to hike to the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also choose to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain for an additional cost of $70 USD per person.
Return to Aguas Calientes: At an appropriate time, we will descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can enjoy lunch at one of the many varied restaurants in the town.
Train to Cusco: In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Cusco. Please ensure you arrive at the train station 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Transfer to Cusco: Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, a representative from our company will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco. The drive to Cusco will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Our tour package includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, professional bilingual guides, entrance fees to all sites, accommodation during the trek, meals as specified in the itinerary, camping equipment, and all necessary permits. We also provide a detailed briefing before the tour to ensure you are fully prepared.
The tour involves moderate to challenging hiking, depending on the specific itinerary. Participants should be in good physical condition and comfortable walking for several hours a day. If you have any health concerns, we advise consulting with your doctor before booking. Our guides are trained to assist and can adjust the pace as needed to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Yes, we offer customizable tour options to cater to your specific preferences. Whether you want to extend your stay, add extra activities, or modify the itinerary, we are happy to work with you to create the perfect experience. Please contact us in advance to discuss your requirements.
You should bring comfortable hiking clothes and sturdy boots, a sleeping bag (available for rent in Cusco if needed), a waterproof jacket, layers for varying weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses for sun protection, personal toiletries, a small daypack for personal items, a camera, and trekking poles (available for rent in Cusco).
The trek involves challenging terrain with significant altitude changes and is recommended for individuals with a moderate level of fitness. Daily hikes include ascents and descents at high altitudes.
The weather can vary greatly, with warm days and cold nights. It is advisable to prepare for all conditions, including rain and sunshine. Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are essential.
There is no strict age limit, but the trek is best suited for individuals who are in good health and able to handle strenuous physical activity. Children and older adults should consult with a doctor before participating.
Reservations can be made through our website or by contacting us directly via email or phone. It is advisable to book as early as possible to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.
Cancellation and change policies vary. Please refer to our terms and conditions or contact us directly for information on cancellation fees and rescheduling options.
The best time to undertake the Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This period offers the most stable weather and clear views of the stunning landscapes.
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