The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is an incredible journey to the lesser-known Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo, located on a plateau offering stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

The adventure begins with a drive from Cusco to the small town of Corao, located about 30 minutes away. From here, we’ll venture off the main road and ascend into the high Andes, reaching the small village of Patabamba, situated at an altitude of 3,848 m / 12,624 ft, marking the starting point of the Huchuy Qosqo trail.

The trail takes us first to the village of Sihua, and then to the Pukamarca Pass (4,150 m / 13,615 ft), where we’ll be treated to magnificent panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range and the Sacred Valley. After reaching the top of the pass, we’ll begin a 2 km descent (about 30 minutes) to the Pumamarka Community, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch.

After lunch, the hike continues to the Puma Puncu canyon (“The Puma’s Door”), where we’ll walk along an original Inca trail restored as part of the Qapacñan project. This trail leads us to the isolated and fascinating Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo (“little Cusco”), located above the Sacred Valley at 3,600 m / 11,811 ft. During the visit, your guide will show you the site’s impressive Inca structures, including sacred temples, storehouses, agricultural terraces, and the Inca reservoir used to store water during the dry season.

After the guided tour of the site, the trek continues with a 2-hour descent to the village of Lamay (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), along the Urubamba River, where a bus will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.

Walking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles
Starting Point of the Hike: 3,848 m / 12,624 ft
Maximum Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,615 ft
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Snack
Adventure Level: Absolutely
Hiking Hours: 7 hours

Physical Level

2, Moderate