The Huchuy Qosqo Tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 a.m. Your private transport will take you on a short 30-minute drive to the starting point of the hike at the archaeological site of Tambomachay, located at 3,700 m / 12,138 ft.

The morning trail takes you across mountainous Andean grasslands, climbing 300 meters to reach the Soccllaccasa Pass at 4,020 m / 13,186 ft. From there, the trail continues to the archaeological remains in the Cauca Ravine, where you’ll also encounter wild crops like tarwi, cochineal, and various types of cacti. Ascending further, you’ll reach the Queullococha Pass at 4,185 m / 13,727 ft, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Veronica, Pitusiray, and Chicon.

Lunch will be served on the shores of the Queullococha Lagoon, where you may spot a local Andean bird called the Huallata, as well as families of native ducks and small freshwater fish. After lunch, follow your guide to the Challu Challu Pass at 4,220 m / 13,842 ft, where you can enjoy views of the Chinchero plains and the lagoons of Piuray and Qoricocha.

The final ascent of the day takes you to the Rumicruz Pass at 4,230 m / 13,874 ft, followed by a hike along an ancient Inca Trail leading to the Inca quarry used to extract stones for the Huchuy Qosqo site. Finally, descend 200 meters to reach the community of Pucamarca at 4,010 m / 13,153 ft.

Arriving in the late afternoon, you will set up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and sleep beneath the starlit Andean sky.

Physical Level

2, Moderate

After an early breakfast, you’ll depart camp at 7:00 a.m. to begin your hike to Huchuy Qosqo. The first part of the day is a descent along an ancient Inca trail through the León Punku ravine. Rich in history, this canyon features massive geological formations and the remains of an original Inca bridge and pathway. You’ll be surrounded by towering rocks and boulders that guide the river toward the archaeological site.

Huchuy Qosqo is located at 3,650 m / 11,975 ft, on an agricultural plateau surrounded by Inca terraces. This impressive Inca complex includes a large open ceremonial center and offers a panoramic view of the Sacred Valley and the Vilcanota River below. Your guide will lead a detailed tour of the site, including highlights such as the Inca king’s palace, the Temple of Water, and ceremonial altars.

After exploring the site, you’ll begin a 2-hour downhill hike to the small community of Tauca (3,762 m / 12,343 ft), where you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch. Following lunch, your private transport will take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes.

The 1 hour and 45-minute train ride offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, Inca agricultural terraces, and other remarkable archaeological sites. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Physical Level

2, Moderate

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you at the reception and escort you to the bus station where you will board the tourist bus to Machu Picchu. The scenic ride from Aguas Calientes takes approximately 30 minutes, winding up the mountainside to the entrance of the Inca citadel.

Once inside, you will embark on a 3-hour guided tour through the fascinating history of Machu Picchu. Your personal guide will take you through the most important parts of the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the stepped agricultural terraces. You’ll also have time to take iconic photos from the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the entire site.

Before returning down the mountain, your guide will give you free time to explore the sanctuary at your own pace.

After regrouping with your guide and taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (optional, not included), before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to take you on a 2-hour journey back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time in Cusco is approximately 6:30 p.m.

Optional Extension: If you have purchased a permit, you may also climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after your guided tour. This activity requires an additional 2 hours of hiking and has an extra cost of $70 USD per person. Return to Cusco will be later, with an estimated arrival at around 8:30 p.m.

Physical Level

1, Easy