HUCHUY QOSQO & MACHU PICCHU 3D/2N: Discover "Little Cusco"

This trek is classified as Moderate. While it involves hiking at high altitude (up to 4,050m at Lake Qoricocha), the distances are manageable. Day 1 is the most challenging with about 5-6 hours of trekking including the ascent to the lake and descent to Lamay. Days 2 and 3 involve less hiking. Good physical fitness and some prior hiking experience are recommended, but this trek is suitable for most active travelers.

Huchuy Qosqo means "Little Cusco" in Quechua and was an important Inca administrative center and royal estate. The site features remarkably preserved multi-story buildings (unusual for Inca architecture), agricultural terraces, and ceremonial areas overlooking the Sacred Valley. Unlike crowded tourist sites, Huchuy Qosqo receives very few visitors, offering an authentic and intimate experience of Inca history.

The main trekking occurs on Day 1, covering approximately 14-16 kilometers from Tambomachay to Lamay via Lake Qoricocha and Huchuy Qosqo. Days 2 and 3 involve primarily transportation with walking only at the archaeological sites. The total elevation gain on Day 1 is about 350 meters (to the lake), followed by a descent of about 1,100 meters to Lamay.

This trek features 1 night camping in the Sacred Valley near Lamay in quality 4-season tents with comfortable sleeping mats, followed by 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. The combination gives you both an authentic camping experience and hotel comfort before your Machu Picchu visit. You can rent a sleeping bag or bring your own for the camping night.

The trek includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners. Our chef prepares fresh, nutritious meals during the camping night, and meals at restaurants are included in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available with advance notice. Breakfast on Day 1 before pickup is not included.

You only need to carry a daypack (20-30 liters) with your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, rain gear, warm layer, and personal items. Our horses transport all camping gear, cooking equipment, and your main luggage. Each participant receives a duffel bag allowance of up to 7kg for the horses to carry.

Yes, we strongly recommend it. Arrive in Cusco at least 2-3 days before your trek to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400m). The trek reaches 4,050m at Lake Qoricocha, so being well-acclimatized is important. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take it easy before the trek. Consider visiting the Sacred Valley first as a gentler introduction to altitude.

The standard package includes the Expedition train (formerly Vistadome Basic) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back. This is a comfortable train with large windows to enjoy the scenery. You can upgrade to the Vistadome train for an additional $50, which offers panoramic windows, onboard entertainment, and a more luxurious experience.

You'll have approximately 4-5 hours at Machu Picchu, including a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour followed by free time to explore independently. This gives you ample opportunity to visit all the main areas, take photos, and absorb the incredible atmosphere of this wonder of the world. Entry time is typically early morning for the best experience.

These optional hikes are not included in the standard package but can be added for an additional fee (subject to availability). Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain tickets are limited and sell out months in advance. If you're interested, please let us know when booking so we can check availability and add it to your package.

Our shared group departures have a maximum of 12 participants to ensure a quality experience and personal attention from guides. Small groups allow for better interaction, more flexibility on the trail, and a more intimate experience at the archaeological sites. Private tours can be arranged for any group size with customized services.