This 4-day trek is the perfect combination of two unforgettable experiences: the remote and scenic route to Huchuy Qosqo and the iconic final stretch of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You’ll hike through traditional Andean communities, cross high mountain passes, and explore the lesser-known but impressive Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo. The adventure continues on the classic Inca Trail, entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate—just as the Incas did centuries ago. Ideal for those who want culture, nature, and a once-in-a-lifetime view of the lost city.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
This 4-day trek is the perfect combination of two unforgettable experiences: the remote and scenic route to Huchuy Qosqo and the iconic final stretch of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You’ll hike through traditional Andean communities, cross high mountain passes, and explore the lesser-known but impressive Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo. The adventure continues on the classic Inca Trail, entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate—just as the Incas did centuries ago. Ideal for those who want culture, nature, and a once-in-a-lifetime view of the lost city.
We pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 AM and drive to the archaeological site of Tambomachay, where we begin our trek. The trail leads us through puna landscapes and over the Sicllaccasa Pass (4,020 m / 13,186 ft). We follow a path into the Ccauca ravine, where we encounter archaeological remains and native crops like tarwi, along with a variety of cacti.
We continue to the Queullococha Pass (4,185 m / 13,727 ft), enjoying spectacular views of snow-capped Veronica, Pitusiray, and Chicon. Along the way, we pass Queullococha Lake, where we may see geese, ducks, and small fish. The trail then ascends to Challu Challu Pass (4,220 m / 13,842 ft), offering views of the Chinchero plains and Piuray and Qoricocha lagoons. Afterward, we reach the highest point: Rumicruz Pass (4,230 m / 13,874 ft), and then descend to the Inca quarry (4,220 m / 13,842 ft), where stones were extracted for Huchuy Qosqo.
We descend to the community of Pucamarca (4,010 m / 13,153 ft), where we have dinner and camp for the night.
After breakfast, we depart at 7:00 AM and descend into the León Punku ravine, where we find remnants of an Inca bridge and trails. The canyon features dramatic rock formations that guide the river to the site of Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m / 11,808 ft). Once at the site, we explore the ceremonial center and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the Vilcanota River.
After the tour, we hike for about two hours to Taucca, where lunch will be served. From there, we take private transport to the charming Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where we spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
At 6:00 AM, we pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station. During the one-hour train ride, you’ll enjoy views of the Sacred Valley, farmlands, and snow-capped peaks. We disembark at Km 104 (2,200 m / 7,217 ft), the starting point of our Inca Trail hike.
After crossing the Urubamba River, we check in at the control point and visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy. We then begin a 3-hour uphill hike through semi-tropical forest, observing waterfalls, orchids, and scenic valley views. Our destination is the magnificent Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), where we explore agricultural terraces and temples like the Temple of the Rainbow. After the guided tour and box lunch, we continue for 2 more hours along an Inca trail to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), with a spectacular first view of Machu Picchu.
We descend for about 30 minutes to Machu Picchu (2,490 m / 8,169 ft), then take the bus to Aguas Calientes (2,160 m / 7,086 ft), where we check into our hotel and enjoy a delicious à la carte dinner. Optional: visit the hot springs (10 soles) or explore local bars and restaurants.
After an early breakfast, we take the bus (30 minutes) to Machu Picchu and begin a 2-hour guided tour of its most iconic sites, temples, and plazas. You’ll then have free time to explore on your own, with optional hikes to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge. Optional: climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (additional $35 USD).
At the scheduled time, we descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, we take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our staff will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. Estimated arrival: 8:00 PM.
The “Huchuy Qosqo & Inca Trail 4 Days” was a fantastic blend of history, culture, and stunning hiking. Exploring the lesser-known site of Huchuy Qosqo gave the trek a unique touch before we joined the classic Inca Trail. The trails were beautiful and not too crowded, which made the experience more peaceful and personal. The guides were very knowledgeable and shared great stories about Inca history and traditions. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting a meaningful trek with rich cultural insights.
