Huchuy qosqo trek to machu picchu
Huchuy qosqo trek to machu picchu
4 days Short Hike
Huchuy qosqo trek to machu picchu Overview
Trip Details:
- Perfect for: This hike is great for those who are short on time but still want to do some hiking before arriving to Machu Picchu, and also is especially good for older couples or families with children.
- Duration: 4 days/3 nights
- Level: Moderate
- Distance: 14 kilometers or 9 miles
- Limited Spaces: This hike does not require permits so there is always availability, however, it is best to reserve your hike in advance to secure the Machu Picchu entrances and the best train tickets.
- Acclimatization: Please allow a minimum of 2 days in Cusco before your hike begins.
Itinerary Huchuy qosqo trek to machu picchu
Day 1: Cusco - Tambomachay - Qenqo city
We will leave your hotel at 6:00 am and head to Tambomachay, just 20 minutes from Cusco. We will walk slowly towards the highest passes of Cusco, with wide meadows, birds and beautiful lakes along the way. The trek takes approximately 4 hours until lunch at Lake Koriccocha at 3,700m (12,130ft).
After lunch, we start the second part of the day with a 2 hour hike to Qenqo village at 3,800m (12,467ft); Along the way it is possible to transport herds of llamas and alpacas belonging to the residents; Quenqo is a small town of a few hundred inhabitants who make a living from agriculture.
- Distance: 10 km
- Duration: 6 hours
- Mahlzeiten: Mittagessen, Abndessen
- Accommodation: Camping
- Swiss diploma: medium
Day 2: Qenqo - Lamay - Ollantaytambo
Enjoy the beautiful view from the local village in the early morning with a cup of coffee while enjoying the first rays of sunshine. After breakfast, we begin a gradual ascent to the highest mountains with spectacular views of the Sacred Valley; Then we drive for 2 hours downhill to Huchuy Qosqo, 3600m (1118127 feet), a beautiful ancient city in the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you’ll cross refreshing streams, beautiful gorges, and stunning views of the Andes . After exploring the Inca site, we continue for 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Sacred Valley for our last picnic. The last part takes us through the Sacred Valley by minibus until we reach Ollantaytambo where we check-in at the hotel.
- Distance: 8km / 5 miles
- Duration of the excursion: 5 hours of walking
- Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Tunupa Lodge or similar
- Difficulty: easy
Day 3: Ollantaytambo - Km 104 - City of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes)
Wake up early at the hotel, have breakfast and then take the first trains from Ollantaytambo at Km. 104 to start the Inca Trail. Once you pass the checkpoint, start the Short Inca Trail for 7 hours until you reach Machu Picchu in the afternoon. You will visit incredible Inca sites such as Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, Puerta del Sol and discover a great variety of flora and fauna.
The Short Inca Trail Trek allows you to visit the most important sites of the Classic Inca Trail and you have the option of going twice to Machu Picchu. If you plan your times correctly, you can arrive in Machu Picchu after 4pm and find the place almost empty as everyone starts leaving the citadel early.
After spending a full day on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, take the bus to Aguas Calientes, check in at your hotel, have dinner at a local restaurant, and get an early sleep the next day.
- Maximum altitude: 2700m / 8858ft
- Distance: 15 km, 7 hours
- Meals: Lunch, snacks and dinner
- Accommodation: Susanna INN or similar
- Difficulty level: medium
Day 4: Machu Picchu (The lost city of the Incas)
On the last day, wake up early at the hotel, have breakfast and take the first buses to Machu Picchu. If the weather is nice, you can witness the fantastic sunrise over Machu Picchu, which is truly an unforgettable experience.
The guided tour lasts from 2 to 3 hours, during which your guide will show you the best of Machu Picchu. You will then have free time to explore the area on your own or climb Mount Huayna Picchu or Mount Machu Picchu. These tickets must be booked in advance. After exploring Machu Picchu, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), then take the scenic train and bus to Ollantaytambo and a private van to Cusco. The TreXperience team will take you back safely to your hotel around 7:30 pm
- Guided tour: 2 – 3 hours
- Food: breakfast (hotel)
- Accommodation: not included
- Difficulty: easy
Photo Showcase
Prices in Private Service
| Number of persons | Price per person |
Prices in Group Service
Included
- Transportation from your hotel in Cusco at the start of the trek and back to your hotel at the end.
- Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu
- Round trip tickets for shipping service from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back to Cusco
- Return bus transfers to Machu Picchu and back to Aguas Calientes
- B&B hotel in Aguas Calientes (panoramic B&B or similar hotel subject to availability)
- The guide is fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua. Our guides are equipped and trained to provide first aid, administer oxygen if needed, and use radio communications.
- The first day we offer you a snack, a packed lunch, then we have dinner in Ollantaytambo. The next day, breakfast is included at the hotel. Lunch on the second day is not included.
No Included
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
- Guide pin (optional)
Recommendations
The trek to Huchuy Qosqo is something you should really try to fit in time for when visiting Cusco. It’s a beautiful route far less traveled and you get to see some very interesting things along the way. Today we’re going to look at ten reasons why this trek needs to be one of the activities you choose when in town, so let’s get on with it.
It’s Not a Busy Route
If you are a person who doesn’t like crowds and enjoys to be surrounded by pure nature instead of a group, this is the hike for you. The groups tend to be very small or it may even just be you. You also rarely see others along the way. It’s perfect for some peace and quiet while walking.
You will also get a much more personalized tour this way. You’ll be able to speak more with the guide and ask all the questions you want. It’s basically like a private tour for the same price as a group tour. This leads us nicely on to our next point.
If you are desperate to do a trek but don’t have the funds for the Inca Trail, this is a great option. Due to the fact that you don’t end up in Machu Picchu on the shorter versions, the cost is considerably lower. Other treks factor the price of Machu Picchu into them, and then the Inca Trail has its own permit on top of that. So they can work out expensive.
To save a hole in your pocket, go for this one for one day or the two-day Patambamba version.
Trip Details Huchuy Qosqo
- Places to visit: Sacred Valley, Archaeological Site of Huchuy Qosqo.
- Best time to go: April to October is the best season to do this hike. In November and December it starts to rain.
- Departures: Daily
- Type of Tour: Cultural and Natural
- Walking distance: 12km / 7.6 miles
- Pick up place: We pick you up from your hotel (03:30 – 04:00 Hrs)
- Return place: We drop you off at Regocijo square, near the main square.
- Duration of tour: 7 – 8 hours approximately
- Tour start time: 7:00 Hrs.
- Difficulty Level: Medium – Difficulty
- Physical Activity Level: Medium
- Maximum altitude: 4,050 meters/13,315 feet (Cusco)
- Group size: 2 passengers min, 12 people max
- When to book: You can book up to 2 days in advance. Book as soon as possible to guarantee availability, especially on holidays.
What To Bring
- A lightweight, waterproof backpack with a change of clothes (about 30 liters )
- sturdy hiking shoes
- Warm clothes and mountain pants (pants)
- Layers of clothing, including thermals, for different temperatures, especially at night.
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Camera with extra film and batteries
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Wool socks , gloves, scarf, wool hat for cold nights
- Insecticide
- Extra plastic bags, especially during the rainy season
- Waterproof clothing or rain poncho.
- Water bottles
- Personal medical kit with a simple whistle
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips
- Walking sticks (can be hired)
- favorite snacks
- Toilet paper
- Sandals or flip flops
- Swimsuit (optional for the Aguas Calientes hot springs)
- Passport and, if applicable, original university identity document
Travel Guide
Tourist guide
Altitude in Cuzco
People start to worry about altitude sickness as soon as they book their trip to Peru, especially Cusco. Since there is less oxygen in the air at high altitudes than at sea level, your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. During high altitude days, your body gets used to the low oxygen content of the air.
You may get sick or hangover first if you suffer from altitude sickness. Headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, sleep disturbances, and shortness of breath may occur during exercise. Please contact our office if any of these side effects get worse and we will help you find a doctor.
These symptoms are usually minor. Always go slowly so that your body has time to acclimate. Drink plenty of fluids, such as cola or water. Since ancient times, coca tea has been used to prevent altitude sickness.
The leaves of the coca plant contain alkaloids that help your body absorb oxygen and ward off the effects of altitude sickness. A lot of alcohol and caffeine should be avoided.
They will make you urinate more often and dehydrate you. Smoking prohibited. Your body struggles for oxygen when you smoke. Don’t use sleeping pills. Your body may have a hard time absorbing oxygen when you sleep, as you may experience shallow breathing during the night.
To prevent altitude sickness, your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone. Start taking the medicine two days before traveling to high altitudes. As long as you are at high altitude, keep taking it.
Arrival in Cusco
All international air passengers must disembark in Lima and go through customs as the Cusco airport is currently dedicated only to local flights. You must collect your baggage in Lima and then check it again, even if your travel from there to Cusco is the same day and with the same airline.
The best way to get to Cusco is by plane and there are many airlines to choose from. While the LAN generally offers the most options and flights, it is also the most expensive. Be prepared for flight delays or cancellations.
Climate
Obviously the weather is unpredictable. In Cusco, the dry season usually lasts from April to October, but be prepared for rain in June or sunshine in December.
Make sure you have waterproof gear including a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves, no matter what month you travel.
Also consider the four seasons. You need to be prepared for all four seasons, as many climbs in the Andes involve many microclimates.
Always wear layers as they facilitate adaptation to changes in temperature. Keep a thick winter jacket on hand, as the nights will still be cold.
Luggage storage
Although this is an overnight train journey, the baggage allowance is limited due to railway regulations. For transportation to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu), all luggage must fit in one hand luggage.
During your trip you can leave extra luggage in Cusco at your hotel or with us. On the morning of your tour, we will pick you up and return after arriving in Cusco. Make sure your baggage is tagged in some way so you can find it easily.
- First aid
Our guides attended a first aid course under medical supervision. Every February we organize a mandatory training course. During the tour they have oxygen and a first aid kit for general medical emergencies which include traveler’s diarrhea, cuts and scrapes.
If something unexpected happens and you feel you can’t complete the journey, they plan the quickest and safest route to a clinic. You will never be alone; A team member will accompany you at all times until you reach a doctor in a safe place. We make sure that you always have the opportunity to see Machu Picchu and reconnect with your group whenever you want.
Environmental impact
We take all our waste to Cusco and use biodegradable soap. Our staff are trained to maintain the trail and collect litter left by other groups. We also use mobile chemical toilets for waste disposal. Leave No Trace is something we strongly support.
Frequently Asked Questions Huchuy qosqo trek to machu picchu
What is Huchuy Qosqo?
Huchuy Qosqo is an Inca archaeological site in Peru, in the northern Cusco region. In Quechua, Huchuy Qosqo means little Cusco, a name given to it by the local population of the area in the 20th century. It is believed that the citadel was originally built as an estate for the Inca emperor Viracocha in 1420.
Where is Calca Huchuy Qosqo located?
It is located 1 hour drive from Cusco, in the district of Lamay.
What will I see on the hike to Huchuy Qosqo?
The ancient royal property houses a series of stone buildings, as well as many agricultural terraces surrounding the site, used by the Incas to cultivate crops while living there. The citadel also houses a Kallanka (great hall) and an impressive irrigation system, which showcases the hydraulic engineering skills of the Incas.
When does the Huchuy Qosqo Full Day Tour begin and end?
As the location is only 1 hour away, we will start at 7.00 am. The excursion will end at 5:00 p.m.
What is the altitude of Huchuy Qosqo?
Located in the Andes Mountains, Huchuy Qosqo altitude is 3,650 m, a higher elevation than Machu Picchu (2,430) and the city of Cusco (3,400 m). The citadel overlooks the Sacred Valley and is located directly above the town of Lamay (3,000 m). During the Huchuy Qosqo Full Day Tour, the maximum altitude at Huchuy Qosqo is 4050 meters / 13,315 feet.
You can see the altitude of Huchuy Qosqo in the following image:
When is the best season to visit Huchuy Qosqo?
In the Cusco region there are 2 main climatic seasons. The dry season tends to be from May to September, followed by a rainy season from October to April. It is possible to do the Huchuy Qosqo Trek Peru all year round, but we recommend avoiding January and February, as these are the wettest months.
How will I deal with the altitude in Huchuy Qosqo?
Altitude sickness can be a problem for many who undertake the Huchuy Qosqo trek which reaches altitudes of 4,000m. We recommend spending a few nights in Cusco with minimal activity to allow your body to adapt before starting the trek. Altitude pills and coca leaves are an excellent way to mitigate the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Can I do a 2-day Huchuy Qosqo trek?
Although less common, a 2-day Huchuy Qosqo Tour is available from a selection of tour operators and includes an overnight camp in Pucamamarca. The tour includes approximately 12 hours of hiking over 2 days. Adventurers should bring their own sleeping bag for most tour providers.
What is Huchuy Qosqo?
Huchuy Qosqo is an Inca archaeological site in Peru, in the northern Cusco region. In Quechua, Huchuy Qosqo means little Cusco, a name given to it by the local population of the area in the 20th century. It is believed that the citadel was originally built as an estate for the Inca emperor Viracocha in 1420.
Where is Calca Huchuy Qosqo located?
It is located 1 hour drive from Cusco, in the district of Lamay.
What will I see on the hike to Huchuy Qosqo?
The ancient royal property houses a series of stone buildings, as well as many agricultural terraces surrounding the site, used by the Incas to cultivate crops while living there. The citadel also houses a Kallanka (great hall) and an impressive irrigation system, which showcases the hydraulic engineering skills of the Incas.
When does the Huchuy Qosqo Full Day Tour begin and end?
As the location is only 1 hour away, we will start at 7.00 am. The excursion will end at 5:00 p.m.
What is the altitude of Huchuy Qosqo?
Located in the Andes Mountains, Huchuy Qosqo altitude is 3,650 m, a higher elevation than Machu Picchu (2,430) and the city of Cusco (3,400 m). The citadel overlooks the Sacred Valley and is located directly above the town of Lamay (3,000 m). During the Huchuy Qosqo Full Day Tour, the maximum altitude at Huchuy Qosqo is 4050 meters / 13,315 feet.
You can see the altitude of Huchuy Qosqo in the following image:
When is the best season to visit Huchuy Qosqo?
In the Cusco region there are 2 main climatic seasons. The dry season tends to be from May to September, followed by a rainy season from October to April. It is possible to do the Huchuy Qosqo Trek Peru all year round, but we recommend avoiding January and February, as these are the wettest months.
How will I deal with the altitude in Huchuy Qosqo?
Altitude sickness can be a problem for many who undertake the Huchuy Qosqo trek which reaches altitudes of 4,000m. We recommend spending a few nights in Cusco with minimal activity to allow your body to adapt before starting the trek. Altitude pills and coca leaves are an excellent way to mitigate the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Can I do a 2-day Huchuy Qosqo trek?
Although less common, a 2-day Huchuy Qosqo Tour is available from a selection of tour operators and includes an overnight camp in Pucamamarca. The tour includes approximately 12 hours of hiking over 2 days. Adventurers should bring their own sleeping bag for most tour providers.
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