The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a unique and scenic adventure that combines breathtaking Andean landscapes, remote Inca ruins, and cultural experiences with local communities. This off-the-beaten-path trek passes through the Sacred Valley, featuring snow-capped peaks, exotic vegetation, and rich ecological diversity. Along the way, hikers explore the impressive Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo and interact with rural villagers. The journey culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu – 2-Day Adventure
Embark on a unique and immersive trek that takes you through the heart of the Andes and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Huchuy Qosqo Trek combines breathtaking landscapes, high mountain passes, and hidden Inca ruins with authentic cultural encounters in traditional Andean villages.
This off-the-beaten-path adventure offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, vibrant highland vegetation, and rich ecological diversity. On Day 2, the journey culminates with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World Machu Picchu. Enjoy a two-hour guided tour of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, uncovering its history and mysteries.
Perfect for travelers looking for a short yet rewarding trek with cultural depth and spectacular scenery.
2-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek & Machu Picchu Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Begin your adventure with a morning drive to Patabamba (3,750m), where the trek starts through scenic Andean valleys rich in traditional crops. Cross a high mountain pass and descend through the Cauca and Leon Punku ravines, passing Inca ruins, ancient trails, and striking rock formations. Arrive at Huchuy Qosqo, a fascinating Inca site perched on a plateau with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and Vilcabamba range. After exploring, hike down to Lamay (2,900m) and transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you'll catch a train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles (~7 hours)
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After an early breakfast, take the bus to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour of the majestic citadel. Enjoy free time to explore on your own or opt to hike Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Expedition train at 4:22pm to Ollantaytambo, then transfer back to Cusco, arriving around 8pm.
Meal: Breakfast
Includes: Entry to Machu Picchu
Includes
- Private transportation from and to your hotel
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
- Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
Hotel in Aguas Calientes: Wirachocha Inn o Andino Hotel or similar
Does Not Include
- Walking Poles -$7 USD
- last lunch
- Optional upgrade – Hotel
Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of Quinoa Expeditions
What you need to take
- Original Passport
- ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Day pack
- Sleeping bag( you can rent from Quinoa Expeditions )
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket Warm jacket
- Warm clothes: layers for variable temperatures, especially at night. Thermals:Hat, gloves.
- wool socks and wool hat for cold nights
- T-shirts for the intire trek
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen (factor 35 or higher)
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries : poilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes and hand sanitizer
- Personal medical kit
- Camera and film
- Torch with spare batteries
- Camel bag or wáter bottle
- Extra money for drinks,tips and souvinirs. Etc( soles or dollars).
- Bathing suits for the hot springs( optional) recommended for those who stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes)
Packing List – Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu
Essentials:
- Lightweight waterproof daypack (~30L)
- Original passport (and university card if applicable)
- Water bottles or hydration system
- Extra cash (for tips, snacks, souvenirs)
Clothing:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm layers (including thermals)
- Trekking pants
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Gloves and warm hat (for cold nights)
- andals or flip-flops
Swimsuit (optional – for hot springs)
Personal Items:
- Camera with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- Personal medical kit
- Toilet paper
- Extra plastic bags (especially for rainy season)
- Favorite snacks
- Walking poles (available to rent)
Group Service Price
US$ 370per person
Private Service Prices
2 people US$ 400per person
3 people US$ 390 per person
4 people US$ 380per person
5+ people US$ 370 per person
Discounts:
Student Discount: US$30 (Requires ISIC Card to qualify)
Under 18’s Discount: US$30
Important: Prices Include mules to carry up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings.
Equipment Rental:
Walking Pole US$07(pair)
Optional Extras/Not Included (Need to book in Advance):
Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo: USD50.00 (Need to book in advance).
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: Depends on the type of Hotel desired (Need to book in advance).
How to book, Group or Private Service:
You can either book by emailing us or by using the Booking form provided on this site.
By e-mail:
Send us your main Departure date and back up date: By providing us with a main date and a back up date for your trek (classic Inca Trail, Lares, Salkantay, etc) you automatically authorize Quinoa Expeditions to use either of these dates for your reservation. Quinoa Expeditions within the next 24 hours (after you have sent us your booking form and confirm deposit was made) will send you an electronic receipt confirming your trek has been officially booked and also to confirm the exact departure date of your trek.
Send us your Personal Details for Booking: Your passport number and other information must be valid. Please advise if you change your passport number after booking the tour (especially for booking the classic Inca Trail as if we do not make a change in your official details, you may not be permitted to do the trek). Please Note changing passports’ numbers requires an extra fee (we are able to change passports numbers easily on our receipt but its also extremely important that we make the changes with the Inca Trail authorities)
Student rate: In order to obtain this discount you must have a valid ISIC card. It is important you scan and e-mail this to us at the time of booking and that it is valid on the date you are booked on the Inca Trail/alternative trek (you will need to show the real ISIC card upon your arrival here in Cusco and in Machu Picchu).
Payment of deposit: For any of our Adventure treks ending in Machu Picchu.
We request a non-refundable deposit per person along with personal details of each member participating in the trek:
Full name
Passport number,
Gender,
Nationality,
DOB
Payment of deposit amount is:
US$ 200 per person for the Lares Trek only Or
US$ 275 per person for the Lares Trek + Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu climbing. Please confirm if you want to climb Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu as they need to be booked well in advance too; there are 2 time sessions:
7 – 8am or 10 – 11am – this also needs to be specified although you need to be flexible to either time.
Please note, if you get the permits for the 7am start you will probably have to miss the Machu Picchu guided tour.
Important Information – Huchuy Qosqo Trek with Quinoa Expeditions
Arrival & Briefing: You’ll be picked up from Cusco Airport and taken to your hotel. A mandatory pre-trek briefing is held at 6pm the night before at your hotel or Quinoa Office.
Luggage Storage: Main luggage can be stored at our office or hotel. Only carry-on sized bags are allowed on the train.
Booking: To book, complete the online form and send a passport copy for each participant. A $211 USD deposit is required (via PayPal or VISA).
Final Payment: Pay the balance in cash (USD or Soles) in Cusco, or online with a 5.5% fee.
Student Discounts: Available with valid ID for students under 25. Children 0–2 are free.
Passport: Bring your original passport (and old one if recently renewed).
Weather & Altitude: Conditions vary—dress in layers. Acclimatize in Cusco for 2+ days. Altitude sickness remedies include coca tea and hydration.
Difficulty: Moderate 16 km hike. Good physical condition and acclimatization recommended.
Group Size: Small groups (2–8 people) for a personalized experience.
Emergency: In case of illness, you'll be assisted to the nearest town. No refunds; travel insurance is strongly advised.
Drop-off: Return transport to your hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley is included.
Train Times & Upgrades: Regular train departs around 14:55–15:20. Vistadome upgrade available for $67 USD.
Tipping: Optional but appreciated for good service.
Sustainability: Quinoa Expeditions is committed to responsible tourism that respects local culture and the environment.
Why Choose Quinoa Expeditions
Quinoa Expeditions is a 100% locally owned Cusqueñian travel agency and tour operator, founded on years of experience and a passion for authentic Andean adventures. Our mission is to offer personalized, small-group treks and tours with a strong focus on quality, responsibility, and sustainability.
Locally Rooted & Responsible
Entirely run by locals with no outside shareholders.
We ensure fair wages and respectful treatment for all our staff—our extended family.
Committed to giving back through community service projects and local employment.
Small Group Policy
Max 8 people per group to ensure a more intimate and personalized experience, far from the crowds.
Top Guides
Professional, fun, and fluent in English.
Hold degrees in fields like archaeology, history, tourism, and anthropology.
Passionate about Inca culture and constantly expanding their knowledge.
Well-Cared Pack Animals
Fully supported treks with mules to carry your gear.
We prioritize the health and humane treatment of our pack animals.
BuffetTrekking Cuisine
Delicious and abundant meals crafted by expert cooks using local and international ingredients.
We cater to all dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies, etc.).
High-Quality Equipment
4-season EUREKA or Doite tents (4-person tents used for 2 people) with extra space.
Foam and inflatable mattresses for better comfort (inflatable available for rent).
Complete camping setup: dining tent, chairs, tables, duffel bags, and biochemical toilet.
Extras: hot showers, survivor T-shirts, rain covers, and more.
Community Commitment
We invest in local communities through education, donations, and hiring.
Proud to strengthen ties with highland villages and promote sustainable tourism.
Choose Quinoa Expeditions for a life-changing trekking experience, where every step supports local people, respects nature, and delivers exceptional service and cultural authenticity.
