Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 Nights
This isn’t just a trip; it’s a soul-stirring encounter with the very essence of the Inca Empire. If you are looking to escape the modern world and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of spiritual peace and cultural depth, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek (3 Days) was designed exclusively for you. This hidden gem awaits travelers who trade crowded trails for the silence of the mountains and the echoes of living history.
Live the unparalleled experience of hiking original Inca trails toward what was once the Royal Palace of Inca Huiracocha. During this three-day journey, time stands still among crystal-clear Andean lagoons and valleys whispering ancient legends, allowing you to witness majestic Inca engineering at its finest.
Overview
Skip the crowds and walk the path of Inca Royalty. This 3-day expedition is designed for travelers who seek exclusivity, ancient engineering, and the ultimate reward.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The King’s Retreat: Explore Huchuy Qosqo, the private Royal Palace of Inca Huiracocha—a site 90% of tourists never see.
- Inca Engineering: Witness 500-year-old hydraulic systems and stone-paved Qhapaq Ñan trails still in perfect condition.
- Epic Scenery: Reach 4,200m (13,780 ft) for 360° views of the Andes before a dramatic descent into the Sacred Valley.
- The Reward: End your journey with a triumphant, expert-led tour of Machu Picchu.
Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu: 3-Day Summary
DAY 1: TAMBOMACHAY – QUEULLOCOCHA – QENQO COMMUNITY
- Hiking Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km.
- Trailhead Altitude: 12,467 ft / 3,800 m (Tambomachay).
- Highest Point: 13,780 ft / 4,200 m (The Pass).
- Campsite Altitude: 12,795 ft / 3,900 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate (High-altitude immersion).
- Weather: Cold / Sunny.
- Inca Sites: Tambomachay & Ancient Qhapaq Ñan.
DAY 2: QENQO – HUCHUY QOSQO – LAMAY – AGUAS CALIENTES
- Hiking Distance: 5.6 miles / 9 km.
- Site Altitude: 11,975 ft / 3,650 m (Huchuy Qosqo Palace).
- Lunch Spot: Lamay, Sacred Valley.
- Transport: Private van to Ollantaytambo + Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Difficulty: Moderate (Spectacular descent).
- Weather: Sunny / Temperate.
DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
- Activity: Exploring the Lost City of the Incas.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,972 ft / 2,430 m.
- Duration: 2 to 3-hour comprehensive guided tour.
- Difficulty: Easy (The ultimate reward).
- Return Train: Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Final Arrival: Private transport from the station back to your hotel in Cusco.
Experience Quick Stats
- Total Hiking Distance: 23 km / 14.3 miles.
- Train Service: Round-trip Expedition Train (Comfortable & Scenic).
- Highlights: High-Andean lagoons, original Inca roads, Royal Palace of Huiracocha, and the grand finale at Machu Picchu.
- Exclusivity: A quiet, high-altitude route managed with the Ali Peru Treks standard of quality.
Why Ali Peru Treks?
Authentic Local Experts
We are a 100% Peruvian-owned family company. Our founder started as a porter and became a professional guide; we don’t just know the trails, we live them.
Ethical & Fair Treatment
We lead the way in Responsible Tourism. We provide fair wages, top-tier equipment, and insurance for our porters and chefs. A happy team means a better experience for you.
Premium Quality as Standard
We don’t compromise on comfort. From high-end camping gear to gourmet mountain meals, we provide a professional logistics level that ensures your safety and satisfaction.
Travel with Purpose
Your trek makes a difference. A portion of our profits directly funds a community school in Huayllaccocha, supporting the education of local Andean children.
The “Family” Experience
With us, you aren’t just a tourist; you are part of the Ali Peru Treks family. We offer personalized service and secret insights into our ancestors’ history that big agencies simply can’t match.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tambomachay – Queullococha – Qenqo Community
Our adventure begins with a private pickup from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. We head toward TAMBOMACHAY (12,139 ft / 3,700 m), an imposing Inca fortress that serves as our trailhead. After enjoying an energizing breakfast prepared by our expert mountain chef, we begin our ascent into the heart of the Andes.
The route takes us deep into pristine landscapes where nature remains in its purest state. As we climb toward Queullococha Lagoon, you will witness the rich wildlife of the region: herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely, alongside mountain sheep. We will reach the highest point of the day at 13,615 ft (4,150 m), offering a privileged 360-degree view of the majestic Vilcanota mountain range.
Following the mountain ridge, we reach the shores of Qoriqocha Lagoon, a mirror-like body of water surrounded by absolute tranquility. In this unparalleled natural setting, our chef will serve a gourmet organic lunch. After a brief rest, we continue our hike surrounded by infinite horizons and the constant company of Andean camelids that call these heights home.
We conclude the day at our designated campsite near the Qencco community (12,467 ft / 3,800 m). Following a relaxing “Happy Hour” (tea time), we will enjoy a comforting three-course dinner. The day ends with a restful night in high-quality mountain tents, under the most star-filled sky in the Peruvian Andes.
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Estimated Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
- Maximum Altitude: 13,615 ft / 4,150 m
- Campsite Altitude: 12,467 ft / 3,800 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 2: Qenqo – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Aguas Calientes
Your day begins with a traditional coca tea service delivered to your tent, followed by a nutritious Andean breakfast. Today, we leave the high plains behind to discover one of the most exclusive and historically significant sites of the Inca Empire.
We embark on a journey along a remarkably preserved segment of the Original Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan). As we hike, you will witness a dramatic transformation in scenery—from the golden high-altitude grasslands to the lush, vibrant cloud forest. This path offers a rare sense of solitude and a deep connection to the engineering genius of the Incas.
We arrive at the majestic Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site (11,975 ft / 3,650 m). Perched like an eagle’s nest high above the Sacred Valley, this was the private Royal Estate of Inca Huiracocha. Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive tour through grand ceremonial halls, elite residences, and the sophisticated hydraulic systems that still amaze modern engineers. The panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range from here are simply legendary.
After a final gourmet mountain lunch prepared by our chef, we begin a scenic descent through a zig-zagging trail toward the village of Lamay. Our private transport will be waiting to take us to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we will enjoy a celebratory restaurant dinner, sharing stories of the trail before the next chapter of our journey.
At 7:00 p.m., we board the Expedition Train for a mesmerizing night ride through the canyon. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m), our team will escort you to your comfortable hotel, where you can rest and recharge for the ultimate reward.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Estimated Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Start Altitude: 12,467 ft / 3,800 m
- Site Altitude: 11,975 ft / 3,650 m (Huchuy Qosqo)
- Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes.Meals Included: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch, and Restaurant Dinner.
Day 3: Machupicchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will only need to bring your daypack with your essentials. The hotel will store your main luggage while you explore. To maximize our experience and beat the crowds, our plan is to take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (a 25-minute ride).
Yesterday, you had that unforgettable first view from the Sun Gate. Today, we re-enter Machu Picchu, but this time for a complete, in-depth exploration in the magical morning light.
Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will lead you on a two-hour guided tour of the most important sites in the citadel. You will learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while visiting temples, plazas, and the most impressive viewpoints.
After the tour, you will also have free time to explore on your own and immerse yourself in the energy of the site.
We recommend returning to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train’s departure. You can have lunch (not included) at one of the many restaurants in town.
After lunch, your Ali Peru Treks guide will personally escort you to the train station. You will board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a scenic journey of approximately 2 hours.
At the Ollantaytambo station, our Ali Peru Treks staff will be waiting for you promptly to transfer you back to Cusco in our private transportation, dropping you off comfortably at your hotel door, bringing your unforgettable adventure to a close.
- Starting Altitude (Aguas Calientes): 6,692 ft / 2,040 m
- Maximum Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles / 4 km (Exploración de la Ciudadela)
- Tour Duration: 2 – 3 hours of guided historical tour
- Difficulty Level: Easy (Cultural Inmersion day)
- Highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, Complete guided tour of the Citadel, and a scenic train journey back through the Sacred Valley.
- Meals Included: Breakfast (at Hotel).
Includes
Included
- Professional Local Guide: Licensed expert in Inca history, specialized in high-mountain safety and storytelling.
- Professional Mountain Chef: In charge of preparing high-quality, nutritious meals during the trek.
- Porters/Muleteers: Responsible for all camping logistics and carrying the communal equipment.
- Full Entrance Permits: Official tickets for both the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site and the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
- Circuit 2 (The Classic Experience): We include Circuit 2, the most comprehensive and sought-after route. This circuit allows you to capture the iconic postcard photo from the upper platforms and provides full access to the historic urban and agricultural sectors.
- Expedition Train (Round Trip): Confirmed tickets on the Expedition service (Perurail/Incarail).
- Departure: Ollantaytambo ➔ Aguas Calientes (Day 2).
- Return: Aguas Calientes ➔ Ollantaytambo (Day 3).
- Machu Picchu Bus Tickets (Day 3): Full coverage for your visit day. Includes the Uphill Bus (Aguas Calientes to the Citadel) and the Downhill Bus (returning to town after your guided tour).
- Private Transport: Door-to-door service in our private vans from your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead, and from the train station back to your hotel.
- Hotel Stay: 01 night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Full Board: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Gourmet Lunches, and 2 Dinners (including a celebratory restaurant dinner in Aguas Calientes).
- Premium Gear: 4-season professional tents, comfortable sleeping pads, dining tent, and full safety equipment (Oxygen and First Aid kits).
Not Included
Additional Mountain Hikes (Subject to availability): If you wish to add an extra challenge within Machu Picchu, these options must be booked 5 months in advance:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ($80 USD): The most famous peak. Time: 45 mins up / 45 mins down (90 mins total). A steep and challenging climb.
- Machu Picchu Mountain ($70 USD): A higher, panoramic alternative. Time: 1.5 hours up / 1 hour down (approx. 3 hours total). It offers the highest view of the entire canyon.
- Walking Sticks: Available for rent ($10 USD per pair).
- Last Day Lunch: Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 3 after your tour is not included.
- Tips: For the guide, chef, and porters (voluntary but greatly appreciated).
Expert Insight for the Traveler:
“At Ali Peru Treks, we prioritize your experience. By securing Circuit 2, we guarantee you the classic view everyone expects of Machu Picchu. Our logistics—including the round-trip Expedition Train and full bus coverage on Day 3—are designed so you can focus entirely on the energy of the Andes while we handle the rest.”
Packing List
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey to the “Cradle of the Sun” (Huchuy Qosqo) and Machu Picchu, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the secret to enjoying the Andes.
In Your Daypack (Essential Items)
These items must stay with you at all times during the hike:
- Original Passport: Must be the same physical document used for your booking.
- Valid University Card: (Only if you booked with a student discount).
- Daypack: A 25L to 35L backpack is ideal. (Note: Large hiking packs are strictly prohibited inside Machu Picchu).
- Hydration: 2-3 liters (Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are highly encouraged).
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in, and with good ankle support.
- Rain Gear: High-quality poncho or rain jacket (Andean weather is unpredictable).
- Cash in Soles: Small denominations for tips or purchasing local snacks.
Inside Your Duffel Bag (Ali Peru Treks Equipment)
As a 100% Direct Local Operator, we provide you with a duffel bag during your briefing. We INCLUDE a team of muleteers and horses who will carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings.
Note on Staff Welfare: By Peruvian Law and our own ethical standards, duffel bags cannot exceed 7 kg. If you rent a sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg) and a mattress (1 kg) from us, they will go inside the bag, leaving you 4 kg for your personal clothing.
Inside your Duffel Bag:
- Hiking Clothing: 2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 4 sets of undergarments, 3 pairs of wool hiking socks.
- Warm Layers: Fleece, thermals, and a heavy down jacket (Temperatures at the Qencco campsite can drop to 35°F / 2°C).
- Hand Wear: Waterproof gloves (essential for cold mornings).
- Camp Shoes: Lightweight sneakers or sandals to rest your feet at the campsite and hotel.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least 14°F / -10°C (Available for rent at Ali Peru Treks).
- Skin Care: Sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm, and moisturizer (the Andean air is very dry).
- Hygiene: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Insect Repellent: Essential for Huchuy Qosqo and your final day at Machu Picchu.
- Power Bank: There is no electricity at the campsites; ensure your devices are charged.
Handy Items (Easy Access)
You will not have access to your duffel bag until you arrive at the campsite in the evening, so keep these in your daypack:
- Water for Morning 1: Please bring your own water for the first few hours; we provide boiled and filtered water from the first lunch onwards.
- Energy Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruits to keep your sugar levels up.
- Headlamp: Essential for navigating the Qencco campsite after sunset.
- Trash Bag: A small bag for your waste (We practice the «Leave No Trace» philosophy).
- Camera: To capture the Inca Palaces of Huchuy Qosqo and the majesty of Machu Picchu.
Travel Info
Travel Information
The Pre-Trek Briefing: Your Safety Guarantee
The briefing is a mandatory technical meeting held at our office in Cusco (or your hotel) the night before your departure, typically at 6:00 PM.
- Why is it vital? You will meet your personal guide, perform a final gear check, and receive your Duffel Bag.
- Managing Your Load: In this bag, you will pack up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your clothing and extra gear to be carried by our horses. This allows you to hike with only a light daypack, letting you enjoy the scenery without unnecessary weight.
- Coordination: We will confirm your exact pickup time (typically 5:30 AM) and address any last-minute medical conditions or dietary requirements.
Premium Accommodation: Strategic Rest
We understand that after two days of trekking, rest is essential to fully enjoy Machu Picchu.
- Guaranteed Quality: We include one night at the Hatun Inti Classic Hotel or a similar 3-star category establishment. These hotels are hand-picked for their excellence and strategic location in Aguas Calientes.
- Superior Comfort: Enjoy spacious rooms featuring private bathrooms, 24-hour hot water, Wi-Fi, and orthopedic beds designed for deep recovery.
- Buffet Breakfast: Before heading up to the citadel, you will enjoy a full buffet breakfast at the hotel to start your day with maximum energy.
Payment Policies & The $200 USD Deposit
To guarantee world-class service, we operate with a strict and transparent reservation system:
- Mandatory Deposit: Your $200 USD deposit is used immediately to purchase your Machu Picchu permits (Circuit 2) and your Expedition Train tickets. These permits are name-specific, highly limited, and often sell out months in advance. Without this deposit, no legal reservation exists with the Peruvian government.
- Remaining Balance: The balance is due in cash (USD or Soles) during the briefing. This allows us to activate all field logistics, including staff, organic food supplies, and private transportation, before we depart.
Luggage Logistics & Acclimatization
- Suitcase Storage: There is no need to carry everything on the trail. While most hotels in Cusco offer free storage, you may also leave your luggage safely at the Ali Peru Treks main office at no extra cost.
- Altitude Preparation: The Huchuy Qosqo Trek reaches 13,780 ft (4,200 m). It is imperative that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 days prior to the trek to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
- Medical Safety: As expert operators, our guides always carry oxygen tanks and a certified high-mountain first aid kit.
Gourmet Dining & Sustainability
- High-Altitude Cuisine: Our mountain chef prepares menus that fuse Andean identity with international cuisine, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Special Diets: We offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options at no extra charge, ensuring the same quality and flavor for all guests.
- Social Commitment: By choosing us, you directly support the community of Huayllaccocha, where we fund educational projects for local children.
Expert Insight for Your Peace of Mind
At Ali Peru Treks, your only responsibility is to enjoy the journey; we handle the complexity. The $200 deposit secures your place in history, the Hatun Inti Classic Hotel guarantees your rest, and the Briefing ensures you trek the Andes with the confidence of being in the best hands in Cusco.
Faqs
Frequently asked questions
Why is the $200 USD deposit mandatory?
In Peru, permits for Machu Picchu and train tickets are personal, non-refundable, and extremely limited. The Peruvian government and train companies (PeruRail/IncaRail) require full, immediate payment to issue tickets in your name. Without this deposit, it is impossible to guarantee your entry to Circuit 2 (the iconic postcard view) or your seat on the train.
Can I pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco?
Yes! The $200 deposit secures your legal permits and tickets. The remaining balance is due in cash (USD or Soles) during your Pre-Trek Briefing the night before your departure.
Is it really mandatory to attend the briefing?
Yes, it is vital. This is not just a chat; it is the core of the Ali Peru Treks safety and quality protocol.
• What happens during this meeting?
- Duffel Bag Delivery: We provide the duffel bag where you will pack your 7kg (15 lbs) of extra gear to be carried by our horses.
- Health Check: Your guide will personally meet you to evaluate your acclimatization and provide final tips on preventing altitude sickness.
- Pickup Coordination: We will confirm the exact location and time (typically 5:30 AM) for your private pickup the next morning.
What if I can’t make it?
Missing the briefing puts your transportation logistics and luggage handling at risk. If your flight is delayed, you must contact us immediately to reschedule an emergency meeting.
How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?
It is rated as Moderate. It is the perfect route for those seeking stunning landscapes and culture without the extreme physical toll of other treks. We reach an altitude of 13,780 ft (4,200 m), so we recommend at least 2 days of prior acclimatization in Cusco.
What is the food like on the mountain?
We offer a Gourmet Mountain Service. This includes high-energy breakfasts, three-course lunches, and comforting dinners. If you are vegan, vegetarian, or have allergies, our chef will prepare a specialized menu for you (please inform us during the briefing).
Which circuit will we visit in Machu Picchu?
We include Circuit 2. This is the most complete and highly sought-after circuit because it grants access to the upper platforms for the famous postcard photo and covers the main temples of the citadel.
Are Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain included?
- No, these are optional hikes that cost an additional $70 USD. Due to high demand, they must be booked 5 months in advance.
- Huayna Picchu: 90-min round trip (steep/challenging).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: 3-hour round trip (highest panoramic view).
- Where do I leave my large suitcases?
You can safely leave them at our secure luggage storage in the Ali Peru Treks office or at your hotel in Cusco for free. - Should I bring my own walking sticks?
They are highly recommended to protect your knees during descents. If you don’t have your own, you can rent a professional pair from us for $10 USD.
What kind of train do we use?
We travel via the Expedition Train (Round Trip). This is a comfortable service with panoramic windows designed to fully enjoy the scenery of the Urubamba canyon.
Our Inca Trail 4-Day Hike Reviews
Read what fellow travelers say about our Classic Inca Trail 4-Day Hike — firsthand accounts from hikers who completed this iconic trek with Ali Peru Treks and arrived at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate. Every review below reflects a real experience: the challenge of Dead Woman's Pass, the ancient campsites, the expert guidance, and the moment Machu Picchu finally comes into view. For more feedback from our community, visit our profile on TripAdvisor (4.9 ★ from 95 verified travelers) and Google Reviews, where past clients share detailed impressions of our guides, logistics, and overall experience on the Classic Inca Trail. These independent reviews will give you a clear picture of what to expect on your own 4-Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu with us.
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