1-Day Hike to Huchuy Qosqo
Explore Huchuy Qosqo in 1 Day instead of 2
High above the Sacred Valley lie the mysterious and little-known ruins of Huchuy Qosqo. Your hike takes you along the old Inca trail, through remote farming communities and stunning mountain scenery to finally reach this fantastic Inca site. If you are looking for a great day hiking, far from the crowds, this is a truly spectacular option. We also have a 2-day hike to Huchuy Qosqo available too.
This one-day hike is packed full of excitement and wonder. Blaze the ancient Inca Trails through the countryside
Travelers should give themselves 2 to 3 days to acclimatize before going on this 4km hike.
Highlights
- Explore ancient Inca Ruins almost alone
- Hike a lesser visited, but still completely authentic, Inca Trail.
- Experience the Andes in all of their tranquil glory without any other travelers around.
You will start this adventure by driving to Chinchero alongside the beautiful lake of Piuray. Our transport leaves us as we arrive at the small village of Taucco, where the hike will start.
As we leave the vehicle behind, we follow a sharp ascend to the plateau. With most of the day’s ascent now done you can relax as you follow a mainly flat and well-preserved Inca trail for the rest of the day. This little-used route will take you past herds of alpacas and llamas and on a clear day, the views to the snow-capped mountains of the Urubamba range are fantastic. Along the way, you can enjoy a tasty packed lunch.
After lunch you descend through a delightful canyon full of Inca remains to emerge high above the Sacred Valley for your first views of Huchuy Qosqo.
Little is known about this mysterious site, though ‘little Cusco’ (as it translates from Quechua) may have been the country retreat of one of the first Incas. Its three-story houses, extensive niched walls, large central square, three-meter high terraces, and hidden location make this one of the real gems of the Cusco area.
After time to explore, you head down to Lamay on a steep donkey trail where your vehicle awaits.
Distance: 12 Km (7 ½ miles)
Time 5- 6 hours
Ascent 450m (1475ft)
Descent 1250m (4100ft)
Altitude: 3650m – 4100m – 3500 – 2850m
Included: porter support, transport, lunch, Huchuy Qosqo entrance fee, English-speaking guide
