Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night

Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night

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Physical Level
Trip Style
Hiking
Max Altitude
3300msnm
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Trip Length
2 Days
Starting from
$ 397.00
per person

This 2-day trek combines a real Andean hiking experience with the visit to Machu Picchu. You walk through high mountain passes, visit the lesser-known Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo, pass traditional farming communities, and finish with a complete guided tour inside the famous Inca City of Machu Picchu.

The route follows ancient Inca paths that very few tourists use. You will see snow-capped peaks, wide highland plains, and cultivated terraces that are still worked the same way as centuries ago. On the second day you arrive early to Machu Picchu and receive a detailed 2-hour explanation from an expert guide.

Machu Picchu Peru Travel operates this tour with its own private transportation and highly trained drivers. Our guides are local professionals with years of experience leading international groups in several languages. A representative of Machu Picchu Peru Travel will be in contact with you at all times to make sure everything runs smoothly.

The trek is moderate in difficulty and reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 4,200 meters. Most people who are reasonably fit and have spent 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco complete it without problems.

Every meal included in the program uses fresh, organic local ingredients. International dishes are available upon request (additional cost may apply depending on the restaurant – please check with our reservations team).

You can choose between two train companies for the journey to Machu Picchu:

  • Expedition Train – comfortable tourist service with standard seats and windows.
  • Vistadome Train – larger panoramic windows, roof windows, snacks on board, and a short cultural show (upgrade cost applies).

Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days / 1 Night

2 Days from US $ 397.00

Highlights

  • Real hiking on original Inca trails instead of the crowded classic routes
  • Visit the quiet and impressive Inca complex of Huchuy Qosqo with almost no other tourists
  • Private transportation owned by the agency and drivers with extensive experience
  • Expert local guides who speak fluent English and know every detail of the route
  • Small groups (maximum 8 people) for a more personal experience
  • Flexible train choice (Expedition or Vistadome)
  • All entrance tickets and bus tickets to Machu Picchu included**
  • One night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Trip Details

  • Duration: 2 days / 1 night
  • Maximum group size: 8 participants (usually 2-6 people)
  • Maximum altitude: approximately 4,200 meters
  • Difficulty level: moderate
  • Service type: group or private
  • Transportation: private transportation owned by Machu Picchu Peru Travel, train
  • Starting / ending point: hotel in Cusco
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Trip Summary

Day 1 – Cusco → Huchuy Qosqo → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes

  • 6:00 a.m. – Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
  • 8:30 a.m. – Start hiking from Tauca (3,750 m)
  • 1:00 p.m. – Picnic lunch on the trail
  • 3:30 p.m. – Arrival and guided visit to Huchuy Qosqo
  • 5:00 p.m. – Descent to Lamay and private transportation to Ollantaytambo
  • 7:00 p.m. – Dinner in Ollantaytambo
  • 8:30 p.m. – Train to Aguas Calientes (Expedition or Vistadome)
  • 10:00 p.m. – Hotel check-in in Aguas Calientes

Day 2 – Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Cusco

  • 5:30 a.m. – Breakfast at the hotel
  • 6:00 a.m. – First bus up to Machu Picchu
  • 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. – 2-hour guided tour inside Machu Picchu
  • 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Free time to explore on your own (optional Huayna Picchu)
  • 12:00 p.m. – Bus down to Aguas Calientes
  • Afternoon – Lunch (not included) and free time
  • 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. – Train back (Expedition or Vistadome)
  • 7:00 p.m. – Arrival at your hotel in Cusco

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Cusco – Tauca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 a.m. in private transportation owned by Machu Picchu Peru Travel. After approximately 2 hours we reach the community of Tauca (3,750 m), where the hike begins. The first section crosses flat farmland planted with potatoes, quinoa, and corn. Little by little the path climbs toward a pass at around 4,200 m. From the top you get clear views of the peaks Veronica, Pitusiray, and Chicon when the weather allows.

After the pass the terrain changes to high grassland with almost no trees. We descend toward a narrow canyon and reach the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo around 3:30 p.m. Our guide gives a complete explanation of the buildings, terraces, and the strategic importance of this Inca complex.

We continue downhill to the town of Lamay (2,900 m), where our private vehicle waits. From there we go to Ollantaytambo for dinner. After dinner we board the train (you choose Expedition or Vistadome) to Aguas Calientes. Arrival and transfer to the hotel around 10:00 p.m.

Meals: picnic lunch and dinner | Hiking distance: 16 km | Hiking time: approximately 7 hours

Breakfast at the hotel and line up for one of the first buses at 6:00 a.m. We enter Machu Picchu very early to see the sunrise if clouds permit. The guide provides a detailed 2-hour tour covering the agricultural, residential, and religious sectors. After the guided part you have free time to walk around, take photos, or climb Huayna Picchu if you bought the extra ticket.

Around noon we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. Lunch on your own. In the afternoon we take the train back (2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m.) to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle waits to drive you directly to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival around 7:00 p.m.

Meal: breakfast

Inclusions

  • Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco with private transportation owned by the agency and highly trained drivers
  • Professional bilingual guide (English-Spanish) with wide experience on this route and with international travelers
  • Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Round-trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
  • 1 night in 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (private bathroom, hot water, Wi-Fi)
  • Meals mentioned (1 breakfast, 1 picnic lunch, 1 dinner) prepared with fresh local organic ingredients
  • Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Vistadome according to your choice)
  • Oxygen bottle and basic first-aid kit
  • First breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 2
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket
  • Walking poles
  • Tips for the team (optional but appreciated)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)

About the Train Options to Machu Picchu

Visit Machu Picchu with one of these train options, offering the BEST luxury services.

Expedition Class Train

The Expedition Class Train (Perú Rail) or the Voyager class train (Inca Rail) which have a car decoration inspired by the Inca culture, you can enjoy background music and, in addition, you can access a sales service board and thus have a relaxed and comfortable journey to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

The package includes the Expedition Train (Peru Rail) or the Voyager Class Train (Inca Rail)

Classic Vistadome Train (Peru Rail)

The Classic Vistadome Train (Peru Rail): A different way to enjoy your trip to Machu Picchu. Their cars have a panoramic view that will allow you to enjoy the wonderful landscape along the route. You will enjoy an informative audio, music and dances from the region, also enjoy a fashion show of Alpaca clothing and a snack based on Andean ingredients.

Upgrade your experience with the Traditional Vistadome Class Train for an additional $70 USD per person round trip (or $40 USD for one way).

Vistadome Observatory Train (Peru Rail)

Vistadome Observatory Train (Peru Rail): Providing you with the experience of a unique journey thanks to its panoramic cars and observatory car that will provide you with an unforgettable and enjoyable experience accompanied by music and live shows, which will make you live an unforgettable trip and Enjoy the experience on board, also enjoy a delicious snack.

Upgrade your experience Vistadome Observatory Train Train for an upgrade fee of $120 USD per person round trip (or $60 USD for one way).

UPGRADE

Enhance your travel experience to Machu Picchu.

Check out our TripAdvisor Reviews

Our clients trust us, and their glowing reviews on TripAdvisor speak for themselves. Discover why so many travelers choose us for unforgettable experiences in Cusco.

Why choose “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL”?

“MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” is a 100% Peruvian local company and tour operator in Cusco, with many years of experience in hikes, adventure tours, and travel packages. We are a 100% local company.

Our dream as a local company is to offer personalized travel and hiking experiences, operated solely by local professional staff, focusing on a PERSONALIZED and HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel operating agency, in addition to practicing RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE actions with the environment and local people.

We consider our staff as family and guarantee them a fair salary. We are very proud of our team! Without their support, we could not offer the quality of service that hundreds of our travelers have enjoyed.

At “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we are aware that our reputation and what our passengers say are crucial for our travelers to trust their next vacations; you can check the reviews our travelers leave on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google; in an honest and reliable operator to create your adventure in Peru.

We offer small groups of travelers.

To offer a more personalized service at “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we maintain a limit of 8 people for each of our groups. This distinguishes us from other companies that operate with larger groups.

About our tour guides

We are very proud of our guides. They are experts and professionals, fluent in English. They are experts and knowledgeable about the routes, and they are passionate about Inca heritage and history. Our guides are dedicated to their continuous personal and professional development, researching to offer you accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with degrees in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

About our treatment of Inca Trail porters

Hiking with “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” is an uplifting experience, we prioritize your comfort and enjoyment throughout the hike, and you will have the assistance of our porters. You will interact with local people, explore incredible sites, and rediscover ancient Inca ancestral towns. Our porters carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up our camp tents, and take care of you while you relax.

We provide our porters for free with: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable travel bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. All are hired from isolated communities, improving their economic circumstances and supporting the education of their children. We treat all our porters like family!

Our team

Our team (guides, cooks, porters, muleteers) and our equipment make “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” stand out among our competitors. On our adventure hikes, we include:

  • Our tents: Enjoy a good rest in our 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents. Our tents are for 4 people, but only 2 sleep in each, providing space for greater comfort and storage. They have a small vestibule for boots and poles.
  • Our foam mats: Separate and insulate from the ground.
  • Air mattresses: Available for rent for $20 USD.
  • Kitchen and dining tents: Used as a meeting room during meals, ideal for relaxing and chatting.
  • Tables and chairs: In the dining area, adapted to the day’s weather.
  • Travel bags: Provided the night before the trek.
  • Others: Pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and chemical toilets are provided during the trek.

Our commitment to social projection

At “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we have always believed in giving back to isolated local communities. As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we carry out various social projects and always hire local people.

We are very proud to support our local people. We not only employ them but also support their families, contributing to a holistic approach with our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones.

Faqs

Is 2 days enough time to visit Machu Picchu after the trek?

Yes, completely. You arrive the night before, sleep in Aguas Calientes, and enter Machu Picchu with the first buses the next morning. You have the complete 2-hour guided tour plus several hours of free time before returning to Cusco the same evening. Most travelers find it perfect.

Do I need to be very fit to do this trek?

The trek is classified as moderate. The longest day is 16 km with a pass at 4,200 m. If you walk regularly and spend at least 2 days in Cusco before starting, almost everyone finishes without problems. We always carry oxygen.

What happens if I suffer from altitude sickness?

Our guides are trained to recognize and treat altitude symptoms. We carry portable oxygen and can arrange quick evacuation to lower altitude if necessary. Spending 2-3 days in Cusco beforehand greatly reduces the risk.

Can I choose the Vistadome train?

Yes. You can upgrade to Vistadome (panoramic windows and onboard service) for the return or both directions. The cost is extra and must be requested at the time of booking.

Is the trail very crowded?

No. Huchuy Qosqo receives very few visitors compared to the Inca Trail, so you will almost have the archaeological site to yourself.

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?

No. You spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes. Only a small daypack is needed for the hike.

Is drinking water provided on the trek?

We provide boiled and filtered water during the hike. Bring your own reusable bottle (minimum 1.5 liters).

Can I charge my phone or camera in Aguas Calientes?

Yes. All hotels have electricity and most have Wi-Fi (signal can be slow).

What time do we return to Cusco on day 2?

Between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., depending on the train schedule. We always use the earliest possible trains to give you maximum time in Machu Picchu.

Is it possible to do the trek privately?

Yes, we offer private service any day with a minimum of 2 people. Price on request.

Do I need walking poles?

They help a lot on the descent, especially if it has rained. You can rent good quality ones from us for a small fee.

Is the food vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free?

Yes, just let us know when booking and we will adapt all meals without problem.

Do I need to bring my original passport?

Yes, it is mandatory to enter Machu Picchu and to board the train. It must be the same passport you used for booking.

What happens if it rains?

The trek operates every day of the year except February when Huchuy Qosqo trail is closed for maintenance. We provide rain ponchos if needed.

Can children do this trek?

Yes, from approximately 10 years old if they are used to walking. Younger children can do a private version with fewer hours of hiking.

Travel Guide

Climate

Cusco region has two clear seasons: dry (May–October) cool nights, sunny days; wet (November–April) possible afternoon rain. Temperature at 4,200 m can drop to 0 °C at night even in dry season. Always bring layers.

How local people are

People in the communities along the route are Quechua farmers, friendly but reserved. A simple “alli ancha” (good morning in Quechua) and a smile go a long way.

Typical food on the route

Breakfast: quinoa porridge, fresh bread, eggs. Lunch: quinoa soup, trout or chicken, rice, potatoes. Dinner in town: pizza, pasta, alpaca steak, or traditional lomo saltado. Everything is prepared with local ingredients.

Places you can visit for free in Aguas Calientes

The hot springs (small entrance fee), the butterfly house, main square, and the short walk to the Mandor waterfall (30 minutes, no cost).

Where to eat cheap in Aguas Calientes

The municipal market (2nd floor) has full menus for 15-20 soles. Many small restaurants on the main avenue offer “menu del día” for 25-35 soles.

How to dress all year round

  • Good broken-in hiking boots
  • Moisture-wicking socks
  • Trekking pants (not jeans)
  • Thermal base layer for the pass
  • Fleece or light down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket and poncho
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen
  • Warm hat and gloves for early morning

Physical effort and health requirements

You walk 16 km the first day with 700 m ascent and 1,200 m descent. No technical climbing. The only requirement is to be in reasonable health and have spent at least 2 days above 3,000 m before starting. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is mandatory.

I’ve done this route several times, and the quiet of Huchuy Qosqo at sunset with the Vilcabamba range behind is one of my favorite moments in the entire Cusco area. You won’t regret choosing this less-traveled path.

Inquiry now

Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all thats left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, well be with you every step of the way. At Machu Picchu Peru Travel, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.

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