The Least Crowded Trek to Machu Picchu
Looking for an alternative to the classic Inca Trail without sacrificing history and scenery? Our Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days is the perfect short trek for travelers with limited time.
Huchuy Qosqo, which means Little Cusco in Quechua, is a spectacular Inca archaeological complex perched above the Sacred Valley. This 2-day trek combines high Andean puna landscapes, authentic Inca trails, a rarely visited archaeological site, and a full guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Unlike more crowded routes, this trail offers tranquility, deep cultural immersion, and some of the best panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the Sacred Valley. It is operated by our team of licensed, local professional guides from Cusco with over 10 years of experience on this route.
What to Expect on This Trek
- Compact and Rewarding: Day 1 is your hiking day to Huchuy Qosqo ruins. Day 2 is fully dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu.
- Moderate Challenge: Although it is only one day of hiking, the trail reaches 4050m. Acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2 days prior is highly recommended.
- Authentic Experience: Small groups, uncrowded trails, and direct interaction with Andean communities.
- Scenic Journey: Includes a private transport service and the panoramic train through the Urubamba Canyon.
Main Challenges to Consider:
- High altitude with a maximum elevation of 4050m.
- Steep downhill sections from the pass to the Sacred Valley.
- Rapid weather changes typical of the Andes.
Highlights of the Huchuy Qosqo Trek
- Explore the impressive Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site with privileged views of the Sacred Valley.
- Cross a high mountain pass at 4050m with views of the Vilcabamba range.
- Hike through pristine Andean puna and the Leon Punku canyon.
- Enjoy a scenic train journey along the Urubamba River.
- 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu with an expert local guide.
Who Is This Trek For?
This trek is ideal for you if:
You have limited time but want more than just a train tour. You enjoy moderate hiking, history, and nature. You want to avoid the crowds of the Inca Trail and Salkantay. You are acclimatized and ready for a high-altitude challenge. If you prefer less hiking, see our [Machu Picchu Tours by Train].
Detailed Itinerary for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days
Day 1: Cusco – Tauca – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
The Hike to Huchuy Qosqo and Journey to the Sacred Valley
Your adventure begins early. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 am. From Cusco, we drive for approximately one hour to Tauca, our trailhead located at 3750 m / 12303 ft above sea level. Here you will meet your licensed professional guide for a short safety briefing.
Morning: Hiking Across the Andean Puna
The first section is a steady uphill climb through the high Andean puna. In about two hours, we reach the highest point of the trek, a mountain pass at 4050 m / 13287 ft. From this viewpoint, you will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, the Sacred Valley, and the rolling hills covered in Ichu, the traditional highland grass.
This is an ideal place for photos and to appreciate the vastness of the Andes. Your guide will explain the importance of this ecosystem and how local communities have used it for centuries.
Midday: Descent to Huchuy Qosqo Through Ancient Canyons
From the pass, we begin a scenic descent. The trail follows the Qenqo ravine, where we will see small archaeological sites, ancient water channels, and native Andean plants. We then enter the Leon Punku ravine, a canyon with impressive rock formations that leads to a beautifully preserved original Inca bridge. This bridge marks the ceremonial entrance to Huchuy Qosqo.
Afternoon: Guided Exploration of Huchuy Qosqo
Huchuy Qosqo is an impressive Inca archaeological complex located on a plateau at 3600 m with privileged views over the Sacred Valley. Believed to have been the royal estate of Inca Wiracocha, the site features a large ceremonial hall called the Kallanka, temples, residential areas, and an advanced irrigation system.
Your expert local guide will share detailed insights into the history, architecture, and purpose of the complex during the Inca period. You will have ample time to explore the site and enjoy the tranquility, far from the crowds of other treks.
After the guided visit, we continue our descent for about two more hours to the village of Lamay at 2900 m / 9514 ft. Our private driver will be waiting to transfer you to Ollantaytambo. In Ollantaytambo, you will enjoy a well deserved dinner included in your package.
In the evening, you will board the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. This 90 minute journey follows the Urubamba River through a beautiful canyon.
Evening in Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, our staff will assist you to your 3 star hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to explore the town, browse local craft markets, or simply rest and prepare for Machu Picchu.
Day 1 Trekking Statistics:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Highest Altitude: 4050 m / 13287 ft at the mountain pass
- Lowest Altitude: 2900 m / 9514 ft in Lamay
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Your Guided Visit to Machu Picchu
Today is the highlight of your trip. We will start very early to board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Our goal is to arrive in time to witness the sunrise over the citadel, an unforgettable moment.
Upon entering Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you on a comprehensive 2 hour guided tour. You will visit the most important sectors, including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Room of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, and the classic viewpoint for postcard photos. Your guide will bring the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to life with expert commentary.
Optional Extra Hikes
After the guided tour, if you booked in advance, you will have time to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain on your own. These hikes require a separate permit and offer different perspectives of the citadel. A private guide for this extra hike can be added on request. Please ask at the time of booking, as permits sell out months in advance.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
After exploring the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch on your own, last minute souvenir shopping, a visit to the local hot springs, or simply to relax by the river.
Return Journey to Cusco
In the afternoon, we board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. We use the 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm service. This scenic train ride along the Urubamba Canyon offers a final chance to spot the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site high on the mountainside.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private driver will be waiting to drive you back to Cusco. We will drop you off at your hotel at approximately 7:00 pm, marking the end of our 2 day Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu trek.
Day 2 Statistics:
- Difficulty: Easy, focused on sightseeing and exploration
- Highest Altitude: 2430 m / 7972 ft at Machu Picchu
- Lowest Altitude: 2040 m / 6690 ft in Aguas Calientes
Included
- Private transportation from Cusco to Tauca and from Lamay to Ollantaytambo
- Hotel pickup and drop off in Cusco
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide
- Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Circuit 2
- Bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return
- Train tickets Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and return Expedition service
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes 3 star hotel with private bathroom
- 1 dinner in Ollantaytambo and 1 breakfast in Aguas Calientes
- Pre trek briefing at your hotel or office the day before
- All local taxes and fees
Not Included
- Lunch on Day 1 and Day 2
- Travel insurance
- Sleeping bag and hiking poles
- Tips for guides and staff
- Personal gear and clothing
- Water and snacks
- Additional hikes like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Single supplement for solo travelers
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes
- Train upgrade to Vistadome or other services
What to Pack for Huchuy Qosqo Trek (2 Days)
Trek Details: 17km hike to 4050m with 1 night in Aguas Calientes | No camping | Moderate trek with licensed local operator from Cusco
Essential Documents and Cash
- Original Passport (Mandatory)
- Original passport used for booking is required
- Checked at Huchuy Qosqo entrance (3,600m) and Machu Picchu entrance (2,430m)
- Name and number must match your tickets exactly. If you renewed your passport, bring both
- Licensed guides verify your documents during the briefing in Cusco
- Documents, Cash, and Extras
- Keep passport, Machu Picchu ticket, and travel insurance copy in a waterproof bag
- Cash in Peruvian Soles in small bills for tips, lunch in Aguas Calientes, souvenirs, and hot springs entrance
- Original student card if you booked with discount
- Travel insurance must cover trekking up to 4,100m
Packs and Gear
- Daypack (25–35L – Only Bag You Need)
- As this is not a camping trek, you only need a daypack (25 to 35L) for Day 1
- Carry 2L water, rain jacket, warm layer, passport, camera, snacks, and personal items
- Large backpacks make the steep descent to Lamay (2,900m) more difficult
- Main luggage can be left at your hotel in Cusco or on the train to Aguas Calientes
- Trekking Poles (Highly Recommended)
- Strongly recommended due to the long steep descent from Huchuy Qosqo (3,600m) to Lamay (2,900m)
- Reduces impact on knees and improves balance
- Rental available: $15 USD per pair (professional poles with rubber tips to protect Inca trails)
Footwear and Clothing
- Footwear
- Hiking Boots: Broken-in waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory (trail includes steep downhill sections and loose stones from 4,050m pass to Lamay)
- Town Shoes: Comfortable shoes or sandals for the evening in Aguas Calientes town (2,040m)
- Clothing Layers
- Base & Top Layers: Moisture-wicking t-shirts, long-sleeved shirt for sun protection, and thermal underwear for morning start
- Insulating Layer: Fleece or down jacket for the cold pass at 4,050m
- Pants: Quick-dry hiking pants and casual pants for dinner in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
- Rain Protection
- Waterproof windproof jacket is mandatory year-round
- Rain poncho to cover you and your daypack (afternoon showers are common at high altitude even in dry season)
- Warm Accessories
- Wool hat for the cold morning start at Tauca (3,750m) and windy pass at 4,050m
- Sun hat with brim for lower elevations
- Lightweight gloves for high altitude
- 2 pairs of wool or moisture-wicking hiking socks
Hydration, Sun, and Insect Protection
- Hydration and Snacks (2L Minimum)
- Water bottle or hydration bladder with at least 2L capacity (no water sources on high puna section from Tauca to pass)
- Energy bars, trail mix, and coca candy
- You can buy water in Lamay and Aguas Calientes
- Sun Protection and Insect Repellent
- High SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses with UV protection (sun is extremely strong above 3,500m with no shade)
- Insect repellent for the descent to Sacred Valley (2,900m) and Machu Picchu cloud forest (2,430m)
Electronics, Health, and Personal Items
- Electronics
- Headlamp with extra batteries for early 6 AM pickup and 4:30 AM start to Machu Picchu on Day 2
- Camera with extra batteries and memory card
- Power bank (10,000 mAh minimum) for charging phone on the trail
- Quick-dry towel for hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Health and Personal Items
- Personal medication including altitude medication if prescribed, blister plasters, small first aid kit
- Hand sanitizer, toilet paper in zip-lock bag, wet wipes
- Toothbrush and small toiletries for overnight
- Note: Guide carries a basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen for high altitude
Price for Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days
Trek Details: $527 USD per person for 2 or more people | No camping – 1 night in 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes | Small group 2 to 8 people | Licensed local operator based in Cusco
Price Per Person – Huchuy Qosqo 2 Days
- Standard Price – 2 or More People — $527 USD
- Private transport Cusco to Tauca and Lamay to Ollantaytambo, professional guide, entrance to Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu Circuit 2, 1 night hotel, trains Expedition
- Solo Traveler – Private Service — $687 USD
- Private guide and transport for 1 person, same inclusions as standard price, single supplement for hotel applies
Extras – Optional Rental and Upgrades
- Walking Poles – Pair — $15 USD
- Per pair per trek, professional extendable poles with rubber tips, highly recommended for steep descent to Lamay 2900m
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain — $65 USD
- Per person, subject to availability, must be booked months in advance, includes extra circuit ticket
- Train Upgrade to Vistadome — $67 USD
- Per person per route, upgrade from Expedition to Vistadome panoramic train with larger windows, return only or both ways
- Single Supplement – Hotel — $35 USD
- Per night, private room for solo travelers or those who prefer not to share double room in Aguas Calientes
Added Values Included in $527
- Pre Trek Briefing — Included
- The day before at your hotel or our office in Cusco with your licensed guide
- Bus Tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu — Included
- Round trip bus included, value $24 USD
- Entrance to Huchuy Qosqo 3600m — Included
- Archaeological site ticket with guided tour with local expert
- Entrance to Machu Picchu Circuit 2 — Included
- Main ticket with classic postcard view and temples, value $50 USD
- Oxygen and First Aid Kit — Included
- Guide carries emergency oxygen and first aid for high pass 4050m, certified in Wilderness First Aid
- Luggage Storage in Cusco — Included
- Store main luggage at our office or hotel while you trek
Key Information
- Best Value: $527 USD per person for 2 or more people includes private transport Cusco-Tauca and Lamay-Ollantaytambo, hotel pickup and drop off, professional licensed local guide from Cusco, entrance to Huchuy Qosqo 3600m and Machu Picchu, bus tickets, Expedition trains Ollantaytambo-Aguas Calientes return, 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, 1 dinner and 1 breakfast, pre trek briefing. Depart any day with minimum 2 people. Licensed tour operator based in Cusco for 10+ years. Machu Picchu and train tickets are non-refundable once purchased
