The Huchuy Qosqo trek begins with hotel pick-up and transport to Patabamba. The hike offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley, followed by an ascent to the Pumamarca pass. From there, the trail leads to Pumamarca, León Punku, and the Huchuy Qosqo complex, where you can explore its terraces and enjoy panoramic views of the valley, Urubamba River, and mountains. The trek ends with a descent to Lamay, followed by transport back to Cusco.
Distance: 10 km (6.3 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Pick up at your hotel
07:00 AM
This hike, Huchuy Qosqo trek begins at 07:00 in the morning with the pick up at your hotel, then we will go in our transport until we reach the community of Patabamba, where we will begin the hike to Huchuy Qosqo, the first section of the hike will be flat but with a spectacular view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this section is known as the balcony of the Sacred Valley, then we will ascend for approximately 01 hour until we reach the Pumamarca pass, from the top begins the famous Inca Trail to Huchuy Qosqo, just 10 minutes walking we will arrive at Pumamarca and then to the famous León Punku a beautiful Inca period cover, the path continues until reaching Huchuy Qosqo, this beautiful place presents a real Inca trail with direct access to the central esplanade. You will have the opportunity to visit the entire Huchuy Qosqo complex as well as the impressive agricultural terraces. The panoramic view from this magical place is impressive, as you can see the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River and beautiful snow-capped mountains.
At the end of the visit we will begin the descent until we reach the town of Lamay, where our transport will be waiting for you and then we will return to the city of Cusco to finally leave you at your hotel.
Distance covered: 10 kilometers (6.3 miles).
Difficulty level: moderate.
You reach it by transport from the hotel to the community of Patabamba.
You can see impressive agricultural terraces and the Inca archaeological complex.
The ascent takes approximately one hour.
It is a famous Inca-era gateway found along the trail to Huchuy Qosqo.
From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and the snow-capped mountains.
You descend to the town of Lamay, where transport returns you to Cusco.
I recently had the chance to experience the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, and it was an unforgettable adventure. This trek offers a more serene and less crowded alternative to the popular Inca Trail, taking you through stunning Andean landscapes, charming villages, and incredible archaeological sites. The hike itself was challenging but manageable, and the sense of tranquility as you make your way through the mountains is truly special. The highlight was reaching the ancient site of Huchuy Qosqo, where you can feel the connection to history and the Incan culture. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path trek that still provides an authentic Peruvian experience, I highly recommend this route.