Tierra Biru Expeditions
Trekking

Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu — 3 Days

Cusco · Machu Picchu
FromUSD 550Per person
  • 3 days / 2 nights
  • challenging
  • Customizable

Is this trip for you?

Know what to expect before you go.

challenging
4/5

Overview

A journey with enough room to notice the road.

Discover a quieter, deeply Andean route on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3D/2N + Machu Picchu, a journey that blends Inca archaeology, crystal-clear lakes, highland scenery, and the iconic finale at Machu Picchu. You’ll start at Tambomachay, a site linked to water worship, hiking across ravines and high passes with sweeping views of lakes like Piuray and Qoricocha, before reaching the high-Andean community of Pucamarca. On Day 2 you’ll explore Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m), a ceremonial complex overlooking the Sacred Valley and the Vilcanota River, then descend through the dramatic León Punku ravine among striking rock formations and traces of ancient paths. Day 3 crowns the adventure with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, making this itinerary ideal for travelers who want history, scenery, and a rewarding trek in just three days.

Journey Milestones

DAY01

Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Highland lakes & passes – Pucamarca

DAY02

Day 2: Pucamarca – Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m) – León Punku – Taucca – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

DAY03

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Itinerary

See the road day by day.

3 expedition days

DAY01

Travel by private transport from Cusco to Tambomachay, known as a water-worship site. From here you can see Puca Pucara and enjoy views of the city and the Andean puna. You’ll hike up the Tambomachay ravine to Sicllajasa Pass, taking in the Ccauca ravine and wide-open highland landscapes—mixing gradual ascents with natural viewpoints for photos. Stop at Qeullacocha Lake for lunch surrounded by nature, then continue to Challu Challu Pass with views of Piuray and Qoricocha lakes. Later you’ll climb to Rumicruz Pass and descend to the high-Andean community of Pucamarca, set up camp, and enjoy a peaceful night in mountain silence.

Meals
Lunch, Dinner
DAY02

After breakfast, hike toward Huchuy Qosqo, an Inca archaeological complex at 3,600 m. As the trail opens into Sacred Valley panoramas, you’ll descend through the León Punku ravine—one of the most photogenic sections—where you may spot traces of ancient paths and possible Inca bridge remains among dramatic rock formations. At Huchuy Qosqo, explore the ceremonial area and enjoy views over the Vilcanota River and surrounding valleys. Then hike about 2 hours to Taucca for lunch, transfer by private transport to Ollantaytambo station, and board the train to Aguas Calientes. Check into your hotel and rest for the Machu Picchu visit.

Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY03

Wake up early for Machu Picchu. After breakfast at the hotel, take the ~30-minute bus ride to the entrance and enjoy a guided tour of temples, plazas, palaces and stone streets, learning about Inca history and architecture. You’ll have free time to explore on your own or optionally hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (separate ticket). After the visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), then take the train to Ollantaytambo and continue by transport to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m..

Meals
Breakfast

What's included

Clear before you plan.

What's included

10
  • Private transport Cusco – Tambomachay
  • Trekking route to Huchuy Qosqo as described
  • Professional guide (Spanish/English)
  • Meals: 02 breakfasts, 02 lunches, 02 dinners
  • Cook, horses and muleteers carrying the agency’s camping equipment
  • Horse load allowance: 6 kg per traveler
  • First aid support and oxygen tank
  • 01 night camping (Pucamarca)
  • 01 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Ground transfers as per program (including return to Cusco)

What's not included

5
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary
  • Optional tips for field staff
  • Extra expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Lunch on Day 3 (in Aguas Calientes)
  • Optional hikes: Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain (separate ticket)

Technical details

Understand the route before you take it on.

Accommodation

Camping equipment included
No

Difficulty and preparation

Permits required
No
Languages
English, Spanish
  • Licensed Operator

    Official MINCETUR & Inca Trail authorization

  • Cusco-Based Since 2014

    100% direct local operation with zero middlemen

  • 4.9 / 5 Traveler Rating

    Verified reviews from international explorers

  • 24/7 On-Trip Support

    Real-time assistance from our Cusco headquarters

TripAdvisor
Marca Perú
Agencia Inscrita MINCETUR

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Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu — 3 Days

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