Huchuy Qosqo (‘little Cusco’) is an Inca archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley. The Huchuy Qosqo Trek offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley, admire the beautiful flora and fauna, and learn more about the administrative and military center of Huchuy Qosqo. We have two itineraries to choose from to reach Huchuy Qosqo.
You will be picked up from your hotel early in the morning and escorted to the starting point of the trek – Piuray Lagoon at Taucca, a short distance outside Chinchero. Be prepared for the high altitude, as the starting point stands at 3,750 meters above sea level.
The early start will let you appreciate the spectacular view of the snow-capped Veronica, the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba range, and the nearby Vilcabamba range. The hike to Huchuy Qosqo takes about 6 hours. You'll reach the highest point (4,400 meters above sea level) at Pucaqasa, then descend to Pumamarca and Pucamarca, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, fields, and lakes.
You'll continue toward the canyon along the recently restored Inca trail, crossing streams and bridges, passing Puma Punku and other Inca ruins, before entering the citadel at 3,600 meters. The site sits atop a mountain, framed majestically by Lamay and Calca. Originally a palace, its stone structures remain impressive even today.
After a short rest in the shade of the Queñua (Andean oak trees), lunch will be served before you explore the site at your leisure. The route then continues with a zigzag descent through the fields for about two hours until you reach Lamay, where you'll board transport to Cusco or Ollantaytambo/Machu Picchu.
You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to Pisac and then to the small community of Qorao. From here you'll reach Patabamba, where the hike begins at 4,000 meters, offering a magnificent view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pisac, Lamay, and Calca).
Along this route you'll pass through the village of Siwas and visit the ruins of Pucamarca and Pumamarca. You'll then enter the canyon through Puma Punku along the Inca Trail until reaching Huchuy Qosqo. After a short rest in the shade of a Queñua (oak tree), you'll begin the descent to Lamay, where you'll board transport to Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
The Huchuy Qosqo trek, although considered easy, still reaches a full 4,000 meters and offers the chance to explore Peru off the beaten track. If you can fit it into your itinerary, we recommend the Huchuy Qosqo trek.
Both trek options offer a wonderful trekking experience.