The Beatiful Andean Hike to Machu Picchu
Is your idea of the perfect vacation a trek to Machu Picchu but away from the crowds? If the answer is yes, look no further than the 3-day Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu trek. Enjoy this incredibly picturesque hike through stunning landscapes as you observe beautiful towns, find llamas and alpacas, and witness soaring mountain peaks and a surprising variety of local flora and fauna.
You’ll also make new friends in local communities where you can immerse yourself in their world and learn all about their customs and traditions as you walk in the footsteps of their ancestors on parts of the mythical Inca Trail. This is the perfect trip for those short on time who want a real, rural Andean experience. Join us on the trail for the adventure of a lifetime today!
Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or as a couple, you can join our 3-day adventure to Machu Picchu with knowledgeable guides through the most amazing Andean landscapes. The Huchuy Qosqo trek is like taking a step back in time, and it’s hard to believe that an adventure like this is so close to Cusco! Make the most of your time in the land of the Incas and head out on this unique and off-the-beaten-path hike.
From the moment you set off, this trek takes you off the typical tourist route. You’ll walk along ancient trails and visit local communities where you’ll be immersed in the local culture and amazed by the expansive landscapes.
On the second day, you’ll visit the little-known archaeological complex of Huchuy Qosqo, a pre-Inca site that was conquered by the Incas and thus incorporated into their empire early on in their expansion. This site offers an interesting mix of pre-Inca and Inca architecture and is set on the side of a beautiful hill in a pretty location overlooking the Sacred Valley.
After visiting this fascinating site, we’ll begin the journey to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes. From Aguas Calientes, we’ll visit the most famous Inca site of all: Machu Picchu! This astounding Inca citadel is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that isn’t to be missed during your time in Peru. So, what are you waiting for? Join us on this epic experience through ancient lands to the most incredible fortress.
DAY 01: Cusco | Tambomachay – Qoricocha Lake – Pucamarca – Huchuy Qosqo
Start your hike from Tambomachay and eat lunch at Qoricocha Lake. Hike another 4 hours this afternoon to reach your camp on the Huchuy Qosqo terraces.
DAY 02: Huchuy Qosqo | Lamay – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Explore Huchuy Qosqo complex this morning before having lunch in Lamay. After, take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a hostel.
DAY 03: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu before coming back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch. From there, take the train to Ollantaytambo and then our private transport to your accommodation in Cusco.
Highlight of the day: Hiking through the stunning Andean scenery.
Immerse Yourself In a Pre-Incan Experience In the Beautiful Andes.
Your unforgettable adventure begins today when we stop by your accommodation early (6:00 am) to pick you up and drive you, for around 20 minutes, to the Inca site of Tambomachay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). During this first section, we’ll pass by Sacsayhuaman, Q’enqo, and Puka Pukara. Tambomachay is where we’ll start our hike and join the rest of the team: The guide, the horseman who’ll lead the horses, and the chef. We’ll get your luggage on the horses and then start walking.
We’ll ascend for 3 hours until we reach the first pass of our excursion (4,100 m / 13,451 ft). Along this part of the route, you’ll be able to enjoy some awe-inspiring views of Cusco city and the surrounding mountains. After another hour, we’ll arrive at Qoricocha Lake. This spectacular location is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious lunch and enjoy the pretty surroundings.
After eating, we’ll ascend for 45 minutes to the second pass, which is the highest point of our entire trek (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). From here, the rest of the day is downhill. For 4 hours, we’ll cross fertile valleys, a fabulous canyon, and a portion of the original Inca Trail. Our camp will be on one of the Huchuy Qosqo terraces (3,600 m / 11,811 ft). Once we get there, you’ll enjoy a spectacular dinner and some well-deserved rest.
Highlight of the day: Walking around the unique Huchuy Qosqo complex and learning all its secrets.
Explore the Fascinating Site of Huchuy Qosqo.
We’ll wake up bright and early to enjoy a fantastic breakfast in our camp this morning. You’ll be amazed at the amazing food the chef cooks up in the middle of the mountains! You’ll then enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo. Your knowledgeable guide will teach you all there is to know about the site while you explore and enjoy pretty views of the valley.
Then we’ll descend for 2 hours to the town of Lamay (2,941 m / 9,649 ft) in the Sacred Valley, where we’ll have lunch. Once we’re ready and well-nourished, our private mobility will be waiting for us to head towards Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft). We’ll have a brief tour of this mysterious and magical place, which is considered the last intact living Inca town that exists. You’re sure to enjoy this picturesque town and its ancient cobbled streets.
In Ollantaytambo, you’ll board the Vistadome luxury train that heads to Aguas Calientes. As soon as we arrive, you’ll check-in at the hotel. You’ll have the afternoon free to visit the relaxing hot springs or explore the town before dinner in the best restaurant in town. Make sure you go to bed early, as you’ll need to be up before dawn tomorrow.
Highlight of the day: Exploring every inch of the astounding feat of humankind, Machu Picchu.
Tour of the Incredible Incan City: Machu Picchu.
You’ll enjoy a tasty breakfast at your hotel before we embark very early (5:30 am) on a bus to take us to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu to see the sunrise. We like to get there before the other groups so you can enjoy the early morning light in peace and make the most of your time at the site.
You’ll discover the secrets of this mysterious place on a 2-hour guided tour. The architecture of the Incas is astonishing! They constructed a safe, sustainable city with excellent planning on top of the mountains thanks to their deep relationship in harmony with Mother Nature. You’ll be fascinated as the citadel’s secrets are unraveled before your eyes.
If you chose to climb the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain extra hike (extra tickets booked in advance needed), you’ll do it at 10:00 am. Otherwise, you’ll have free time in Machu Picchu to explore further (you can walk to Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge) before you return to Aguas Calientes.
In Aguas Calientes, you’ll have time to find a restaurant of your choice for some lunch and then board the Expedition Train heading to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will pick you up and take you back to your accommodation in Cusco. The time of your arrival will depend on the time of your train ticket, which is subject to availability.
Your exciting 3-day whirlwind trip is over, but we’re sure it’ll be an adventure you never forget!
At Pacha Peru Explorers, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
Entrance Ticket to Huchuy Qosqo Archaelogical Site
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site
The “Machu Picchu Circuit 2” ticket offers the most complete tour of the Machu Picchu citadel and is also the most requested. For this reason, we recommend booking it well in advance to secure your entry.
Pre-departure Briefing
You’ll meet your trekking guide in your hotel for an orientation before your trek. There, we’ll provide you with the duffle bags, which our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 5:00 pm the evening before the trip begins.
Experienced Tour Guide
Our official tour guides speak English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified. We choose them for their experience, responsibility, unbridled passion for exploring, and pride in sharing our culture and history. In every experience, they will keep you safe and comfortable so you can enjoy your time worry-free!
Private Camping Equipment
We have spacious dining rooms and kitchens at each campsite so you can enjoy your meals comfortably and worry-free. Our horses will carry all equipment like tables, chairs, and cooking supplies.
One Duffle Bag
On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
All Pacha Peru Explorers guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers’ diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Best Camping Tents (Day 1)
Pacha Peru Explorers uses the best equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Every 2 people will share Doite-Kailas tents with a capacity for 4 people.
Confortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes
The last night of this trek is spent in a hotel in Aguas Calientes with a double or triple room, private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
2 Breakfast, 2 Lunchs, 2 Dinners
Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.
Water on the Trail
We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your hike, from your first lunch to your last breakfast. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters)
Wake up Tea
Every morning at the campsite, you’ll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.
Tea Time or Happy Hour
Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won’t have to wait until dinner to relax, warm up, and enjoy a bite!
Snacks on the Trail Daily
Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.
One-Way Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (Day 3)
Train Tickets
Personal Belongings Transportation
On days 1 and 2, cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items.
All our travelers need a sleeping bag to camp. Inflatable mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but highly recommended. If you do not have them, don’t worry, you can rent them with Pacha Peru Explorers.
Huayna Picchu Mountain
You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least two to three months in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.
The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 80.00 per person.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.
The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 80.00 per person.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 3)
Personal Hiking Clothes and Gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Typically, group participants collect their tips to hand out to the horsemen and chefs together.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a beautiful and challenging trek in the Cusco region of Peru, and it is important to be prepared with the right gear. Here is a recommended packing list:
Note: Please be aware that the weather in the Andes can change quickly, so it is important to bring appropriate layers and gear to stay comfortable and safe.
“The Huchuy Qosqo trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days” can leave any day of the week, from January through December.
2025 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 580.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 300.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 280.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Notice that PayPal, credit cards charge a 6% fee for the use of their secure payment gateway. This tax is just for online and card payments. You can also pay the remaining balance in cash (the briefing day) without charges.
Extras & Upgrades
There are complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the Price won’t increase, whatever the circunstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
Student Discount
US$20.00
Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to [email protected]
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Pacha Peru Explorers in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.
You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.
All information meetings and briefings are held in your hotel at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Pacha Peru Explorers office.
If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 6% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks as forms of payment for the balance.
You’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. Our horses will carry them, and the horsemen will hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
A maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb is allowed for each duffel bag, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes, and other personal items.
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Please note:
Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!
Note: Your tour includes a One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a round-trip bus ticket, you’ll need to pay an extra of US$ 12.00.
Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
Thank you for your interest in having and adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Pacha Peru Explorers. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. the Pacha Peru Explorers Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availlability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 950 705034 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
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Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Pacha Peru Explorers is a 100% peruvian, separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.
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Let us arrange everything for you properly. Contact us, and one of our travel specialists will provide you with everything you need to make this an unforgettable experience.
