Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu 2 Days
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days is the most efficient and authentic way. Combine high-altitude trekking with deep cultural immersion on the path to Machu Picchu. We understand that time is precious, which is why we meticulously designed this two-day itinerary to maximize your experience in the Andes and minimize exposure to large crowds. As your direct local operator, we guarantee a safe and perfectly managed journey from start to finish. Day one is a profound cultural experience: we trek along an original Inca Trail segment to Huchuy Qosqo, the majestic «Little Cusco» ruins, overlooking the vast Sacred Valley. The journey is backed by our unwavering commitment to quality logistics, professional guides, and ethical support staff. This ensures not only a rapid connection to the Inca Citadel but also a truly responsible adventure, as validated by the excellent reviews from our past adventurers on TripAdvisor. You’ll enjoy hotel comfort in Aguas Calientes and efficient transport, making this the ideal quick trek for culturally conscious travelers. Your journey with us is supported by our core values. Book this express cultural experience today and transform your journey.
Price
Trip Details
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8 km
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days is meticulously planned for travelers seeking a significant trekking experience combined with cultural exploration in a short timeframe. Day 1 focuses on the spectacular hike from the high-Andean zone to the magnificent Huchuy Qosqo ruins (3,650 m / 11,975 ft). Here, the Inca Wiracocha once sought rest, and you will have the unique privilege of enjoying a fresh lunch right on the archaeological site, a feature that distinguishes this efficient and high-quality 2-day tour from standard options.
This adventure takes you along an original, well-preserved segment of the Inca Trail, providing stunning views of the Urubamba River and the Sacred Valley. The high point of the trek (near 4,100m) is challenging but manageable, offering a fantastic cultural acclimatization opportunity. Our operation is entirely local and direct, meaning we control the quality of the transportation, the expertise of the guide, and the comfort of your hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. This ensures your quick journey to Machu Picchu is both smooth and highly rewarding.
Your day begins with hotel pickup at 5:00 a.m. to the Quencco community (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) for a high-altitude breakfast. We begin the 5-hour hike, ascending toward the highest point (approx. 4,100 m) before descending to the magnificent Huchuy Qosqo ruins. After your guided tour and exclusive lunch at the site, we descend to Lamay (2,920 m / 9,580 ft) for private transport to Ollantaytambo. We enjoy a celebratory dinner before boarding the 7:00 p.m. Expedition train to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,692 ft) for the night.
Day 1 Statistics
- Start Altitude (Quencco): 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
- Max Altitude Reached: Approx. 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
We enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before taking the bus up to Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). Your expert guide leads a comprehensive 2-hour tour on the classic Circuit 2, covering the iconic viewpoints and the main temples. After the tour, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for free time and lunch (not included). Our team coordinates your seamless return via Expedition-class train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport directly back to your hotel in Cusco.
Day 2 Statistics
- Main Destination: Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary
- Altitude (Machu Picchu): 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Guided Tour: 2 hours
INCLUDES
- Transport: Private hotel pickup/drop-off. All road and train transport. Bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu.
- Expert Team: Professional, licensed English/Spanish speaking guide. Dedicated cook/support staff.
- Accommodation: 1 Night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Meals: Quality meals (1 B, 1 L, 1 D) including a high-altitude breakfast and restaurant dinner. Hotel breakfast (Day 2).
- Tickets & Permits: All entrance fees for Huchuy Qosqo and Machu Picchu (Circuit 2).
- Safety: First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank (essential for this altitude).
- Water: 2 liters of purified bottled water (Day 1).
NOT INCLUDES
- Rentals: Trekking poles (available for rental).
- Food: Lunch on the final day after the Machu Picchu tour.
- Permits: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits (optional upgrade).
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide and driver.
The highest elevation reached during the trek is approximately 4,100 meters (13,451 ft) on Day 1 near the starting point. This requires travelers to be well-acclimatized to the Cusco altitude before starting the tour.
The trek is rated as Moderate. While it involves significant climbing on Day 1, the total hiking time is short (approx. 5 hours), and the rest of the journey is handled by efficient, quality transport, making it manageable for active travelers.
Yes, but permits for the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain upgrade must be secured at least one month in advance as they are optional and subject to strict government capacity limits.
Since this is a non-camping trek, your main luggage remains securely stored at your hotel in Cusco, or you can use our safe storage facility. Your hotel in Aguas Calientes will also store your luggage on Day 2.
Yes. Although the altitude is moderate compared to Salkantay, we prioritize safety. Our professional guide always carries an emergency oxygen tank and a fully equipped first aid kit, especially due to the highest elevation near 4,100m.
We aim for hotel drop-off in Cusco between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. The return time is subject to the final train schedule booked for your group.
Yes. Due to the shorter hiking distance (10 km on Day 1) and the hotel accommodation, this trek is more accessible than multi-day camping routes. The private service is an even better option for a highly controlled pace.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Days eliminates the overnight camping portion and focuses solely on the trek to the ruins and the transfer to Aguas Calientes. The 3-day version offers a more authentic and cultural immersion experience with an overnight camp.
We include the Expedition-class train for the journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and the return trip to Ollantaytambo, ensuring a scenic and comfortable travel experience.
A celebratory dinner on Day 1 and breakfast at your hotel on Day 2 are included. Lunch on Day 2 (after the Machu Picchu tour) is not included, giving you the freedom to choose your restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
Our guides are licensed tourism professionals, originally from Cusco, with deep knowledge of Inca history and the Sacred Valley. Their expertise ensures an informative, passionate, and safe journey.
Choosing a local direct operator guarantees quality control over every service, from transport to guide expertise, eliminating layers of reselling. This transparency builds trust, a core part of the value we offer.
No, your Machu Picchu entrance ticket (Circuit 2) is secured and included in the price of your tour, removing the complexity of booking the official permit yourself.
We provide 2 liters of bottled water at the start of the hike. However, we strongly recommend you bring additional water or hydration capacity (2-3 liters total) to maintain proper hydration at high altitudes.
While you carry your own daypack, we handle all main luggage logistics, ensuring it is safely stored in Cusco while you are on the trek.
Backpacks larger than 25 liters are not permitted inside the citadel. We recommend bringing a small daypack for your essentials (water, camera, jacket).
You can leave your main luggage at your hotel if you return there, or you may store it safely at the Ali Perú Treks office, which will be detailed during your pre-trek briefing.
Yes, the hike follows an original Inca trail through a gorgeous microclimate and offers stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, making the trek highly rewarding.
Your guide is an expert in high-altitude support and carries emergency equipment. Trekking poles are highly recommended to reduce strain and provide stability, making the descent easier.
This is a significantly shorter and less demanding trek. It focuses on cultural immersion and efficiency, making it ideal for those who cannot commit to multi-day adventure treks like the Salkantay but still want a hiking experience before visiting Machu Picchu.
- Essentials: Original passport.
- Gear: Hiking boots, headlamp, and small backpack (max 25L for Machu Picchu entry).
- Clothing: Layered clothing, warm fleece, jacket, and rain gear.
- Water: Reusable water container (2-3 liters minimum).
- Sundries: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra money.
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificultad
- Housing
Hotel
- Language
- Distance