Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu
Take a 3-day trip to the Huchuy Qosqo region of Peru. Discover ancient Incan ruins, stunning mountain views, and unique wildlife! Join us and explore the incredible Inca remains!
3 Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek with Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days: This scenic trekking expedition combines remote Andean landscapes, original Inca pathways, and the Short Inca Trail before the final arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
The route crosses the Tres Cruces Pass and descends through the ancient pathways of León Punku toward the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo overlooking the Sacred Valley. From there, the expedition continues toward the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Designed for travelers seeking a quieter and more immersive trekking experience, this route combines mountain scenery, cultural history, and less-traveled trails across the Peruvian Andes.
Are you seeking an adventure combining stunning natural beauty with cultural immersion? Consider embarking on a 3-day hike to Machu Picchu via the Huchuy Qosqo trail in Peru.
Overview
What to Expect on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
This trekking route combines remote Andean landscapes, original Inca pathways, high mountain passes, and the Short Inca Trail before the final arrival to Machu Picchu.
Compared to more traditional trekking routes, the Huchuy Qosqo expedition offers quieter trails, cultural history, and scenic mountain environments with fewer crowds.
Who Is This Trek Best For?
This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a shorter multi-day adventure that combines remote mountain scenery, original Inca pathways, and cultural exploration before reaching Machu Picchu.
The route is especially recommended for hikers seeking a quieter, less crowded alternative to the Classic Inca Trail while still experiencing the Short Inca Trail and arriving through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Quick Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Cusco-Huchuy Qosqo Trek-Ollantaytambo
- Day 2: Short Inca Trail to Aguas Calientes
- Day 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Highlights of the Huchuy Qosqo Trek with Short Inca Trail
- Explore the ancient Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo overlooking the Sacred Valley.
- Cross scenic Andean mountain passes and less-traveled trekking routes near the Vilcanota range.
- Experience original Inca pathways connecting Huchuy Qosqo with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy quieter trekking environments with fewer crowds than the Classic Inca Trail.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- Ideal for travelers seeking a balanced combination of hiking, culture, and mountain scenery.
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary – Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a 3-day trekking expedition that connects remote Andean landscapes, the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, and the Short Inca Trail, ending at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku.
DAY 1
HUCHUY QOSQO INCA TRAIL HIKE
The land trip from Cusco to TRES Cruzes: Hike to Huchuy Qosqo; Overnight in Ollantaytambo
Walk the spectacular Inca Trail of Huchuy Qosqo, exploring the ruins of Puca Marca, Leon Punku, and the same ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, with an impressive panoramic view of the Lamay Valley and the Andes of the Sacred Valley.
Conquer the Huchuy Qosqo Pass on a 30-minute hike for a breathtaking view of the Qoricocha Lagoon and the remote Andean highlands. From the Huchuy Qosqo “Three Crosses” Pass, we descend along the Inca trail to surround the mountain and enter the León Punku canyon. From León Punku, the Inca trail is almost 100 percent preserved; there are several viewpoints to have incredible views of scenic landscapes. In the afternoon, we go to Ollantaytambo via the Sacred Valley of Urubamba to arrive at our hotel in Ollantaytambo.
Summary information
- Land travel time from Cusco to the start of the trek: At 08:00
- Walking distance: 13 KM (8:08 miles).
- Hiking time: 3 hours and 40 minutes
- Highest elevation: 4426 m/ 14,520 ft.
- Lower elevation: 2,851 m (9,353 ft).
- Hiking Difficulty: Challenging to Moderate
- Meals: box lunch.
Box Lunch
Moderate
13km (8 miles)
3-4 Hrs.
Tres Cruces Pass: 4,323m (14,183 ft)
Parking Lot: 3,320m (10,829 ft)
None
DAY 2
SHORT INCA TRAIL HIKE
Train ride to the start of the Short Inca Trail; hike to Machu Picchu along the Sacred Inca Trail
Early in the morning, we board the train that takes us to the start of the Short Inca Trail. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. We must inform the train crew that we get off at kilometer 104 of the railway to walk the Inca Trail.
Clients present our original passports with entrance tickets to the Inca Trail network at the surveillance control so that they give us the authorization to enter and start the trek.
We have 05 hours of walking through the mountains of Machu Picchu to reach Intipunku and have one of the best views of the Inca citadel of Machupicchu in all its splendor. We visit some Inca sites like Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku. Carrying at least 2 liters of water is essential because the Inca Trail trek area is humid and sunny and makes you thirsty (no shops are in the entire trek circuit). In the afternoon, we will board the bus to Aguas Calientes.
TRAIN DATA: SERVICE
- Train Route: OLLANTAYTAMBO to KM 104: Outbound Journey
- Train company: INCA RAIL
- Travel route: OLLANTAYTAMBO to KM 104 (1 hour and 20 minutes of train ride)
- Class: The Voyager 41
- Departure: 06:40
- At Station: 06:10; otherwise, you may not be allowed to board.
- KM 104 Arrival: 07:50
SHORT INCA TRAIL DATA TO MACHU PICCHU:
- Explore three Inca sites: Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku
- Hiking distance: 11 km (6.14 miles).
- Trail elevation: KM 104, 2,000 meters (6,550 feet).
- Minimum altitude: 2.250 meters (7,240 feet)
- Maximum size: 2,720 meters (8,920 feet) (the Sun Gate)
- Physical grading: Moderate to Challenging
- Trekking hours: 05-hour
- Difficulty: Moderate-easy.
- Meals: Box lunch.
- 01 bus ticket: Mapi to Aguas Calientes
1BL.
Demanding
11km (6.1 miles)
5 Hrs.
KM 104: 2,000m (6,560 ft)
Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)
Inti Pinku: 2,720m (8,920 ft)
DAY 3
MACHU PICCHU TOUR - RETURN TO CUSCO
Tour to Machu Picchu for 2 hours; return to Cusco via OLLANTAYTAMBO by train
Visits to Machu Picchu are now designated hourly to enter the Inca citadel. We buy the entrance tickets at 09:00, but if the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days walkers need to enter Machu Picchu at another time, write to us indicating the time of your visit to MAPI when booking the tour.
We will board the bus service to get to MACHU PICCHU. We have two hours of guided tour inside the Inca citadel, visiting spectacular sites built by the Incas. We board the train service to ascend to the Anta Plains and arrive at the POROY train station at night. In Poroy, our private service awaits us to transport us to Cusco and leave the group of visitors in their respective hotels. The adventure concludes through the Andes of Huchuy Qosqo and the jungle of Machupicchu with its Inca Trails.
Lost City of the Incas Summary
- Bus service to Machu Picchu (up and down)
- A two-hour guided tour inside the archaeological park of Machu Picchu
- In the afternoon, board your train service to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Train service information: Inbound journey
- Train company: INCA RAIL
- Service: MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO-OLLANTAYTAMBO (3 hours and 40 minutes of train ride).
- Class: The Voyager 44
- Departure: 14:30
- At Station: 14:00; otherwise, you may not be allowed to board.
- Ollantaytambo arrival: 16:04
- Cusco arrival by transport: 17:550
When you get to the OLLANTAYTAMBO train station, be met at the train arrivals area. Just look for a KONDOR PATH TOURS sign with your name.” Group name: Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
Easy
A light walk
2-hour guided tour
Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,065m (6,774 ft)
Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)
Cusco: 3,350m (10,990 ft)
Inclusions
What’s Included in the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
- Trek briefing 01 or 02 days (at 6:00 pm) before starting the trek in the reception area of your hotel
- Private transportation from Cusco to the beginning of the trail (TRES CRUCES)
- Entrance tickets to Huchuy Qosqo plus permits for the Inca Trail with Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
- Food during the excursion: 02 box lunches.
- Trains by Inca Rail:
- OLLANTAYTAMBO, KM 104: The Voyager 41, departure at 06:40
- MACHU PICCHU-POROY: The Voyager 44 leaves at 14:30
- 03 Bus tickets in Machu Picchu
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
- Private transfer service from Ollantaytambo station to Cusco
- Local taxes
What’s Not Included
- Hotels, hostels, Airbnb, and lodges in CUSCO, OLLANTAYTAMBO, and AGUAS CALIENTES
- Food that is not described in the itinerary.
- Hotel with a private room (Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo)
- Gratuities for the guide and support staff (optional but appreciated).
Remote mountain landscapes, original Inca pathways, and the final arrival to Machu Picchu make this one of the most scenic short trekking combinations in Peru.
Optional Upgrades & Add-Ons
Optional train upgrades and additional Machu Picchu circuits are available for travelers seeking enhanced comfort and expanded exploration during the expedition.
TRAIN SERVICES
PERU TRAINS By PeruRail (Train upgrades)
Upgrade your rail journey with our three Vistadome train options on Peru Rail, each with its own added price: per person
- $85. $95. $125.
+$498.00 Hiram Bingham train (Inbound Journey: Train MACHUPICCHU-POROY)
EXTRA TICKETS
+$75 Huayna Picchu
+$75 Machu Picchu Mountain
+$75 RE-ENTRY TO MACHU PICCHU
Discounts
Machu Picchu Fee
College students: $20 off
Kondor Path Tours specializes in remote trekking expeditions and alternative routes connected with Machu Picchu and the Short Inca Trail.
A Scenic Cultural Route Connected with the Short Inca Trail
This expedition was created for travelers seeking a shorter but more immersive trekking experience beyond the traditional routes to Machu Picchu.
From remote mountain passes and original Inca pathways to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, the route offers a deeper connection with the landscapes and history of the Peruvian Andes.
The final arrival through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) creates one of the most rewarding endings to any short trekking expedition in Peru.
Explore More Short Inca Trail Trekking Routes
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
Below are some of the most common questions travelers ask before joining the Huchuy Qosqo Trek with Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
It has one of the best treks on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and best of all, the Huchuy Qosqo trail is not congested, and we have it almost to ourselves. To walk the paths of Huchuy Qosqo is to visit the temple and residence of the eighth Inca ruler of the Inca Empire. We welcome lovers of outdoor treks for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu in a complete tour package.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a popular hiking trail in Peru that takes visitors to the ancient Incan ruins of Huchuy Qosqo.
The trek is usually completed over two days and one night, covering a distance of approximately 16 km (10 miles).
The trek is considered moderate in difficulty, with some steep ascents and descents.
The ruins of Huchuy Qosqo are located at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level.
Spending a few days in Cusco is recommended to acclimatize to the high altitude before taking the trek.
It’s recommended to bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm layers, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
Most tours include meals, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as snacks and water.
The best time to trek is during the dry season, from May to September, when there is less chance of rain and the skies are more apparent.
While it is possible to do the trek independently, hiring a licensed guide for safety is recommended, as is learning more about the area’s history and culture.
The trek involves overnight camping, with campsites along the trail.
There is a small entrance fee to visit the Huchuy Qosqo ruins.
Huchuy Qosqo was an essential Incan administrative and religious center believed to have been built in the 15th century.
Yes, some tours offer combined packages, including visits to other attractions in the Sacred Valley, such as Machu Picchu or the Maras Salt Mines.
The trek may not be suitable for young children or anyone with mobility issues, as it involves steep terrain and high altitude.
The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with opportunities to see wildlife such as llamas and alpacas.
Rates & Options
Huchuy Qosqo Trek Pricing & Trek Options – 2026
BOOK NOW
| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 1 | $ 996.00 USD | |
| 2 | $ 699.00 USD | |
| 3 | $ 603.00 USD | |
| 4 | $ 544.00 USD | |
| 5 | $ 516.00 USD | |
| 6 | $ 491.00 USD | |
| 7 | $ 473.00 USD | |
| 8 | $ 460.00 USD | |
| 9 | $ 470.00 USD | |
| 10 | $ 459.00 USD |
To open a shared group service for the Huchuy Qosqo Trek: 3 Days to Machu Picchu, at least three hikers are required.
Plan Your Trip
Plan Your Huchuy Qosqo Trek Expedition
Our Cusco-based trekking team coordinates permits, transportation, train schedules, logistics, and Machu Picchu entry arrangements for this scenic multi-day expedition through the Andes.
Due to limited availability for the Short Inca Trail permits, early reservations are strongly recommended.
Photo Gallery: Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 Days
Explore remote mountain landscapes, original Inca pathways, archaeological sites, and scenic trekking environments along the Huchuy Qosqo route to Machu Picchu.
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