Huchuy Qosqo Trek To Machu Picchu 3 Days

Your adventure begins with a 6:00 AM pickup from your Cusco accommodation. The drive takes you 7 miles north to Tambomachay, an impressive Incan water temple that serves as your trek’s starting point.
After exploring the fountain complex’s sophisticated hydraulic engineering, you’ll begin ascending toward Tambomachay Pass at 13,451 feet. The initial climb tests your acclimatization, but rewarding views of Cusco city and the Sacred Valley unfold below as you gain elevation.
The trail continues through high-altitude grasslands dotted with hardy Andean vegetation. You’ll encounter the day’s highest point at Qoriccocha Pass (16,470 feet), where sapphire lakes reflect snow-capped peaks in stunning alpine scenery. This area showcases the raw beauty of Peru’s highlands—vast open spaces where vicuñas and llamas graze peacefully on native ichu grass.
Your first day concludes at Pucamarca Village (11,811 feet), where you’ll set up camp for the night. The rural setting offers a glimpse into traditional Andean life, far from tourist crowds. As evening settles over the mountains, clear skies reveal brilliant stars rarely visible in urban environments.

Key highlights: Tambomachay ruins exploration, Qoriccocha Pass views, traditional Andean wildlife spotting

Day two brings the trek’s crown jewel—your arrival at Huchuy Qosqo ruins. After an early breakfast, you’ll tackle the final pass, Siwar (13,123 feet), before descending toward the archaeological site.
The approach to Huchuy Qosqo reveals the ruins dramatically perched on a natural shelf overlooking the Sacred Valley. Your guide will lead a detailed tour of the complex, explaining the sophisticated construction techniques and the site’s role in Incan society. The adobe walls, still remarkably intact, demonstrate construction methods developed specifically for this high-altitude environment.

Following your ruins exploration, the trail descends steeply toward either Lamay or Tauqaq village. Some tour operators include a visit to Moray, the fascinating circular terraces known as “The Greenhouses of the Incas,” where ancient agriculturalists conducted crop experiments in different microclimates.

The day concludes with transport to Ollantaytambo station, where you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes. This scenic railway journey follows the rushing Urubamba River through increasingly tropical cloud forest vegetation. You’ll spend the night in comfortable accommodations in Machu Picchu town, preparing for the next morning’s early start.

Key highlights: Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site tour, dramatic Sacred Valley views, scenic train journey

Your final day begins before dawn with the first bus up to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to experience the citadel as morning mist clears from the ancient terraces—a magical moment that makes the early wake-up call worthwhile.

A professional guide leads you through Machu Picchu’s most significant structures, explaining the site’s astronomical alignments, architectural innovations, and ongoing archaeological discoveries. The two-hour guided tour covers the Temple of the Sun, the Room of the Three Windows, and the mysterious Intihuatana stone.
If you’ve secured advance permits, this is your opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu, the towering peak visible in classic Machu Picchu photographs. Only 400 daily climbers are allowed, making this an exclusive addition to your experience. The steep ascent rewards you with unparalleled views of the entire citadel spread below.

After exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes by bus or on foot (allow 90 minutes for the walking descent). The afternoon train carries you back to Ollantaytambo, where transport awaits for the final journey to Cusco, typically arriving by early evening.

Key highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, comprehensive archaeological tour, optional Huayna Picchu climb

The final day of our adventure is here, and it’s time for heartfelt goodbyes. Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading to Cusco airport via private transfer. If you’re not joining us for the Rainbow Mountain Trek extension, feel free to schedule your flight from Cusco at any time today.

Please note: Tour Leaders Peru reserves the right to adjust itineraries as needed based on weather, conditions, health, group dynamics, availability, or other unforeseen circumstances.

To prepare your Classic Trail Inca Hike packing list, you’ll need to understand some basics about the logistics of the hike, weather seasons by month, and what tour companies provide. Before you purchase any gear, research carefully and also find out what the tour you’ve booked (or are considering) includes.

Daypack:

You will need a daypack for the 5-day Machu Picchu trek; this must be small, light, and comfortable. For Machu Picchu, backpacks should not be larger than 25 liters; Osprey Day Pack Amazon or DayPacks for Hiking REI.COM however, if yours is bigger is ok; you can make it look smaller or store it on the last day.

Duffle Bags:

Tour Leaders Peru office will have a special treat for you the day before your tour begins: a handy duffle bag. This bag is super convenient because you can stow all the essential equipment you’ll need during the exciting 5-day adventure. And guess what? The amazing porters will carry these bags for you! Just remember, the weight limit is 7 kilos,

Note: Include your sleeping bags and air mats in Your 7 Kilos 15 pounds.

Passports:

For This Classic adventure, don’t forget your original passport! Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months from your visit to the country. If you’re booking as a student, remember to bring along your student card.
Recommendation:
Bring a waterproof neck wallet travel pouch and passport holder

Sleeping bags:

Make sure to bring high-quality sleeping bags rated for temperatures as low as -10°C. During winter, mountain temperatures can drop to 0°C below. Don’t worry if you don’t have one; you can rent a sleeping bag from us for just $30 for the entire trip!

Our recommendation is to buy down sleeping bags 0 degree

Inflatable Mattresses:

We provide foam mattresses for the Inca Trail; if you want more comfort, you can bring an inflatable mattress or rent it from the Tour Leaders Office for 25$ for the whole trip or buy your inflatable mattress pad online

Trekking poles:

REI.COM Trekking poles are incredibly useful when conquering mountainous terrains—helping you tackle both ascents and descents with ease! Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with them; our knowledgeable tour leader will provide a thorough explanation of how to use them effectively. You have the option to bring your trekking poles for hiking Online or rent a pair from us for just $15 for the entire trip. So, gear up and get ready for an exhilarating hiking adventure!

Hiking Boots:

Waterproof hiking boots are a must-have for this hike. Prioritize their use before embarking on the Inca Trail, as they provide crucial ankle and toe support.

Hiking Socks:

Make sure to pack 4 – 5 pairs of hiking socks for your adventure! Opt for thick wool hiking socks to keep those blisters away and enjoy your hike to the fullest!

Sandals or sneakers:

After an exhausting day of hiking, it’s time to free your feet from the confines of your boots. Instead, slip into some comfortable, lightweight footwear as you wander around the campsite. Remember to bring along camp sandals or light Hiking shoes for both the camping and hotel in Aguas Calientes. Your tired feet will thank you!

Rain gear:

You must always bring rain gear; even during the dry season, rain can occur anytime. We will provide you with rain plastic for your duffle bags during the Inca Trail.
Bring:
1. Waterproof Jackets.
2. Gloves.
3. Rain Hiking Pants. You will need to get some waterproof bags to keep your clothes dry.

Warm Clothes:

Please Make Sure to have warm clothes with you at all times in your daypack while hiking!
Don’t forget to bring
1. Down jacket
2. Hats for hiking.
3. Thermal hiking gear
As temperatures might drop below freezing at night. Stay prepared and enjoy the winter season in Peru!

Toilet Paper:

Carry toilet paper in your daypack. Additionally, it’s advisable to bring wet wipes antibacterial or tissues for added convenience.

Water Container:

Ensure you bring water bottles, bladders (Camelbak water bladder), or any reusable containers with at least a 2-liter capacity. Kindly note that single-use plastic bottles are strictly prohibited on the Inca Trail and at Machu Picchu.

Toiletries:

Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, dry shampoo, moisturizers, small Travel towel

Personal medication:

Headache pills, pain killers, Pepto, Imodium, Diamox, band-aids, hand sanitizer, and a basic first aid kit travel.

Cameras:

Cellphones, GoPro, and travel cameras must be comfortable and not very heavy. Note that to use tripods need special permission. During The Inca Trail tour, we camp in the mountains, and at some campsites, we don’t have electricity; you need to bring extra batteries or a portable power bank.

Headlamp:

Headlamps are essential for the Inca Trail; you will need them to go to the restrooms at night, during dinner time, and if you are late on the trail walking in the dark is always good to prevent always carry in your daypack.

Sun Protection:

Sun hats, long sleeves for hiking, and sunscreen are always with you.

Insect repellent:

Don’t forget to pack bug spray for people – something with feet works wonders! If you’re hiking the Inca Trail between July and October, we highly recommend the mosquito net for head and face. Stay protected and enjoy your adventure to the fullest!

Snacks:

Pack energy bars, chocolates, candies, crackers, and granola. While we do provide daily snacks, it’s always great to have some extras on hand! Let’s keep the energy high and the snacking game strong!

Extra Money:

Bring extra money in Soles to the Inca Trail; you will need them to buy water, use toilets during the first and last day, buy souvenirs, or tip.

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