Hike in the peruvian andes
The Huchuy Qosqo trek is an exciting journey that navigates through the stunning landscapes and historical treasures of the Sacred Valley in Peru. Offering multiple starting points, the walk can begin from Cusco’s Main Plaza or from alternative locations such as Tambomachay, Tauca, Lamay or Calca, each of which presents different advantages and unique perspectives along the route.
Traversing approximately marathon distances, the trail leads through captivating locations such as rarely visited sections of the Inca Trail, serene viewpoints of the Sacred Valley, and encounters with four towns such as Pucamarca Adobe Village.
The stunning pinnacle of this hike lies at the historic ruins of Huchuy Qosqo, perched atop a picturesque hill, where explorers can delve deeper into rich Inca history while enjoying panoramic views.
Offering affordability and versatility, this hike is an invitation to discover the cultural heritage and natural splendor of the Andean region.
For an optimal trekking experience near Cusco, it is essential to take into account the different rainy and dry seasons that shape the climate of the region. The dry season, which runs from May to October, stands out as the ideal period for hiking enthusiasts.
Dry season (May to October): Ideal for hiking near Cusco with stable weather, minimal precipitation, and clear skies, providing optimal conditions for stunning views and comfortable exploration.
Rainy Season (November to April) – Presents challenges with intermittent heavy rain, muddy trails and reduced visibility, but offers a unique perspective with lush and vibrant landscapes for those seeking an adventurous experience.
Although the Huchuy Qosqo trek has a reputation for being easy, it still requires hiking at high altitudes exceeding 4,000 m/13,123 feet. This also brings obvious risks of altitude sickness.
I encourage you to take a moment to read our guide on acclimatization and altitude sickness. It is good to be well informed about the risks associated with hiking at high altitudes. This way, you will be able to prepare for and hopefully minimize the adverse effects of altitude sickness.
Below is our handy elevation profile on Huchuy Qosqo to give you a better idea of what elevation to expect during your hike.
The Huchuy Qosqo hike is approximately 32 kilometers (19.69 miles) in total. Tour companies usually break this up into two days with a visit to Machu Picchu on the third day.
It is possible to walk Huchuy Qosqo in one day along a 13 kilometer/8 mile route, which takes approximately 7 hours. To do the Huchuy Qosqo hike, you need to be relatively fit and have some experience in solo hiking to attempt it.
See more in our guide on training for Machu Picchu to give you a better idea of what to expect on formidable hikes like Huchuy Qosqo.
There are also some steep downhill sections that are hard on the knees. Trekking poles will help with these descents. If you don’t have your own, you can rent hiking poles in Cusco.
Something else you should consider before walking through Huchuy Qosqo is the altitude. Much of the hiking is at high elevations. Make sure you are well acclimated beforehand (see more on this below).
The Huchuy Qosqo trail is one of the most underrated short hikes in Cusco. Even in the peak tourist season (June-August), fewer than 50 people visit these ruins each day. This is an amazing opportunity to visit Inca ruins without the crowds.
During the hike, you will be able to walk along part of the original Inca paths. A section of the trail has been restored as part of the Qapaq Ñan Project. The ancient Andean road system comprises around 30,000 kilometers (18,641 miles) of Inca roads and is collectively known as Qapaq Ñan.
