A lesser-known Andean trek that ends at Machu Picchu.
A rare combination: hiking ancient Inca trails to the site of Huchuy Qosqo, followed by a guided tour of Machu Picchu the next day.
The first day traverses Andean landscapes of mountains, valleys, and lagoons, with llamas and alpacas along the way, up to the highest point of the route (~4,200 m) and down to the Inca administrative center of Huchuy Qosqo, overlooking the Sacred Valley.
It is an authentic and tranquil alternative to busier treks — ideal for those who want to hike the Andes without sacrificing a comfortable arrival at Machu Picchu.
What makes this itinerary unique.
Andean trek through valleys, lagoons, and traditional communities.
Inca site of Huchuy Qosqo, overlooking the Sacred Valley.
Natural viewpoint at ~4,200 m with mountain range views.
Tourist train to Aguas Calientes.
Comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
Less-visited route — a tranquil and exclusive experience.
Day by day.
Early departure from Cusco to the community of Qorao (~3,700 m), where the hike begins. We gradually ascend to the highest point of the route (~4,200 m), with spectacular views of the Sacred Valley, and descend to the Inca complex of Huchuy Qosqo for a guided tour.
We continue descending to Lamay, where our transport takes us to the Ollantaytambo station. In the afternoon, we board the tourist train to Aguas Calientes.
Early bus ride up to Machu Picchu for an approximately 3-hour guided tour through the main sectors of the citadel.
Return to Aguas Calientes, free time, and train back to Ollantaytambo, with transport to your hotel in Cusco.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Hotel transfer and tourist transport Cusco – Qorao / Lamay – Ollantaytambo
- Professional bilingual guide
- Entrance ticket to Huchuy Qosqo
- Box lunch on the trek and dinner on Day 1
- Round-trip tourist train (Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes)
- 1 night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket and round-trip bus
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu and ongoing assistance
Not included
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the second day
- Trekking poles and additional drinks
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Tips and personal expenses
Essential packing list.
- Original passport (mandatory — the same one used for booking)
- Small backpack (up to 25L) for the trekking days
- Layered clothing + windbreaker and thermal wear for the night
- Sturdy, broken-in trekking shoes
- Raincoat or poncho
- Cap/hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Personal medication
- Cash in soles for tips and extra expenses
Important information
- A copy of your ID is required to issue permits and tickets.
- We recommend 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the trek.
- Good physical condition is required — please inform our team of any pre-existing medical conditions before booking.
- Travel insurance with coverage for trekking activities is highly recommended.
- Machu Picchu tickets are final and non-refundable (Ministry of Culture).
- Booking policy: 50% deposit and 50% up to 15 days prior. Cancellations subject to a progressive fee schedule.
Book in advance to secure your date.
This itinerary depends on official Machu Picchu ticket availability and train schedules — which sell out weeks in advance.
Our team checks availability and adjusts the logistics with you. Contact us to confirm the best date.
Common questions about this itinerary.
It is a moderate high-altitude hike, with a gradual ascent to about 4,200 m. Good fitness and 2 days of prior acclimatization in Cusco are sufficient for most international travelers.
Huchuy Qosqo is rarely visited, making the experience more tranquil and authentic — you hike the Andes with almost no other groups around and still arrive at Machu Picchu in comfort.
Yes — the round-trip tourist train between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes is included in the package.
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