Huchuy Qosqo is an ancient Inca archaeological site perched on a cliff with stunning views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The trail crosses mountain passes and Andean communities, offering a view of a wide variety of local flora and fauna. This is an excellent off-the-beaten-path hike that can be complemented with a visit to Cusco and as an alternative to the crowded Inca Trail.
We will depart from Cusco at 6:00 a.m. in a private bus that will take us to Chinchero and then to Tauca, the starting point of our hike. We will walk uphill through a mountain landscape with llamas and alpacas until we reach the mountain pass at 4500 meters above sea level. Then, we will descend for about 1.5 hours to reach the Inca archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, with two-level constructions that used to be a stop on the Inca route to Lares. After lunch, we will continue descending to Lamay, where our private transport will be waiting to take us to Ollantaytambo. We will then board an afternoon train that will take us to Machu Picchu Town. Upon arrival, we will stay at our hotel.
After an early breakfast, we will board a bus to go up to Machu Picchu and then immediately begin a comprehensive guided tour of the Inca citadel that will take approximately 3 hours, with enough free time to explore more, take photos and, if desired, climb Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu mountain, or go up to the Sun Gate. In the afternoon, we will meet in Machu Picchu Town. If you wish, you can visit and relax in the hot springs (optional). From here, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our transfer will be waiting to take us to Cusco city.
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Trip Doesn’t Include
*Subject to availability. Can be purchased during the trip.
Train Upgrades can be purchased at our Checkout page.
We believe that the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect clear skies and minimal rain, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological site and taking stunning photos. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds. The wet season, from November to April, sees more rain and cloud cover, but it also comes with the advantage of fewer tourists. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Machu Picchu is a breathtaking destination all year round.
Every Machu Picchu trip includes either the Expedition or The Voyager tourist trains. Additionally, travelers may request to upgrade their return trip train rides to either the Vistadome or the 360º train.
The trip to Machu Picchu focuses on exploring the ancient citadel and learning about its rich history, architecture, and cultural significance. In addition to the core Machu Picchu experience, we offer an optional Machu Picchu Mountain Hike experience. This separate hike takes you on a challenging trek to the adjacent Machu Picchu Mountain, providing a unique perspective of the citadel and surrounding landscapes from a higher vantage point. The Machu Picchu Mountain Hike is an excellent opportunity for adventure seekers and avid hikers to further enhance their visit to the region.
Please note that both the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike and the Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike are not included in the base price of the Machu Picchu trip, are age-restricted, and can be purchased at the start of the trip.
There are no strict age restrictions for the Machu Picchu trip. However, due to the physical demands of exploring the site, it may not be suitable for very young children or elderly individuals with limited mobility. It is essential to consider the fitness and comfort levels of all members of your party before booking the trip. For families with young children, it is advisable to use a child carrier rather than a stroller, as the terrain at Machu Picchu is not stroller-friendly.
The Machu Picchu trip is designed to accommodate a wide range of fitness levels. However, it is essential to note that the site is located at a high altitude (2,430 meters or 7,972 feet above sea level) and requires walking on uneven terrain, including steps and inclines. Visitors with mobility issues or significant health concerns should consult their doctor before booking the trip. It is also recommended that all travelers allow time to acclimate to the altitude before undertaking the tour.