This isn’t just a trip; it’s a soul-stirring encounter with the very essence of the Inca Empire. If you are looking to escape the modern world and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of spiritual peace and cultural depth, the Huchuy Qosqo Trek (3 Days) was designed exclusively for you. This hidden gem awaits travelers who trade crowded trails for the silence of the mountains and the echoes of living history.

Live the unparalleled experience of hiking original Inca trails toward what was once the Royal Palace of Inca Huiracocha. During this three-day journey, time stands still among crystal-clear Andean lagoons and valleys whispering ancient legends, allowing you to witness majestic Inca engineering at its finest.

Our adventure begins with a private pickup from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. We head toward TAMBOMACHAY (12,139 ft / 3,700 m), an imposing Inca fortress that serves as our trailhead. After enjoying an energizing breakfast prepared by our expert mountain chef, we begin our ascent into the heart of the Andes.

The route takes us deep into pristine landscapes where nature remains in its purest state. As we climb toward Queullococha Lagoon, you will witness the rich wildlife of the region: herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely, alongside mountain sheep. We will reach the highest point of the day at 13,615 ft (4,150 m), offering a privileged 360-degree view of the majestic Vilcanota mountain range.

Following the mountain ridge, we reach the shores of Qoriqocha Lagoon, a mirror-like body of water surrounded by absolute tranquility. In this unparalleled natural setting, our chef will serve a gourmet organic lunch. After a brief rest, we continue our hike surrounded by infinite horizons and the constant company of Andean camelids that call these heights home.

We conclude the day at our designated campsite near the Qencco community (12,467 ft / 3,800 m). Following a relaxing “Happy Hour” (tea time), we will enjoy a comforting three-course dinner. The day ends with a restful night in high-quality mountain tents, under the most star-filled sky in the Peruvian Andes.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles

• Estimated Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours

• Maximum Altitude: 13,615 ft / 4,150 m

• Campsite Altitude: 12,467 ft / 3,800 m

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Meals Included: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch, and Dinner.

Your day begins with a traditional coca tea service delivered to your tent, followed by a nutritious Andean breakfast. Today, we leave the high plains behind to discover one of the most exclusive and historically significant sites of the Inca Empire.

We embark on a journey along a remarkably preserved segment of the Original Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan). As we hike, you will witness a dramatic transformation in scenery—from the golden high-altitude grasslands to the lush, vibrant cloud forest. This path offers a rare sense of solitude and a deep connection to the engineering genius of the Incas.

We arrive at the majestic Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site (11,975 ft / 3,650 m). Perched like an eagle’s nest high above the Sacred Valley, this was the private Royal Estate of Inca Huiracocha. Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive tour through grand ceremonial halls, elite residences, and the sophisticated hydraulic systems that still amaze modern engineers. The panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range from here are simply legendary.

After a final gourmet mountain lunch prepared by our chef, we begin a scenic descent through a zig-zagging trail toward the village of Lamay. Our private transport will be waiting to take us to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we will enjoy a celebratory restaurant dinner, sharing stories of the trail before the next chapter of our journey.

At 7:00 p.m., we board the Expedition Train for a mesmerizing night ride through the canyon. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m), our team will escort you to your comfortable hotel, where you can rest and recharge for the ultimate reward.

• Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles

• Estimated Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours

• Start Altitude: 12,467 ft / 3,800 m

• Site Altitude: 11,975 ft / 3,650 m (Huchuy Qosqo)

• Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes.Meals Included: Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch, and Restaurant Dinner.

 After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will only need to bring your daypack with your essentials. The hotel will store your main luggage while you explore. To maximize our experience and beat the crowds, our plan is to take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (a 25-minute ride).

Yesterday, you had that unforgettable first view from the Sun Gate. Today, we re-enter Machu Picchu, but this time for a complete, in-depth exploration in the magical morning light.

Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will lead you on a two-hour guided tour of the most important sites in the citadel. You will learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while visiting temples, plazas, and the most impressive viewpoints.

After the tour, you will also have free time to explore on your own and immerse yourself in the energy of the site.

We recommend returning to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train’s departure. You can have lunch (not included) at one of the many restaurants in town.

After lunch, your Ali Peru Treks guide will personally escort you to the train station. You will board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a scenic journey of approximately 2 hours.

At the Ollantaytambo station, our Ali Peru Treks staff will be waiting for you promptly to transfer you back to Cusco in our private transportation, dropping you off comfortably at your hotel door, bringing your unforgettable adventure to a close.

•  Starting Altitude (Aguas Calientes): 6,692 ft / 2,040 m

•  Maximum Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m

•  Total Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles / 4 km (Exploración de la Ciudadela)

•  Tour Duration: 2 – 3 hours of guided historical tour

•  Difficulty Level: Easy (Cultural Inmersion day)

•  Highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, Complete guided tour of the Citadel, and a scenic train journey back through the Sacred Valley.

•  Meals Included: Breakfast (at Hotel).