The Huchuy Qosqo Full Day Tour with Wonders of Peru Expeditions takes you on a day hike to one of the most impressive yet least-visited Inca archaeological sites near Cusco. Huchuy Qosqo — meaning “Little Cusco” in Quechua — was a royal estate built by Emperor Viracocha on a plateau overlooking the Sacred Valley at 3,650 meters.
Unlike crowded sites like Sacsayhuaman or Ollantaytambo, Huchuy Qosqo receives very few visitors. The trail passes through stunning highland scenery — crossing the Tres Cruces Pass at 4,426 meters with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River far below. The ruins themselves are remarkably well-preserved, featuring a 40-meter great hall, two-story storehouses, agricultural terraces, and an 800-meter stone-lined irrigation channel that still functions today.
Your guide picks you up from your hotel and drives to the trailhead near the Qoricocha Lagoon. The hike covers approximately 13 kilometers, ascending to the Tres Cruces Pass at 4,426 meters — the highest point of the day — before descending to the Huchuy Qosqo ruins at 3,650 meters. After a guided tour of the archaeological site and a box lunch, you descend to the village of Lamay in the Sacred Valley, where your private transport drives you back to Cusco.
10 Hours
8
English, Spanish
This full-day hike reaches a maximum altitude of 4,426 meters at the Tres Cruces Pass. Here is everything you need to know.
The trailhead starts at approximately 3,800 meters, the pass reaches 4,426 meters, and the ruins sit at 3,650 meters. We strongly recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco (3,400 meters) before this tour. Drink coca tea, stay hydrated, and avoid heavy meals the night before.
This hike is moderate to challenging, primarily due to altitude. The trail is well-maintained and non-technical, but the sustained uphill to the pass requires reasonable fitness. If you can walk uphill for 2 hours comfortably, you should be able to complete this hike.
Highland weather can change rapidly. Mornings are typically clear, with clouds building in the afternoon. Bring layers for warmth and a waterproof jacket regardless of forecast. Temperatures near the pass can drop to near freezing, even on sunny days.
- Hiking shoes with good grip (some rocky terrain)
- Warm layers (fleece + jacket)
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Hat and sunglasses
- Water bottle (at least 1.5 liters)
- Camera or phone
- Cash in Peruvian soles for optional horse rental
