General Introduction

Tour Highlights

• 🏔 Hike one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu through the hidden trails of Huchuy Qosqo
• 🏛 Explore the impressive archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo above the Sacred Valley
• 🌄 Walk ancient Andean paths surrounded by alpacas, llamas, and panoramic mountain views
• 🌿 Discover iconic Inca Trail sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna in the cloud forest
• ☀ Enter Machu Picchu on foot through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
• 🚆 Return to Cusco in comfort aboard the touristic train

Alternative Inca Trail Tour at a Glance:

Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Kenko Village

• Early hotel pickup and transfer from Cusco to Tambomachay
• Hike through high-altitude Andean landscapes with lagoons
• Spot local wildlife including alpacas, and traditional farming communities
• Fresh outdoor lunch prepared by our trekking chef
• Overnight camping in Kenko Village (3,800 m / 12,467 ft)

Day 2: Kenko Village – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo

• Wake up with hot coffee or coca tea
• Scenic hike through valleys, and beautiful highland lakes
• Guided visit to the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo
• Enjoy lunch with incredible panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley
• Descend to Lamay and transfer to Ollantaytambo

Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

• Early train ride to Km 104 to begin the famous Short Inca Trail
• Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna ruins
• Walk through cloud forest landscapes
• Arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
• Descend to Aguas Calientes for dinner

Day 4: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

• Early morning bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise views
• Guided tour of the main temples, and sacred sectors of the citadel
• Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
• Free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch
• Return to Cusco with hotel drop-off included

Why Book This Tour?

• A Unique Alternative to the Classic Inca Trail
• Two Legendary Treks in One Journey
• Enter Machu Picchu Through the Sun Gate
• Comfortable Logistics from Start to Finish
• Expert Local Guides
• Travel with a 100% Local Operator

Complete Itinerary: Huchuy Qosqo + Short Inca Trail

Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Qenqo Village

🚐 Morning Pickup from Cusco (07:00 AM)

Your adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. After a short 20-minute drive, we arrive at Tambomachay, the starting point.

🥾 Hike Through High-Andean Landscapes

We begin a steady ascent through high-altitude grasslands, and panoramic viewpoints. After approximately 4 hours of hiking, we reach the beautiful Qoricocha Lake (3,700 m / 12,139 ft).

🍽 Lunch by the Lake

Here, our trekking chef prepares a fresh outdoor lunch using local ingredients, surrounded by one of the most peaceful natural settings of the trek.

⛺ Arrival at Kenko Village Camp

In the afternoon, we continue for around 2 more hours until we reach Kenko Village (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), a small traditional farming community.

📍 Day 1 Summary

• Distance: 10 km / 8.1 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Qenqo – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo

☀ Sunrise Over the Sacred Valley

Wake up to fresh mountain air and a hot coffee or coca tea as the sun rises over Kenko Village.

🥾 Scenic Trek to Huchuy Qosqo

A gradual 1-hour climb brings us to the mountain viewpoints above the Sacred Valley, followed by a beautiful descent through canyons, streams, and open landscapes toward the impressive archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo.

🏛 Explore Huchuy Qosqo

This fascinating Inca complex, located high above the valley floor, was once a royal estate with spectacular views over the Sacred Valley.

🍽 Picnic Lunch & Transfer to Ollantaytambo

After exploring the ruins, we descend for about 1.5 hours to the valley floor where a final picnic lunch awaits.

Later, private transport takes us through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where you will check into your hotel and enjoy the charm of this original Inca town.

📍 Day 2 Summary

• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes)

🚆 Early Train to the Short Inca Trail

After breakfast, we board the early train to Km 104, the official starting point of the famous Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

🏛 Visit Chachabamba & Wiñay Wayna

Our first archaeological stop is Chachabamba. Then we continue with a beautiful uphill hike through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most spectacular Inca sites on the entire trail.

A fresh lunch prepared by our team awaits nearby.

☀ Arrival Through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

In the afternoon, we complete the final one-hour hike to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Arriving in the late afternoon offers golden light, fewer visitors, and one of the most unforgettable entrances to the sanctuary.

🏨 Overnight in Aguas Calientes

After that, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where dinner and your hotel stay await.

📍 Day 3 Summary

• Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 7 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Machu Picchu Exploration — Return to Cusco

☀ Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Your final day begins early with breakfast and the first bus to the citadel.

🏛 Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Your professional guide will lead a complete 2 hour guided tour through the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and sacred spaces of Machu Picchu.

⛰ Optional Extra Hike

For travelers seeking more adventure, you may also climb:

• Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Machu Picchu Mountain

(Advance booking required)

 Train Return to Cusco

We take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some free time before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transportation returns you safely to your hotel in Cusco, with arrival around 7:30 PM.

📍 Day 4 Summary

• Guided Tour: 2–2.5 hours
• Meals Included: Breakfast
• Return: Train + Private Transport
• Difficulty: Easy

Included:

• Pre-tour briefing the evening before departure
• Tourist train tickets (round trip)
• Bus transfers at Machu Picchu
• Permits for the Inca Trail and entrance to the citadel
• Full camping gear (transported by staff)
• Sleeping bag and mat provided
• Duffel bag for 7kg of personal gear
• Personal porter included for the 7kg weight limit
• Bilingual professional guide
• Mountain chefs and support porters
• All trekking meals (as specified)
• One night of camping with premium gear
• One night in an Ollantaytambo hotel
• One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Oxygen and first-aid supplies

Not Included:

• Final lunch on Day 4
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets
• Travel insurance coverage
• Tips
• Hotel in Cusco

Rentals & Upgrades for an extra cost

• Option to upgrade to Panoramic train (only one way – return train).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain (2‑hour and half round‑trip hike).
• Machu Picchu Mountain (3‑hour round‑trip hike).
• Trekking poles

Suggested Packing List – Huchuy Qosqo & Short Inca Trail

This route combines high mountain passes, Sacred Valley landscapes, cloud forest trails, and your final arrival at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate. Because of these changing environments, smart packing is essential.

 What We Provide

To make your alternative trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco smoother and more comfortable, we include:

• 7 kg Duffel Bag for personal belongings
• Full camping equipment (tents, dining tent, kitchen setup, etc.)

Our team transports your duffel bag between camps, so you can focus on the trail—not the weight.

Essential Items

These are the most important things you should bring for a safe and enjoyable Huchuy Qosqo trek + Short Inca Trail experience.

• Original passport
• Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
• Warm insulated down jacket
• Cash in Peruvian Soles
• Comfortable and reliable daypack
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

 Recommended Clothing

The weather changes quickly between mountain passes, valleys, and cloud forest sections, so dressing in layers is the best strategy. Avoid cotton when possible—breathable technical clothing works much better for long hiking days.

• Hiking shoes
• Trekking socks
• Comfortable underwear
• Thermal base layers
• Moisture-wicking hiking shirts
• Warm fleece layer
• Quick-dry trekking pants

What to Carry in Your Daypack (Max 5 kg)

This is the backpack you will carry yourself during the hike, so keep it light but practical. Please note that oversized backpacks are restricted inside Machu Picchu.

• Waterproof and windproof outer layer
• Sun hat and warm beanie (chullo)
• Sunglasses and gloves
• Headlamp
• Insect repellent
• Camera and spare batteries
• Light snacks
• Trekking poles
• Personal medication

What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag (Max 7 kg)

This bag is carried by our porters and is only accessible when you arrive at camp.

• Camp sandals or lightweight shoes
• Extra hiking clothes
• Athletic trousers
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Personal toiletries
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mattress

Pack only what you truly need—the lighter your bag, the easier your journey.

Pro Trekking Tip

Bring less, but bring smart. The mountains reward light travelers.

Practical Information: Huchuy Qosqo and Short Inca Trail

This route combines high Andean villages, hidden archaeological sites, Sacred Valley scenery, and the unforgettable experience of entering Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

Here you’ll find the most important practical information to help you prepare for this unique adventure.

 Historical Highlights Along the Trail

This journey is much more than a hike—it is a walk through living Inca history.

– Huchuy Qosqo (“Little Cusco”)

This impressive archaeological complex is believed to have been built by the Inca ruler Viracocha as a royal retreat. Its agricultural terraces and stone structures overlook the Sacred Valley with incredible views.

– Chachabamba

Located near Km 104, this ceremonial site was used for water rituals and spiritual purification before entering the sacred path toward Machu Picchu.

– Wiñay Wayna

One of the most beautiful sites on the Inca Trail, famous for its dramatic terraces, ceremonial fountains, and cloud forest location.

– Intipunku (Sun Gate)

This iconic entrance was the original gateway for Inca pilgrims arriving at Machu Picchu. Your first panoramic view of the citadel from here is truly unforgettable.

– Machu Picchu

Built in the 15th century by Pachacutec, Machu Picchu remains one of the greatest masterpieces of Inca engineering and spirituality.

 Altitude Information

We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek to adapt to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Hydration, light meals, and good rest are highly recommended.

• Cusco (Starting Point): 3,399 m / 11,152 ft
• Huchuy Qosqo: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
• Ollantaytambo: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
• Short Inca Trail Highest Point: approx. 2,700 m / 8,858 ft

 Weather and Best Travel Season

• Dry Season (April – October): This is the best time for trekking, with clearer skies, better mountain views, and drier trail conditions.
• Rainy Season (November – March): The landscapes become greener and more dramatic, but rain and muddy trails are more common.

During the first two days, mornings and nights can be quite cold due to the high altitude. The final days near Machu Picchu are warmer and more humid because of the cloud forest environment.

No matter the season, always bring waterproof layers.

 Difficulty Level

This trek is considered easy to moderate, making it an excellent option for travelers who want a cultural hiking experience without the extreme difficulty of longer routes like Salkantay or the Classic Inca Trail.

Stage 1: Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Approximately 18 km across two days with moderate hiking, scenic mountain trails, and gradual elevation changes.

Stage 2: Short Inca Trail

A rewarding full-day hike through archaeological sites, cloud forest, and the final arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Stage 3: Machu Picchu Visit

The final day is the easiest, focused on your guided tour of the citadel and optional extra hikes like Huayna Picchu.

 Final Travel Advice

It is not just a trek. It is a journey through hidden valleys, ancient roads, and the living heart of the Andes.

1. How difficult is the Huchuy Qosqo & Short Inca Trail trek?

This trek is considered easy to moderate. The first two days involve mountain hiking through the Andes, while the Short Inca Trail day includes stone steps and uphill sections. It is ideal for travelers with good general fitness.

2. Do I need an Inca Trail permit for this tour?

Yes. Since the final section includes the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an official Inca Trail permit is required. These permits are limited and sell out quickly, so we recommend booking several months in advance.

3. How far in advance should I book?

For the best availability, especially during the dry season (April to October), we suggest booking your Machu Picchu hiking tour at least 2 to 4 months in advance. This helps secure the best train schedules and entrance tickets.

4. Which Machu Picchu circuit is included?

We always prioritize Circuit 2 because it offers the most complete classic visit of Machu Picchu. If Circuit 2 is unavailable, we provide Circuit 1 or Circuit 3 depending on official availability.

5. Is altitude sickness common on this trek?

Since the trek starts in the high Andes near Cusco, some travelers may feel mild altitude symptoms. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding heavy meals before departure.

6. Is this trek better than the Classic Inca Trail?

It depends on your travel style. The Huchuy Qosqo & Short Inca Trail is perfect for travelers looking for fewer crowds, more cultural immersion, and a quieter alternative trek to Machu Picchu, while still entering through the Sun Gate.

7. Why choose this alternative trek to Machu Picchu?

This route offers a unique combination of hidden Inca ruins, authentic Andean villages, Sacred Valley views, and the iconic arrival at Machu Picchu on foot. It is one of the best Machu Picchu trekking tours for travelers who want adventure, history, and comfort in one experience.

8. Is a guide necessary?

A professional guide is required by law for the Short Inca Trail section and highly recommended for Huchuy Qosqo to provide historical context. You must book through an authorized agency like The Andean Way.

9. How fit do I need to be?

The trek is moderately challenging. You should have a good fitness level and spend time acclimatizing in Cusco before starting.