The archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo is located high on a mountain in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From its privileged location, we’ll find dreamlike landscapes, as well as the entire route to get there. There are several routes to get there, but today we’ll focus on the most adventurous: the trail from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo. You’ll also learn about the other options available to reach this magical place.

• What is Huchuy Qosqo?
• Hike from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo
• Can I camp in Huchuy Qosqo?
• Complete route Tambomachay – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay
• Other routes to Huchuy Qosqo
  • Hike from Lamay to Huchuy Qosqo
  • Walk from Chinchero to Huchuy Qosqo
• Comparative table of the routes to Huchuy Qosqo
• Tips for your hike to Huchuy Qosqo
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tourists visiting the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo

What is Huchuy Qosqo?

Huchuy Qosqo, a Quechua name meaning “little Cusco,” is an Inca archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas , specifically at the summit of Lamay. It sits at 3,600 meters above sea level and passes through beautiful valleys and Inca trails to reach it.

Within Huchuy Qosqo, we’ll find a large number of Inca-era dwellings, made of adobe and stone. We’ll also be able to see large halls (kallankas) where we’ll admire Inca windows and even magnificent doors, whose architecture will amaze you.

If we tour the entire archaeological site, we can see water fountains that are still functioning today, as well as irrigation canals for the Inca terraces located near Huchuy Qosqo.

Its construction dates back to between 1000 and 1400. It became one of the main harvesting and storage sites for Inca production. Its privileged location allows you to learn about its history and the history of agriculture thanks to the Inca terraces.

View of the buildings of Huchuy Qosqo

Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo
If you want to visit Huchuy Qosqo by any of the routes that take you there (Tambomachay, Chinchero, or Lamay), you should know that the entrance fee is 7 soles, both for foreigners and Peruvians. Students pay 4 soles, and Cusco residents enter free. Remember that there is also the option of camping at the archaeological site itself. Don’t miss this magical adventure through the Inca legacy to Huchuy Qosqo!

Hike from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo

One of the most beautiful hikes you can take while in Cusco is the trek from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo. The total distance is approximately 19 kilometers, making it a difficult hike for day trips. This trek can take up to eight hours, so you should be fully prepared.

The ideal time to hike to Huchuy Qosqo is to start early in the morning, around 10:00 a.m., so we can enjoy all the beautiful scenery the hike offers.

During the hike, we’ll first cross the Tambomachay archaeological complex, from where we’ll embark on a steep ascent. Much of the route is on elevated trails, so you’ll need to be in great physical condition to overcome it. We’ll also pass through beautiful sites such as Coricocha Lagoon, Quellecocha Lagoon, the Pucamarca Canyon, views of the Pitusiray snow-capped mountain, and dreamy Inca trails.

Much of the journey takes you along the Qhapac Ñan (Inca trails), which take you along paths steeped in history and dotted with small buildings that immerse you in a magical trek. You’ll pass through wooden bridges, stone steps, and stone gates in the middle of valleys until you reach Huchuy Qosqo.

Much of the trail’s charm is due to the flora that surrounds us. While the first half of the route will take us up to a maximum altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level, we will then begin a descent that will take us to discover flora that only regions of the Sacred Valley allow you to see in such abundance.

Depending on the season you go (dry season from April to October) (rainy season from November to March), you should take the necessary precautions, but at the very least you should dress warmly, because from the afternoon onwards temperatures, due to the altitude, can drop significantly.

Photo of the buildings of Huchuy Qosqo from above

Can I camp in Huchuy Qosqo?

Yes, you can camp in Huchuy Qosqo. If you want to enhance your experience, we recommend camping amid the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas . After an eight-hour trek, what you’ll want most is to rest, and what better way to do it than right in the middle of an archaeological site.

Huchuy Qosqo has a camping area for the most intrepid travelers to rest from their journey. The panoramic views of the valley at night will allow you to see starry skies illuminating every corner of the Inca buildings, as well as the surrounding mountains.

Camping area in Huchuy Qosqo

Complete route Tambomachay – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay

The Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo hike is one of the longest you can hike in one day while in Cusco, so it’s often complemented by a campsite at the archaeological site. To complete the hike and return to the city, you can opt for a descent of approximately three hours to Lamay.

You can choose to hike it after visiting Huchuy Qosqo on the same day, but hiking at night can be dangerous. Therefore, the most recommended route is: Start the hike early in Tambomachay, spend the night in Huchuy Qosqo at a camp, and then descend to Lamay the next day, taking in the flora, Inca buildings, and the diversity that the valley offers.

Route to get to Huchuy Qosqo

Other routes to Huchuy Qosqo

While the route from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo offers the most adventure and challenges, there are other options that shorten the distance and allow you to make the most of your day without having to camp or suffer exhaustion. Learn about the other two most popular options.

Hike from Lamay to Huchuy Qosqo

One of the most popular options for climbing to Huchuy Qosqo is the route from Lamay in the Sacred Valley. Lamay is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes away and offers a glimpse into an agricultural area filled with beautiful landscapes.

The route from Lamay to Huchuy Qosqo is approximately 6 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours along very narrow, constantly ascending trails.

This route is considered to be of medium difficulty , but because it’s a constant climb, it can be challenging depending on the weather conditions. It’s a great option if you want to visit Huchuy Qosqo on a one-day round-trip hike.

Walk from Chinchero to Huchuy Qosqo

Another way to reach Huchuy Qosqo is from the town of Chinchero, located 1 hour and 30 minutes from the city of Cusco. The journey begins in the small town of Taucca, home to the spectacular Piuray Lagoon.

The hike from Chinchero to Huchuy Qosqo is 12 kilometers long, beginning with sections with small ascents almost halfway through the route, followed by descents for the remainder of the route.

The route is considered of medium difficulty and can be completed in approximately 5 hours. This route offers spectacular views of the Piuray Lagoon, as well as Inca Trail trails and the beautiful Sacred Valley.

Huchuy Qosqo

Comparative table of the routes to Huchuy Qosqo

Tips for your hike to Huchuy Qosqo

• Be sure to leave Tambomachay early to enjoy the beautiful sunlight on the trail.
• Download the route through an app like Wikiloc to avoid any inconvenience during your hike; some sections are difficult to spot.
• If you’re camping in Huchuy Qosqo, plan ahead to have a backpack loaded with essentials (small kitchen, snacks, plenty of water, warm clothing, tent, sleeping bag, mat, flashlight, etc.).
• Before hiking in Cusco, remember to acclimatize for the first few days to avoid altitude sickness and better enjoy your trip.
• Traveling each of these routes to Huchuy Qosqo accompanied by a tour or guide will enrich your experience, providing greater comfort and safety.
• Bring plenty of warm clothing because you’ll be climbing sections of the trail up to 4,300 meters above sea level. Bringing extra layers to change into while camping is essential to avoid getting sick.
• Remember to stop during the tour to Huchuy Qosqo to fully appreciate every angle of nature and the Inca Trail. This way, you’ll feel more present and enjoy it more fully.
• Carry plenty of water or purification tablets; they are essential for long hikes; hydration is the most important step during any hike.
• Take the opportunity to visit Huchuy Qosqo and take a break from your daily routine by reflecting amidst diverse landscapes full of history and nature.
• Stay in a state of gratitude to the earth and Pachamama (Mother Earth) for allowing you to be safe on your journey, enjoying totally unforgettable travel experiences.
• Visit Huchuy Qosqo during the dry season (April to October) for the best weather, but for more adventure, any time of year is perfect.

Gallery: Huchuy Qosqo

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1) What routes exist to get to Huchuy Qosqo?

  There are three main options: a hike from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo, which is approximately 19 kilometers, and shorter options, such as the hike from Lamay or Chinchero, ideal for those who prefer a day trip.

• 2) How long does it take to hike from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo?

  The entire route takes approximately 8 hours, so it’s advisable to start early to take advantage of daylight and adapt to the changing temperature conditions at high altitudes.

• 3) How difficult is the route from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo?

  This route is considered highly difficult due to the constant ascents, especially as it approaches 4,300 meters above sea level. Good physical fitness is essential, as the altitude and steep terrain are quite demanding.

• 4) Is it advisable to camp in Huchuy Qosqo?

  Without a doubt, camping in Huchuy Qosqo is an experience that enriches your trip, as it allows you to relax in an environment steeped in history and beautiful landscapes.

• 5) What will I see during the hike to Huchuy Qosqo?

  The tour allows you to enjoy the Tambomachay archaeological complex, beautiful lagoons such as Coricocha, Quellecocha, and Piuray. You can also enjoy stunning views of the Pitusiray snow-capped mountain and the Qhapac Ñan (Inca Trail) trails.

• 6) What is the difference in difficulty between the routes from Lamay and Chinchero?

  The route from Lamay is of medium difficulty, with a 6-kilometer route involving a steady climb. The Chinchero option, on the other hand, is 12 kilometers long and combines uphill sections with a long descent.

• 7) Is it possible to do the complete route (Tambomachay – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay) in a single day?

  Although it’s possible to complete the hike in a single day, it’s best to split the journey into two days. Spending the night in Huchuy Qosqo allows you to rest and enjoy the scenery without rushing, avoiding risk and extreme fatigue.

• 8) What is the difference between a one-day trek and one that includes camping?

  A day hike, which follows shorter routes such as those starting in Lamay or Chinchero, allows you to return to the city at the end of the tour, while a trek with camping, such as the one that includes the route from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo and the subsequent descent to Lamay, offers the opportunity to live a more immersive experience, although it requires greater planning and physical effort.

• 9) How high is Huchuy Qosqo?

  The archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo is located at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters above sea level, affording beautiful views of the Sacred Valley.

• 10) What is the best route to get to Huchuy Qosqo?

  The best route to reach Huchuy Qosqo is the hike from Tambomachay , as it allows you to explore a longer route filled with impressive sites and landscapes. You’ll also explore Inca trails filled with attractions and biodiversity that enrich your experience.

Advice from people who have been there

Huchuy Qosqo

By: Jean O.

“Camping in Huchuy Qosqo“

“My visit to Huchuy Qosqo was unforgettable, I started the hike from Tambomachay with my group of cousins. It was not easy to find the route, but thanks to maps we were able to locate ourselves. The tour is full of landscapes, I recommend leaving early to enjoy it. It was really an experience where we remembered that the road is sometimes more important than the destination.“

By Ticket Machu Picchu – Last updated, April 15, 2025