Huchuy Qosqo is one of the most significant archaeological complexes in the Sacred Valley, second only to Písac and Ollantaytambo. In ancient times, it was known as Q’ajya Qhawana, which translates to “where the thunder is watched.” The trek begins in the picturesque highland community of Tauca, in Chinchero, and traverses breathtaking Andean landscapes, alpine lagoons, and ancient bridal paths until reaching a mountain pass at approximately 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). From this high vantage point, hikers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the mountain ranges and the Sacred Valley. The trail finally descends into the district of Lamay in the Calca province, beautifully weaving nature, history, and Andean tradition into one of Cusco’s most stunning routes.
- Difficulty level: Moderate-to-high
- Altitude: From 3,750 meters (Tauca) up to the mountain pass at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), descending to 2,926 meters (Lamay)
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Departure time: 6:30 AM
- Return time: 5:30 PM
- Important Note: Due to the steep, continuous descent on the final stretch, this trek is not suitable for individuals with knee issues or injuries.
Itinerary:
We will travel via private transportation from Cusco to the community of Tauca in Chinchero, where we will share a local breakfast before hitting the trail. We will begin our gradual ascent along traditional Andean pathways up to the mountain pass. At this high summit, we will pause for a brief, mindful silent walk—allowing ourselves to connect deeply with the energy of the environment, feeling the mountain wind, the sun, the native flora, and the raw sounds of nature.
Afterward, we will continue our descent along the ancient Inka pathway, arriving at the majestic Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site around 12:00 PM. We will take an immersive guided tour through its stone-and-adobe enclosures, plazas, and sacred agricultural terraces. Following the tour, we will share a light snack (sandwich and fruit) while soaking in the marvelous panoramic views of the Sacred Valley below.
At 1:30 PM, we will begin our final, steep, and scenic descent toward the district of Lamay, arriving at approximately 3:00 PM. In Lamay, our private transportation will be waiting to pick us up for the journey back, arriving in Cusco between 4:30 PM and 5:00 PM.
Includes:
- Hotel pick-up and private transportation (Cusco–Tauca / Lamay–Cusco)
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) throughout the entire trek
- 1 local breakfast at the trailhead
- 1 light snack / refreshment (sandwich and fruit) at the archaeological site
Does not include:
- Entrance fee to the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological complex (paid directly at the site)
- Lunch
- Tips
- Personal expenses not mentioned in the itinerary