CUSCO – TAUCA – PUCAJASA PASS – HUCHUY QOSQO – LAMAY – CUSCO
We will begin our adventure early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We will board our private transportation and travel north toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
On the way to Chinchero, we will admire extensive agricultural fields that have been cultivated since ancient times. Local communities in this area still preserve traditional farming methods used to grow potatoes, corn, quinoa, and other Andean products.
We will continue along the shores of the beautiful Piuray Lagoon, an important natural water source surrounded by farmland and mountains. Finally, we will arrive at the community of Tauca, located at 3,762 meters above sea level (12,343 ft), where our guide will provide instructions before beginning the hike.
TAUCA – PUCAJASA PASS
From Tauca, we will follow an old dirt road with a gradual incline. During the ascent, we will observe typical high-Andean landscapes, small rural homes, herds of llamas and alpacas, and extensive cultivated areas.
The hike will continue until we reach Pucajasa Mountain Pass, located at 4,393 meters above sea level (14,413 ft), the highest point of the route. From here, we will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Urubamba mountain range and the impressive snow-capped peaks overlooking the Sacred Valley.
We will have time to rest, take photographs, and appreciate the peaceful Andean surroundings before beginning our descent.
PUCAJASA PASS – INCA TRAIL – HUCHUY QOSQO
We will begin descending through sections of ancient Inca trails. During this part of the route, we will notice significant changes in vegetation and scenery as we pass through different ecological zones.
The trail will take us through valleys, small ravines, and paths surrounded by Andean vegetation. As we descend, the climate becomes warmer and new plant species typical of the lower elevations begin to appear.
Finally, we will arrive at the archaeological complex of Huchuy Qosqo, located at approximately 3,688 meters above sea level (12,099 ft). Its Quechua name means “Little Cusco,” and it was one of the most important administrative and ceremonial centers built during the Inca period.
Upon arrival, we will enjoy lunch while admiring the impressive views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the Vilcanota River, and the surrounding mountains.
GUIDED TOUR OF HUCHUY QOSQO
After a short rest, we will begin our guided tour of the archaeological complex. During the visit, we will explore its stone and adobe structures, agricultural terraces, ceremonial enclosures, storage buildings, water channels, and large areas that were used for administrative and religious purposes.
One of the most remarkable features of Huchuy Qosqo is the way its structures blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. From its terraces, we will enjoy extraordinary panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, cultivated fields, and the Urubamba mountain range.
Our guide will explain the history of the site, the construction techniques used by the Incas, and the strategic importance of this location.
HUCHUY QOSQO – LAMAY – CUSCO
After exploring the archaeological complex, we will begin the descent toward the town of Lamay, located at approximately 2,938 meters above sea level (9,639 ft).
This final section follows a descending trail with views of the valley, small communities, and agricultural fields. Upon arrival in Lamay, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
We will arrive in Cusco in the late afternoon and transfer you to your hotel.
End of our services.
- Total duration: Approximately 8 hours.
- Starting altitude: 3,762 m.a.s.l. (12,343 ft).
- Maximum altitude: 4,393 m.a.s.l. (14,413 ft).
- Altitude of Huchuy Qosqo: 3,688 m.a.s.l. (12,099 ft).
- Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging.
- Meal included: Lunch.
- Service type: Private trekking and transportation service.
- Recommendation: Proper acclimatization in Cusco is strongly recommended before taking this excursion.