Hiking from Patabamba to Huchuy Qosqo 1 Day

Moderate

Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Soft trekking around Cusco: a challenging route from the community of Patabamba to Huchuy Qosoqo, vestiges of the Inca culture in the Sacred Valley.

This challenging hike starts in Patabamba, a small Andean village of farmers, shepherds and weavers, who open their doors with a beautiful welcoming ceremony and demonstration of their textile crafts. This route is ideal for adventure and nature lovers. Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco) is located above the Sacred Valley of the Incas and offers magnificent views of the Urubamba mountain range. On the last day of the excursion, visit the historical legacy of Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the world.

Tour highlights!

Embark on an adventure through nature, alive with ancient traditions and delectable gastronomy, all while reconnecting with the roots in the embrace of Pachamama.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture nestled within the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Explore the charming city of Huchuy Qosqo, a strategic resting place (Tambo) set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and Urubamba mountain range

Itinerary

Inclusions

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Day 1: Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Sacred Valley/Cusco

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco. At 6 am, we leave Cusco in a private transport to Patabamba community (3,800m / 12,466ft), the beginning of the hike. Thereafter we discover the history and culture in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We began exploring the local culture and hike across the Qoricocha lake surrounding (3,800m / 12,466ft) where we used to get a Panoramic viewpoint at 4,500m / 14,763ft from there we begin our descent, through by some families living in typical constructions with thatched roofs. Then we go into the mini canyon of Leon Punku and a stream will take you to Huchuy Qosqo (3,600m / 11,811ft). Discover Huchuy Qosqo, an Inca archaeological complex located on a plateau and supported by agricultural terraces, and enjoy spectacular views of the Urubamba mountain range.
Later, continuing along a steep trail will take you into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The village of Lamay (2,940m / 9,645ft), is the place where our private transportation awaits you for the transfer to the hotel in the Sacred Valley/Cusco.

Transportation time: 1h.
Walking time: 7h-8h.
Visiting time: 1h.
Distance: 13 km.
Difficulty level: moderate / challenging
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch/box lunch, D = on your own.
Overnight:: on your own.
Climate: warm and cold at night.
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Patabamba (3,800m) – Qoricocha pass (4,500m) – Huchuy Qosqo (3,600m) – Lamay (2,940m).

Informative briefing in your accommodation 1 or 2 days before the tour. We’ll confirm the details after booking is made.
Transportation: Private transport from your accommodation in Cusco to Patabamba community. Private transport from Lamay to the Sacred Valley/Cusco.
Professional, bilingual tour guide (English-Spanish). For other languages contact us in advance. Bear in mind there may be extra charges.
Entrance fees to Huchuy Qosqo.
Meals: breakfast and lunch/box lunch at a local restaurant (let us know in advance of any dietary restrictions).
A pair of walking steaks.
First aid kit, including oximeter and thermometer and oxygen bottle.

Recommendations

Huchuyqosqo trek previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.
The Andean weather is quite unpredictable. Thus, we suggest bringing warm clothes, a hat/cap, sunglasses, a scarf, gloves, jacket, high protection sun cream and 1 liters of mineral water per person.
The hike can be physically demanding, as you’ll be walking along slopes at a maximum altitude of 4,500m / 14,763ft. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, to have been acclimatized in Cusco for at least 2 days and to have drunk a lot of water the day before.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
Hiking shoes or running shoes.
Comfortable pants.
Swimsuit and towel for hot springs (in case you want to relax it).
T-shirts with short or long sleeves.
Rain poncho.
Hat, sunscreen and gel disinfectant alcohol.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Anti-itch cream.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag).
Snack (cereal bars, chocolate and dried fruits).
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days; then we will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

Student card: To qualify for the 20 USD student discount, you must have a valid ISIC student card when you book, not just when you arrive in Cusco! It must be valid for the current year. When booking, we need a picture of the card sent to the contact email. The Ministry of Culture is strict when verifying student cards. If you do not have a valid ISIC student card, you will be charged the regular price.

A solidarity trip: most of the communities in the area are very poor and live off agriculture and cattle farming. Our agency is always collaborating, and your voluntary help would be also much appreciated.

Tips: for guide tips are always welcome.
Cancellation policy: For any cancellation; the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4 and our cancellation policies in the sales terms and conditions.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Securing your visit to the essential circuits of the citadel, perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos.
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983) and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007). To protect its rich history and cultural significance, the Peruvian government enforces strict visitor limits. Plan your visit early to ensure you experience this breathtaking marvel while preserving its legacy for future generations. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Details

Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season(May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)
This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
- Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
- Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)
Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:
- Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.

Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)
Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps: To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Alternative Treks:

If Inca Trail permits are unavailable, consider these stunning alternatives:

Lares Valley Trek: A culturally rich trek through Andean villages, providing an immersive experience of local traditions and stunning natural beauty. This route also doesn’t require permits and offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Salkantay Trek: A challenging and scenic route offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and highland landscapes. No permits are required, but early booking ensures the best spots and guides.
Choquequirao Trek, Ausangate Trek, and More: Explore the Peruvian Andes like never before with our Choquequirao and Ausangate Treks. These innovative routes uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty of the region. Journey beyond Machu Picchu and immerse yourself in the true heart of Peru. Embark on an extraordinary adventure today!

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 2 & 3) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether it’s securing your entry to Machu Picchu, arranging the best circuit routes, or booking additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we take care of everything.

Ready to Explore? Click here to book your adventure.

Don’t miss out! Act now to experience the breathtaking beauty of Peruvian Culture and rich history of Machu Picchu. Book with Explorandino and travel with confidence.

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6 valoraciones en Hiking from Patabamba to Huchuy Qosqo 1 Day

Valorado con 5 de 5

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