Huchuy Qosqo Trek Review: 3 Days & 2 Nights of Inca History

So, you’re pondering trekking to Huchuy Qosqo, right? That “Little Cusco” nestled up high? Well, let me tell you, it’s more than just a walk; that place is like stepping back in time with views that’ll make your jaw drop. My own trek was, actually, pretty incredible, filled with, just like, gasping at huge landscapes and, honestly, feeling a proper connection to Inca history. In this write-up, I’m sharing the inside scoop – think real talk about the highs, the lows, and if this specific trek is right up your street. Prepare for a personal peek at one super scenic route!

What’s So Great About the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

Okay, so why pick this trek over all the others? Good question! Unlike the crazy-busy Inca Trail, the Huchuy Qosqo route, in some respects, feels, that is, like your own secret path. Fewer crowds are a real win if you’re keen on soaking it all up quietly, which, naturally, I totally am. Also, you get a brilliant mix of, well, proper hiking through the Andes, a peep at local culture in the villages you stroll through, and, that is, getting up close with those amazing Inca ruins at Huchuy Qosqo itself. That’s the reason why people choose to hike it in the first place.

Speaking of views, very picture this: You’re up high, proper high, with the Sacred Valley spread out beneath you like a quilt, too it’s almost a real sight! The whole trek hits you with a variety of scenery – you’ve got mountains, valleys, and, yes, even some cloud forest stuff. For me, seeing the way the landscape changes, basically, kept things very fresh and exciting every day, alright. It made me so excited to travel it and walk it more and more as the days kept going.

Plus, there’s the history angle. Huchuy Qosqo was, apparently, once a royal estate of an Inca emperor, so walking those paths, just a little, lets you feel linked to the past in a real, very palpable way. Hearing tales of Inca life from my guide, that’s what truly, like, stuck with me, too it’s almost more memorable than any photo I snapped, isn’t it? So it really brings that Inca lifestyle to life in my imagination as well, I would suggest.

Planning Your Huchuy Qosqo Trek: What You Need to Know

Okay, so ready to go? Great! Now, listen up, as you do need to prep a fair bit. This trek is rated moderate, so you want, in a way, to be reasonably fit, but the altitude can get you, trust me. Spending a couple of days in Cusco beforehand is crucial to get, that is, used to breathing thinner air. And talking of air, layering up is really important, right, you know, because the weather can switch fast. Very think sunshine one minute, chilly wind the next – that’s the Andes for you! This weather really impacts on how the experience ends up being!

When to go? Well, the dry season (May to September) often gives you the sunniest skies and least rain, basically, making it super popular, or, at least, more travelled. That being said, I travelled in April, and it’s almost like it rained only a bit and the crowds weren’t too crazy, still. Packing essentials? Right, good hiking boots, backpack (I’d say 30-40 litres), rain gear, a decent sleeping bag if camping, and, you know, all those bits and pieces like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. Don’t scrimp on, basically, blister plasters – your feet will thank you later. Also take those cameras as there are plenty of chances to take nice photos.

Choosing a tour company? Oh, actually, there are tons of them out there, you see. Do your research and go with someone who has, still, solid reviews and promotes, still, ethical practices (treating their porters well is really key, right?). Also, quiz them closely on what is included (food, transport, entrance fees) so you aren’t caught out by surprises along the way, you see. When it comes to, literally, finding a great group to go with, the, honestly, effort you put in beforehand is just as important. If you happen to arrive unbooked into Cuzco that’s really no problem either as tours can even be booked the day before setting out and cost less. Also the bargaining can be amazing too at last minute times.

Day-by-Day: What to Expect on the Huchuy Qosqo Trek

Alright, let’s walk through the, literally, trek itself, right? You want the day-by-day skinny, eh? I got you covered.

Day 1: Cusco to Tambomachay to Qoricocha Lake

So, day one kicks off in Cusco, which is, basically, the jumping-off point for, literally, nearly every adventure in this neck of the woods. You usually hop in a van that takes you to Tambomachay, very known as the Water Temple. I’d even suggest walking along to this Temple. From there, you kick it off on a scenic hike, slowly making it higher into the Andes, honestly. The goal for today, you see, is to reach Qoricocha Lake, very called “Golden Lake.”

Oh man, let me tell you, very catching sight of Qoricocha was a wow moment, honestly. That being said, the initial hike is, still, a climb. Take breaks, sip water, and just generally embrace the challenge is what I would say. That’s, basically, very important for altitude sickness too. That night, there’s typically a, literally, campsite near the lake, but my group bunked at a super welcoming local house, so cozy! If there’s an option to choose accommodation it will come down to camping under the stars and saving some costs vs paying extra for bed. Your preferences will have an impact.

Day 2: Qoricocha Lake to Huchuy Qosqo

Now, the most scenic stretches of the, like, trek start right about now, you know. That second day takes you past villages and farmlands, with the looming Andes always peeking out. Honestly, that’s the place where you start meeting the people who actually live and work up here. That’s also where you truly realise how beautiful the surroundings truly are, I believe. Also I believe it is the quiet moment. One that really sticks in your imagination and inspires people more, well, if that wasn’t such a fancy thing to say, then so what!

The final stretch for the day involves some descending and, that is, more Inca steps, as always. It brings you to the famed Huchuy Qosqo, which means ‘little Cusco.’ So you know! So just before getting to this site, actually, that sight alone makes that long day worth it, honestly. After arrival, your tour guide goes on a walk with the group. It’s full of interesting historical tidbits about these places.

That afternoon, I suggest, even more, exploring these places solo. Find the old farming terraces, the old Inca streets. Also make friends and just stroll around, right? Just so you can picture it all! Camp that night, under stars with maybe a bottle or can of beers.

Day 3: Exploring Huchuy Qosqo and Return to Cusco

I felt very excited. Day 3’s for even further seeing those amazing old Inca spots up on Huchuy Qosqo, if possible, that is, catch sunrise there – epic light. Spend some time in morning exploring, walking about, doing everything once again! The final part involves a walk downhill. From Lamay in Sacred Valley a van drives you back to Cusco itself! Also time to plan the next walk too after a good three days. This walk will leave you in better spirits, hopefully, actually!

What to Expect After Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

This adventure offers views like you are staring straight at, say, snowcapped peaks and landscapes of green stretching farther than the eyes can see? It’s even more special if there is any wild animals along with the guides. All in all a place to enjoy an out-of-body experience. You will leave feeling alive after this amazing Trek.

You will leave the mountains better than ever, inspired more than ever with history and your future endeavours to trek some more. Make new friends, find better people, and learn new skills! This is a trek not just to remember a good time by taking awesome shots to look at later on but also feel that you will be forever changed and shaped by it forever!

And if this doesn’t inspire you and tickle your senses then I don’t what else will tickle that amazing brain of yours!!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How tough is the Huchuy Qosqo Trek?

It’s moderately challenging, mainly due to altitude. Come ready and allow 2-3 days in Cusco for altitude.

What should I pack?

Okay, right hiking boots, right layers of clothing, water, sunblock, bugs protection spray.

When’s the best time to go?

The dry season is great. Those would be around May–September! That time will keep weather super proper for some pictures. Also it is quite travelled around that point of the year!

Can I trek solo?

Solo trekking’s possible, that’s right, though joining a tour is recommended. Soloing saves tons money at the end and also let’s make decisions on own. Tour guides are awesome though too!

What will I feel after arriving back in Cuzco from the Trek?

That depends really; You might find you lost all sense of awareness. That sounds awful. Very more realistically, actually, expect all you did changed you better than anything you know before!

Make notes when packing, also give a heads-up call a day before trek in case anything changes at any point of the trip.

What about bringing cameras or any devices or anything?

Sure go for that action plan with GoPro that will capture all experiences of every trail you ever venture and it could give a new spin for how your travels shape with that visual element, very proper

What else to explore for longer in Peru.

Plenty else very. Machu Pichhu! Vinicunca! Choquequirao!

How does Huchuy Qosqo compare to the Inca Trail?

Huchuy Qosqo trail feels a lot less over travelled and still looks authentic compared to this well used ancient Trail, well this feels all still untouched, and all this you should feel like a world from way way back still holds true these parts so good if going very solo on Inca trails!! Also there could be more routes.