The Huchuy Qosqo Trek: A Journey to the “Little Cusco” Ruins

Overview

Difficulty: Moderate-to-Difficult.
Duration: A full day, approximately 6-7 hours of hiking.
Key Landmarks: The Huchuy Qosqo ruins, two-story Inca buildings, and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley.

Preparing for the Trek

Acclimatization: This trek requires at least two to three days of acclimatization in Cusco.
Recommended Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes, a daypack with plenty of water and energy snacks, a hat, sunscreen, a light windbreaker, and hiking poles.
Entrance Tickets: Note! Entry to the Huchuy Qosqo site requires a fee of about 20 soles, but prices may vary. It’s a good idea to have cash on hand.

Step-by-Step: The Detailed Route

Step 1: Starting Point in Lamay Village

The most popular route begins in the village of Lamay, located in the Sacred Valley. To get there, you can take a colectivo or a taxi from Cusco or Urubamba. In the village, follow the well-marked path that runs along the Urubamba River and leads up the mountain.

Step 2: A Steep Climb with Amazing Views

The first part of the trek is a long and steep climb. The trail passes through agricultural fields, eucalyptus forests, and a beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley. The climb can be challenging, but the reward is a panoramic view of the valley and the winding river.

Step 3: Arriving at the Huchuy Qosqo Ruins

After a few hours of climbing, you will arrive at the site. Here, you can explore the Huchuy Qosqo ruins, including ancient stone buildings, agricultural terraces, and even rare two-story Inca structures. Take your time to sit and enjoy the incredible view and the quiet of the place.

Step 4: Descending Back to the Valley

After your visit to the site, you can return to Lamay on the same trail, or you can continue on another path that descends to the village of Corau. Both routes lead back to the Sacred Valley, where you can catch a colectivo or a taxi back to Cusco.

Sacred Reveal Tip

Huchuy Qosqo was built as a royal retreat for the Inca Emperor Viracocha. The site is far less visited than Machu Picchu, and it offers an intimate and exciting experience. It is highly recommended to dedicate a few hours to exploring the ruins and relaxing to absorb the energy of the place.

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Entities:

Places: Huchuy Qosqo, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Urubamba Valley, Lamay, Corau, Urubamba River, Inca Empire, Machu Picchu (contextual).
Concepts: Self-guided trek, moderate-to-difficult hike, acclimatization, panoramic views, Inca ruins, Inca architecture, royal retreat, hiking poles.
Activities/Services: Hiking, climbing, exploring ruins, taking photos.

Objects/Terms: Sturdy hiking shoes, daypack, water, snacks, hat, sunscreen, windbreaker, hiking poles.