13/09/2026
HUCHUY QOSQO | TAMBOMACHAY → SACRED VALLEY 🏔️
Some journeys are not meant to be experienced only at the destination.
They are meant to be walked.
This journey to Huchuy Qosqo begins at Tambomachay, just outside Cusco, following a high-altitude trail through open grasslands, ichu-covered slopes and spectacular Andean landscapes.
The route reaches approximately 4,000–4,300 m above sea level, depending on the trail variation, passing high-altitude lakes such as Qoricocha before descending toward the Sacred Valley.
Along the way, travelers can encounter llamas, alpacas and native Andean birds, surrounded by panoramic mountain views.
The journey leads to Huchuy Qosqo, an important Inca archaeological complex above the Sacred Valley, in the district of Calca.
Known as “Little Cusco,” the site features terraces, stone and adobe structures and ceremonial spaces, reflecting the remarkable adaptation of Inca architecture to the mountain landscape.
Its officially recorded toponym is Qaqyaqawana, associated with the surrounding Qaqya mountain.
At approximately 3,677 m above sea level, Huchuy Qosqo connects history, architecture and the living Andean landscape.
From the archaeological complex, the trail continues downhill toward Lamay, completing a full-day journey from the highlands of Cusco to the Sacred Valley.
Route: Tambomachay → mountain passes → Qoricocha → Huchuy Qosqo → Lamay
Duration: Full-day hike
Highest point: approx. 4,000–4,300 m
Huchuy Qosqo: 3,677 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Region: Cusco, Peru
A journey for travelers who want to go beyond the traditional circuits and experience the Andes through its landscapes, trails and history.
Escape Verde — Travel deeper. Experience responsibly.
CuscoTrekking Andes IncaCulture TravelPeru ResponsibleTravel SustainableTourism Tambomachay Lamay Qaqyaqawana
