A compact two-day trek from Cusco to the Sacred Valley that visits Huchuy Qosqo and ends in the valley—an immersive alternative to long drives, combining archaeological sites, community homestays and high-Andean scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn breaks over Cusco as a small group files out of the city, packs heavy with anticipation and steps onto a rough path that angles up into the high Andes. The trail climbs through cornfields, hamlets and stone terraces; wind skims the ridge and the valley below opens like a map. By midday the ruined platforms of Huchuy Qosqo come into view—compact, severe, and far quieter than the better-known sites.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approx. 10–12 hours hiking)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness and experience with day hikes at altitude; comfortable walking 4–8 hours a day.
Wildlife
History
Huchuy Qosqo was an Inca agricultural and administrative site linked to imperial estates; the Sacred Valley has served as a cultivation and trade corridor since pre-Columbian times.
Conservation
Visitors should stick to established paths and avoid removing stones or plants; support community stays that invest in local conservation and sustainable tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Hidden Incatrail from Cusco to Sacred Valley (2 days, 1 night) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 24–48 hours in Cusco at moderate activity to reduce altitude symptoms before starting the trek.
Start early
The hike begins around 6am—early starts avoid afternoon storms and maximize daylight at Huchuy Qosqo.
Pack water and snacks
Carry at least 2–3 liters and high-energy snacks; refill options are limited between communities.
Footwear and poles
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and trekking poles will help on steep ascents and loose descents.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky steps and uneven trails.
Insulating layers (fleece/down)
Warmth for cold mornings and nights at high elevation.
Water reservoir or bottles (2–3 L)
Hydration at altitude—sources are limited between stops.
Rain shell
Lightweight waterproofing for sudden Andean showers.