Huchuy Qosqo Trek + Short Inca Trail – 4D/3N
We are excited to offer this new multi-day itinerary combining one of the lesser known, but most scenic treks in the area (Huchuy Qosqo) with a short, but memorable trek on the Short Inca Trail (part of the world renowned, and much travelled Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu).
This itinerary has many highlights, many of which we’ll mention here, but perhaps one of its biggest advantages is that it doesn’t require permits in advance.
Current restrictions and the increasing number of travelers visiting Peru each year means that booking a trek on the Classic Inca Trail is becoming more difficult, often requiring you to book more than a year in advance.
Not so with this route. Since there are no limitations on the number of persons that can hike the Huchuy Qosqo trail, your adventure in the Andes and your visit to the iconic Machu Picchu can often be booked last minute (though we don’t suggest leaving it too late…just in case!)
Our adventure begins on the Huchuy Qosqo trail. Gradually gaining altitude our route leads us through remote mountain villages, past lazy Llamas and cheeky Alpacas roaming freely on the mountainside, across golden grasslands and beneath dramatic snow-capped mountain peaks.
Far away from the normal tourist routes, you may feel like you’ve stepped back in time as we meet the local indigenous people in their rural villages and experience some of the real culture of the Peruvian Andes.
You will walk along the footpaths built by the ancient pilgrims on the Inca Trail. Once the main route connecting the heart of the Inca Empire in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, the route brings us to the spectacular Huchuy Qosqo complex.
Perfectly positioned to stand as a lookout across the beautiful Sacred Valley, Huchuy Qosqo sits at an elevation of 3,600 m (11,800 ft) above the town of Lamay.
This archaeological remnant of pre-Inca and Inca architecture is a fascinating testament to the engineering knowledge and technical capability that existed in those ancient times.
We spend our second night in the vibrant Sacred Valley town of Ollantaytambo. With its eclectic mix of ancient architecture, Artesan crafts and bustling restaurants and cafes it is a fascinating contrast to our time in the mountains, and you will have plenty of time to explore.
We will have arranged your accomodation in a quality local hotel, allowing you a good night´s rest before we begin the second half of our journey, on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Whilst our time on this trail is short, it provides access to some of the most iconic views in the area. Taking the same steps walked by the Inca Pilgrims, we will pass the ancient settlements used by travelers for respite ahead of their (and your) final destination.
Your first glimpses of this sacred centre of Incan culture are simply unforgettable, and we have plenty of time on the trail to make sure you capture those memories forever.
Crossing the Sacred Valley, we arrive at the magnificent Inti Punku, or Sun Gate. From here, breathless and elated, we make our final descent to the jewel in the Peruvian Crown, and one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. Welcome to Machu Picchu!
We spend our last night in the busy town of Aguas Calientes. Gathering together for a spectacular group dinner we prepare ourselves for the grand finale; our tour of the site that is on “Bucket Lists” the world over!
Rising early to hopefully catch the spectacular sunrise over the Andes (we unfortunately can’t book the weather) you will have a full guided tour of this magnificent Citadel, and plenty of time to take those iconic photgraphs!
Eco Andes Trekking is highly recommended by TripAdvisor and Trustpilot. Join hundreds of happy trekkers who have experienced the adventure of a lifetime!
ITINERARY
Pre-trek briefing (required): We provide a full pre-trek briefing at our office or at your hotel in Cusco. This gives you the chance to ask questions about the trek itinerary. Briefings are scheduled for the day before your trek starts.
Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, to ensure you arrive in time for the briefing.
Day 1: Cusco – Qoricocha – Huchuy Qosqo
We will pick you up early from your hotel and transport you to Tambomachay (3,700 m/ 12,139 ft).
Just a short 25-minute drive from Cusco in the Sacsayhuaman National Park, this is where we will meet the horsemen and horses that will accompany us for the first half of our trek.
Our trek begins with a gentle ascent through grassy highlands. Along the route we will see the Inca site of Tambomachay (“Temple of the Water”). Built by the ancient Incas it is one of the most spectacular Inca sites around Cusco.
Its centerpiece is a beautiful water fountain where the Incas would take a spiritual bath before beginning their religious ceremonies.
A more demanding uphill stretch for 2 ½ hours brings us to the first pass of the day. At an altitude of 4,100 m/13,451ft you will have an uninterrupted bird’s-eye view of several Inca sites in the area as well as the city of Cusco far below, so make sure you have your camera at the ready.
We will reach the crystal waters of Lake Qoricocha (Golden Water) by early afternoon, and this is where we will stop for a delicious lunch and even a short siesta if you’d like.
After lunch, we continue upwards for just 30 minutes to the next pass on the north side of Qoriquocha at an elevelation of 4,200 m/13,779 ft.
From here we begin our descent through spectacular valleys to a beautiful canyon where we will find the picturesque village of Pucamarca (3,980 m/ 13,054 ft).
At the end of the day’s trekking we will have the privilege to camp at one of the Inca ruins at Huchuy Qosqo (3,600 m/ 11,808 ft).
As well as having a spectacular view of the Sacred Valley, you will also be able to lay back and star-gaze, as the night skies in the Andes are a wonder all their own!
And of course, our talented kitchen team will prepare a sumptuous dinner for us to share as we sit and reflect on the sights and sounds of the day
- Meals: Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Distance covered: 14 km (9 miles)
- Lowest elevation: 3,600 m/ 11,808 ft
- Highest elevation: 4,200 m/ 13,779 ft
- Approximate walking time: 7 to 8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Sights: Inca Ruins, Lake Qoricocha, Huchuy Qosqo Complex
Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo
After an early breakfast, our Guide will provide a tour of Huchuy Qosqo. Experts in the local area and the Inca culture, why not take this opportunity to try and catch our guides out with some tricky questions!
After the tour we take a path downhill for 2 to 3 hours until we reach Lamay (3,000 m/ 9,840 ft) where lunch will be waiting.
After lunch we travel by local van to the bustling town of Ollantaytambo.
After checking-in to the comfortable hotel that we have booked for you, you may want to stroll around the town, soaking up the atmosphere of the Artesian markets and local street traders who ply their wares.
We will dine together at one of the best restaurants in town (drinks not included) before retiring for the night, ahead of our early start for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Lowest elevation: 3,000 m/ 9,840 ft
- Highest elevation: 3,600 m/ 11,808 ft
- Distance covered: 3 km (1.5 miles)
- Approximate walking time: 2 to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Sights: Inca ruins, Ollantaytambo
Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
You will be picked up from your Ollantaytambo hotel at around 5:30am and taken to the train station.
Traveling by train for 2 hours along the most picturesque of routes you will have the opportunity to see the valley and the mountains from a whole new perspective (and from the comfort of your seat!).
The train journey brings us to KM104 and the start of the Short Inca Trail.
Our hike begins with a 3 hour climb to the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (‘Forever Young’). Located at 2,680m (8,792ft) and overlooking the Urubamba River, the site has a number of well-preserved house complexes, fountain structures and agricultural terraces.
Joining the main path to Machu Picchu, another gentle climb brings us to the spectacular ‘Inti Punku’ (or Sun gate). Be prepared to be amazed, as it is from here that you will get your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu! (new profile picture anyone?)
We then take the final section of the trail to reach the ancient city itself.
Once at Machu Picchu there will be plenty of time to take photographs (there will be many more opportunities to come!) before we take a side path off the trail to catch the bus down to Aguas Calientes, leaving the visit to Machu Picchu for the next day.
In Aguas Calientes, we once again dine together in a superb local restaurant before retiring for a well-deserved rest to feel rested and ready for our grand finale.
- Meals: Breafast/Box Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Lowest elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Highest elevation: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
- Distance to walk: 13 km / 8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Sights: Inca ruins, Chachabamba, Wiñay Huayna & Sun Gate
Day 4: Machu Picchu Tour – Return train to Cusco
The hotel will provide either an early buffet or boxed breakfast to ensure we can take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. It is a journey of around an hour, and if the weather is in our favor you may even see the spectacular sunrise over the Andes.
As we enter Machu Picchu, your first up-close views of this new wonder of the world are guaranteed to be unforgettable! Your guide will give a full 2-hour walking tour of site, ensuring you get to all of the iconic photo spots.
After the tour you are free to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains for more spectacular views (tickets not included), or to simply spend some time exploring the site or finding a quiet spot to reflect on the spiritual nature of this ancient wonder.
Finally, taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon, you will board the expedition train to either Poroy or to Ollantaytambo.
From here you will travel by private van to Cusco and back to your hotel. Your arrival time in Cusco will depend on traffic and connections, but should be around 8pm.
- Meals: Breafast
- Lowest elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft
- Highest elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft
- Sites: Machu Picchu
INCLUDED:
- Pre-Departure Briefing at our office
- Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Tambomachay (start of trek)
- Bilingual English speaking tour guide (additional tour guide for groups of nine people or more)
- High quality, 4-person tent for every 2 people (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Mattress and pillow (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Kitchen tent (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Dining tent with tables and chairs (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Toilet tent (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Professional Chef and assistant chef (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Wranglers and horses to carry all equipment (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Horse to transport up to 7 kg of your personal gear (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Duffle bag for your personal gear (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Emergency horse on the Huchuy Qosqo trek (in case we need it!)
- Three breakfasts, two lunches, one box lunch and three dinners
- Hot water for washing twice daily (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles (Huchuy Qosqo trek)
- Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
- Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to either Poroy or to Ollantaytambo.
- Private van transportation from Poroy or Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
- 2 nights hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo (double occupancy)
- Round trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to Huchuy Qosqo
- Entrance to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
NOT included:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Trekking poles (can be rented from us
- Huayna Picchu ticket (can be purchased for an extra US $75 per person)
- Day 1 Breakfast
- Day 4 Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the trek crew
- Travel Insurance
What to bring:
- Original passport (nb. if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking you MUST bring both)
- Down or synthetic feather sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, tops, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, thermal underwear, light long pants, gloves, poncho, rain jacket)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
- Sun block (factor 35+ recommended)
- Head lamp + batteries*
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Camera + batteries*
- Binoculars
- Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us) MUST have rubber tips
- Insect repellent – 15% DEET
- Snacks (while your crew will prepare the most amazing meals, everyone’s energy needs are different, particularly at altitude, and so you should pack some suitable snacks to make sure you are always fully energised)
- NOTE: Batteries run down faster at high altitudes
PRICES & ADD-ONS
Group: USD $820 per person
Private: USD $880 per person
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Eco Andes Trekking is able to join that person with additional groups.
Discounts
- Under 18 years discount: US $20.00
- Under 7 years discount: US $35.00
Rentals
- Hiking Poles – USD $15 (pair)
- Sleeping Bag – USD $15 per person
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome Train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham Train– USD $400 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $245 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Private Tent – USD $30 per person
HUCHUY QOSQO & SHOR INCA TRAIL 2024 FAQs.
What is the Short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu?
This new multi-day itinerary combining one of the lesser known, but most scenic treks in the area (Huchuy Qosqo) with a short, but memorable trek on the Short Inca Trail (part of the world renowned, and much travelled Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu).
This 4 day hike is ideal for travelers who want something less strenuous.
Spend one night camping under the sky of the andes. one night hotel in Ollantaytambo before the Inca Trail hike and one night hotel in Aguas Calientes and then wake up on day 4 for a Machu Picchu tour.
Why Hiking the Short Inca Trail is popular?
The Trail is a microcosm; lush green cloud forest alive with birds, Andean peaks and steep mountain passes, a landscape dotted with centuries old Inca ruins, accessible only to those that follow this most famous pathway.
However, as truly beautiful as the hike may be, the real reason for its popularity lies at the very end of this four-day adventure; passing through the famous Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance.
Only Inca Trail hikers can access the gate early in the morning, and it is this crescendo, at one of the new seven wonders of the world which makes this hike a feature on so many ‘South America bucket lists’.
The Inca Trail is the best way to arrive at one of the world’s most iconic attractions.
What does this 2 day Inca Trail involve?
The Inca Trail involves an early bus and train ride from Cusco, followed by a three-four-hour uphill hike to the spectacular Inca site of Wiñay Wayna.
From there, you have a packed lunch before continuing for around two hours to reach the iconic Sun Gate where you get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
The trail then descends for about 45 minutes to reach the ruins. Rather than visiting Machu Picchu straight away, you take a bus to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes where you spend the night in a hotel, then return to the ruins the following morning for a guided tour.
In the afternoon of the second day, take the train and vehicle back to Cusco, arriving in the evening around 8 PM.
How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Inca Trail?
Everyone should book their Inca Trail permit as far in advance as possible. The Inca trail permits are in super high demand as they do offer access to one of the top hiking trails on the planet!
It’s very common that permits for certain months of the year to sell out completely for the upcoming season in just a matter of days or hours.
On top of that, permits are non-refundable or transferable, so if any hikers who have purchased permits subsequently cancel them, they won’t become available again at a later date in the government system.
The Peruvian government releases all the permits in bulk throughout the month of October for the upcoming year.
For example, for a hike in 2024, you can expect permits to be released in October 2023.
The best way to ensure you’re in the running for your chosen trek date is to have your Inca Trail pre-booked for the upcoming year before the permits are released in October 2023.
A general rule to follow is to book permits for the Inca Trail at least six to eight months in advance to ensure trail availability for treks on the Inca Trail route.
How many Inca Trail permits are issued per day?
There are now 250 Inca Trail permits are available each day, around 50 of those are allocated to porters and guides, so in reality there are really only 200 permits a day for hikers.
These 250 permits were recently added by the Peruvian government for sole use on the Short Trail to Machu Picchu.
The two and one night Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is essentially the final day of the Classic Inca Trail route with some variations in the beginning of the hike.
Note: Once the permit has been issued, you can not alter or change any details, so be sure you get them correct from the start.
Does the Inca Trail trip include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?
Yep, the cost of Machu Picchu entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of us to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.
Is there a waiting list for sold out trekking dates?
No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual.
Is it possible to do without a tour company or guide?
Since June 2002 trekking independently on the Inca Trail has been prohibited. Access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled by the Peruvian government and your trek must be organized through a tour operator.
Only specific licensed companies like Eco Andes Trekking are permitted to lead groups on the 5-day Inca Trail, 4-day Inca Trail and 2-day Inca Trail routes.
Companies must meet certain basic requirements proving that they have professional guides and good camping equipment, radio communications and emergency first aid including oxygen. Their license is renewed each year.
Is it possible to enter with different name?
No, you need to carry your valid ID (passport) to enter the trek park.
What is the 2 day Short Inca Trail Difficulty?
It’s a lot of hiking to cover in a day, and at high altitude, but it is achievable if you have a good level of fitness.
There will always be slower and faster hikers in your group but your guide will adjust his or her walking pace to make sure that everyone in your group is happy. The toughest part of the day is the three-hour walk uphill at the start, climbing rapidly from the Urubamba River to the Wiñay Wayna ruins. The Short Inca Trail may not be suitable for those who suffer from vertigo.
Before you start your trip, we recommend you arrive to Cusco at least two days in advance to help your body acclimate to the high altitude.
What do I need to carry on this Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek?
Travelers should carry only a small daypack with the items that they will need while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.
Our team will ship 6 kg of each of your personal extra gear to your Aguas Calientes hotel during the trip for free.
We generally ask clients to bring only the necessary items that you will need for the 2-day trip and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office in Cusco.
How big are the groups?
Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.
Is there an age limit to hiking the Inca Trail?
Nope! we trust that you will gauge your own fitness levels when it comes to taking a trek of this nature. We have clients who are in their 80s that are fitter than many 30-year-olds.
Age is just a number if you are fit enough to do the trip, go for it! Children under 6 years old should not attempt to hike as they would likely find the trek too difficult.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
From April to October, it is usually warm and humid during the day (around 20-25ºC) and night time temperatures are around 15ºC.
The dry season lasts from May to September, when the weather is more changeable.
During the wet season, from October to April, it can rain heavily, although it can also rain year-round.
Is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu always open?
The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). It is closed every February for maintenance.
Are there toilets along the two day Inca Trail route?
Yes, there is one toilet at the start of the hike, halfway and at the end of the hike (Machu Picchu).
The first two toilets are free and the one by Machu Picchu has a cost of 2 soles.
What altitude does it reach?
The Short Inca Trail starts at 2,170 m / 7,170 ft and ascends to 2,720 m / 8,920 ft the Sun Gate, before descending to Machu Picchu which sits at an altitude of 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
The guides carry basic medical supplies, but as you will be in remote mountain areas, more advanced medical facilities are not available.
What is the food like on the 2 day Inca Trail?
A packed lunch is provided by us for the hike and this must be carried by yourself during the hike.
If you want other snacks during the trail, these can be bought in Cusco.Breakfast on the second day is included at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Breakfast on day one and lunch on day two are not included in this trip. For breakfast on day one, you will need to request a box breakfast from your Cusco hotel.
Lunch on the second day can be bought in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes before taking the return train to Cusco.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request.
Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.
Is drinking water supplied along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Nope, you must bring your own dirking water for hiking our short Inca Trail 1 day hike and we recommend you bring at least 2 liters per person which will cover the hike of day one.
You can buy water in Aguas Calientes for your Machu Picchu visit on day two of the trip.
Note: there aren’t places to buy water along the hike so you must purchase your drinking water in Ollantaytambo or in Cusco before taking the train to the start of the hike.
What are the guides like?
Our team are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere.
They are from the surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley areas and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the Inca indigenous language of Quechua. Most have 8-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes and other alternative treks and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area.
How can I prepare for the Inca Trail?
The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek.
We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure. Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.
Are there any ATMs?
There are no ATMs along the Inca Trail. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for any last-minute purchases before starting the hike or tips.
There are some ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional cash.
What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the Inca Trail?
Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.).
They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 1000 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike.
In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/ she has been escorted back to the start of the hike and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Aguas Calientes via train later in the day.
Aguas Calientes has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.
Is there internet access on the Inca Trail?
Nope, your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Ollantaytambo train station and your first opportunity will be at Machu Picchu or in Aguas Calientes.
How much money should you bring on the Inca Trail trek?
The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your trip, but there are a few costs along the trip for which you’ll need to bring cash:
- Snacks and drinks from stallholders in the train station of Ollantaytambo
- Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
- Tips for your guides
- Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2 at Aguas Calientes.
It’s sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins.
We’d say at least 250 soles per person for the Trail-specific section.
Will I get altitude sickness on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Many of the most popular places in Peru, such as Cusco and Huaraz, are at high altitude; this means that for anyone planning a trip to Peru understanding altitude sickness (and how to avoid it) is incredibly important.
In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travelers in South America.
The best way to minimize the likelihood and impact of altitude sickness is factoring in enough time into your Peru itinerary to acclimatize to the conditions.
This means that it is incredibly foolish to arrive in Cusco, which is at 3,339m (11,151 feet) above sea-level, and leave the next day to do a strenuous hike or even start the Inca Trail. Your body needs the time to adjust to the altitude!
A good rule of thumb is to give yourself and your body two easy days at altitude to acclimatize to the change, and to keep yourself well hydrated throughout.
What about medication?
Obviously, medical attention and facilities along the Inca Trail are pretty much non-existent so you need to bring any of your own required medication with you and keep it on your own person or in the daypack.
What climates can I expect on the Short Inca Trail?
Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra/Andean Mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance.
While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge.
You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 15-25°C (60 – 77 °F), falling as low as 10 °C (50°F) at night.
How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm.
Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.
The early morning is one of the best times to savour the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu.
The mystical morning light over the enigmatic sites is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wakeup call!
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD:
Group: $820
Private: $880
DURATION:
4 Days / 3 Night
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
- Hiking Poles – USD $15 (pair)
- Sleeping Bag – USD $20 per person
- Huayna Picchu Permit – USD $75 per person
- Return Vistadome Train – USD $60 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham Train– USD $420 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Private Tent – USD $30 per person
OVERVIEW
- Day 1: Cusco – Qoricocha – Huchuy Qosqo
- Day 2: Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Ollantaytambo
- Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
- Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Beginning Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft
- Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
- Hike Total Distance: 30 km (18,6 miles)
- Overall Trek Difficulty: Moderate
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT
Your Full Satisfaction or Your Money Back
We understand planning a big trip like ours at EAT takes a lot of trust, and we’re here to make sure that trust pays off from the moment you book to the day your adventure wraps up. We’re fully committed to making your experience unforgettable. If something doesn’t go as planned—whether it’s an issue with the service or something unexpected along the way—we’ll step in to fix it.
That even includes offering a refund if needed so you can book with total peace of mind.
Your Peruvian adventure means the world to us, and we’ll go the extra mile to make sure it not only meets but exceeds your expectations. With our satisfaction guarantee, you can relax and focus on taking in all the incredible beauty and culture Peru has to offer.
We Help You Experience Peru Through The Eyes of a Local
We’re 100% locally owned and operated, with guides, porters, and chefs who grew up in the Cusco region. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua, our team brings unmatched cultural and historical knowledge to share with you. Traveling with us means gaining insight into Peru’s traditions, landscapes, and stories from those who know them best.
We Work With Professional Guides Who Provide Exceptional Service
Our guides are the best of the best. Truly skilled experts with at least 5 years of experience, every guide we employ is ready to share their expertise on Peru’s trails, culture, and history. Our porters are no exception. They work hard to make your journey one for the books, while our chefs will prepare you delicious meals along the way. With a 99% recommendation rate, we’re dedicated to making every detail of your trip unforgettable.
We’re Committed to Our Team
Our porters and horsemen are easily the backbone of every trek. That’s why we are fully committed to prioritizing their well-being. We ensure they’re paid above-average wages—higher than those offered by most tour companies—recognizing their hard work and dedication to the team. Beyond fair pay, we truly care for their well-being, providing proper gear, meals, and working conditions so they’re not just safe but comfortable, too.
We Look Out for Our Community
A portion of every trek we sell supports local projects, like helping fund a much-needed school roof in Sacsayhuaman, where many of our team live. For years, children in the area had no nearby school and faced grueling four-hour walks in harsh conditions to get an education. Today, thanks to these contributions, they have a local school, and we continue to donate to its upkeep—because making an impact goes beyond the trek.
We Customize Our Adventures to Suit Your Travel Style
We want every trip to feel like it was made just for you. Whether you’re keen on hiking the famous Inca Trail, exploring lesser-known spots in the Sacred Valley, or tackling our one-of-a-kind Ancashcocha + Inca Trail trek, we’ll plan your adventure to fit your travel style. To keep things personal, we keep group sizes small—and if your group is larger than eight, we’ll bring in an extra guide so no one misses out on the experience.
We Travel with Purpose – Serving the Women, Children, & Men of Peru
Every journey with us has a ripple effect. Your adventure supports ethical tourism, fair wages for porters, and opportunities for female trekkers–many of whom are breaking barriers on the Inca Trail–and children. We’re passionate about creating opportunities for local children to grow up healthy and learn about everything their heart desires. Through initiatives like repairing schools, donating educational materials, and funding projects, we make it a mission to build a brighter future for kids in the Cusco region. Every trek you take with us contributes to this mission. When you book with us, you’re not just exploring Peru; you’re investing in it and setting a standard for all other tourism companies and tourists.
Our Reputation is Built on Trust
Year after year, Eco Andes Trekking has earned top ratings on TripAdvisor and the prestigious Certificate of Excellence. We’ve worked hard for these awards and are proud to see our hard work recognized. Even prouder to know our travelers leave with unforgettable memories and stories worth sharing.
We Travel Sustainably & Responsibly
Peru’s landscapes are magnificent. That’s why we work so hard to protect them. We prioritize sustainable traveling by working with our local communities and employing indigenous guides––thus promoting economic empowerment and preserving cultural heritage. Along the journey, we’ll always encourage travelers to embrace responsible practices as advocates for the environment.
