Inca Trail 2027 - Limited permits. Plan early with Apple Travel Peru.
Check availability3 Days / 2 Nights
Escape the crowded standard trails and experience an authentic slice of the high Andes on the 3-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu. Traversing high mountain passes, ancient Inca highways, and serene cliffside ruins, this off-the-beaten-path circuit combines dramatic scenery, genuine cultural homestays, and iconic archaeological sites into a single, seamless adventure.
Perched high above the Urubamba River, Huchuy Qosqo (“Little Cusco”) was built in the 15th century by the 8th Inca Emperor, Wiracocha, as a secluded royal estate and mountain retreat modeled after the Inca capital. Today, its grand stone palaces, storehouses, terraced hillsides, and ceremonial sectors offer peaceful, uncrowded exploration surrounded by sweeping views of the Sacred Valley and snow-capped mountain peaks.
More than just a hike, this all-in-one itinerary bridges remote mountain living with the classic highlights of Peru. You will spend an evening in a traditional village homestay (learning local Andean customs and stargazing beneath unpolluted night skies) before exploring the circular agricultural laboratory of Moray, the pre-Inca Maras Salt Mines, and the living town of Ollantaytambo. Your journey culminates with a scenic train ride into the cloud forest and a fully guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel.
Private or Group
Trekking and Adventure
Up to 8
Camping
Easy
3 Days / 2 Nights
Huchuy Qosqo Trek To Machu Picchu 3 Days
Your adventure begins at 6:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From here, we drive about 1 hour in private transport to the highland village of Patabamba (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the starting point of today’s trek.
After gearing up, we begin a gentle uphill hike lasting approximately 3 hours, gradually reaching the highest point of the trek at 4,200 m / 13,779 ft. The reward: open views over snow-capped peaks, wide valleys, and remote Andean landscapes.
From the pass, we descend toward the village of Pucamarca, where we visit the Inca ruins and take time to explore this lesser-visited archaeological site.
Continuing along a section of the original Inca Trail, we arrive at the impressive Inca city of Huchuy Qosqo, dramatically perched above the Sacred Valley. You’ll have time to explore the site, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views stretching far below.
In the afternoon, we head to a local family homestay, where your guide will introduce you to your hosts. You’ll be shown to your room and bathroom, equipped with a proper toilet, ensuring comfort while still enjoying an authentic experience.
Later, enjoy afternoon tea, followed by a home-cooked dinner shared with your host family.
As night falls, the experience becomes truly special. Far from city lights, you’ll witness a sky filled with stars. Your guide will point out Inca constellations, offering a unique connection to ancient Andean cosmology.
After a nourishing breakfast, we begin the day with a guided tour of the Huchuy Qosqo Inca City. Walking through the site, you’ll discover finely built Inca temples, farming terraces, storehouses, and water channels, all strategically positioned high above the Sacred Valley. Your guide will explain the historical importance of Huchuy Qosqo and how it played a pivotal role in shaping Inca political and religious history.
Once the visit is complete, we begin a 2-hour downhill walk toward Lamay, enjoying changing landscapes as we descend from the high Andes into the valley. At Lamay, our private van will be waiting to continue the journey to Urubamba, where we’ll stop for lunch.
Moray: Agricultural Laboratory of the Incas
In the afternoon, we visit the remarkable archaeological site of Moray, often referred to as the greenhouse of the Incas. This unique circular complex features concentric terraces carved deep into the earth, with each level creating a distinct microclimate. Archaeologists believe the Incas used Moray to experiment with crop cultivation, demonstrating remarkable agricultural ingenuity.
Next, we travel to the colonial town of Maras and descend to the famous Pre-Inca Salt Mines (Salineras). Thousands of salt pans cascade down the hillside, fed by a natural saltwater spring. These pans have been worked continuously since pre-Inca times and are still owned and maintained by local families. This is one of the rare places on Earth where you’ll find naturally occurring pink salt.
Our journey continues to Ollantaytambo, the only living Inca town still functioning as it did centuries ago. Here, you’ll explore its massive stone terraces and astronomical structures, learning how the city served as a strategic, ceremonial, and agricultural center.
After dinner at a local restaurant, we board the 19:04 train to Aguas Calientes, traveling through the dramatic Urubamba River canyon. Upon arrival, we will walk to your hotel for a restful evening before visiting Machu Picchu the following morning.
Wake up early for the highlight of your trip! After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise over this legendary citadel. The early morning light over the citadel creates an unforgettable start to your day.
Your expert guide will lead a two-hour tour through the main sectors of Machu Picchu: agricultural terraces, residential areas, and sacred temples. You’ll see the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, Sun Dial, Quarry, and the House of the Inca, all while learning about the history and significance of this Incan masterpiece.
If you booked in advance, you can hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views. These extra hikes let you experience the citadel from new perspectives and create unforgettable photo opportunities.
After your tour, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your schedule, you’ll also have free time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, visit the museum, or relax at the hot springs.
In the afternoon, board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo. The scenic ride follows the winding Urubamba River, with narrow canyon views, rushing whitewater, and the chance to spot the ancient ruins of Wiñay Wayna along the cliffs. At Ollantaytambo, your private driver will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m.
Meals included: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
The 3-Day Huchuy Qosqo Trek operates daily on any date of your choice with a minimum of 2 trekkers.
| Service Type | Group Capacity | Price Per Person |
| All-Inclusive Tour Package | Small Group (Maximum 8, Average 2 to 6) | $517 USD |
To ensure a comfortable trek across varying Andean microclimates, we recommend packing using a layering system. You will receive a 7 kg (15 lbs) duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing for evening clothes and extra gear, while carrying your daily essentials in a small 25–30L daypack.
Apple Travel Peru is a 100% Cusqueñian, family-owned tour operator based in the heart of Cusco. Founded on years of hands-on mountain trekking experience, we operate without external shareholders or middleman agencies. Our mission is simple: to deliver authentic, high-quality, and deeply personalized Andean adventures while practicing responsible, sustainable tourism that directly uplifts our local mountain communities.
We take immense pride in our reputation for reliability, earning Certificates of Excellence on TripAdvisor and feature mentions across major travel publications, including Condé Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet.
What Sets Us Apart
Guaranteed Small Groups (Maximum 8 Guests): To provide an intimate, unhurried, and flexible trail experience, we strictly cap group departures at a maximum of 8 participants (averaging 2 to 6 trekkers). While large operators herd groups of 20 to 30 people along the trail, our small group policy guarantees personalized attention from your guide, flexible walking paces, and seamless daily logistics.
Expert Local Guides with University Degrees: Our guiding team is the true heart of our company. Every lead guide is a native Cusqueñian fluent in English and Spanish, holding a formal university degree in Archaeology, Tourism, History, Botany, or Anthropology. Driven by a genuine passion for Andean culture, they provide rich historical insights, accurate cultural storytelling, and certified high-altitude safety management on every excursion.
Fair Living Wages & Community Reinvestment: We consider our guides, drivers, cooks, and local host families as part of our extended family. We pay fair living wages well above industry averages to ensure our team members build financially secure futures. By partnering directly with rural highland villages on off-the-beaten-path routes, we support local community projects and ensure the financial benefits of tourism directly empower the indigenous families who make Peru so welcoming.
We offer complimentary airport pickup for all booked guests arriving at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. Please share your complete flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Our representative will meet you outside the arrival terminal holding an orange Apple Travel Peru sign and transfer you directly to your hotel.
Your mandatory pre-trek orientation takes place at 6:00 PM the evening before your departure. The briefing is held at our central Cusco office located at Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 212. During this meeting, your guide will review the route details, answer last-minute questions, and hand over your personal 7 kg duffel bag.
Yes. You can store your main luggage free of charge at our secure Cusco office or directly at your hotel while you are on the trail. You only need to bring your lightweight daypack and provided duffel bag on the excursion.
Booking requires two simple steps on our website:
If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address appletravelperu@gmail.com
You can pay your remaining balance in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) during your pre-trek briefing or at our Cusco office to avoid credit card processing fees. Alternatively, online payments via VISA or PayPal incur a 5.5% processing fee (PayPal payments should be sent directly to appletravelperu@gmail.com).
No. Once Machu Picchu entrance permits and train tickets are issued under your name, government regulations strictly prohibit any date changes, transfers, or refunds. All initial deposits are strictly non-refundable.
Yes. You must present your original physical passport at Machu Picchu checkpoints, train boarding gates, and site entrances. The passport must match the exact details submitted at booking. If you renew your passport before the trip, you can update your permit details for a $25 USD administrative fee by sending us copies of both documents. Alternatively, you must carry both your old and new physical passports on the trail.
Mountain weather in the Andes changes rapidly. Daytime temperatures along the trail are usually mild and comfortable (15°C to 20°C / 59°F to 68°F), while night temperatures at high elevations can drop near freezing (0°C to 5°C / 32°F to 41°F). We recommend dressing in versatile layers and carrying a waterproof jacket or rain poncho in your daypack at all times.
The highest point on the trek is the mountain pass above Patabamba at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet), while the Huchuy Qosqo ruins sit at 3,650 meters (11,975 feet). To prevent altitude sickness (soroche), we strongly recommend spending 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. Stay well-hydrated, drink local coca tea, eat light meals, and avoid heavy alcohol consumption. Our guides carry emergency oxygen tanks and pulse oximeters at all times.
Peruvian regulations strictly enforce a maximum weight limit of 7 kg (15 lbs) per duffel bag, which covers your sleeping gear, clothes, and extra toiletries. Our support transport carries these duffel bags between accommodation stops, so you only need to carry a small daypack (20L to 30L) with your daily essentials such as water, camera, rain layers, and sunscreen.
We rate this trek as easy to moderate across a total hiking distance of approximately 20 km (12.4 miles). While the trail is far less demanding than the Classic Inca Trail, it does reach a high altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). Hikers should possess a basic level of physical fitness and be comfortable walking 4 to 6 hours per day on uneven stone pathways and mountain slopes.
Your safety is our highest priority. If you experience severe altitude sickness or an emergency health issue, your guide will administer oxygen, evaluate your condition, and arrange immediate transfer to the nearest town or medical clinic. Most recovering trekkers rejoin the group in Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu as planned (any additional third-party transport fees are the responsibility of the traveler). Emergency medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Yes. On Day 3, after returning by train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo, our private driver meets you at the station and drops you off directly at your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo.
We typically book returning Expedition Train departures from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 14:55 or 15:20. This timing maximizes your morning exploration time at Machu Picchu while ensuring a comfortable return to Cusco by early evening (around 7:00 PM).
Tipping is completely voluntary, but it is deeply appreciated across the Peruvian tourism industry. If you are satisfied with the service provided, tipping directly supports our hard-working local guides, drivers, and host families.
Apple Travel Peru is a 100% Cusqueñian, family-owned operator. We practice responsible tourism by paying fair living wages to all staff, utilizing eco-friendly trail habits, and reinvesting proceeds into isolated highland communities through direct employment, educational assistance, and sustainable family homestay partnerships.
The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is an off-the-beaten-path alternative that combines high-altitude mountain scenery, authentic cultural homestays, and Sacred Valley touring (Moray and Maras) without the heavy foot traffic, strict permit waitlists, or intense multi-day camping required on the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
Night 1 features an authentic family homestay in a rural highland community near Patabamba. Guests stay in comfortable private or semi-private bedrooms equipped with clean bedding. The home includes a dedicated indoor bathroom facility with a flush toilet, running water, and proper hygiene amenities.
The trek includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and daily afternoon tea. Meals combine fresh local ingredients, traditional Peruvian recipes, and energy-dense hiking staples. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and other specific dietary requirements at no additional charge when notified at booking.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
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Permits
