Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological Site

One of the most attractive historical Inca sites we’ll find in the Sacred Valley is Huchuy Qosqo, a magical complex located high on a mountain near Lamay. From this spot, we can enjoy some of the most beautiful scenic views of the Valley. Discover how to reach the magical Huchuy Qosqo and all the attractions you’ll find when visiting.

Contents

• What will I find in Huchuy Qosqo?
• Where is Huchuy Qosqo?
• How to get to Huchuy Qosqo?
• Can I camp at Huchuy Qosqo?
• Tours to the Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological Site
  • Independent Option
  • Customized Tour Option
• Tips for your visit to Huchuy Qosqo
• Frequently Asked Questions

What will I find in Huchuy Qosqo?

Huchuy Qosqo is an impressive archaeological site located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. During our visit, we can admire its Inca architecture, which dates back to between the years 1000 and 1400. Its main functions were related to farming, thanks to its numerous agricultural terraces, as well as the storage of produce.

Within Huchuy Qosqo, we’ll also find a large number of adobe and stone houses that blend perfectly with the natural landscape around them. We’ll also see large halls (kallankas) featuring Inca-style windows and doors that, thanks to their architecture, are truly impressive.

If we explore the entire archaeological complex (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), we can witness functioning water fountains to this day, as well as irrigation channels used for the Inca terraces surrounding Huchuy Qosqo.

A big part of Huchuy Qosqo’s appeal lies in the hikes that lead to it, where you can encounter Inca trails that take you through the canyons of the Sacred Valley via constructions such as stairways, bridges, gateways, and stone paths.

Where is Huchuy Qosqo?

The Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site is located in the province of Calca, on top of a mountain near the town of Moray. It is one of the more adventurous attractions in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Huchuy Qosqo is approximately 50 kilometers from Cusco, first reaching Lamay and then continuing to the archaeological site. It sits at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level, surrounded by stunning landscapes of the valley, mountains, and nearby canyons.

How to get to Huchuy Qosqo?

There are several ways to reach the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, allowing for an adventurous mountain journey from Cusco, as well as easier ascents from Lamay. We’ll present the most popular route options so you can take part in one of the best hikes in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

• Cusco – Lamay – Huchuy Qosqo

  This is the most popular route because it is the easiest. First, you’ll need to travel from Cusco to Lamay by transport (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes) to begin the ascent to Huchuy Qosqo.

  The hike takes approximately 3 hours with a steady uphill climb. The narrow dirt paths will allow you to discover more about the flora of the Sacred Valley.

  As you get closer to the archaeological site, the landscapes become increasingly breathtaking.

• Cusco – Tambomachay – Huchuy Qosqo

  This is the most adventurous route. You’ll need to complete an approximately 8-hour hike through lagoons, valleys, canyons, and mountains in the highlands of Cusco.

  The experience begins in the city by taking transport to Tambomachay (20 minutes). From there, the hike begins, offering insights into the geography of the region.

  The highlight of this route is the Inca trails that lead to Huchuy Qosqo. Depending on the season, you may also witness a wide variety of flora that changes with elevation. This option is ideal for starting early in the morning, with the possibility of camping at the archaeological site.

• Cusco – Chinchero – Huchuy Qosqo

  This option, although not as popular, offers a middle ground between the previous ones, as the hiking portion can be completed in approximately 5 hours.

  The journey begins in Cusco, heading to Chinchero, specifically to the village of Taucca (home to Lake Piuray). After a 1 hour and 30 minute drive, the hike begins.

  This route also follows part of the Inca Trail and features stunning landscapes with a unique perspective of the Sacred Valley.

Can I camp at Huchuy Qosqo?

Yes, one of the great advantages of visiting Huchuy Qosqo is the possibility of camping at this beautiful site high in the mountains. There is a designated camping area within the archaeological site specifically for this experience. Just imagine waking up to views of the Sacred Valley and sleeping under the stars in a dreamlike setting.

You can combine this camping experience with the hike from Tambomachay to Huchuy Qosqo. Arriving at dusk, you’ll witness stunning angles of the site. After setting up your tents, you can rest from the long hike. The scenery and the experience will be one of the most unforgettable parts of your trip to Cusco.

Tours to the Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological Site

• Independent Option:

  To visit the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, you have the option of going on your own, in an adventure that offers the best views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The trails are usually well marked, so you won’t get lost, but always remember to go with someone who knows the route or at least use a GPS with the correct location.

• Customized Tour Option:

  If you prefer a safer and more informative experience, you can go with us. We also offer the opportunity to plan the tour according to your preferences. Here, you can choose which route to take — whether you want a longer hike via Tambomachay or perhaps a shorter experience through Lamay. You can also add this destination to any other in the Sacred Valley, making for a much richer experience.

Tips for Your Visit to Huchuy Qosqo

To help you have a more enriching travel experience at the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, here are several tips that will give you a broader understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for it.

• The Sacred Valley of the Incas is considered one of the best places to acclimatize during your first days in Cusco, thanks to its altitude of around 2,900 meters above sea level, offering a mild climate ideal for resting.
• “Huchuy Qosqo” is a Quechua name, which translates to “Little Cusco” in Spanish, referencing its similarity to the city of Cusco.
• Camping at Huchuy Qosqo can be one of the best experiences of your trip to Cusco. Thanks to its high altitude, you’ll enjoy starry skies so magnificent you may not even want to sleep.
• Part of the archaeological site is designated for camping, which provides greater comfort and safety.
• Rest at Huchuy Qosqo — it’s an awe-inspiring place high in the Sacred Valley mountains, offering one of the best scenic views in all of Cusco.
• If you visit the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological complex during the dry season (April to October), you’ll enjoy sunnier and clearer weather.
• During the rainy season (November to March), there is a higher chance of precipitation at Huchuy Qosqo, but you’ll have the chance to enjoy a more adventurous experience with stunning landscapes.
• Visit Huchuy Qosqo via the hike from Tambomachay for a more immersive and enriching travel experience that allows you to learn more about Cusco’s biodiversity.
• Take your time exploring each construction at Huchuy Qosqo so you don’t miss any details.
• Huchuy Qosqo is open every day of the year from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM. For access to the camping area, you can arrive at any time of the day.
• Remember that you can plan your Sacred Valley tour and choose your own itinerary. Consult our advisors to explore all the available options for your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. What is Huchuy Qosqo?

  Huchuy Qosqo, which means “Little Cusco” in Quechua, is an Inca archaeological site located atop a mountain in the Sacred Valley, in the province of Calca. It is an agricultural and administrative complex with many agricultural terraces.

• 2. How can I get to Huchuy Qosqo?

  There are three main routes to reach Huchuy Qosqo. The most accessible one starts from Lamay and involves around 3 hours of hiking. Another option begins at Tambomachay, near Cusco, with an 8-hour hike.

• 3. What can I see at the archaeological site?

  At Huchuy Qosqo, you can see agricultural terraces, adobe and stone houses, kallankas (large halls), water fountains, and still-functioning irrigation channels. The Inca architecture stands out for its harmony with nature.

• 4. Is it possible to camp at Huchuy Qosqo?

  Yes, there is a designated area for camping within the archaeological complex. This option is often combined with the hike from Tambomachay or Chinchero.

• 5. When is the best time to visit Huchuy Qosqo?

  The best time to visit is during the dry season, between April and October, when the days are sunnier and the weather is more stable.

• 6. What are the visiting hours for Huchuy Qosqo?

  The archaeological site is open every day of the year from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. As for the camping area, you can access it at any time of day, always respecting the environment and the site’s regulations.

• 7. Do I need to be in good physical condition to visit Huchuy Qosqo?

  That depends on the route you choose. The hike from Lamay is of moderate difficulty, while the routes from Tambomachay or Chinchero require better physical endurance due to their length and elevation.

• 8. Is there cell phone signal at Huchuy Qosqo?

  Cell phone signal in the Huchuy Qosqo area is limited or nearly nonexistent due to its remote location in the highlands of the Sacred Valley.

• 9. What altitude will I reach during the hike?

  The Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site is located at 3,600 meters above sea level, but if you take the hike from Tambomachay or Chinchero, you’ll reach altitudes above 4,200 meters at some points.

• 10. What is the entrance fee for Huchuy Qosqo?

  Entrance to Huchuy Qosqo costs approximately 7 soles for adults and 4 soles for children. Admission is free for residents of Cusco.