Huchuy Qosqo
An alpine hike leads to this ancient Inca royal estate, offering stunning ruins and breathtaking Andean vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, best views
Huchuy Qosqo
Best Time
Clear skies, best views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An alpine hike leads to this ancient Inca royal estate, offering stunning ruins and breathtaking Andean vistas.
"The scenery up there is amazing, and the ruins are okay, but the view is the best part!"
🎒 Pack for Altitude
Acclimatize in Cusco first! Bring layers, water, and snacks. :hiking_boot:
🚶 Choose Your Trail
Lamay is steep, Calca is gradual. Pick based on your fitness. :mountain_railway:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Huchuy Qosqo Ruins
Top of the mountain
Explore this ancient Inca royal estate with stunning architecture and panoramic Andean views.
Milky Way Views
Overnight camping spots
Camp overnight for an unparalleled view of the Milky Way, far from city lights.
Andean Scenery
Surrounding valleys
Breathtaking mountain vistas and untouched clouds create a magical, serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Smart: Altitude & Acclimatization
Choose Your Route Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for Altitude
Acclimatize in Cusco first! Bring layers, water, and snacks. :hiking_boot:
🚶 Choose Your Trail
Lamay is steep, Calca is gradual. Pick based on your fitness. :mountain_railway:
💰 Free Entry (for now!)
Currently, entrance to the ruins is free, but this may change. :moneywithwings:
🌌 Camp for Stars
Overnight stays offer incredible stargazing and peaceful ruins. :camping:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for Altitude
Acclimatize in Cusco first! Bring layers, water, and snacks. :hiking_boot:
🚶 Choose Your Trail
Lamay is steep, Calca is gradual. Pick based on your fitness. :mountain_railway:
💰 Free Entry (for now!)
Currently, entrance to the ruins is free, but this may change. :moneywithwings:
🌌 Camp for Stars
Overnight stays offer incredible stargazing and peaceful ruins. :camping:
📸 Capture the Magic
The scenery is magnificent and full of quiet magic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and the rewarding trek to Huchuy Qosqo, often highlighting the incredible stargazing opportunities when camping overnight. While the ruins are impressive, the breathtaking Andean landscapes and the sense of quiet magic are frequently praised. Some find the Lamay trail very challenging due to its steepness.
"Great trekking! Medium level! Fun and easy to do in one day! If you get to stay overnight, you’ll be amazed by the look of the milky way and the lighting on the mountain in front of the ruins"
Victor Mendoza
"If you are in pisac, you can take a collectivo to Lamay (2 soles) or Calca (2.5 soles).
The way to Juchuy coscco from Lamay is shorter but steep and slippery
The way from Calca is quite far but the path is more easy because it is for a car. You can take a Tuktuk from the town to foothill(10 soles) then hike up around 3 hours Or you can take a car there and then walk a little bit.
I prefer the Calca side because the view when I arrive there is more impressive. (But it is not a big deal , you can walk up from Lamay and go down from the Calca side too)
For the ruinas is ok but the scenery up there is amazing.
I talked with the locals, it is a free entrance for now. I saw they are building a cable car, it will probably be launched next year."
Temsiri Tem.
"We had an incredible experience here with the shamans during a beautiful ayahuasca ceremony. The setting itself is stunning, surrounded by real, untouched clouds that contrast starkly with the chemtrails I'm used to seeing in Europe. Through the ceremony, ayahuasca helped release the tension I stored whenever I heard something unpleasant, which I believe will have a positive impact on my relationships. I’m grateful for this opportunity to heal and for the beauty of this sacred place. Here are a few photos to capture the essence of this unique experience."
Pieter Van Reeth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Cusco, take a collectivo to Pisac, then another to Lamay (2 soles) or Calca (2.5 soles). The Lamay route is shorter but steep, while the Calca route is longer but more gradual. You can also take a tuk-tuk from Calca to the foothills (10 soles) and hike up.
Yes, you can start your trek from Tambomachay. This route is longer, approximately 8 hours, and offers a beautiful hike with fewer people.
Some travelers suggest a route from Chinchero, estimated to take about 5 hours to reach Huchuy Qosqo.
Many prefer the Calca side for arrival as the view when you reach the ruins is more impressive. You can hike up from Lamay and descend via Calca.
Yes, collectivos run between Cusco, Pisac, Lamay, and Calca. From Calca, a tuk-tuk can take you closer to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, entrance to the Huchuy Qosqo ruins is free. However, it's advisable to check for any changes as they are building a cable car.
As it's an archaeological site with hiking trails, there are no strict operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Information regarding tourist passes including Huchuy Qosqo is not widely available. It's currently free to enter, so a pass may not be necessary.
Yes, many tour operators in Cusco offer guided treks to Huchuy Qosqo, which can enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.
The trails themselves are generally accessible without specific fees, though local transport costs will apply.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Exploring the archaeological site itself can take 1-2 hours. Hiking further up the valley or around the ruins can extend your visit significantly.
The difficulty varies by route. The Lamay route is very steep and demanding, while the Calca route is more gradual. Altitude can also be a factor.
Mornings offer clearer skies and cooler temperatures for hiking. Visiting during the dry season (May-October) is generally recommended.
Facilities are limited at the ruins. It's best to use restrooms before you start your hike or at your accommodation.
Yes, camping overnight is possible and highly recommended for the stargazing experience. You can hike up the valley and camp along the stream.
📸 📸 Photography
The ruins themselves offer stunning architectural shots. The panoramic views from the top of the mountain and the surrounding valleys are also incredible.
Absolutely! Camping overnight provides an exceptional opportunity for astrophotography, with clear skies offering views of the Milky Way.
Early morning light is ideal for capturing the ruins and landscapes. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful lighting.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone at the site.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details in the ruins. A sturdy tripod is essential for astrophotography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ruins themselves are fascinating, the real adventure for kids might be the hike and the opportunity to camp overnight. The chance to see the stars and experience the vastness of the Andes can be a memorable part of the trip. Keep the visit to the ruins relatively short to avoid fatigue, and focus on the journey and the stunning natural surroundings.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for a self-guided hike instead of a tour can save money. If you're comfortable with independent travel, you can arrange your own transport and pack your own food. Camping overnight is also a cost-effective way to experience the site fully without needing to book accommodation.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
For an enhanced spiritual journey, consider participating in a guided Ayahuasca ceremony or other traditional practices offered by local shamans. The remote location and the profound energy of the place are said to amplify these experiences, leading to deep insights and emotional release.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trekking to Huchuy Qosqo: Routes and Challenges
Conversely, the route from Calca is longer but offers a more gradual ascent, making it more accessible for a wider range of hikers. Some visitors opt to take a tuk-tuk from Calca to the foothills to shorten the walking portion. For those seeking a more immersive Inca experience, starting the trek from Tambomachay is an option. This longer, 8-hour trek allows you to walk along ancient Inca roads and is often less crowded, providing a more serene experience.
Regardless of the chosen path, acclimatization to the high altitude is crucial. Travelers are strongly advised to spend a few days in Cusco before embarking on any trek to Huchuy Qosqo to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Staying hydrated and considering local remedies like coca tea can also be beneficial.
The Huchuy Qosqo Archaeological Site: History and Exploration
The site's location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding mountains. This dramatic scenery is a major draw for visitors, with many describing the quiet magic and history of the place as captivating.
Some travelers have even reported seeing untouched clouds contrasting with the chemtrails common in Europe, adding to the pristine natural beauty. While the ruins are the main attraction, the surrounding landscape offers opportunities for further exploration. Hiking up the valley to the left of the main ruins can lead to beautiful camping spots along streams, offering a chance to truly immerse oneself in the Andean wilderness.
Spiritual Experiences and Overnight Stays
For those looking to deepen their connection with the site, an overnight stay is highly recommended. Camping near the ruins offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the night sky. The absence of light pollution allows for spectacular views of the Milky Way, a truly awe-inspiring sight that many travelers cherish.
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