Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Day – Huchuy Qosqo Day Hike

Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 Day is an off the beaten track experience in Peru ideal for those wanting to get an insight to the Inca civilization. The name, Huchuy Qosqo – Cusco in Quechua means “Little Cusco”. The archaeological site nestles at 3600 metres above sea level near the village of Lamay in Sacred Valley. 

The complex was primarily used by Incas as a military and administrative centre. Huchuy Qosqo was built by Inca Sapa, Viracocha. 

Unlike others, the Incas did not practise the tax system. Instead they controlled the land and the labour. This allowed them to acquire more land and wealth and pass it down in the lie of succession. 

During the later days of Viracocha’s rule in Cusco, he faced a revolt from the Chanca community. Fearing for his life, he handed over the throne of Cusco to his son Pachacutec and fled to Huchuy Qosqo. 

Pachacutec in turn deposed the revolt and assumed the role as an Emperor. 

On Viracocha’s death, his corpse was mummified and stored in Huchuy Qosqo. When the Spanish Invaders conquered Cusco, under the leadership of Gonzalo Pizzaro they conquered Huchuy Qosqo and burnt the mummified corpse of Viracocha. 

Huchuy Qosqo Archeological Site:

Huchuy Qosqo saw extensive development under the leadership of Pachacutec. The Spanish rulers conquered the complex, demolished the aqueducts and built larger reservoirs which can be seen today. 

One of the prominent sites in the complex are the Kallankas. It is a large hall that is some 40 metres long. 

In Qullas which in Quechua means storehouse, the Incas stored many crops like Quinoa and dried meat. 

Although not as popular as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Huchuy Qosqo Trek is the shortest and the most interesting alternative trek to Machu Picchu. 

Why Happy Gringo Tours?

Happy Gringo Tours is a fully locally owned tour operating company in the city of Cusco. We have state of the art campsites and camping and cooking equipment. We operate all the treks under the guidance of a local tour guide. 

Our tour guides, as locals, have an extensive knowledge about the culture and history. Most of them are mountaineers and have plenty of knowledge and experience on high altitude treks and dealing with altitude sickness. 

Still, wondering about the reasons to hike Huchuy Qosqo? Check out our post on the top five reasons to hike the Huchuy Qosqo trek.

We aim to make this an unforgettable experience of your trip to Peru. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor.

Please note it is best to hike Huchuy Qosqo Day Hike during the dry season – between March and November.