Huchuy Qosqo Trek 1 Day (Little Cusco)

Name: Huchuy Qosqo Trek 1 Day (Little Cusco)
Price: 150 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (31 reviews)

1 Days

Moderate

Tour Overview

Discover Huchuy Qosqo, the "Little Cusco": one of the most fascinating and least visited Inca sites near Cusco. Perched on a high plateau above the Sacred Valley, this former royal estate of the Inca Wiracocha rewards you with sweeping views of the Vilcanota River and the snow-capped peaks of the Urubamba range.

Your hike follows original Inca trails that are still preserved, passing through traditional Andean communities where age-old customs remain part of daily life. Along the way you'll walk through high-mountain landscapes, with time to explore terraces, canals, and stone buildings with barely another visitor in sight.

This day hike is perfect for travelers who want to combine Inca history, Andean scenery and an authentic trekking experience, far from the crowds of Machu Picchu or Pisac. It is also a great alternative to the classic Inca Trail, with no permits required and plenty of time to walk at your own pace.

Tour Highlights

Highlights of the Huchuy Qosqo.

Original Inca Trail: These trails still retain their authenticity and identity. Breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, viewed from the summit of Huchuy Qosqo Mountain. Native communities with a rich history and living culture. Huchuy Qosqo—also known as "Little Cusco"—situated atop the mountain.

1 Days Adventure

Price from USD 150 USD / per person

Trip starts in Hotel

Physical Level Moderate

Group Size Max 10

Total Distance 12 km

Departures Daily Guaranteed Departures

Check Availability

Secure inquiry. No payment required yet.

Detailed Itinerary

This adventure begins with the pick-up from your hotel at 6.00 am. To be able to go to the town of Corao (3,618 masl / 11,870 feet). Following the road, we will arrive to the small town of Patabamba (3,850 masl / 12,634 feet). From here we will start our hike to the beautiful Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco).

Continuing with our hike we will arrive to a small community called Pukamarca, place where we will have a small stop and our lunch. Finished our rest we will continue with our trail and is where we will begin to observe beautiful valleys and also our canyon of Puma Punku (the door of Puma). From this point we will walk along the original Inca trail, which will take us to the beautiful Huchuy Qosqo (Little Cusco 3,600 masl / 11,810 ft.). This is the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Arriving at the archaeological center that huchuy Qosqo your guide will be with you at all times and is where he will show you everything about the huchuy Qosqo, as sacred temples, terraces, food stores, water reservoir. that these were used during the drought. This and much more you get to know about huchuy Qosqo.

After the visit, we will have a short rest and then continue with a 2-hours descent to reach the village of Lamay (2,938 masl / 9,638 ft.). Place where our transportation will be waiting for us and then drive us to Cusco and next to your lodging.

Day 1: Cusco – Patabamba – Huchuy Qosqo – Lamay – Cusco

Inclusions & Exclusions

Price Includes

Briefing: The night before the trip.
Transfers: Private transport Cusco – Start Point / Lamay – Cusco.
Guide: Professional Bilingual Guide (English/Spanish).
Tickets: Entrance fee to Huchuy Qosqo.
Meals: 01 Box Lunch (carried by traveler or staff) + Snacks.
Safety: First Aid Kit and Oxygen.
Service: Personalized small group attention.

Price Excludes

Breakfast, Dinner.
Travel Insurance.
Rentals: Trekking poles (Highly recommended for the steep descent).
Tips: Optional.

Why Choose This Tour?

The Guiding Cusco Difference

Discover what makes this specific itinerary unique, authentic, and perfectly tailored for an unforgettable Andean adventure.

Why choose the 1-day Huchuy Qosqo tour?
Huchuy Qosqo—meaning "Little Cusco"—is a one-day hike for those seeking an authentic alternative to the classic Inca Trail, free from crowds and permit requirements. You will traverse original, well-preserved sections of the Inca Trail and visit Andean communities that are descendants of the original inhabitants and still keep their traditions alive.

The destination is the Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site, the former royal estate of the Inca Wiracocha, featuring terraces, canals, enclosures, and a spectacular view of the Sacred Valley. The hike concludes with a descent into the valley, passing through mountain landscapes and by lagoons and local communities along the way.

As this is a less-traveled route, you can hike at your own pace in a peaceful setting, truly connecting with nature and history. It is ideal for those who have already visited Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley and are looking for something different.

Why choose Guiding Cusco Expeditions?

Travel with confidence. Experience peru differently.

At Guiding Cusco Expeditions, we believe the best journeys are personal, meaningful, and thoughtfully designed.

Personalized Small Groups
We keep our groups small so you receive genuine, attentive service throughout your journey. Every experience is designed with your comfort, interests, and pace in mind.

Supporting Our Local Community
We work closely with local guides, cooks, drivers, families, and small businesses, helping create employment and keeping the benefits of tourism within our communities. We also support people and families with limited resources, because we believe tourism can make a positive difference beyond travel.

Licensed & Trustworthy
Guiding Cusco is a formally established and authorized Peruvian tour operator, operating in accordance with the requirements of the relevant Peruvian authorities. Your safety, comfort, and peace of mind are an essential part of every journey we organize.

A More Meaningful Way to Travel
When you travel with Guiding Cusco, you experience Peru with a local team that genuinely cares about its people, culture, and landscapes.

Personal attention. Local connection. Meaningful experiences.

Local Passionate Experts

Our team is made up of passionate local professionals who know Peru beyond the guidebooks. With years of experience and a genuine love for our culture, history, and landscapes, we create meaningful travel experiences that connect you with the authentic spirit of Cusco and its surrounding regions while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.

Licensed & Secure

Travel with confidence knowing that Guiding Cusco is a fully licensed Peru tour operator committed to the highest standards of safety, reliability, and service. From carefully selected guides and transportation to well-planned itineraries and secure operations, every aspect of your journey is designed to provide peace of mind and a worry-free experience.

Bespoke & 24/7 Support

Every traveler is unique, which is why we create personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, travel style, and schedule. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, luxury, or a combination of experiences, our team is available before, during, and after your trip with dedicated 24/7 support to ensure a seamless and memorable journey.

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Important Information

Please review these recommendations to ensure you have the best possible experience on your adventure.

Important information before your Huchuy Qosqo tour (Full Day)

Please read these guidelines from Guiding Cusco Expeditions before booking. They will help you prepare for your full-day hike.

Acclimatization
While not strictly mandatory for this specific tour, spending a day acclimatizing beforehand is recommended. Many travelers include Huchuy Qosqo in their itinerary after spending a few days in the region; this acclimatization is also beneficial for undertaking various other tours.

Pick-up time
The tour starts early. Hotel pick-up usually takes place between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM. Your guide will confirm the exact time the night before.

How do I book?
For each traveler, we require the following information via our booking form:

Full name as it appears on your passport
Date of birth
Nationality
Dietary requirements (if any)

A deposit of US$ 55 per person is required to secure your spot. The balance is payable in Cusco or prior to the tour. Payments can be made via bank transfer, online payment, Openpay, or through our website. (Online payments via WeTravel incur an 8% surcharge, and card payments via Openpay incur a 5% surcharge. Payments made in Cusco do not incur a surcharge.)

Can I change the date?
Please double-check your dates before booking. Changes are subject to availability and must be requested in advance; last-minute changes are treated as a "no-show."

What does the hike include?

Duration: Approximately 5 to 6 hours of hiking at a comfortable pace, with stops to explore the archaeological site.
Difficulty: Moderate.

Includes a sustained uphill climb at high altitude and a long descent into the Sacred Valley. No technical experience is required.
Entrance fees: Included.

Weather
The weather in the Andes changes rapidly. Mornings are cold, the midday sun can be intense, and rain, wind, or fog may occur at any time—especially between November and March. The dry season (May to September) offers clearer skies and better views of the Sacred Valley. Always carry a poncho or waterproof clothing.

Pricing Details

Standard Price

From USD 150

Huchuy Qosqo Hike — At a Glance

Availability: Daily from March through January · Suspension: February (rainy season and trail maintenance work) · Group size: Small-group adventure with guaranteed departure for 2 or more people · Booking: 50 USD advance payment per person; balance payable in Cusco · Guarantee: Price guaranteed once booking is confirmed (will not increase)

2026 Standard Price (per person)

Option	Price
Group standard price	99 USD
1 person	99 USD
2–5 people	88 USD
6–8 people	77 USD
Private – 2–4 people	150 USD
Private – 5–8 people	120 USD

Booking: 50 USD advance payment required per person; remaining 49 USD paid upon arrival in Cusco.

Payment Methods

Method	Surcharge
Online payment (WeTravel)	8% additional fee
Credit or debit card (Openpay)	5% additional fee
Cash in Cusco or directly to staff	No additional fee

Extensions / Additional Hikes

Extra	Price
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain	50 USD
Ausangate and the 7 Lagoons	50 USD
Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain	50 USD

Discounts

Age	Discount
Students aged 17 or younger	20 USD

Price Guarantee

Once your booking is confirmed, the price is guaranteed and will not increase.

Book This Tour

Price per person USD 150 USD

Book via WhatsApp

Secure inquiry. No payment required yet.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 31 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Carol B 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable Salkantay Trek
Excellent Experience doing the 5 Day Salkantay trek with Guiding Cusco. The landscapes were increíble and everything was very well organized. Our Guide was friendly and always made sure we were doing well. Definitely and adventure i highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Laura C 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable Day at Rainbow Mountain
I did the Rainbow Mountain tour with Edwin and it was perfect. From start to finish, the Guiding Cusco tour company made sure everything went smoothly and that everyone in the group felt happy and taken care of. The views at Rainbow Mountain were truly unforgettable. Edwin handled all the logistics perfectly so everyome could relax and enjoy the experience. Edwin is an amazing guide - funny, and a fantastic storyteller. He knows everything about Peru and makes the whole experience so much more meaningful. I would absolutely recommend a tour with Guiding Cusco to anyone visiting. 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   AnoukWolfs 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip
An Unforgettable Experience in Ausangate – Guiding Cusco Treking Ausangate with Guiding Cusco was one of the best experiences of our trip to Peru. From the very beginning, everything was very well organized, and the team made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported throughout the entire adventure. I want to give a special mention to Nazario, our cook, because he truly surprised us with the quality of the food. Being in such a remote place and at such a high altitude, we never imagined we would eat so well. Each meal was different, plentiful, fresh, and delicious. After long hikes, arriving at camp and finding a hot and well-prepared meal was incredible. We also want to give a special thanks to Percy, our muleteer, who did an excellent job throughout the trek. He was always attentive to the equipment, the horses, and making sure everything was ready at each campsite. It's clear he knows the mountain perfectly and works with great dedication. The campsites were excellent; everything was prepared and organized so we could rest after each day of hiking. Sleeping surrounded by the Ausangate mountains and waking up to those landscapes was simply spectacular. But the best part was the team. Everyone was kind, attentive, and professional, and we truly felt like we weren't just tourists on a tour, but rather having an authentic experience in the Andes. I highly recommend Guiding Cusco for Ausangate. If you're looking for a local, professional company with excellent organization, good food, good campsites, and a team that genuinely cares about its travelers, this is an excellent choice. Thanks to Nazario, Percy, and the entire Guiding Cusco team for making our Ausangate trip an unforgettable experience!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Trek11142408297 
 
 
 
 Verified reliable and individual support
We had direct contact with our guide from the beginning and were completely satisfied with his support. He was extremely accommodating, flexible, and addressed our wishes at all times. His advice on choosing the tour was particularly helpful: Based on his experience, he recommended a route to us where there were significantly fewer people and which suited us very well. We also felt in the best of hands with him during the tour itself. He accompanied us up the mountain and safely back down with a lot of experience and prudence. Overall, the entire service—from planning and personal support to execution—was more than satisfactory.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Marjorie Ocampos 
 
 
 
 Verified An amazing Salkantay Trek experience
I did the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Guiding Cusco as a solo traveller and had such a great experience. I felt comfortable and well looked after throughout the trek, and the group quickly became good company. The scenary was incredible and reaching Machu Picchu at the enf made all those challenging hiking dayscompletely worth it. So glad i decided to do this.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Skyle A 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing 5 day Trek.
We had an incredible trek to Machu Picchu with Lisbeth from Guiding Cusco. Everything was well organized, from the beautiful mountain scenery to the journey toward Machu Picchu. The team was friendly, professional, and always helpful. A challenging but unforgettable experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Peru. Highly recommended.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arnaldo g 
 
 
 
 Verified Five days of hiking in Cusco.!
Amazing experience! The smoll group made the Salkantay Trek feel very personal and relaxed. The guides were friendly, supportive, and the views were absolutely unforgettable. Reaching Machupicchu after five days of hiking was truly special.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cosmopolitan382563 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible Trek, Incredible Guide!
We did the 5 day/4 night Salktanay trek and it was awesome! Edwin is a local celebrity on the trail-- he knows every guide and all the community members along the trail. He was able to seamlessly resolve little the inevitable little hiccups (arranging cars, etc) and even helped us snag some Circuit 2 (the best circuit) Machu Picchu tickets when we arrived in Aquas Calientes. One thing that's special about Guiding Cusco Expeditions is that it's a smaller outfit and they do things a little differently from the two big trekking companies. Edwin knew different trails that were less crowded (both people and mules) that were far more beautiful than the mainline trails that we could see the other group taking across the valley. Edwin is also extremely knowledgable about the local ecology, plants, and birds. After going over the Salktanay pass and dropping into the cloud forest, he pointed out all the different species of flowers and even the wild orchids along the trail. I also have to give a special shout out to Nassario, the mountain chef who accompanied us for most of the trek-- every day he put together these incredible meals that were diverse, full of local flavor, and perfect for a long day of trekking. He even taught us how to make lomo saltado one afternoon. We had a fantastic experience and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Guiding Cusco Expedition-- they're a really awesome outfit who were a pleasure to work with at every step of the journey and we had an absolute blast.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   H B 
 
 
 
 Verified Six Stars for Guiding Cusco Expeditions
Outstanding Trip! Pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. We just completed the 5 day / 4 night Salkantay Trek with Guiding Cusco Expeditions led by expert guide Edwin and chef Nosario. I cannot recommend Guiding Cusco more highly. First of all, the trek is spectacular. Every day is a completely new ecological environment, from high alpine peaks to a rainforest full of wild orchids and half a dozen different species of hummingbirds. Guiding Cusco Expeditions is a particularly good guide company. Coordinating with Lisbet over WhatsApp prior to the trip was easy and efficient. Edwin has over a decade of experience guiding in the Andes and he and Lisbet recently started Guiding Cusco. The entire trip was both safe, fun, and exceeded anything I could have organized myself. Edwin is extremely knowledgeable about history, geography, and the natural world and a true pleasure to learn from. Edwin also made our hike absolutely seamless, from the hotel pickup to the pass at 15,000 feet, to the 45th mile. He is able to juggle many logistics while making everything seem effortless (certainly felt that way to us). The accommodations were really great. Edwin knows the region very well and our hike benefited from his expertise. For example, there were several parts of the trek where we would see other companies walking along the road whereas Edwin would take us on forested trails with waterfalls and wildlife. I also have a severe food allergy and Guiding Cusco Expeditions expertly accommodated this throughout the entire trip. Guiding Cusco Expeditions was extremely diligent. They even led a cooking class one day on the trail! It was spectacular to cook classic Peruvian cuisine surrounded by the peaks of the Andes. If you want to support a local business and enjoy hiking in small groups with great vibes, pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. You'll have an amazing time.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   onialias 
 
 
 
 Verified Ausangate 4d3n + Rainbow Mountain
I went with Guiding Cusco for a private Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain trip organised by Lisbet and guided by Edwin at the end of April 2026. They are amazing team and has been the easiest and professional operator to deal with. Lisbet is extremely responsive on Whatsapp communication and went above and beyond to help me in my last minute travel plan. Edwin and his team looked after me very well during the trek. Vegetarian food prepared by Nazario was amazing and you will never ever go hungry! Any extra food is shared with local community so nothing goes to waste. Guiding Cusco is the operator to go with particularly if you are looking for experienced local guide for your trekking around Cusco.

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Huchuy Qosqo mean, and what is it?

Huchuy Qosqo means "Little Cusco" in Quechua: "huchuy" means small, and "Qosqo" refers to Cusco. It is an Inca archaeological site that, according to chroniclers, was commissioned by the Inca Wiracocha as a place of rest and retreat. It is situated on a plateau overlooking the Sacred Valley.

Where is Huchuy Qosqo located, and at what altitude?

It is located about 50 km north of Cusco, at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea level. Other sources place it at around 3,650 meters. From the site, you can see the Vilcanota River, snow-capped peaks, and the town of Calca.

How difficult is the hike?

It is of moderate difficulty. It is not an extremely difficult hike, but neither is it the easiest: it is long, with sections at high altitude and descents that are hard on the knees. The difficulty depends largely on how well-acclimatized you are.

How many kilometers is the hike?

It depends on the starting point. The route from Tauca is about 13 km. Other operators starting from Chinchero report 14–15 km, and routes from more distant points can reach up to 20 km.

Where does the tour start and end?

There are several variations. Some start in Patabamba and end in Lamay, in the Sacred Valley. One option involves picking up passengers from their hotel at 5:30 AM and stopping at Tambomachay before the hike begins.

Is Huchuy Qosqo better than the Inca Trail?

They are different experiences. Huchuy Qosqo is a one-day hike that follows sections of original Inca trails; it requires no permits or booking months in advance. The classic Inca Trail takes four days, requires a permit, and ends at Machu Picchu. Huchuy Qosqo is considered the easiest of the treks leading to Machu Picchu.

Testimonials

What Our Guests Say

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 31 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Carol B 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable Salkantay Trek
Excellent Experience doing the 5 Day Salkantay trek with Guiding Cusco. The landscapes were increíble and everything was very well organized. Our Guide was friendly and always made sure we were doing well. Definitely and adventure i highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Laura C 
 
 
 
 Verified Unforgettable Day at Rainbow Mountain
I did the Rainbow Mountain tour with Edwin and it was perfect. From start to finish, the Guiding Cusco tour company made sure everything went smoothly and that everyone in the group felt happy and taken care of. The views at Rainbow Mountain were truly unforgettable. Edwin handled all the logistics perfectly so everyome could relax and enjoy the experience. Edwin is an amazing guide - funny, and a fantastic storyteller. He knows everything about Peru and makes the whole experience so much more meaningful. I would absolutely recommend a tour with Guiding Cusco to anyone visiting. 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   AnoukWolfs 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip
An Unforgettable Experience in Ausangate – Guiding Cusco Treking Ausangate with Guiding Cusco was one of the best experiences of our trip to Peru. From the very beginning, everything was very well organized, and the team made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported throughout the entire adventure. I want to give a special mention to Nazario, our cook, because he truly surprised us with the quality of the food. Being in such a remote place and at such a high altitude, we never imagined we would eat so well. Each meal was different, plentiful, fresh, and delicious. After long hikes, arriving at camp and finding a hot and well-prepared meal was incredible. We also want to give a special thanks to Percy, our muleteer, who did an excellent job throughout the trek. He was always attentive to the equipment, the horses, and making sure everything was ready at each campsite. It's clear he knows the mountain perfectly and works with great dedication. The campsites were excellent; everything was prepared and organized so we could rest after each day of hiking. Sleeping surrounded by the Ausangate mountains and waking up to those landscapes was simply spectacular. But the best part was the team. Everyone was kind, attentive, and professional, and we truly felt like we weren't just tourists on a tour, but rather having an authentic experience in the Andes. I highly recommend Guiding Cusco for Ausangate. If you're looking for a local, professional company with excellent organization, good food, good campsites, and a team that genuinely cares about its travelers, this is an excellent choice. Thanks to Nazario, Percy, and the entire Guiding Cusco team for making our Ausangate trip an unforgettable experience!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Trek11142408297 
 
 
 
 Verified reliable and individual support
We had direct contact with our guide from the beginning and were completely satisfied with his support. He was extremely accommodating, flexible, and addressed our wishes at all times. His advice on choosing the tour was particularly helpful: Based on his experience, he recommended a route to us where there were significantly fewer people and which suited us very well. We also felt in the best of hands with him during the tour itself. He accompanied us up the mountain and safely back down with a lot of experience and prudence. Overall, the entire service—from planning and personal support to execution—was more than satisfactory.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Marjorie Ocampos 
 
 
 
 Verified An amazing Salkantay Trek experience
I did the 5 day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Guiding Cusco as a solo traveller and had such a great experience. I felt comfortable and well looked after throughout the trek, and the group quickly became good company. The scenary was incredible and reaching Machu Picchu at the enf made all those challenging hiking dayscompletely worth it. So glad i decided to do this.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Skyle A 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing 5 day Trek.
We had an incredible trek to Machu Picchu with Lisbeth from Guiding Cusco. Everything was well organized, from the beautiful mountain scenery to the journey toward Machu Picchu. The team was friendly, professional, and always helpful. A challenging but unforgettable experience and definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Peru. Highly recommended.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arnaldo g 
 
 
 
 Verified Five days of hiking in Cusco.!
Amazing experience! The smoll group made the Salkantay Trek feel very personal and relaxed. The guides were friendly, supportive, and the views were absolutely unforgettable. Reaching Machupicchu after five days of hiking was truly special.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cosmopolitan382563 
 
 
 
 Verified Incredible Trek, Incredible Guide!
We did the 5 day/4 night Salktanay trek and it was awesome! Edwin is a local celebrity on the trail-- he knows every guide and all the community members along the trail. He was able to seamlessly resolve little the inevitable little hiccups (arranging cars, etc) and even helped us snag some Circuit 2 (the best circuit) Machu Picchu tickets when we arrived in Aquas Calientes. One thing that's special about Guiding Cusco Expeditions is that it's a smaller outfit and they do things a little differently from the two big trekking companies. Edwin knew different trails that were less crowded (both people and mules) that were far more beautiful than the mainline trails that we could see the other group taking across the valley. Edwin is also extremely knowledgable about the local ecology, plants, and birds. After going over the Salktanay pass and dropping into the cloud forest, he pointed out all the different species of flowers and even the wild orchids along the trail. I also have to give a special shout out to Nassario, the mountain chef who accompanied us for most of the trek-- every day he put together these incredible meals that were diverse, full of local flavor, and perfect for a long day of trekking. He even taught us how to make lomo saltado one afternoon. We had a fantastic experience and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Guiding Cusco Expedition-- they're a really awesome outfit who were a pleasure to work with at every step of the journey and we had an absolute blast.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   H B 
 
 
 
 Verified Six Stars for Guiding Cusco Expeditions
Outstanding Trip! Pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. We just completed the 5 day / 4 night Salkantay Trek with Guiding Cusco Expeditions led by expert guide Edwin and chef Nosario. I cannot recommend Guiding Cusco more highly. First of all, the trek is spectacular. Every day is a completely new ecological environment, from high alpine peaks to a rainforest full of wild orchids and half a dozen different species of hummingbirds. Guiding Cusco Expeditions is a particularly good guide company. Coordinating with Lisbet over WhatsApp prior to the trip was easy and efficient. Edwin has over a decade of experience guiding in the Andes and he and Lisbet recently started Guiding Cusco. The entire trip was both safe, fun, and exceeded anything I could have organized myself. Edwin is extremely knowledgeable about history, geography, and the natural world and a true pleasure to learn from. Edwin also made our hike absolutely seamless, from the hotel pickup to the pass at 15,000 feet, to the 45th mile. He is able to juggle many logistics while making everything seem effortless (certainly felt that way to us). The accommodations were really great. Edwin knows the region very well and our hike benefited from his expertise. For example, there were several parts of the trek where we would see other companies walking along the road whereas Edwin would take us on forested trails with waterfalls and wildlife. I also have a severe food allergy and Guiding Cusco Expeditions expertly accommodated this throughout the entire trip. Guiding Cusco Expeditions was extremely diligent. They even led a cooking class one day on the trail! It was spectacular to cook classic Peruvian cuisine surrounded by the peaks of the Andes. If you want to support a local business and enjoy hiking in small groups with great vibes, pick Guiding Cusco Expeditions. You'll have an amazing time.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   onialias 
 
 
 
 Verified Ausangate 4d3n + Rainbow Mountain
I went with Guiding Cusco for a private Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain trip organised by Lisbet and guided by Edwin at the end of April 2026. They are amazing team and has been the easiest and professional operator to deal with. Lisbet is extremely responsive on Whatsapp communication and went above and beyond to help me in my last minute travel plan. Edwin and his team looked after me very well during the trek. Vegetarian food prepared by Nazario was amazing and you will never ever go hungry! Any extra food is shared with local community so nothing goes to waste. Guiding Cusco is the operator to go with particularly if you are looking for experienced local guide for your trekking around Cusco.

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