Huchuy Qosqo + Patabamba Trek 2 Days

Early morning pick up from your hotel in Cusco will be at 7:30 AM. We will drive to Tambomachay (3800 MASL – 12467 FASL), an archaeological complex situated in the Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park. Tambomachay is comprised of a series of ceremonial water fountains, which are thought to have been dedicated to a water cult. The day’s hike will start at this point, and will continue through puna landscapes and over the Sicllaccasa pass at 4100 MASL/13186 FASL where we will have spectacular views of two valleys. To your right, you will see the capital of the Incas, Cusco, with stunning mountains surrounding it. Your tour guide will tell you about how and where the Incas arrived to this area, and about its conquest by the Spaniards. There are two Inca sites at the bottom of the valley and, on your left, there will be a beautiful landscape of mountains and farmlands.

From the pass, we will follow the side of the valley, making our way toward the top to cross over to the other side. It’s about a 45 minute walk to the top end of the valley. Once we get there, we will cross a small stream that divides the valley and begin making our way to our lunch spot at Qoricocha Lake. The scenery at the lake is quite barren because the whole area is a high puna between the mountains, and is covered with tough, Andean grass called Ichu. It may be possible to see a variety of bird life, such as Andean geese, lapwings, and partridges, among others. After lunch, we will continue on to our campsite at the village of Patabamba. We will make our way to the top of one of the ridges and, as we descend, loop around Qoricocha Lake (Golden Lake). It is about a two and a half hour walk to the village where we will be greeted by groups of locals who are always happy to welcome us into their community! After we have settled in and had a steaming cup of coca tea, we will visit one of the local families to learn about their way of life. If you have brought any gifts with you, you can share them with the family at this time. After visiting the family, we will have time to relax, and your tour guide will teach you more about the Andean way of life.

Walking Distance: 14 km/8.7 miles