Huchuy Qosqo Ride

Introduction
Cusco Peru  
Discover the magic of Peru’s Sacred Valley on a two-day, one-night horseback riding adventure through spectacular Andean landscapes, traditional villages, and remarkable remnants of the Inca civilization. Beginning in Wayllabamba, a historic village known for its agricultural heritage and renowned white corn, this journey follows scenic trails alongside the Vilcanota River, passing ancient archaeological sites and historic haciendas that reflect the fascinating blend of Inca and Spanish influences. As the trail climbs from the valley floor into the mountains, breathtaking views of the snow-capped Pitusiray and Sawasiray peaks unfold, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the natural beauty of the Andes.
 
The adventure continues with a visit to Huchuy Qosqo, an impressive Inca archaeological complex dramatically positioned above the Sacred Valley. Explore its ancient urban, ceremonial, agricultural, and military sectors while learning about the history and ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Perched high above the valley, the site offers extraordinary panoramic views that make this a truly memorable destination. After exploring the ruins, descend along a rugged mountain trail before returning to the peaceful valley paths beside the river.
 
Combining horseback riding, cultural discovery, and spectacular mountain scenery, this experience offers a unique way to explore the Sacred Valley beyond the usual tourist routes. Travelling with an experienced guide and riding Peruvian Paso horses, you will spend the night in a local Andean home, enjoying traditional hospitality and the tranquility of rural mountain life. It is an ideal adventure for travellers seeking an authentic connection with Peru’s history, landscapes, and living traditions.
 
 

Accomodation

Accommodations
You will spend one night at a local Andean home.

Casa Andina Hotel in Cusco (optional extra night)
This charming hotel is ideally located in the heart of Cusco. It offers 93 comfortable and elegantly decorated rooms, each equipped with a safety box, heating, coffee kit, TV, free Wi-Fi access and a private bathroom with hairdryer. Check-in starts at noon.

Casa Andina Hotel in Urubamba (optional extra night)
This beautiful hotel located in the Sacred Valley provides rooms that feature cable TV, heating, ensuite bathroom and free Wi-Fi access. The hotel has a small garden where guest can relax in the evening.

Room Occupancy
In case we are unable to find you a roommate, a single supplement fee might apply. Please, note that accommodation for single travelers are not guaranteed.


Meals
All meals are included in your package from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on the last day.

All your meals are prepared by our cook who follows along the tour with our support vehicle (transporting suitcases).
The food served features Peruvian and international cuisine.

The meals are served buffet style so everyone can choose what they want to eat.

Plenty of drinking water will be provided during the rides.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with advanced notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding


For the protection of all participants, the ride leader reserves the right to prevent anyone from riding who displays insufficient ability, or whose behavior endangers the safety of other riders, themselves, or the horses. No refund will be made to a participant who is rejected for any such reason, or who is unwilling or unable to complete a tour.

Horses
We have 20 Peruvian Paso horses which are known for their smooth gait and elegance. We have horses with different temperaments that can cater to all levels of rider.
The Peruvian Paso Horse transmits its unique smooth gait to its purebred foals. No artificial devices or special training aids are necessary to enable the horse to perform the “Paso llano”, that provides a ride of incomparable smoothness.

Itinerary


Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Ride Through the Sacred Valley to the Andean Highlands
Your adventure begins in Wayllabamba, a historic village that was once an important administrative centre during Inca times. The area remains known for its agricultural traditions, particularly its white corn, celebrated for its exceptionally large kernels. From here, ride along scenic trails beside the Vilcanota River, discovering archaeological remains from the Inca period and historic haciendas that emerged following the arrival of the Spanish in 1532. Along the way, observe the distinctive blend of Inca and Spanish architectural styles, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich and layered history.

After lunch near the village of Calca, continue riding along the relatively flat valley trails before beginning a gradual ascent into the surrounding mountains. As the trail climbs from approximately 2,929 metres to 3,682 metres above sea level, the landscape transforms into a spectacular panorama of the Andes. Enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped Pitusiray and Sawasiray mountains, the deep valley stretching behind you, and the diverse flora and fauna of this beautiful high-altitude environment. The day concludes in a small Andean community, where you will spend the night in a local home and experience the peaceful atmosphere and traditional hospitality of rural mountain life.

Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in an Andean local home

Day 2: Discover the Inca Ruins of Huchuy Qosqo
After breakfast, set out on a walking exploration of Huchuy Qosqo, an impressive Inca archaeological complex dramatically situated above the Sacred Valley. Believed to have been one of the favourite retreats of an Inca ruler, the site features the remains of a two-storey residence, suggesting that it may have served as a place for rest and reflection away from the demands of governing. Explore its various sectors, including the residential and urban areas, royal and religious spaces, agricultural terraces, granaries, and military installations, while learning about the organisation and ingenuity of Inca society.

One of the highlights of the visit is the extraordinary view from the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Sacred Valley. The site’s dramatic position also reveals its strategic importance: the Inca are believed to have selected this commanding location for military observation and to control access to the complex. After lunch, begin the descent on horseback along a steep, rocky mountain trail. Riders may dismount and lead their horses on foot where the terrain becomes challenging. Once back on the flatter valley paths, enjoy a final ride alongside the Vilcanota River toward the Calca area. Your adventure concludes near the village of Huychu, where transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

Note: If you wish to extend your stay in Peru, we suggest to sign up for the Machu Picchu Mountain Lodges Ride.

Rates and Dates for Huchuy Qosqo Ride

Dates Note: It is possible to arrange tours for private groups on request (private group fee applies)

Other Info
Meeting: Wayllabamba
Airport: Cusco
Transfer: Urubamba, Yucay, Wayojhary or nearby

Climate:
                                                Cusco area