Cusco to Tauca Trek via Huchuy Qosqo to Aguas Calientes
Start driving from your hotel to the small village of Tauca (3750 m), the beginning of your trek.
The first part of the walk is on level terrain, with landscapes typical of Andean valleys rich in corn, potatoes, barley, quinoa, and other Andean tubers.
As you ascend towards the pass at 4050 m, the landscape begins to change dramatically into the classic high Andean savannah, or puna, with scant vegetation, mainly "Iachu" or high-altitude grass. The views of the Cordillera Vilcabamba peaks are spectacular: Veronica, Pitusiray, Chicon, and San Juan snow peaks.
Soon after the pass, begin your descent toward the Huchuy Qosqo plains, hiking along a path that leads to the Cauca ravine, where you will be able to see archaeological remains and wild crops such as tarwi, as well as a large quantity of cactus.
Walk downhill towards the Leon Punku ravine, where you will find remains of an Inca bridge and trail. This canyon boasts geological formations surrounded by majestic rocks and boulders that direct the river to Huchuy Qosqo at 3650 m. Huchuy Qosqo ("Little Cusco") is a noteworthy Inca complex. It boasts very fine stonework in a large Kallanka (rectangular hall), some residential and defensive quarters, and interesting two-story buildings in stone and adobe. Huchuy Qosqo is located on a plateau, surrounded by Inca agricultural terraces, and allows superb views of the Vilcabamba range.
Afterwards, go downhill to Lamay at 2900 m, where you will catch your transport to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, continue by train to Aguas Calientes. Overnight in a hotel.
Meals: Lunch & dinner
Hiking time: 7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel "El Presidente" or "Machu Picchu" (it can be upgraded)
