Private Small Group Journeys

Puma Marca Trek One Day

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Tour Details

The Pumamarca Trek is a relatively short but beautiful hike in the Sacred Valley of Peru, near Ollantaytambo. It offers stunning views of the valley and the Inca ruins of Pumamarca, a lesser-known archaeological site. The trek usually takes a day or two, depending on your route and pace, and is considered moderate in difficulty.
The trail weaves through Andean villages, agricultural terraces, and scenic landscapes, providing a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to more famous hikes like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. Along the way, you’ll see ancient Inca structures, and it’s a great chance to experience local culture while being surrounded by breathtaking views.
Have you done any trekking in the Sacred Valley, or is this one of the first hikes you’re considering?

Departure & Return Location

Cusco – Peru

Type of Activity:

History, Trek & Adventure

Duration:

One Day

What to Expect

Immediate confirmation of your booking
Personalized advice to prepare for your trip
Hand-Selected Boutique Accommodations
Personalized attention and constant support throughout your trip
Carefully selected activities and excursions to maximize your experience
Quality and safety in every aspect of your trip

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Itinerary

Early Morning: Pickup and Drive from Cusco

Morning:

Departure from Ollantaytambo: Start your trek early in the morning from the town of Ollantaytambo, which is a popular base for exploring the Sacred Valley. You can either walk or take a short drive to the trailhead (depending on the tour operator or your preferences).
Trailhead: The trek begins at the base of the Pumamarca ruins, which are located on a hillside above the valley. From here, you’ll begin your hike.

Mid-Morning:

Trekking to Pumamarca Ruins: The hike typically lasts about 2–3 hours, depending on your pace. As you ascend, you’ll pass through stunning terraced farmland, local villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Pumamarca Ruins: Once you reach the Pumamarca archaeological site, you’ll explore these lesser-known Inca ruins. You can take your time to admire the terraces, agricultural structures, and the impressive stonework.

Afternoon:

Continue Trekking: After spending some time at the ruins, you’ll continue along the trail, which leads you through beautiful landscapes and offers opportunities to spot local flora and fauna.
Return to Ollantaytambo: Depending on the route, you may loop back to Ollantaytambo or take a different path that leads to a nearby village. The entire trek usually lasts around 4-6 hours of hiking.

Evening:

Arrive back in Ollantaytambo: Once back, you can relax and explore Ollantaytambo’s charming streets, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or visit the Ollantaytambo ruins if you still have energy.

Optional Extensions:

Overnight in the Valley: If you’d like a more leisurely experience, consider staying overnight in one of the nearby villages or camp near the trail. You can take a slower pace and enjoy the landscape more fully.
Combine with Other Treks: You could also combine the Pumamarca Trek with another nearby hike, such as the Inca Quarry Trail, to make for a more extensive Sacred Valley adventure.

Additional Information for the Trek:

Difficulty: The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is moderate in difficulty. The elevation and some uphill sections can be challenging for those not accustomed to high altitudes.

Altitude: The highest point on the trek is around 3,700 meters (12,100 feet) at Huchuy Qosqo. Make sure you are acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude to avoid altitude sickness.

What to Bring:

Hiking shoes/boots
Warm layers (it can be chilly in the mornings)
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (for sun protection)
Water and snacks
Camera for stunning views!
Small backpack for carrying essentials

Best Time to Visit: The best time for this trek is from April to October, during the dry season in the Andes.

Highlights:

Huchuy Qosqo archaeological site with its ancient terraces, canals, and ruins.
Beautiful views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River.
Peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience away from the crowds of other popular treks like Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain.

The Huchuy Qosqo Trek is a great option if you’re looking for a shorter trek with rich history and stunning landscapes. It provides a rewarding experience of both nature and Incan culture, while still being relatively easy for those who don’t want to commit to longer, more strenuous hikes.