Looking for things to do outside Cusco? Discover the top three little-known hiking day trips in Cusco.
A lot of tourists pass through Cusco, Peru quickly. Many use the city as a stopping point on their way to Peru’s main attraction: the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. However, spending time in the city reveals much more nature and beauty right outside the city center.
Top Three Little Known Day Hikes in Cusco, Peru
1. Kinsa Cocha – Pisac’s Three Lakes Hike
This gorgeous day trip to Kinsa Cocha and Pisac’s lakes is a favorite hike for many. It’s also one of the easiest locations to reach from Cusco. Simply take a collectivo to Pisac, and from there, you can take a taxi for approximately 45 minutes to the lakes and the starting point of the hike.
It is essential to arrange the taxi for a round trip, as finding one to return might be challenging. Plan to pack a lunch and allocate three to four hours for the hike.
You can circle around the first two lakes or continue along the trail to explore the end of the valley. Look out for grazing alpacas and various trails leading into the mountains, providing opportunities to climb for better views of the lakes and valley.
Once you finish your hike, your driver can take you three kilometers down the road to the third and final lake—Lago Azul. Capture a few pictures and enjoy the scenic return to Pisac in the afternoon light.
Following the hike, exploring Pisac’s famous market and savoring a light dinner of homemade bagels at Ulrike’s Cafe is a delightful way to cap off the day.
2. Huchuy Qosqo Ruins
The Huchuy Qosqo ruins offer a more challenging adventure, with an eleven-mile hike that demands a bit more effort. Start by taking a collectivo to Laguna Piuray.
At the “Estacion Papitos,” simply inform the local men that you’re headed to Laguna Piuray, and they will direct you to the appropriate van.
Upon arrival at the lake, take a taxi to the start of the Camino Inca, the original Imperial Incan trail that will guide you through most of the hike.
This trail is well-marked, leading you through a valley and up a mountain pass offering breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers before descending back into the valley. Notice how the vegetation transitions from dry to lush, along with a rise in temperature.
Eventually, you will reach the ruins of Huchuy Qosqo. This summer retreat for an Incan King is well-preserved and incurs a modest entry fee of $8. After exploring at your leisure, walk down the switchbacks to the town of Lamay, where you can easily catch a collectivo back to Cusco.
3. Chacan Cave, Balcon del Diablo, and Temple of the Moon
The final hike takes you to Chacan Cave and Balcon del Diablo, which can be accessed directly from Cusco’s center. Starting at Plaza de Armas, follow the directions to reach the Chacan Cave trail. You have the option to pay $11 for a horse and guide for the trek to the cave and the Incan ruins of the Temple of the Moon, or you can choose to hike on foot.
The path is not distinctly marked to both the cave and the Balcon del Diablo (named for its dramatic drop-off complemented by stunning views of Cusco). Hence, taking the horse is advisable.
The two-hour ride allows you to dismount and hike down into Chacan Cave for a view from Balcon del Diablo, before your guide leads you to the Temple of the Moon.
These ruins are free to explore and provide a picturesque setting for a picnic. Afterwards, simply follow the original Incan road back into Cusco to conclude your day in the heart of the city.
While visiting Machu Picchu is a dream for many, there are countless other breathtaking hikes and day trips from Cusco that should not be overlooked. Make sure to prioritize Kinsa Cocha, Huchuy Qosqo, and Chacan Cave on your travel itinerary to experience the best of what Cusco has to offer.
