We will begin the day waking up at 4:30 a.m. to enjoy a nutritious breakfast before starting the hike along the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca trail that connects Marcachea with the indigenous community of Hatun Q’ero.

The highest point of the route is Q’ero Qhasa (4,140 m.s.n.m.), offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hike covers approximately 12 kilometers, crossing diverse landscapes such as cloud forest, rivers, and high Andean terrain filled with Andean spirituality.

We will then descend to Hatun Q’ero (3,380 m.s.n.m.), where we will be welcomed into one of the most authentic cultural environments of the Inca legacy.

The arrival will be marked by a ritual of deep connection. Guided by the Paqos, coca leaves and chicha create a bridge between the human and the divine. You will pass through the Punko Arch, a symbol of purification, and cleanse your spirit in sacred waters to reach a state of inner peace.

You will then be ready to take part in the traditional Q’ero ceremony, a transcendent experience that opens the heart to the wisdom of the ancestors.

The next day, after an early breakfast, we will begin our hike leaving behind Hatun Q’ero. Our route follows the Huayca Huanca valley, where we may observe Q’ero families living in isolation while preserving their ancestral way of life.

The trail continues with a steady ascent to Upis Qhasa (4,200 m.s.n.m.), the highest point of the route, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Here, we will take a rest stop to enjoy our box lunch before beginning the descent through landscapes of high-Andean grasslands, shrubs, and small groves.

We will arrive at the Tambo Hot Springs (3,200 m.s.n.m.), where you will have time to relax in the medicinal waters—ideal for recovery after a 14 km hike.

This day is rated Difficulty Level 4.5, designed for travelers seeking a true sense of adventure and high-altitude trekking.

At the end of the day, we will settle in the area to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings, surrounded by trees and a peaceful atmosphere.

We will wake up, as on previous days, with hot water and coca tea before enjoying a comforting breakfast. Afterwards, we will pack our gear and begin our return journey.

From the Tambo Hot Springs, we will take a local motorcycle taxi (moto-lineal) to the town of Quico, where we will board our transportation for the return trip. Along the way, we will pass through several Andean villages within the Q’ero territory, appreciating their traditional way of life.

We will make a stop at Rity Qh’asa (4,780 m.s.n.m.), the highest point of the route, where we will enjoy our box lunch and participate in a gratitude ceremony with views of the snow-capped mountains.

Afterwards, we will continue our journey back to Cusco, with an approximate travel time of 6 hours.

In this way, we conclude our journey through the Q’ero Nation, a profound encounter with the traditions, landscapes, and spirituality of the last Inka ayllu.