Pillku Urqu | Hike Cusco’s Tallest Peak as a Full Day Hike in Cusco

Cerro Picol, Cross, Day Hikes Cusco, Cusco city views, mountains, blue sky
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  • Author: Megan Anderson
  • Created: September 11, 2020 1:00 pm
  • Updated: June 9, 2023 4:11 pm
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Route type: Day Trip Hike
Difficulty grade: Adventure Hike

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  • Distance Instructions
Label
  • Distance 9 miles
  • Time 3 h 44 min
  • Speed 2 mph
  • Min altitude 10653 ft
  • Peak 14455 ft
  • Climb 4209 ft
  • Descent 4662 ft

This is a map and basic overview on how to hike to Pillku Urqu, Cusco's tallest mountain peaks at almost 14,500 ft! Pillku Urqu goes by quite a few other names including more common references as Cerro Picol or Pikol. This is a challenging day hike in Cusco that is located out of the city, past the Cusco airport.

Pillku Urqu is a distinct and eye-catching mountain. From the top of Pillku Urqu, expect sweeping views of the city and surrounding Andes Mountain peaks.

Here's how to hike Pillku Urqu, a full day hike in Cusco Peru.

⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. See my full disclosure here. Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail

Overview Cusco Day Hike to Pillku Urqu

  • Out & Back Trail

  • Total Mileage: 11 Miles

  • One-Way Mileage: 5.5 Miles

  • Note About Mileage: This includes a mile each way from the bus stop to the trailhead and the mile scramble each way to the peak viewpoint. Cut off mileage by taking a moto to the trailhead and stopping at the cross, which has equally impressive viewpoints.

  • Difficulty: Moderately Challenging - Hard

  • Ascent: 4,000 ft. +

  • Trail Markers: There are no official trail markers

  • The trail runs through the scenic Santa Maria Forest, which also boasts stellar views of Cusco

  • Leave early and bring plenty of water.

    • There are no water refills once you start the climb up Pillku Urqo and only a few spots with shade coverage.

  • This hike can be completed any time of the year.

    • Be mindful in rainy season of muddy and slippery paths and be weary of sections of the trail that have been destroyed by mudslides.

  • Pillku Urqu Packing List

    • Plenty of Water

    • First aid kit

    • Hiking Boots with Good Ankle Support

    • Layered clothing, long sleeve is best for sun protection, lightweight rain jacket, buff for the sun

    • Sunscreen

    • Baseball Cap

    • The trail after Santa Maria Forest is quite steep, so hiking poles are great if you use them

    • Offline Pillku Urqo Map, battery charger, cords, ect

  • Sometimes people underestimate the height and altitude of Cerro Picol. Sadly, some people have died and gone missing, so it's best to hike with a buddy. If you need one, try searching in the Facebook Group Cusco Hike Club

Means to Reach Pillku Urqu Trailhead

To reach the Pillku Urqu Trailhead from Cusco either walk, take a public bus, or taxi.

  • Walk to Santa Maria Forest: The walk is long and follows the hectic street of Avenida de la Cultura. It takes over 2 hours to reach the Santa Maria forest from the San Blas neighborhood. I have walked here, and highly discourage this way to reach the trailhead. It wastes energy for the climb up Cerro Picol.

  • Public Transportation: Multiple public buses run along Avenida de la Cultura. Exit at Avenue Uno (Los Sauces). Look for the AVA gas station, a large BBVA Bank, and the distinct Colegio de Ingenieros

    • Cost: 2-3 PEN (75¢)

    • Popular Buses:

      • Los Leon's to Tipón / Catch it in San Francisco Plaza

      • Green & Orange Buses to Real Plaza / Route 8 / Catch it in Limacpampa Square

  • Taxi: A fair taxi price from Cusco should no more than 10 PEN ($2.75 USD)

Pillku Urqu Hike Overview

Depending on how you choose to hike this mountain, the trail will take around 4 - 7 hours round-trip.  This includes an hour break at the tallest peak. The trail passes through the Santa Maria Forest, climbs up a barren hill, and comes to a large cross with a panoramic and one of the best views of Cusco.  From the cross, it's an hour scramble to the towering peak. This section of the trail is a tad bit more technical, narrow, and "scrambley."

The hike down is much quicker and takes around 2 hours. There are a few different trails which all lead back to through the scenic Santa Maria forest.

This hiking adventure can be completed any time of the year. During the rainy season, expect the trail to be muddy, overgrown, and slippery. Take caution as there is a large fault crack on this mountain. Avoid walking Pillku Urqu at nighttime, as to not loose footing on the trail.

Hike One of the Tallest Mountain Peaks in Cusco | Pillku Urqu

Interested in taking the day hike up Pillku Urqu in Cusco? Get all the logistics on this enjoyable, yet challenging Cusco day hike. Get details on how to reach the trailhead in Santa Maria Forest, photo inspiration, helpful tips, and more. Follow along with this detailed blog post:

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