4 Days
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
At 5:00 am, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and embark on a private transfer to Capulichayoc, which will take us to the town of San Pedro de Cachora (2800m). This journey takes approximately 3 hours, where we will have some free time for breakfast. Upon arrival, we will meet the rest of our team, including the cooks, muleteers, and their horses.
Our trek will commence with a hike lasting between 6 to 7 hours. Throughout the journey, we will traverse a range of landscapes reflecting different climatic zones, including the snowy peaks of Padreyoc. Our guide will provide detailed insights into the local flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of the area.
Our first major stop will be at the Mirador Capulichayoc, where we will be treated to breathtaking views of the world’s deepest canyon, the Apurímac, and the majestic Apurímac River flowing through it. Here, we will enjoy our first lunch while soaking in the early glimpses of Choquequirao.
After lunch, we will descend for approximately 3 hours to reach Chikisca (1800m). This will be our campsite for the night, surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Apurímac Canyon. We will settle in and relax, taking in the serene beauty of our surroundings before resting for the night.
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our ascent, which will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, to our lunch and camping spot at Marampata (2950 meters). From this vantage point, we will enjoy stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon and the river flowing through it.
Following lunch, we will embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Choquequirao, also known as the "Cradle of Gold." This archaeological site is often referred to as the sister city of Machu Picchu due to their striking similarities. Choquequirao is perched 1500 meters above the Apurímac Canyon, while Machu Picchu is situated above the Urubamba Canyon. Both sites share the same latitude and are considered among the principal cities of the Inca Empire. With over 8 hectares, only a third of Choquequirao has been uncovered, and new discoveries are made by archaeologists regularly.
During our visit, we will explore the three levels of the ruins, including the urban sector, agricultural terraces, and the religious area. We may also have the opportunity to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor. After our tour, we will return to our camp for tea and a delicious dinner, preparing ourselves for another exciting day.
Estimated walking time: 8 to 9 hours, including the visit to Choquequirao
Total distance: 17 km
Altitude of our camp: 2,950 meters
At dawn, we will witness the sunrise over the Inca ruins and our camp. After a satisfying breakfast, we will begin our descent, retracing our steps to reach our campsite in Chiquisca. We will have lunch halfway through our journey at Playa Rosalina, a picturesque spot along the way. After lunch, we will continue our climb back to Chiquisca, where we will set up camp for the night.
Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Total distance: 12 km
Altitude of our camp: 1,800 meters
On this day, we will rise very early at 6 am to enjoy breakfast with the first rays of sunlight over the Apurímac Canyon. After breakfast, we will start our hike to Cachora, which will take between 5 to 7 hours, depending on your physical condition. We will have lunch midway at Capulichayoq. Upon reaching Cachora, we will board our private transport back to Cusco. The tour concludes with transfers to your respective hotels.
For the tour, you should bring lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable hiking boots. It’s also a good idea to pack a rain jacket, sunglasses, and a camera.
Wear layers of clothing that can be easily added or removed as temperatures change. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer for warmth, and a waterproof outer layer. Opt for quick-drying fabrics to stay comfortable.
Yes, it’s advisable to bring your own sleeping bag, especially one suitable for the temperatures you’ll encounter. Some tour operators offer rental options if you prefer not to carry your own.
It’s recommended to check with your healthcare provider for any necessary vaccinations or health precautions. Common recommendations include vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and, if traveling to certain areas, malaria prevention.
Yes, it’s a good idea to bring some snacks like energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit for extra energy between meals. However, avoid bringing items that are difficult to carry or that may attract wildlife.
The tour will continue even if it rains, so be prepared with waterproof gear. A rain jacket and waterproof cover for your backpack will help keep you dry. The itinerary may be adjusted if weather conditions are severe.
The tour is moderately to highly demanding, with significant hiking involved. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended to handle the elevation changes and varying terrain. Training prior to the tour can help improve your experience.
Inform the tour operator of any medical conditions or special needs in advance. They can provide guidance on how to manage your needs during the tour and may make necessary accommodations to ensure your safety and comfort.
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