8 Days
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
The 8-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is a spectacular journey across the majestic Andes mountain range. This trek takes us through diverse landscapes, from rugged Andean trails to lush jungles, where we can experience the rich flora and fauna of the region.
On this route, we will visit two of the most significant archaeological sites: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Both of these sites were vital centers during the Inca Empire and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Inca civilization. As we explore these ancient ruins, we’ll uncover the legends and secrets left behind by our ancestors, gaining a deeper understanding of their remarkable achievements and traditions. This tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the mysteries of the past while traversing some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.
At 5 AM, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and embark on a private transfer to the town of San Pedro de Cachora (2800m). The journey will take approximately 3 hours, during which you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Upon arrival, we will meet the rest of our travel team, including our cooks, muleteers, and their horses.
Our adventure begins with the trek to Choquequirao, starting with an initial hike that will take around 6 to 7 hours. As we traverse through diverse landscapes, you’ll witness a variety of climates and natural scenery, including views of the snow-capped Padreyoc Mountains. Our guide will provide insightful information about the local flora and fauna along the way.
We will reach our first major viewpoint, El Mirador Capulichayoq, where you can marvel at the world's deepest canyon, the Apurímac, and observe the majestic Apurímac River flowing below. Here, we will enjoy our first lunch with a breathtaking view of Choquequirao in the distance.
After lunch, we will continue our descent for approximately 3 hours to Chikisca (1800m), where we will set up our camp for the night. This campsite offers a majestic setting near the Apurímac Canyon, providing a serene environment to relax and take in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds us.
Following a satisfying breakfast, we will set off on our journey. The initial part of the hike involves a gentle descent for about 45 minutes until we reach the bridge at Playa Rosalina. From this point, the trail becomes significantly steeper as we embark on a challenging ascent lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Our uphill trek will lead us to Marampata (2950 meters), where we will stop for lunch. This location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and the flowing river below, providing a picturesque backdrop for our meal.
After lunch, we will continue for another hour to finally arrive at the magnificent Inca citadel of Choquequirao ("Cradle of Gold"), situated at an elevation of 3033 meters. This will be our campsite for the night, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the stunning scenery of the ancient ruins and the expansive Apurímac Canyon.
In the late afternoon, we will explore some of the agricultural terraces within the site, gaining insight into the Incan agricultural practices. Afterward, we will enjoy a relaxing tea break followed by a flavorful dinner. We will then retire for the evening, resting well to gear up for the exciting explorations and adventures that await us the next day.
Embark on an immersive journey through the majestic Inca citadel of Choquequirao, known as the "Cradle of Gold." Our guided tour will lead you through this remarkable archaeological site, uncovering the rich history and cultural significance of the Inca civilization.
During the visit, you will explore the extensive ruins of Choquequirao, including its ceremonial plazas, intricate terraces, and well-preserved structures. Our knowledgeable guide will provide detailed insights into the architectural marvels and the ancient traditions that shaped this impressive site.
As you wander through the citadel, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Inca way of life, from their agricultural techniques to their spiritual practices. The tour will also offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the dramatic Apurímac Canyon.
Enjoy a comprehensive exploration of Choquequirao, where every corner tells a story of the Inca Empire's grandeur. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, rich in history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
After breakfast, we will embark on a trek that takes us across the mountain on which Choquequirao is situated. Our route will lead us downhill into the next valley before ascending once more to our camping location. Along the way, we will encounter the recently uncovered archaeological site of Qorihuayrachina.
As we navigate this diverse terrain, we will pass through the terraces of Pincha Unuyoq, which remain partially enveloped by dense Andean forest. Historically, Pincha Unuyoq functioned as an agricultural support center for Choquequirao, showcasing the ingenuity of the Inca agricultural system.
Our trek today will span approximately 7 to 8 hours, offering a rich exploration of the rugged landscape and the remnants of ancient Inca engineering. The varied terrain and historical sites will provide ample opportunities to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the Andean region. By the end of the day, we will reach our campsite, nestled in a scenic area that offers a peaceful retreat amidst the mountains.
We rise early to explore Qorihuayrachina, an archaeological site uncovered by an expedition in 1999. As we ascend through the lush foliage, we will approach the first mountain pass. Near the pass, we’ll encounter ancient Inca trails and one of the historic silver mines used by the Incas.
After a rewarding lunch near the summit, which sits at approximately 4000 meters (13,123 feet), we will descend to a place known as “The Garden.” Here, beneath the cliffs and outcrops, we’ll marvel at a breathtaking array of flowers that make this spot one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Our day concludes with a descent to the village of Yanama, where we will set up camp. This picturesque village offers a serene setting to relax and reflect on the day's adventures amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Andes.
After breakfast, we will prepare for our descent to the second pass. The path ahead will be gentle and serene, offering stunning views of cascading waterfalls and glaciers. As we approach the pass, we’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a dramatic and breathtaking landscape.
Upon reaching La Puerta, also known as the pass, situated at 4,400 meters (14,435 feet), it will feel as though we are on top of the world. This vantage point offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the Andean peaks and the surrounding terrain.
After crossing the pass, we will descend to a large meadow beside a flowing stream. The tranquility of this area, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a moment of peace. Our trek continues until we reach our campsite in the small village of La Playa, where we will set up for the night. This charming village provides a welcoming environment to rest and reflect on the day's journey.
On this day, we will begin a 3-hour ascent along an original Inca trail that will lead us to the first archaeological site of our trek. As we climb, we will traverse through a diverse array of vegetation, including high jungle flowers, shrubs, and towering trees. Our destination is Llactapata, an ancient Inca site perched on the mountain. From here, we will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain range— a perspective that offers a unique and less commonly seen angle compared to the typical photographs.
After a guided tour and exploration of Llactapata, we will start our descent, which will take approximately 2 hours, until we reach Hidroeléctrica. Here, we will enjoy our final lunch prepared by our chef.
Following lunch, we will embark on a 2.5-hour walk towards the village of Aguas Calientes. Along the way, we will pass through Mandor, renowned for its botanical gardens showcasing vibrant, colorful flowers and a variety of orchid species. If time permits, we might also visit the Mandor Waterfalls, adding to the scenic beauty of our journey.
We are expected to arrive in Aguas Calientes around 5:00 PM, where we will check into a comfortable hotel with private rooms, hot water showers, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Dinner will be served around 7:00 PM, and we will finalize preparations for the most anticipated part of our trip—the visit to the sacred city of the Incas, Machu Picchu.
Early in the morning, around 5:00 AM, after breakfast, we will begin our ascent to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. This early start allows us to be among the first groups to enter the site, giving us the opportunity to witness the majestic sunrise over the ancient city. Following our arrival, we will embark on a guided tour of the most significant temples and palaces within Machu Picchu, where our expert guide will provide insights into the history and mysteries of the Inca civilization for approximately 2 hours.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore the enigmatic city of Machu Picchu on your own. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, please note that this option incurs an additional cost of $70 USD per person.
At the designated time, we will descend from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes to board our train to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will continue our journey by car to Cusco. We expect to arrive in Cusco around 8:00 PM, where we will arrange transportation 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.
The tour typically includes well-balanced meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Options for vegetarian or special dietary needs can usually be accommodated if requested in advance.
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.
Basic facilities are available at campsites, including portable toilets. For personal hygiene, bring items such as hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, and a small towel. There may not be showers available, so plan accordingly.
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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