CHOQUEQUIRAO TO MACHU PICCHU IN 9 DAYS AND 8 NIGHTS
Classic Service
from $1049.00 USD per person
- Fascinating experience exploring the complex of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, two emblematic destinations in the Cusco area.
- Immerse yourself in fantastic natural landscapes with picturesque valleys, imposing snow-capped mountains and an incredible variety of flora and fauna during the hike.
- Discover Choquequirao, considered "The last refuge of the Inca Empire", with its complex hydraulic system and similarities with Machu Picchu, on a religious and ceremonial pilgrimage.
Overview
The Inca trail to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu in Peru is part of an extensive Inca trail system that spans more than 23,000 kilometers, integrating the Tahuantinsuyo Empire, known as "The Inca Country" (meaning four regions), which extended over several South American countries, such as Colombia, western Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, central Chile, and northern Argentina. These trails were generally located on the coast or in the mountains, although sometimes they reached the tropical edge of the Amazon rainforest. The Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail in Quechua, the Inca language) constitutes the network of trails that was, without a doubt, one of the wonders of Tahuantinsuyo. According to the Peruvian historian, José Antonio del Busto, the Inca Huayna Capac, known as the "King", expanded this network of trails to quickly mobilize his army. The trails varied in quality and size; While on the coast they could be between 6 and 8 meters wide, in the mountains the pavement was only a meter wide, but the trail was boldly steep, ascending the difficult Andean mountains.
Choquequirao is hailed as "The last refuge of the Inca Empire." Here, visitors have the opportunity to explore an intricate hydraulic system, presumably used for domestic, ceremonial and agricultural purposes. The geographical location of Choquequirao, in relation to other contemporary religious centers, suggests that it played a crucial role as an Inca enclave towards the valleys of the Apurimac River. The similarities between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu are notable, highlighting the fascination with its architecture and the cultural wealth that both wonders of the ancient world share.
- DIA 1 | Cusco | Cachora - Playa Rosalina (Rio de Apurímac)
- DIA 2 | Playa Rosalina | Marampata - Choquequirao (La cuna de Oro).
- DIA 3 | Choquequirao | Dia Completo en Choquequirao.
- DIA 4 | Choquequirao | Choquequirao Pass- Rio Blanco- Maizal.
- DIA 5 | Maizal | Minas Victoria - Yamana.
- DIA 6 | Yanama | Cordillera - Totora.
- DIA 7 | Totora | Bosque nublado – La Playa –Lucmabamba.
- DIA 8 | Lucmabamba | Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes.
- DIA 9 | Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Cusco.
Day 1 | Cusco - Cachora – Chiquisca.
We will leave the hotel very early to arrive at the town of Capuliyuc (2,850 m / 9,350 f) to see to our staff and guides, as well as the horses that will carry the equipment, tents and food for our hike. We will continue our trip to the Capuliyoc Pass (2,800 m / 9,186 f). During the tour, beautiful landscapes will capture our sight and accompany us during the walk, and we will not lose sight of the deep canyon and the Apurimac River. We will descend to the bottom of the canyon called Chiquisca (1,930 m / 6,332 f), where we will spend the night in our camp.
- Climate: Warm
- Duration of the walk: 7 hours
DAY 2 | Chiquisca - Rosalina Beach - Marampata – Choquequirao.
After breakfast, we will descend to La Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 f). From there, we will go to Marampata (2,850 m / 9,350 f), from where we will have a beautiful view of the archaeological complex of Choquequiraw (3,033 m / 9,951 f). Our camp is located 25 minutes from this place.
- Climate: Cold and Warm
- Duration of the walk: 7 hours
DAY 3 | Choquequirao Full Day
This day is essential because we are going to visit the entire archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3100 masl / 10170 feet) and explore some places that are covered by the lush vegetation of the cloud forest. We will visit the religious sector, the administrative sector, granaries, terraces with llamas and other buildings located near the religious center. You will be able to explore incredible areas of the site, such as the llama area for example, which is a steep 30-minute walk downhill, where you will see extensive agricultural terraces. All the flame representations were built with white stones, on the wall. It was probably built by the Incas to represent the flame constellation in the Milky Way. You can also visit the Usno area where you can enjoy the sunset over the mountains. Our guide will be responsible for providing all the respective information about the place, its history and the importance it had in the past. After this, you will have free time to explore the resort on your own, come evening. You will then walk back to your camp for the second night in Choquequirao.
- Climate: Warm with mosquitoes
Day 4 | Choquequirao – Río Blanco.
This day, we will appreciate the tranquility of this magical place, between the fortifications, streets, buildings, terraces and squares. We will continue our walk climbing towards the Choquequiraw pass (3,270 m / 10,728 f), walking through an archaeological zone called Pinchaunuyoc (2,450 m / 8,038 f). From this point, we will go down to the river bed, known as Río Blanco (1,900 m / 6,234 f) or Río Silvestre. We will camp there.
- Climate: Warm with mosquitoes
- Duration of the walk: 6 hours
DAY 5 | Río Blanco - Maizal - Paso de San Juan - Yanama.
That day will be difficult due to the complexity of the terrain. We will relax in the Maizal (3,000 m / 9,843 f) to rest a little and catch our breath without stopping to appreciate the view of a beautiful landscape. After a trip of several hours, we will arrive at San Juan (4,170 m / 13,681 f), a pass in the middle of the Andes, from which we can appreciate the great view of the valleys, mountains and glaciers. , some of which reach more than 5,000 m / 16,404 f. We will camp in the town of Yanama (3,530 m / 11,581 f). Climate: Warm and Cold with mosquitoes
- Climate: Warm and Cold with mosquitoes
- Duration of the walk: 5 hours
DAY 6 | Yanama - Totora Pampa.
Early in the morning, we will head towards the highest pass of this trip: Yanama (4670m / 15.32152 feet). If we are lucky, we will be able to see condors. During the hike, we enjoy the view of snow-capped mountains such as Salkantay (6264m/20.551181 ft) and Pintuyu (5450m/17.880577 ft). Today our camp will be in the Totora Pampa valley (3200 m / 10.4986877 feet).
- Climate: Warm with mosquitoes
- Duration of the walk: 8 hours
Note: According to the wishes of the group, it is possible to change the itinerary and visit the hot springs of Santa Teresa (1,830m / 6,004f)
DAY 7 | Pampa reed - The Beach.
In Totora pampa, we will have the opportunity to know to the Andean peoples who speak Quechua and live from agriculture and livestock. The vegetation along the way becomes increasingly thinner and reveals the diversity of orchids, bromeliads and other native species. We will also see some coffee, papaya, passion fruit and avocado plantations. This day, we will camp at La Playa (2,100 m / 6,890 ft) or at Lucmabamba (2,020 m / 6,627 ft).
- Climate: Warm with mosquitoes
- Duration of the walk: 7 hours
- Note: According to the group's decision, it is possible to change the itinerary and visit the hot springs of Santa Teresa (1,830 m / 6,004 f).
Day 8 | The Beach - Llactapata - Hydroelectric - Aguas Calientes.
Our trip will begin early in the morning. We will follow the Inca trail to Llactapata (2,650 m / 8,694 feet), an archaeological site with remains of Inca buildings from which we can have a view of the Machu Picchu mountain. Our trip continues towards Hydroelectrica (1,950 m / 6,398 f), from where we will take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes (2,050 m / 6,726 f). Accommodation in a local hotel.
- Climate: Warm
- Duration of the walk: 6 hours
Day 9 | Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu – Cusco.
That day, we will leave early after breakfast (5:30 a.m.) and go up to Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 f) by bus. After a guided tour of the important places in the fortress, we will have time to walk around the site. Then we will go down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included), and we will have time to visit the town's thermal baths. At a convenient time, we will take the train back to Cusco. Transfer to your hotel.
- Duración de la caminata: 2 horas
- Pre-departure information: You will meet your guide and "Choquequirao Trek to Machupicchu" group at our office for an orientation before your trek. Here, we will provide you with the canvas bags that our Porters will carry. The meeting will be at 6:00 PM the afternoon before the trip begins. In case you cannot come at this time, please "let us know" to arrange another time.
- Tourist transportation: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco in the morning and travel by private transportation to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek to Choquequirao.
- Adventure tourism guide for the Trek to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu: English-speaking tourism guide, professional with tourism certification. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion for teaching others about their heritage. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings along the entire route, including leading your group in ancient ceremonies! He or she will keep you safe, healthy and comfortable on your hike so you can enjoy your time and will make sure you are safe and happy.
- Private Camps: Each camp is carefully chosen to provide a very personalized experience.
- Night 1: Enjoy the first night at the Playa Rosalina camp on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All of our tents sleep 4, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 2: Enjoy the second night in Marampata on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All of our tents sleep 4, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 3: Enjoy the third night at the Marampata camp on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All of our tents sleep 4, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 4: Enjoy the 4th night at Camp Maizal on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All of our tents sleep 4, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 5: Enjoy the fifth night at the Yanama camp on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All of our tents sleep 4, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 6: Enjoy the sixth night at the Totora camp on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are for 4 men, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 7: Enjoy the seventh night at Lucmabamba camp on the route to Choquequiraw and sleep in our 4-season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are for 4 men, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving plenty of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a small lounge at the front, giving you extra outdoor space to leave your boots and poles so you don't have to bring dirt.
- Night 8: The last night at the hotel located in the town of Aguas Calientes is not included. It is also known as the town of Machupicchu. Hotel prices will vary depending on your expectations and budget. However, we can offer you the option to join us at our local accommodation Hotel Encanto Machupicchu "at no additional cost". You can obtain more information at www.hotel-encanto.com. Our hostel in Aguas Calientes has double or triple rooms, private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast and luggage storage during your visit to Machu Picchu.
Note: It is not common for camps, cabins or hotels to change after confirmation. However, it may vary according to government regulations and authorizations, also due to adverse weather conditions and perhaps due to the physical condition of our visitors: any change in this matter ITEP will inform you in advance and as soon as possible.
- Camping equipment: Includes dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs and cooking equipment, all carried by our porters and horses.
- Entrance ticket to the Choquequirao and Machu Picchu trail
- 1 duffel bag: You can store your personal luggage, up to 5 kg (11.02 lb), including your sleeping bag; This bag will be carried by our horses during the 4 days.
- Professional trekking chef: A professional chef specialized in cooking on the trail, with an assistant, will prepare all your delicious meals throughout our journey on the trail to replenish your energy every day . .
- Meals: Includes 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners (vegetarian, vegan or special menus available at no additional cost). Please note that the first breakfast and the last lunch are not included.
- Boiled water: Provided from your first lunch to your last breakfast. This water will be boiled, filtered and then cooled before being distributed. You must supply your own water bottles. It is recommended to carry around 3 liters.
- Wake up with tea: Every morning at camp, a cup of coca tea will be served in your tent.
- Tea time every day during the walk: Every afternoon before dinner, snacks and drinks will be offered to relax and enjoy after a long day of walking.
- Hygiene products: A small towel will be provided before each meal for hand washing, and a bucket of warm water will be available every morning for personal hygiene.
- Medical kit and oxygen bottle: Our team will carry a first aid kit, which includes an emergency oxygen bottle.
- Transfer back to Cusco: Private tourist transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco (Day 9).
- 24-hour guest service: We have a telephone service available 24 hours a day to facilitate communication and preparation with the agency leading to your trip.
STUDENT DISCOUNT: Subject to changes and restrictions.
- Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the hike or who is 17 years old or younger. For those using a college student card to receive the discount, we need a copy of the card sent to us when booking. For those booking for youth aged 17 and under, we require a copy of your passport at the time of booking. Please send us a copy of your student card
NOT INCLUDED
- Sleeping bags: You can rent one from our company if you don't have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect you from low temperatures, down to -18ºC (0ºF). They are shaped like a mom and include a sleeping liner. The bags are washed after each use.
- Canes: You can rent a set from our company if you wish.
- Day 1: Breakfast: approximately USD 5 to USD 10.00, price may vary depending on your selection.
- Last day: Lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes: approximately USD 20 to USD 25.00, price may vary depending on your selection.
- Clothing and personal equipment
- Travel insurance
- Tips for our staff: Please note that our agency staff are well paid, so feel free to tip or not as you wish. Approximately $6 to $8 per day per traveler is recommended for all trek staff. Again, it is optional and may vary depending on your satisfaction.
- Additional costs or delays beyond the control of the administration: Additional costs or delays may arise due to factors such as landscape, bad weather, modifications to the itinerary due to safety problems, illnesses, changes in government policy, political instability/strike, etc.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
- There are several optional upgrades that can be included in this ride. Below is a quick list, but check out our Overview section for more details.
- Vistadome Train "Panoramic Train" - USD per person (return only)
- Bus from Concetur to Machupicchu day 7 "25 minutes by car" - USD "in case you want to rest in the Inca city of Machupicchu and do not want to walk further, it will be better to have your tickets ready"< /li>
- Sacred Mountain of Huayna Picchu - USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
- Machu Picchu Sacred Mountain - USD per person (please request when you book your hike)
- Buffet lunch celebration at Sanctuary Lodge on the last day in Machupicchu. $40 USD per person (all fresh drinks included)
- Sleeping bag: USD per person per walk (it will be clean and warm)
- Walking poles: USD per pair per walk (professional poles that can be extended)
- Additional horse to ride on the trek "in case you don't want to walk much and think you will need help - USD per person (day 1, 2, 3, 4 only) the next few days no horses allowed because we are going to be in the national shrine."
- Additional luggage load Horse/Porter "15 Kls or 33.06lb" "USD for the entire trip."
- Vistadome Train Upgrade "Scenic Train" - USD per person (round trip only)
PRICES
Essential elements
- Original passport (and valid student ID if applicable).
- Hiking boots/shoes.
- Hiking socks.
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho.
- Warm clothing, hat and gloves.
- Casual mountain clothing for the afternoons.
- Short or long sleeve shirts.
- Comfortable pants.
- Sun hat.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen (SPF 35 recommended).
- Reusable plastic or metal bottles, or a hydration bladder.
- Insect repellent.
- Personal hygiene items or day backpack.
- Personal medication.
- Camera and video camera.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
Additional items to bring
- Shorts.
- Trekking poles (with rubber tips).
- Bandages and dressings.
- Sandals.
- Swimsuit for the hot springs.
- Extra money for personal expenses, tips (200 new Peruvian soles are recommended for additional expenses).
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