Overview
Choquequirao trek – Overview:
- Fisrt day: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Santa Rosa
- Second day: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
- Third day: Choquequirao – Pincha unuyoc – Rio Blanco
- Fourth day: Pincha Unuyoc – Rio Blanco-Maizal
- Fifth day: Maizal – Victoria Pass-Yanama
- Sixth day: Yanama – Totora – Collpapampa
- Seventh day: Collpapampa – La Playa – Hot Springs – Lucmabamba
- Eighth day: Lucmabamba – LLactapata Inca Ruins – Hydroelectric -Aguas Calientes
- Ninth day: Machupicchu – Cusco
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude: 2900m / 9515ft.
- Highest Altitude: 4840m / 15,879ft.
- Walking Distance: 93km / 58 miles
- Overall Difficulty: Difficult
Itinerary
Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Santa Rosa
We will pick you up early in the morning with our private transport and journey 4 hours through the beautiful mountains until we reach the town of Cachora. Here, in this quaint town, we will share breakfast together and get to know one another. While you are eating we will be loading up the horses with our equipment, preparing to embark on our mountain journey.
From the village of Cachora, we take our first steps of the Choquequirao trek, surrounded by spectacular snow-covered mountains and the view of Padreyoc (18,000 feet or 5,483 meters). From here we hike for approximately 8-10 hours, stopping along the way to take lunch and tour several magnificent Incan ruin sites such as: Padreyoc and Wayna Cohora. Our choquequirao Peru 2019 begins with leveled terrain, crossing vibrant farmlands, while surrounded by 360 degrees of gorgeous mountain views.
One of our resting points is at the viewpoint of Capuliyoc, here we may get the chance to see Andean Condors. Condors are the largest bird of the Andean mountains, with a wingspan that can reach up to 10 feet! Then we descend towards the Apurimac Canyon and stop for lunch at Chiquisqa which along the river that rests at 5,000 feet or 1, 550 meters. After our rest by the beautifully flowing river, we will start on our ascending portion of the hike, climbing towards Santa Rosa. Here, we will enjoy a deliciously prepared meal by our professional trekking chef and camp in a small sugarcane plantation at 7,000 feet (2,115 meters).
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 2900 m / 9514 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 1860 m / 6102 ft
- Walking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Day 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao Peru
Today we begin early and enjoy a hot cup of coca tea and nourishing breakfast. Our hike will bring us to the famous Choquequirao Trek Peru. The first two hours are steep and for a time level out, then becoming steep again. Along the way we will be surrounded by beautiful and lush flora and fauna, as well as the gift of a large variety of orchids.
When we arrive at Choquequirao, we settle in, as this our camp for the night. Then we enjoy an extensive tour of the impressive site, guided by our professional guide. Our guide will explain about the three levels of excavated ruins that include houses, terraces and other parts of this ancient Inca town. You will learn of the history that makes this site unique, as this was said to be the last city to be conquered by the Spaniards. We will also be able to learn and see the process of the this site being excavated.
After our Choquequirao Trek Tour, we will relax and enjoy dinner, surrounded by the history and beauty of Choquequirao Peru.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3061 m / 10043 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 1836 m / 6024 ft
- Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.69 miles
- Estimated walking time: 8 – 9 hours
Day 3: Choquequirao – Pincha unuyoc – Rio Blanco
After breakfast, we have the opportunity to fully explore the ruins of Choquequirao Peru (Cradle of Gold). We visit temples, palaces, ritual water fountains, and the amazing ushnu (ceremonial platform). There will also be llamas in the area and all the while, opportunities for photos.
We then continue our Choquequirao Peru trek for approximately 40 minutes uphill until we reach the first pass of choquequirao at 3,500 meters. This is a great place to view the dense vegetation filled with numerous varieties of orchids and flowers, which are in bloom most of the year. Then we continue for another 30 minutes on a gradual uphill hike before we start our descent along a switchback for an hour and a half until arriving at the Inca ruins of Pinchauniyoc.
Here we will take a tour and learn of this fascinating site that was founded recently, in 1998. It is believed to be used for agricultural purposes by the Inca, as well as a resting point along their expeditions to Machu Picchu. You you will have an informative tour, expanding your knowledge of Inca culture and history, as well as learning just how these impressive sites were constructed thousands of years ago. Your guide will show you a location in the middle of the cloud forest that is almost invisible by a thick layer of moss, making this site very special.
We then set up camp just near the ruins and enjoy a beautiful dinner under the stars.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3300 masl / 10826 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2500 masl / 8202 ft
- Walking Distance: 4.50 km / 2.97 ml
- Estimated walking time: 3 hours
Day 4: Pincha Unuyoc – Rio Blanco – Maizal
After breakfast, we begin our choquequirao Trek through an interesting microclimate and vegetation known as the Dry Andean Highland Forest. The plant life and trees here look very different to anything we have been seeing before on our Choquequirao Peru 2019. After a few hours of hiking, we will arrive at the crystal clear crisp waters of the River Victoria. We take a rest here along the river bank and if you’d like you can take a bath in the cold and refreshing waters.
After our break, we will cross the river and start a steep climb ascending towards our camp at Maizal. Maizal sits high above the river close to the sacred Apus (mountain / mountain spirits) of the Incas. Along the way, we will take a few breaks in the shade and take advantage of the many photo opportunities of the mountains and the river below.
Once we reach Maizal, we will have lunch and take a well deserved afternoon off to enjoy the incredible surroundings. Maizal is by far the most beautiful campsite of our trip as we have a view of three valleys and a towering snow-capped mountain right across from us.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3012 m / 9881 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 1500 m / 4921 ft
- Walking Distance: 5.20 km / 3.23 miles
- Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours
Day 5: Maizal – Victoria Pass – Yanama
Today we will embark on a journey up the San Juan pass. Although we have another long uphill climb, this is one of the most beautiful areas on this trek. We pass through cloud forest and then over the Andean Puna, an area painted with the vibrant and well known ichu grass. We also get to take a break at the Victorian Mines, where we learn of the different minerals and metals in this area, a fun geology lesson!
As we continue through the Puna, we will be walking the same well preserved trails of the Inca. Along the Inca trail we will have lunch at 13,100 feet or 4, 000 meters. Here we have the opportunity to soak in the views of the Choquetakarpo mountain.
After lunch, we continue descending towards Yanama, a small village at the bottom of the mountains. Here, we will set up camp for the night surrounded by powerful and towering mountains. We will enjoy a warm and nourishing dinner and a well deserved rest before our next day
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4200 m / 13779 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3800 m / 12467 ft
- Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
- Approximate walking time: 7 hours
Day 6: Yanama – Totora
Today we wake early and hike from Yanama up through the valley towards the highest point of Choquequirao Trek. The Yanama Pass’s highest area rests at 4,500 feet or 14,800 meters. This is truly an incredible spot , as we will be surrounded by 360 degree views of the snow capped mountains of Sacsarayoc, Salkantay, and Humantay. We will also have picturesque views of waterfalls and of course the totality of the impressive valley below. Once again, we may have the opportunity to spot an Andean Condor soaring through the mountain tops.
We then begin our descent for several hours, stopping along the way to have lunch. After lunch, it will be just another 3 hours downhill to our camp at Totora (3,398 m /11,445 ft). Here we will have some time to visit the local people. Your guide will take you to one of the local family’s houses, where you will exchange warm hellos and learn of the lifestyle of the people of the village and share with them about your cultural as well. This cultural exchange makes it one of the most enriching days of the choquequirao trek. In the evening we will share a warm tea and a delicious dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast / lunch / afternoon snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,670 m / 15,407 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,470 ft
- Walking Distance: 22 km / 14 miles
- Approximate walking time: 9 hours
Day 7: Totora – Collpapampa – La Playa – Lucmabamba
Today we will begin with a warm cup of tea and breakfast and say farewell to the families that we spent time with. We then start by taking a private van from Totora to Collpapampa. Once we arrive, we will walk for about 5 hours through gentle yet variant terrain entering into the rainforest. Here we experience the lush and vibrant myriad of flora and fauna, including orchids, birds, fields of cacao and passion fruit plantations. Another site of beauty is the incredible waterfalls along our choquequirao trek today.
After our rainforest exploration we will reach Lucmabamba, our campsite for the evening. We will arrive around noon giving us time to relax and enjoy lunch.
After lunch, we will have the special opportunity to take part in a coffee tour at the plantation adjacent to the campsite. We will begin by browsing the fields, learning about the cultural significance the coffee production has, and the specific aromas and taste of the numerous varieties of peruvian bean. Then, we get to partake in the process ourselves. We will pick the beans, roast and grind them, and then of course, we will brew and drink our own coffee! A very special experience. We will also be surrounded by several fields of jungle tomatoes and avocados, making the experience even more beautiful.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,060 m / 6,797 ft
- Walking Distance: 14 km / 8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 9 hours
Day 8: Lucmabamba – LLactapata Inca Ruins – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
After our delicious breakfast, we begin by climbing uphill for 3 hours through the original Inca Trail and incredible cloud forest to the Puncuyoc Pass. Afterwards, we proceed to the Llactapata Inca ruins which are located at 2,700 feet or 8,907 meters. This is an Inca site located directly in front of the citadel of Machu Picchu. The panoramic view is breathtaking! From this spot, one gets to enjoy a different perspective of Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu mountains, as well as the Citadel and the Aobamba Canyon.
After Llactapata, we descend for 2 hours to Hydroelectrica, where will enjoy lunch before boarding the train that will take us to Aguas Caliente. The 45 minute comfortable train ride is beautiful, taking you through the gorgeous high jungle. Once we arrive at Aguas Caliente (Machu Picchu town) we will check into a lovely hotel where you will get to relax and take a hot shower. In the evening we enjoy dinner at one of the best restaurants in town.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Maximum Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
- Walking Distance: 14 km / 9 miles
- Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours
Day 9: Machu Picchu – Cusco!
We wake up early and have breakfast at the hotel. Then we will board the first bus to take us up the mountain to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. We will arrive just in time to see the sunrise, a perfect photo opportunity. Then, we will partake in a 2 hour guided tour with our professional tour guide. On the tour we will visit all of the significant sites, such as temples, fountains, and much more. Along the way we will learn extensively about the history and culture of the Inca.
After the tour, you will have time to explore on your own. If you have elected and have the permit you can also climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains. Both provide beautiful views and ruins high above, with incredible photo opportunities.
In the afternoon, we will take the bus back down the mountain and then board the train bringing us back through the high jungle in to the mountains of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our stop is at Porroy Station in Ollantaytambo where private transport will be waiting for your arrival to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Maximum Altitude: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
Inclusions
Choquequirao Trek Includes.
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide for our
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Briefing with your trekking guide 1 or 2 days before your trek
- Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in cusco to your Hotel
- Professional Chef
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment
- Mules to carry 7 kg. of your personal items
- Emergency horse in case we need it
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Transportation by bus to Cachora – Capuliyoc
- Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Water (excluding the first 4 hours, you will need to bring your own)
- Hot water for washing.
- Daily morning boiled and cold water to refill the water bottles.
- 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Afternoon Snacks and 8 Dinners. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know and request with no cost at all.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Kitchen tent
- Toilet tent
- a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
- Hotel on Day 8
- Sleeping mattress
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- Entrance to Choquequirao Peru 2019
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu- round trip
Does Not Include.
- Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
- Lunch and dinner on Day 9
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$ 70
- Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide)
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Choquequirao trail.
Choquequirao trek packing list.
- Original Passport
- Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount for our Choquequirao Adventure)
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket
- Hat and gloves
- T-shirts
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream.
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Camera and film
- Torch
- Spare batteries
Price
Choquequirao Trek Cost
Private Service Prices for choquequirao trail.
- 2 people : US$1080 per person
- 4 people : US$990 per person
- 5+people : US$950 per person
Discounts for our Trek.
- Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
- Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras for this choquequirao trail
- Hiking Poles US$25
- Sleeping Bag US$40
- Single Tent Supplement US$40
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
- Vistadome Train Upgrade US$57
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
- MachuPicchu Mountain US$70
FAQs
Additional
CHOQUEQUIRAO SPECIAL ADDITIONALS:
- Inflatable Mattress (Included)
- Pillow (Included)
- Blanket (Included)
- Duffle bag to pack your personal belongings
- Extra 7 kg of personal items (Included). All of our treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your Choquequirao vacation package. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/14 lbs, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.
