→ Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek: 8-Day Adventure

that covered many South American countries such as Colombia, the west of Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, to the center of Chile and the north of Argentina. These trails tended to be principally on the coast or in the mountains but in a few cases, they reached the tropical edge of the jungle at the Amazon Jungle.
The Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Trail in Quechua “the Inka Language”) - refers to the network of trails) were without a doubt is one of the marvels of Tahuantinsuyo, according to the Peruvian historian, José Antonio del Busto, who explains that the Inca “King” Huayna Capac most increased the network of trails in order to quickly mobilize his army.

The trails varied in quality and size, they could be 6 to 8 meters wide on the coast but, in the mountains the paving was only one meter wide but the path was audaciously steep and climbed over the difficult Andean mountains.

Day 01: Cusco | Cachora - Playa Rosalina (Apurimac River)
Day 02: Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao archaeological complex (Golden Cradle)
Day 03: Choquequiraw – Choquequiraw Pass – Pinchinuyoc
Day 04: Maizal – Minas Victoria – Yanama
Day 05: Yanama – Mountain Range – Totora
Day 06: Totora – Cloud Forest – La Playa – Lucmabamba
Day 07: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Day 08: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu | Cusco

Itinerary

Day 1 | Choquequirao

Cusco | Cachora - Playa Rosalina (Apurimac River)

Capulliyoq on the way to Cocamasana on the choquequirao route

We will leave the hotel very early to arrive at the village of Cachora (2,850 m/ 9,350 f) to meet our staff and guides as well as the horses that will carry the equipment, tents and food for our crossing.
We will continue our trip to the Capuliyoc pass (2,800 m/ 9,186 f). During the tour, beautiful landscapes will catch our sight and accompany us during the hike, and we won't lose sight of the deep canyon and the Apurimac river.
We will go down to the lower part of the canyon named Chiquisca (1,930 m/ 6,332 f), where we will spend the night in our camp.

Climate: Warm / Duration of the hike: 7 hours

Distance: 22 km – 13.6 miles
Climate: Warm
Hiking time: 7 hours

Day 2 | Choquequirao

Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao archaeological complex (Golden Cradle)

Sunset in Maranpata Camp at Choquequiraw trek

After breakfast, we will go down 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 away from this place.

Climate: cold and warm / Duration of the hike: 7 hours.

Distance: 14 km – 8.7 miles
Climate: Warm Day/Cold Night
Hiking time: 7 hours

Day 3 | Choquequirao

Choquequiraw – Choquequiraw Pass – Pinchinuyoc

Main square of the last Inca refuge Choquequirao

On that day, we will appreciate the tranquility of this magical place, among the fortifications, streets, buildings, terraces and squares. We will continue our hike climbing towards the Choquequiraw pass (3,270 m/ 10,728 f), walking through an archaeological zone named Pinchunuyoc (2,450 m/ 8,038 f). From this point, we will come down as far as the river-bed, known as Río Blanco (1,900 m/ 6,234 f) or Río Silvestre. We will camp there.

Climate: warm with mosquitos / Duration of the hike: 6 hours

Distance: 18 km – 11.2 miles
Climate: Warm
Hiking time: 9 hours

Day 4 | Choquequirao

Maizal – Minas Victoria – Yanama

That day will be a difficult one due to the complexity of the ground. We will relax in Maizal (3,000 m/ 9,843 f) for a short rest, and to get our breath without stopping to appreciate the sight of a beautiful landscape. After a several-hour journey, we will arrive at San Juan (4,170 m/ 13,681 f), a pass in the middle of the Andes, from which we will be able to appreciate the great view of the valleys, the mountains and the glaciers, some of which reach more than 5,000 m/ 16,404 f. We will camp in the village of Yanama (3,530 m/ 11,581 f).

Climate: Cálido y frío con mosquitos / Tiempo de caminata: 5 horas.

Distance: 17 km – 10.6 miles
Climate: Warm and windy day, Cold night
Hiking time : 8 hours

Day 5 | Choquequirao

Yanama – Mountain Range – Totora

Early in the morning, we will head towards the highest pass of this trip - Yanama (4670m/ 15.32152 f). If we are lucky, we will be able to see Condors. During the day walk, we will enjoy the view of the snow-capped mountains such as Salkantay (6264m/20.551181 ft.) and Pintuyu (5450m/17.880577 f). Today our camp will be in the valley of Totora Pampa (3200 m/10.4986877 f).

Climate: warm with mosquitos / Duration of the hike: 8 hours.

Distance: 20 km – 12.4 miles
Climate: Cold and Windy
Hiking time: 9 hours

Day 6 | Choquequirao

Totora – Cloud Forest – La Playa – Lucmabamba

Descending towards Collpapampa from Totora on the Choquequirao Trail

In Totora pampa, we will have the opportunity to know Andean people who speak Quechua and live on agriculture and stockbreeding. The vegetation on the way becomes rarer and rarer and reveals the diversity of orchids, bromelias and other native species. We will also see a few coffee, papaya, passionfruit and avocado plantations. On that day we will camp in La Playa (2,100 m/ 6,890 f) or in Lucmabamba (2,020 m/ 6,627 f).

Climate: Warm with mosquitos / Duration of the hike: 7 hours
Note: In accordance with the group wishes, it is possible to change the itinerary and visit the Santa Teresa thermal springs (1,830m/6,004f).

Distance: 18 km – 11.2 miles
Climate: Warm
Hiking time: 10 hours

Day 7 | Choquequirao

Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Hydroeletric route to Machu Picchu village

Our trip will begin early in the morning. We will follow the Inca trail as far as Llactapata (2,650 m/ 8,694 f), an archaeological site with remains of Inca buildings and from which we will be able to have a view of the Machu Picchu Mountain. Our trip continues towards the hydroelectric power station (1,950 m/ 6,398 f), from which we will take the train towards the village of Aguas Calientes (2,050 m/ 6,726 f).
Accommodation in a local hotel.

Climate: Warm / Duration of the hike: 6 hours.

Distance: 10 km
Climate: warm
Hiking time: 3 hours

Day 8 | Choquequirao

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu | Cusco

Visit to Machu Picchu on the last day of trekking

Today’s Highlights: Your excitement for our rendezvous at Machu Picchu will rise as we are hiking early in the morning through the forest to reach the site before most other tourists – even the Inca Trail trekkers!! You will have plenty of time to explore this truly magnificent World Wonder while you enjoy the beautiful sunrise from this once-in-a-lifetime viewpoint. Your group will learn about this mystical place in a two-hour guided tour of the ruins. Afterwards, you can opt to climb Huayna Picchu or Machupicchu Mountain (if you have pre-booked tickets) or walk to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge (without extra tickets)

On that day, we will leave early after breakfast (5:30 a.m.) and will go up to the Machu Picchu (2,400 m/ 7,874 f) by bus. After a guided tour through the important places of the fortress, we will have time to wander around the site. We will then go down to Aguas Calientes to have lunch (not included), and will have time to visit the hot baths of the village. At a convenient time, we will take the train back to Cusco. Transfer to your hotel.

Duration of the hike: 2 hours

What's Included?

Pre-departure briefing: You will meet your Choquequiraw Trek to Machupicchu” guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. The meeting will be at 6:00 PM the evening before the trip begins. In case you can’t come at this time “please let us know” to coordinate another time.
Touristic Transport: You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco in the morning and will travel by private transportation to Capuliyoc the starting point of the trek to Choquequiraw and Machupicchu.
Adventure Experienced Inka Choquequiraw and Machupicchu trek Tour Guide: English speaking, professionally educated, and official tour guide with tourism certification. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach 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, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time along the Inca path and will ensure you are safe and happy.
Tour Guide in Machupicchu Cultural Experienced: English speaking, professionally educated, and official tour guide with tourism certification. For visit the sacred city of Machupicchu.
Private campsites: Each campsite is carefully choosed for have a very local experience.
- Night 1: Enjoy the 1st night in Playa Rosalina campsite on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
- Night 2: Enjoy the 2nd in Marampata on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4 man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
- Night 3: Enjoy the 3rd night in Rio Branco campsite on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra
- Night 4: Enjoy the 4th night in Yanama campsite on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra
- Night 5: Enjoy the 5th night in Totora campsite on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra.
- Night 6: Enjoy the 6th night in Lucmabamba campsite on the route Choquequiraw trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra
- Night 7: The last night in hotel is not included, which is in the town of Aguas Calientes; It is also known as Machupicchu Village; prices of hotels will vary according to your expectations and budget. However, we can offer you the option of joining us at our local accommodation Hotel Encanto Machupicchu "at no extra cost". www.hotel-encanto.com Our hostel in Aguas Calientes have double or triple rooms, private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
- Note: It is not usual that campsites, lodges or hotels change after the confirmation, however it can vary per government regulations and authorization, also for bad weather conditions and maybe because physical condition of our visitors: Any changes in this matter ITEP travel will be informing you previously and as soon as possible.
Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our porters and horses).
Entry ticket to Choquequiraw trail and Inka city
Entry ticket to Machupicchu Inka city
Professional Trekking Chef: A professional chef specialized in cooking on the trail, with an assistant, will prepare all of your delicious meals along our journey on the Trail to replenish your energy every day. You will never go hungry!
Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners (Vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost) Please be in mind (1st breakfast and last lunch is not included”
Boiled Water: Beginning from your first lunch until your last breakfast, Inka Trail Expeditions will supply all the water needed. This water will be boiled, filtered and then cooled, before distributing. You must supply your own water bottles or camel back. We recommend carrying about 3L worth. We will refill our waters at each meal.
Wake up tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will wake up with a cup of coca tea! Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.
Tea time daily during the Trek: Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide our tea time with popcorn, biscuits, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you will not have to wait until dinner to relax, warm up, and enjoy a bite to eat!
Products for hygiene: You will be provided with a small towel before each meal to clean your hands and every morning will be also a bucket with warm water for washes your personal hygiene.
Medical kit and Oxygen bottle: Our crew will bring a first-aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle.
Train tickets: From Aguas Calientes “Machupicchu village” to Ollantaytambo train station (departure time is confirmed the day of briefing and it´s subject to availability)
Transfer back to Cusco: Private touristic transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco (Day 8)
24-hour guest service: We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication and preparation with the agency leading up to your trek.

What's not Included?

Sleeping Bags: You can rent one from our company if you do not have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They are mummy form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use.
Walking Sticks: You can rent a set from our company if you would like.
Day 1: Breakfast: approx. Usd5 to usd 10.00, Price can vary according your selection.
Last Day: Lunch and Dinner in Aguas Calientes. Approx. Usd 20 to 25.00, Price can vary according your selection.
Personal clothing and gear
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff: Please note that our agency staff is well paid so please feel free to tip or not as you wish “Recommendation usd 6 to usd 8 per day per traveler for all the trek staff”- Once again it is optional and can vary according your satisfaction.
Additional costs or delays out of control of the management (landscape, bad weather condition, itinerary modification due to a safety concern, illness, change of government policy, political instability/strike, etc.)