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Choquequirao – Machu Picchu – 8 Days 

  • Service type: Private
  • Physical rating: Strenuous
  • Group size: Max: 16
  • Min age: 2+
  • Departure: Contact us
  • Duration: 8 Days
Overview:

This program has you trekking past the Apurimac river canyon nto the ruins of Choquequirao, through the Cordillera Vilcabamba to finally reach Machu Picchu from its south side. Our first stop is the impressive andrecently restored Inca citadel of Choquequirao, perched high above the ApurimacRiver on a ridge-top, the location of Choquequirao is truly spectacular. Described by many as the new Machu Picchu. We then traverse the Vilcabambarange, going over panoramic passes with views of gorges, ancient terracing,community life and spectacular mountain scenery with great ice flutes,glaciers, and rock formations sprinkled with cloud forests, crossing streamsand cultivated valleys where we have coffee farm experience & hot springs. Finally, we enter to the Machu PicchuSanctuary. This unique program is perfect for those who want to combine archaeology and mountains and is a must for more adventurous travellers who want to escape the crowds. A good Combination of Choquequirao trek and Salcantay trek with the hot spring in Santa Teresa and the beautiful Machupicchu 8 Days.

Private Services: These services are arranged just for you and your party, and offer the possibility to choose the departure date, the group size and the duration of the trek. This not only has the advantage of adapting the pace to your physical condition, but also usually means enjoying quieter campsites and meeting less travelers along the route. All private groups include additional services, such as extra porters/wranglers to carry your personal gear, among other benefits.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 01: Cusco / Cachora / Chiquisca

After you have a good rest and breakfast at your selected hotel in Cusco, our private transportation will pick you up and drive for around 4 hours drive to Cachora town then we continue to trailhead Capuliyoc pass at 2750m/9020ft. Once at Capuliyoc, we meet our horsemen and pack all of our equipment on our horses. You will only carry a daypack with the essentials you will need on the trail. We have small lunch and then We descend into the Apurimac canyon for three hours to Chiquisca, where we camp for the night.

  • Total distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
  • Estimated walking time: 4 hours
  • Campsite altitude point: (1,828masl/6000 ft)
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 02:Chiquisca / Marampata

We make an early start to make the most of the cool morning and descend for one hour to Playa Rosalina, where we cross the Apurimac River. We then begin to climb steeply. After two hours we will arrive at the community of Santa Rosa where we will stop for a rest in the shade. We then continue to climb for another two and half hours until we reach Marampata our campsite at  (3103m/10,178ft)

  • Total distance: 16 km / 9.94 miles
  • Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
  • Campsite altitude: 3,103m/10,178ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03:Marampata / Choquequirao / Pinchinuyoc

A gentle two hours takes us to Choquequirao where We will spend the whole morning exploring the various archaeological sites located at different points on the hillside overlooking the Apurimac River. The restored buildings were areas used for storage, living quarters, a garrison, and the ceremonial sites are impressive. First reports of a visit to this complex are from 1768 with many more later-explorers, scientists and treasure hunters all the way through 1909 when Hiram Bingham also visited the area reportedly his first contact with a lost citadel of the Incas. We will have time to wander through this extended settlement spending most of the day looking at the different buildings, some were living quarters, ceremonial centers, garrisons or warehouses. After lunch we’ll set off again on our trek heading for the pass above the city at 3,300 masl / 10,826 Ft. From the pass we’ll make our way down to our camp at the Inca terraces of Pinchinuyoc (2487m / 8160 ft.).  

  • Total distance: Distancia a pie: 16 km / 9.9 miles
  • Estimated walking time: 8-9 hours
  • Campsite altitude: 2487m / 8160 ft.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Maximum altitude point: 3,300 m /  10,826 Ft

Day 04:Pinchinuyoc / Rio Blanco / Maizal

From our campsite we’ll hike 2 hours downhill until we reach the river far below Rio Blanco (White river), In the dry season the river is calm and it’s water is good so it’s a perfect place to stop and have a refreshing dip and ease out your tired muscles. After a good rest we will climb up for about 3 hrs. making our way back up the opposite side of the to Maizal, a balcony with an impressive view of the Yurahmayo and Yanama gorges, as they join and rush towards the Apurimac Canyon. It’s a natural viewpoint, looking out to the west with beautiful sunsets where we campsite at Maizal (2891m / 9488 ft).

  • Total distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
  • Estimated walking time: 6 hours
  • Campsite altitude: 2891m / 9488 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05:Maizal / Minas Victoria / Yanama

We have 4 hours of gentle climbing then steeply up hill towards Mina Victoria, an Inca and later colonial mine. Along the way we can appreciate the original paved inca trail with stone steps, once over the  “San Juan“ pass at 4,200 m / 13780ft We descent for 3 hrs. to the village of Yanama with views of the Mt. Pumasillo towering above us and our campsite below. Our campsite for tonight is at Yanama (3520m / 11549 ft.).  

Day 06:Yanama / Chaullay – Lucmabamba Camp. “Coffee Farm Experience & Hot Springs”

Day to relax!  Todaywe take a local transportation and drive for about 4 hours. Heading up the Yanama valley, past fields of farmers we get to enjoy the gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains and waterfalls. we reach the Quiswar pass at 4600 masl, Cross over the pass, beautiful views of Mt. Salkantay and Humantay on a clear day. Descend on the winding trail to the valley of Totora then Salcantay valley to Lucmabamba  where We stop for lunch and camp at Lucmabamba an organic coffee farm, where you’ll be able to savor the delicious coffee from this region, learn about the proccess to obtain this delicius coffe from the Andes and, if you’d like, purchase some Peruvian coffee beans to enjoy at home. After lunch we take a relaxing soak in the nearby hot springs of Colcalmayo (45minutes driving from camp by local transportation) to relax our musles and be ready for the next day.

  • Total distance: 4 hours driving
  • Maximum altitude point: 4,600 m / 15091 ft
  • Camping : lucmabamba 2100m /  6,890 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 07:Lucmabamba - Llaqtapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

We begin our trek early in the morning from Lucmabamba where we see the remains of an Inka trail. We follow this rising trail after climbing for 4 hrs to reach Llaqtapata 2,700 m / 8860 ft we can observe in the distance Machupicchu (Inca city). Then 2 hours continuous downhill to the Hydroelectric Plant at 1,870m where we have the last lunch with our staff (So here is our chance to say goodbye and express our appreciation). There is a train station here, aptly named Hidroelectrica. We’ll follow the train tracks until we reach the town of Aguas Calientes which sits at the foot of Machu Picchu 3hrs aprox. We’ll be staying in Aguas Calientes for the night so we’ll check into our accommodation, take a warm shower, refuel with a delicious dinner and a good night’s sleep.

NOTE: (1) You have the option to take the train from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes. (2) During the rainy season, the hike up to Llactapata can be dangerous and might not be feasible for safety reasons.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
  • Accommodation: Hostel in Aguas Calientes included
  • Maximum Altitude: 2700 m / 8860 ft
  • Minimum Altitude: 1800 m /5900 ft
  • Distance Travelled: 18 km approx.

Day 08:Machu Picchu –  Cusco

After an early breakfast, we take the bus up to Machu Picchu. You will have a private guided tour of the site for 2 or 3 hours before having a bit of free time or, alternatively, climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (Note: These need to be reserved in advance and has an extra cost of $80pp) making your way back on the bus to Aguas Calientes in time for some lunch before boarding the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo with private transportation back to Cusco city

  • Meals: not included.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco not included
  • Entrances fees: Included

TICKET FOR HUAYNAPICCHU or MACHUPICCHU MOUNTAIN. – For hikers who want to add a climb to Huaynapicchu mountain once you finished the tour at Machu Picchu tour, please let us know far in advance to secure spots… the cost of the ticket is US$ 80.00 pp extra.

What is Included:
  • Pre- trek briefing with guide on eve of departure
  • Private transportation to start of our trek.
  • 2 person Igloo tents (large and comfortable) and a roll pad mattress.
  • English-speaking experienced professional mountain guide. (2 guides for large groups)
  • 7 kilos porterage service for your personal items ie extra clothes, sleeping bag to be carried by mules, (so you just need to carry your small day pack with bottle of water and everything you will need during the day).
  • Full board meals 8 Breakfast, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners.
  • Dining tent and cooking tents with tables and chairs. Experienced Chef and cooking equipment and kitchen tent.
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Mules to carry tents, mattresses, food, cooking equipment Hot water for washing purposes.
  • Boiled water to fill in your bottles at campsites.
  • Admission tickets to Choquequirao Archeological site
  • Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
  • Admission Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex.
  • Complete guided tour in Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, time to explore on your own
  • Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollanta and private transport to Cusco.
  • Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes for the night before Machupicchu.
What is not Included:
  • Hotel accommodation in Cusco
  • Admission ticket to Huaynapicchu mountain (extra cost of $80)
  • Meals that are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • PeruRail train ride from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes.
  • Breakfast and Water to drink on Day 1, lunch day 8
  • Air mattress $40 - Sleeping bag (minus 8 ºC) $45
  • Travel interruption & travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)
  • Tips for your guide, cook and staff are optional, not mandatory.
Options:
  • Special dietary requirements: We are happy to cater for any special dietary
    needs. Please let us know at time of booking.
  • Sleeping bag hire:If required these can be hired for U$40 per person. Please let us know at
    time of booking.
  • Sleeping mattress hire:we include a basic foam mattress but many find an inflatable mattress more comfortable. These can be at hired for U$45. Please let us know at time of booking
What you need to bring:
  • Original passport
  • Daypack  20 litres (any bigger will not be allowed into Machu Picchu)
  • Sleeping bag (can be hired at time of reservation for US$25)
  • Rain jacket or poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco for a few dollars)
  • Strong, comfortable footwear
  • Complete change of clothing
  • Warm clothing for the evenings ( can reach minus 5 Celsius/23 Fahrenheit)
  • Water bottle
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Sun hat  – Sun block
  • Insect repellent
  • Toiletries, towel and toilet paper
  • Selection of small snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, biscuits etc,
  • Camera, and spare batteries
  • Swimsuit (it may be possible to visit the hot springs at Cocalmayu )

Recommendations:

  1. We suggest you arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek to allow yourself time to acclimatize. The more acclimatized you are the more you will enjoy the trek.
  2. Please let us know the name and telephone number of your hotel in Cusco so we can locate you if needed.
Adventure Travel FAQs:

Do I need to be in good physical condition to hike in the Andes?

Our treks; Inca Trail, Salkantay trek, Ausangate, Lares trek, Choquequirao trek, etc. are moderately difficult, lengthy and traverse rough mountain terrain. We kindly recommend that if you want to immerse and hike the Andes to be in relatively good physical condition and acclimatization.
We suggest a regular and moderate exercise routine to improve endurance and stamina. Also, we suggest you arrive in Cusco at least two/ three days before your trek to allow yourself time to acclimatize. The more acclimatized you are the more you will enjoy the trek.

What is altitude sickness “Soroche”?

Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too rapidly, which doesn’t allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure. Symptoms include headache, vomiting, insomnia and reduced performance and coordination.

How can I reduce the risk of altitude sickness?

Arrive in Cusco at least 3 days prior your trek to have time to acclimatize, avoid rapid ascents specially on your first day and get enough sleep/rest. Drink plenty of fluids / water and stay hydrated is vital (coca tea, a local remedy). Eating light/ small meals will help your body digest food more efficiently at high altitudes. If you feel symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude immediately and rest until you feel better. Please consult your doctor if you have concerns about being at altitude. There are many medications that they can be provided.

Weather in Cusco and treks to Machupicchu

Cusco’s climate is divided into two seasons: the rainy season, from November to March (the heaviest rains generally occur between January and March); and the dry season, from May to September.
Along the Inca Trail (May to September, high tourist season), temperatures range from 15° – 20ºC (59°F-68°F) during the day if it is sunny, and from 05-10ºC (41°F-50°F) during the day if it is not sunny and from 0-05ºC(32°F-41°F) during the night in between the first and second campsites. In Wiñaywayna and Machu Picchu, which is a subtropical zone, at a lower altitude, temperatures are usually warmer, although warm clothing is still recommended at night.

What is the weather like in Machu Picchu year-round?

Temperature: Machu Picchu is located in a tropical cloud forest and rain is present throughout the year, even in the dry season months. The average temperature ranges between 54ºF and 75ºF (12ºC and 24ºC). On the hottest days, it is possible to reach 79ºF (26°C).

Inca Trail Important Notice

According to the Resolution #002-2004-UGM-CD, published on Nov 12, 2004, the Inca Trail Regulation that refers to Inca Trail space bookings, bookings will only be guaranteed by the governmental institutions when providing full names, nationalities and passport numbers of passengers, and when having paid the full amount for passengers and staff (cook and team of porters) entrance fees.

Inca trail availability

Due to the popularity of the Inca Trail, we highly recommend that you book as far in advance as possible in order to secure a place. There are only a limited number of permits issued per day. We do of course have many other exciting treks to should you be too late to secure a permit.

Ticket for huaynapicchu or machupicchu mountain. –

For hikers who want to add a climb to Huaynapicchu mountain once you finished the tour at Machu Picchu tour, please let us know far in advance to secure spots. There is a limit number of permits issued per day!

Is the water safe and included in my tours?

We water at our private transportation for all of our tours and boiled water along our treks. We insist on a “Leave no trace” tourism by implementing plastic-free tours. Everyone should carry their canteens to reduce the use disposable bottles. (Eco friendly Attitude, we provide the water and you bring the bottle!)

What equipment will be provided by Andes Immersion on the treks?

We always make sure to have the best equipment on our treks. On the basic trek, you will always find sleeping tents (double occupancy), dining tents (with tables, stools, and dining tools) and cooking tents (where our staff will prepare delicious meals).

Appropriate clothing along the treks

Hiking pants and T-shirts are recommended during the day, complemented by sweaters, fleeces and waterproof jackets. It is very convenient to have light rain gear available in the daypack (rain poncho or jacket and/or rain pants) as the weather changes easily and rains can suddenly occur. At night, warm clothing is required in the first two campsites, down jackets can be useful, otherwise a fleece and a jacket. During the third day (if sunny) and in Machupicchu, convertible hiking pants are useful, as can be switched into shorts if necessary. Machupicchu has a warm climate, getting only cold at night. The rest of necessary implements are included in the Pack List.

Extra Gear and Clothing

We genuinely believe that when our staff is treated well and everyone is equipped with quality hiking equipment, clothing, and anything else they may need to do their job the very best they can, everyone wins. If you have equipment or clothing you may not use again, you can donate it to a porter! Headlamps, sleeping bags, trekking poles, clothing are all greatly appreciated.

Where can I store my baggage that I don't need for the trail?

Certainly, any baggage that is not necessary for your trek may be stored in your hotel in Cusco (most hotels offer this service free of charge). However, In the case that your hotel may not provide this service, we will store your baggage safely in our office free of charge.

Environmental responsibility “Leave no trace tourism”.

Nowadays, we are all concerned about the environment and care of Mother Nature (Pachamama), we understand the potential harm that can come from taking groups through many of the delicate environments, we are licensed operators and we do insist in a policy of …” “Leave no trace tourism”. our tours are plastic-free; everyone should carry their canteens to stop using disposable bottles.

Insurance

Please ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cope with any medical emergencies, any costs incurred due to delayed or cancelled flights and for loss or delay of baggage.
People visiting Peru can buy travel health plans to protect themselves and their traveling companions from large out-of-pocket expenses due to unforeseen injury or illness. Although health concerns are the primary reason people purchase trip insurance for Peru. we recommend World Nomads™ – Travel Insurance Peru