The trek that will lead us from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu is an absolute must for those who love to explore landscapes, are keen to learn a bit more about the Inca history and to rediscover their lost ancient civilization. We will visit these important Inca capitals while crossing some of the most impressive landscapes this part of the Andes has to offer us.  This is a physical demanding trek because of the considerable change of altitude during the trek, sometimes in hot temperatures and with heavy climates as can be found there. We'll hike through a lot of different landscapes that will take your breath away... Going from deep canyons, cloud-forests, snow-peaks through high fields, the entrances of the jungle, lakes and a lot more... The whole tour is thriving with evidence of Inca-presence, ruins of different importance. Because of all these different altitudes and also different climates, we'll come upon an incredible variety of fauna and especially flora with some plants yet unknown to science. The western light of the Cordillera of Vilcabamba bathes the landscapes in a beautiful emerald shine at certain hours of the day. Hidden in foggy clouds appear the great images of impressive Inca walls and terraces with perfectly curved stones seem to reach for the sky. We'll have the opportunity to visit some of these Tambos (resting-places and food supplies along the Inca Trail) on our road. Not only will you be amazed by the enormous variety of plants and flowers on this trek, it is also the natural habitat of three important spiritual and symbolical animals in the Andean culture... The snake represents the world below, the puma that represents the earthly world and of course the condor, the largest bird of prey in the world, representing the heavenly world.

• Activities: Archaeological sight-seeing, experience the culture, learn about the ecological aspects of Peru, and Hiking.
• Distance: 101 km. / 62.76 miles.
• Average hiking time: 8 hours per day.
• Duration: 08 days / 07 nights.
• Maximum height: 4668 meters (15,315 feet) above sea level.
• Departures: contact us.
• Number: Minimum 2 passengers
• Months of Operation: May to November.
• Service Type:
  Private: This service is exclusively for groups of friends, couples, families, coworkers, etc. And the itinerary is planned according to your requirements, and on the dates that choose
  Shared: Usually this is a large group where the tourists are all different nationalities and the itinerary is fixed
  
• Degree of difficulty: Top level.

OVERALL INFORMATION

Day 01 .- Cusco - Cachora - Chiquisca

We leave Cusco on the way to Cachora through Abancay early in the morning. Cachora is a small village, situated at 2850 meters away from Cusco in the province of Apurimac, surrounded by majestic snow-peaks such as the Padreyoc (5571m). It's the place where we meet with our horsemen and their mules, which will carry all our camping equipment, and we will begin our hiking. The road to the pass of Capuliyoc (2800 m. /9,186 ft.) is flat. At the pass we enjoy the sight over the Apurimac Cañon and for around three hours, part of the trail will be in the form of a zigzag in the direction of our first campsite called Chiquisca (1930m. / 6,332 ft.).

Meals: L, D
Total distance:  19 Km / 11.81 miles.
Estimated walking time:   5 - 6 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 3000 m. / 9,843 ft.
Campsite altitude: 1930m. / 6,332 ft.

Itinerary

Day 02 .- Chiquisca - Rosalina beach - Marampata - Choquequirao

We leave Chiquisca as early as possible to go down to Rosalina Beach (1550 m. /5,085 ft.), which will take about one hour. We then cross the Apurimac River and start climbing towards Santa Rosa, zigzagging up a steep slope. This climb will take an approximated 2 hours, and it is important that we leave early so that the heat does not make it any more difficult than it has to be. In Santa Rosa, we have a half an hour break, where those who wish to may try Cambray, a local sugar cane extract. Afterwards, we continue our hike slowly climbing for two and a half hours until we reach our lunch spot in Marampata. From here after our lunch, we walk another two hours until we reach the archaeological complex of Choquequirao, located at 3103m/1,017 ft. where we will set up camp and enjoy some free time to explore the terraces and buildings. When the sun starts to set, you might want to sit and look at the canyon, where condors are sometimes spotted. We hike about 7 or 8 hours on this day in a rather warm climate.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance:  13 Km / 8.08 miles.
Estimated walking time:   7 - 8 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 3033m / 9,951 ft.
Campsite altitude: 2800 m. / 9,186 ft.

Itinerary

Day 03 .- Choquequirao - Choquequirao Pass - Rio Blanco

Watching the sunrise over Choquequirao is an impressive sight that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, it is a phenomena as mysterious as Machu Picchu; its name means “Cradle of Gold”. Early Spaniards knew of this place, yet its remoteness protected it. French explorers visited it in the 19th century, and in 1909 Hiram Bingham was first to scientifically investigate the site. Some speculate that the emperor Topa Inca had it built as a personal spiritual retreat, to rival his father Pachacuti’s magnificent estate at Machu Picchu. Whoever built this place, it was undoubtedly an elite settlement, built for ceremonial purposes and occupied by Inca nobility. The Apurimac River roars distantly 1,450masl. /4,780 ft. below, visible on either side of a steep ridge to which the Inca City overhangs. As we approach the heart of the city, a sweep of enormous curved terraces lead our eyes to an artificial hill and a ceremonial platform overlooking the main plaza. We start hiking again on an Inca Trail to the Choquequirao-pass (3270m / 10,728 ft.) to the archeological site of Pinchaunuyoc (2450m /8038 ft.) in full restoration and from there down to the deepest part of this trek, where the River Blanco runs (1900m / 6233 ft.) on border of the river, we set up the campsite and then we have the possibility to bathe in its cool refreshing waters. After a refreshing swim we have a coffee and nice dinner.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance:  15 Km / 9.32 miles.
Estimated walking time:   6 - 7 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 3270 m / 10,728 ft.
Campsite altitude: 1900m / 6233 ft.

Itinerary

Day 04 .- Río Blanco - Maizal - San Juan pass - Yanama

Early morning, we hike up to the village of Maizal, that's the most difficult part to do, because the pathway is getting step and the weather is really hot in a sub-tropical area.  Afterwards we continue our hike upwards coming upon another Inca trail, be aware that it isn´t always in a very good shape, and that leads us to the highest pass of this day, the San Juan pass (4200 m. / 13,780 ft.), which is one of the most beautiful places for sightseeing over the mountains and snow-peaks of the area, and to see the Vicabamba mountain chain. From here we hike down to the community of Yanama (3530 m. / 11,581 ft.), looking for a suitable place to stop and set up camp.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance:  21 Km / 13.05 miles.
Estimated walking time:   9 - 10 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 4200 m. / 13,780 ft.
Campsite altitude: 3530 m. / 11,581 ft.

Itinerary

Day 05 .- Yanama - Yanama Pass - Totora pampa

After breakfast we start climbing slowly to our higher pass 4668 m (15,315 ft.). Again the view is amazing, we are surrounded by snowcapped mountains that serve to give us an impression of surreal, the Mt. Sacsarayoj and Mt. Padreyoj. We continue from Yanama up through the valley towards the highest point of the tour, The Yanama Pass in 4668 m. (15,315 ft.). On the way we have a good view of the snowcapped Sacsarayoc. Once again we have the chance to see condors, of which Peru is so famous for, and the morning’s smooth climb bring us through to new landscapes – especially the wet grass fields under the snowline that distinguishes itself from everything else seen on the tour. In the pass we may have the opportunity to walk through snow, and the descent is a long foggy hike through grassy fields and shrubbery and crossing small wood/dirt bridges on the way towards the community of Totora 3200 m. (10,499 ft.).

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance:  17 Km / 10.56 miles.
Estimated walking time:   7 - 8 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 4668 m. /15,315 ft.
Campsite altitude: 3200 m. /10,499 ft.

Itinerary

Day 06 .- Totora pampa - La Playa

On this day we descend to the Totora River. As we go down the birdlife makes for excellent viewing, especially with hummingbirds, woodpeckers and many species of orchids and begonias. We walk for about 2000 meters down through the changing vegetation to the warmer camp in the village of La Playa. The journey takes approx. 7 hours walking. On the way we see small waterfalls and get a refreshing natural bath. The area also has a big variation of bird life and it is now obvious that the climate and vegetation have changed totally, and now we see plants more recognizable, like the types you find in the living rooms across Europe and several types of orchids. The Playa is the biggest village on the way, where we can find some small shops to buy snack etc. In this area we can see small plantations of coffee and bananas. Campsite is at 2125 m. /6,972 ft.

Meals: B, L, D
Total distance:  16 Km / 10.56 miles.
Estimated walking time:   7 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 3200 m. /10,499 ft.
Campsite altitude: 2125 m. / 6,972 ft.

Itinerary

Day 07 .– La playa - Aguas Calientes (1830 - 2050m)

From La Playa we hike by road for around 30 minutes to Lucmabamba, and from there we start to climb up the original Inka trail to Llactapata (newly discovery Inca Site) which is famous for a “great condor view of Machu Picchu.”  Along the way, you will get to witness some of the spectacular views like the Lucmabamba Valley, especially on AbraQ'elloqasa (2860m/9381ft) the highest point of the trek this day, where the vegetation, trees and mist combination make the atmosphere like the jungle. After marveling at the Inkas archeological remains we will go downhill for almost 3hours to Hydroelectric train Station where we will have lunch. After our lunch we will take the local train to the town of Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night in a nice hotel. You may also wish to go the famous thermal springs which feel great after a long day of trekking, and an ideal way to end the trail. Entrance to the springs is a small amount of US$ 3.00. Allow yourselves 1 hour to really enjoy the springs, which are open until 9.00 pm.

Option of the day: if you don’t want to hike up anymore we can change the plan and take a local transportation to go to Hydroelectric where we are going meet to rest people of the group; all expenses will be you’re responsible.

Meals: B, L, D.
Total distance:  12 Km / 7.45 miles.
Estimated walking time:   5 - 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2860 m / 9381ft.
Hotel: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft.

Itinerary

Day 08 : Aguas calientes - Machupiqchu - Cusco

With another early rise, we go to the bus station to take the bus to Machu Picchu. This bus takes 25 minutes by uneven track, where we will do tour of the Inca citadel, your tour guide will guide you around for about two and a half hours, to show you the most important sectors of this beautiful and enigmatic Inca citadel and then you will have some free time to wander, explore and take photos. Or alternatively you could decide to climb the mountain of Huayna Picchu (tickets required), where you can see spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu, the valleys and mountains that surround it, or visit the Temple of the Moon or the great Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we will meet in the town of Aguas Calientes, where if you want, you can visit and relax in its hot springs. From here we take the train back to Cusco, and we drop you off at your hotel / hostel. Travel time 4 hours. End of our services.

Meals: B
Total distance: 4 km / 2.49 miles.
Estimated walking time:  2 hours.
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft.
Machu Picchu altitude: 2,400 m / 7,872 ft.

Itinerary

• Your original passport, student card ISIC (if applicable)
• A Sleeping bag, a backpack for hiking, 2 pairs pants, 2 pairs of shorts, 4-poles (long and short), several pairs of socks, Sandals, towels, toilet paper, gloves, thermal jacket, a hat for cold days, sunglasses and sunscreen for when the sun comes out.
• A liter bottle of water.
• A Flashlight with spare batteries, matches, knives.
• Hiking boots (preferably waterproof with ankle protection).
• Insect repellent, cream to hydrate the face and/or body.
• A Raincoat (poncho for rain).
• Energy foods (dried fruits, candies, chocolates, cookies, etc...).
• Soap and other toiletries and clothes to change.
• Swimsuit (recommended for the hot springs).
• You should bring appropriate clothing for both hot and cold days of the tour.
• Also, depending on your interest, you could bring a camera or camcorder, binoculars, compass; all such equipment should be lightweight.
• Basic medical supplies.
• Extra money in soles and dollars.
• Optional: walking sticks.

WE SUGGEST YOU TO BRING

• An orientation to clarify all the details of the tour, 1 or 2 days before departure.
• Private transportation from your hotel to Cachora.
• Entrance ticket to the Choquequirao Trail, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
• Guided Tour for the Choquequirao Trail, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
• Professional Guide: Bi-lingual, speaks both English and Spanish, 2 guides from more than 9 passengers.
• A Cook responsible for meals. (07 breakfasts, 07 lunches, 07 dinners) - Please notify us if you are a vegetarian.
• Horsemen and mules will be in charge to carry the camping equipment and food.
• Boiled water for each meal, and for the places where there are no shops to buy water.
• Bio-degradable personal hand soaps.
• Bio-degradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff.
• Camping equipment: Tents 04 people capacity for 02 persons, sleeping pad, dining tent with table and chairs, kitchen tent, toilet tent, cutlery.
• Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities.
• Mules will carry 7 kg maximum from your personal stuff.
• Train ticket from the Hydroelectric power plant to Machu Picchu town (7th day)
• One night accommodation in Machu Picchu town.
• Round trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – 8th day.
• Train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus service from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Portable Radio (Walkie Talkies); Basic first aid and oxygen bottle.
• 24 hours assistance.

OUR SERVICE INCLUDED

• Meals: breakfast and lunch 1st day and 8th day.
• Sleeping bags (please note that you can rent them from us).
• Foods that are not listed.
• Admission to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Personal expenses.
• Tips.

WE DO NOT INCLUDE

• Sleeping bag US$ 40.00 complete tour.
• Thermal-rest mattresses or inflatable sleeping pad for US$ 40.00.
• Discount of US$ 20.00 with International Student Card (ISIC Card).
• You can rent an extra horse if you are tired or you can`t walk any more for. US$ 30.00 per Day.
• Bag pack for, US$ 20.00 whole tour.
• When you reserve and then specify the type and category of hotel (2 **, 3 ***, etc.). Prices range from US$ 25 to US$ 750. This will modify the published tour price.
• If you want to return to the ruins the next day, you have to pay admission again. (Only the first entry to Machu Picchu will be included in the tour).
• All our programs are with the Expedition train service (for a comfortable price), but if you want another type of service, like the Vistadome train service (first class service) or Hiram Bingham (exclusive luxury Orient Express service), each train service is a different price, which obviously modify the published tour price. We can customize your travel, all you need to do is contact us.

Optional

• We request that you give us all your relevant personal information to proceed with your booking.
• For each tour or service that you book, our online staff will send you an email of confirmation for your booking tour within 24 hours of you making the booking, which you must print and present before the beginning of the tour.
• Confirmation of your booking will be issued once the payment has been made. Upon our receipt of you payment, our on line staff will send you a Trip Boucher.
• Our staff on line will send you all the tour information you will require, such as office address, telephone number and name of the person who will provide you the services, by e-mail.
• ANDEAN TERRITORY EIRL is a tourism company with extensive experience in the tourism service and provides a high quality service, ensuring that our customers enjoy their respective trips or tours without having to worry about organizing and planning everything – We do that for you.

>> Andean Territory’s terms and conditions

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