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Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu - 8 days
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QUICK OVERVIEW
Explore the two major archaeological sites in Cusco Choquequirao and Machu Picchu: This expedition will take you to two of the major archaeological sites in the Cusco region. Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Choquequirao is located along the spurs of the Salkantay Mountain Range above the Valley of the Apurimac river. The entire complex encompasses 1,800 hectares of which 30-40% is uncovered. This extraordinary 8-day trekking expedition will lead trekkers to the major archaeological sites in Cusco; Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Choquequirao (Chuqi K’iraw, Cradle of Gold) is a partly excavated city of the Inca also is called as sister of Machu Picchu.
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What you need to know about our trek?
Day by Day Itinerary
* Price based in sharing one tent 2 people and double room in the Hotel
Type Service: Privately Guided
Itinerary: Fixed
Destinations: Choquequirao
Activities: Trekking and Walking
Day 1 - Cusco, Cachora / Chiquisca
Pick up from the Hotel at 5:00am and transfer in our private transportation to Cachora (2850m/9348ft) the journey will take around 4hrs. While the group is having breakfast the crew will arrange the horses for the trek. We start to walk from Cachora observing the majestic Padrayoc snow covered peak, the highest (5482m/17980ft). The hike on this first day is 16 km around 6hrs walking starts by flat part. From the viewpoint of Capuliyoc where it might see condors, the descent towards the Apurímac Canyon, and the vegetation changes from Agave and Tunacactus to dwarf tree forest, having lunch at Cocamasana, then we continue to Chiquisqa (1950m/6398ft), campsite in Chiquisca
Meals Included: Box-lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 16 km (9, 93 miles)
Estimated walking time: 5- 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: (2850m/9348ft)
Day 2 - Chiquisca / Choquequirao Archeological Site
Breakfast; early in the morning we start to walk from here and continue the descent to the abundant Apurímac River (1550m/5028ft) in the impressing deep canyon of the same name. After a short rest continue the hike going up to Choquequirao Archeological Site. The first 2-3 hours are going up steep until Santa Rosa, then it will change between flat and climb the rest of the way surrounded by beautiful vegetation with several varieties of orchids. Lunch at Maranpata (2850m/9348ft) then continue to Choquequirao (3033m/9948ft) after 2hrs walking arrival to our camping place from where we have a spectacular view of the canyon, it is also possible to see Andean Condors soaring in the mountains. Campsite near Choquequirao
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 14 km (8, 70 miles)
Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
Maximum altitude point: (3033m/9948ft)
Day 3 - Choquequirao / Maizal
Breakfast; on this day trekkers walk uphill for a while up to 3400m/11152ft the first Choquequirao pass and then descending to Rio Blanco (1909m/6262ft), first walking through cloud forest, arriving to Pinchayunuyoc arquelogical site. Resting and observing basically on the old Inca Terraces the flora and fauna; arrival to the Rio Blanco or white river to have a break some rest, swim and lunch. After the lunch starting the hike up the steep climbing up to Maizal village high over the river close to the sacred Apus of the Incas for about 3 hrs, camping in Maizal (3400m/11152ft)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 16 Km (9, 93 miles)
Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Maximum altitude point: (3400m/11152ft)
Day 4 - Maizal / Yanama
Breakfast; from here start walking uphill passing by the impressive Inca mines called Minas Victoria and towards the Victoria Pass (4200m/13776ft). A long climb the trail, walking in an amazingly beautiful area first with cloud forest and then over Andean Puna with the well known Ichu grass, trekkers can appreciate original paved Inca trails until Victoria Pass. Taking the box lunch at the pass in 4200m/13776ft with view of the mountain Choquetakarpo, trekkers can appreciate the flight of the condors depending on the climate, and finally descending to Yanama community (3500m/11480ft) where we spend the night.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 15 km (9, 32 miles)
Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Maximum altitude point: (4200m/13776ft)
Day 5 - Yanama / Colpapampa
Breakfast; climbing slowly to the higher pass called Yanama (4550m/14924ft), again the view is amazing, trekkers are surrounded by snowcapped mountains the Mt. Sacsarayoj and Mt. Padreyoc. Continuing from Yanama up through the valley towards the highest point of the tour, once more having the chance to see condors and this morning smooth climb bring through new landscapes –crossing small wood/dirt bridges on the way towards the community of Totora where we have the lunch, then continue to Colpapampa (2890m/9479ft), our camping site, a beautiful spot with some natural hot springs to relax in
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 15 Km (9, 32 miles)
Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Maximum altitude point: (4550m/14924ft)
Day 6 - Colpapampa / Lucmabamba
Breakfast; today we continue our hike with an easy walk along the Santa Teresa River, enjoying the increasingly lush vegetation, passing waterfalls, passion fruit and coffee plantations. We pass the waterfalls at Coripacchi, the settlement at Wiñaypoko, and then we continue to La Playa (2155m/7068ft) where we have our lunch, after lunch we continue until Lucmabamba
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 12 Km (7, 45 miles)
Estimated walking time: 6 hours
Day 7 – Lucmabamba / LLaqtapata / Aguas Calientes
Breakfast; start climbing for around 3hrs up to El Mirador or Abra Q’elloqasa (2860m/9381ft) from where we have an exceptional view of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, from a different angle. Then we continue to Llaqtapata archeological site (2650m/8692ft) from where we can view both Machu Picchu and the Salkantay Mountain and take a good rest, enjoying the added value of the Llactapata, which have recently been restored. A 2hrs descent towards the Aobamba River crossing lush bamboo forests and more orchards and coffee plantations brings us to the hydroelectric plant of Machu Picchu from where we board a train that takes us to Aguas Calientes (short, 40-minutes train ride) Overnight at Aguas Calientes Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Total distance: 10 Km (6, 21 miles)
Estimated walking time: 5 hours
Maximum altitude point: (2860m/9381ft)
Day 8 - Machu Picchu / Back to Cusco
Breakfast at the hotel; full day Excursion to Machu Picchu, early transfer to the Bus Stop for the short ride (25 minutes) up to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial (the most important preserved Intihuatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, houses, warehouses, a large central square; and all connected by narrow roads and steps that are surrounded by terraces cut into the mountain side. After the tour you'll have time to stroll around the Archaeological Site at your leisure.
Opportunity to walk (approx 1 hour) up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or climb to the top of Wayna Picchu, with a magnificent view of the whole Sanctuary, return in the afternoon by train to Cusco and transfer at the hotel.
Opportunity to walk (approx 1 hour) up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or climb to the top of Wayna Picchu, with a magnificent view of the whole Sanctuary, return in the afternoon by train to Cusco and transfer at the hotel.
Single supplement: $US$ 78
Includes
- Pre-departure briefing
- Collection from the hotel in the morning of trek departure.
- Private transport to Cachora, head of the Trek
- Entrance fee to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
- English Speaking Professional Guide (two guides for groups over 8 persons)
- 4 Season tents, 2 people in each 3-people-capacity tent
- Thermal Rest Mattresses
- Horsemen and horses: Carry tents, cooking equipment and also carry backpacks, sleeping bags and mattresses (Max. 15 kilos/ 33 lbs per person)
- One emergency horse every two persons
- Chef and cooking equipment
- Dining tent with tables, chairs and Kitchen tent
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food)
- Toilet tent
- Accommodation for all our staff
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle.
- Train ticket from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes
- Bus up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco (Vistadome Class upon request)
- One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes with Tourist Class or Superior Tourist Class Hotel ( upon request)
- Transfer from the train station to your hotel.
Not included
- Sleeping bag (can be hired in our office for US$ 48 for the 9 day trek)
- Tips for the guide, cook and porters
- Domestic airfare to and from Cusco (+/- US$ 290 per person round trip)
- Visa fees (if required)
- Passport & Visa Costs
- Vaccination Costs
- Personal Spending Money
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinks
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Airport departure taxes
- Border taxes or fees
Optional Services
- Upgrade the train to Vistadome Class: add US$ 25
- Sleeping bag during the tour ( -10°C): add US$ 48
Peru Travel Facts
All of this combined makes Peru one of the most interesting places to volunteer in Latin America.
Here are some of the most interesting facts about Peru.
General facts about Peru
1) There are three official languages
Spanish, Quechua and Aymara are all official languages in Peru.
Spanish is the most widely spoken of the three, with over 80% of Peruvians speaking this language.
But these languages are only the tip of the linguistic iceberg in this South American country.
Once you travel towards the Amazon Jungle, the people local to this region speak an additional 13 languages. Impressive, right?
2) The capital city of Peru is Lima
Prior to the invasion of Peru by the Spanish, Peru was known as Tahuantinsuyo (or the Inca Empire as it is known today), and the most important city in that empire was Qosqo (or Cusco), which means navel of the world. Tahuantinsuyo was the largest empire in the Americas at that time, hence why the city was given its name.
In 1535, Francisco Pizarro – a sixteenth-century Spanish coloniser – established the city of Lima to serve as the seat of power for the Spanish colonists. Lima is still the capital of Peru today.
Today, Lima is home to a third of Peru’s population.
Most visitors to Peru will skip Lima in their excitement to get to Cusco and Machu Picchu. But, Lima has so much to offer to travellers, including the different architectural styles visible in the city centre.
3) The population of Peru is over 33 million
There are more than 33 million people currently living in Peru.
This population is made up of groups from different cultures and backgrounds – including the Uros people, many of who live on islands built of reeds in Lake Titicaca, and the Mashco-Piro tribe, which lives in the Amazon rainforest.
These communities have inhabited the land for over five centuries.
Machu Picchu facts
Erected in the fourteenth century, Machu Picchu – a fortress built by the Incas – lies more than 2,400 metres above sea level in the Sacred Valley.
The Inca city was “lost” for over 400 years when Peru was invaded by the Spanish empire. It was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer, professor and archaeologist Hiram Bingham.
Today, Machu Picchu is a designated United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.
1) Machu Picchu is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World
Intrepid travellers flock to Peru every year to tackle the Inca Trail – a well-known four-day hiking trail on the Andes mountain range that leads to Machu Picchu.
And why is Machu Picchu so popular? It’s one of the places where you can see a number of great examples of Inca architecture and learn about Peruvian history.
In 2007, the site – often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas” – was voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
2) Machu Picchu was an astronomical observatory
Archaeologists have learned that the fourteenth century Incas had an excellent understanding of the alignment of the stars.
The civilisation built each sun temple and the sacred Intihuatana stone to line up with the sun for each solstice.
3) No wheels were used to build Machu Picchu
Despite the fact that Machu Picchu is made up of many stones weighing over 23 kilograms, no wheels were used to transport these rocks up the mountain. It is believed that hundreds of men pushed rocks up the steep mountainside to build this wonder of the world.
Peru natural wonders facts
1) Peru has one of the highest sand dunes in the world
The Cerro Blanco sand dune is the second-highest in the world, towering over the Sechura Desert at 1,176 metres.
The sand dune is located 14 kilometres east of the city of Nazca, so excursions to see the dune are usually organised from there.
When you arrive at the dunes, you can hire a dune buggy or sandboard, and spend hours sliding down one of the largest natural wonders in the world.
2) Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake
Located between Bolivia and Peru, Lake Titicaca has an elevation of 3,810 metres above sea level.
But that’s not the only thing that makes this natural wonder stand out.
In the 1970s Jacques Cousteau, a French conservationist, found ruins of a city beneath the surface of Lake Titicaca.
Today, the descendants of the Quechua people who called this lost city home, live on 120 self-made floating islands on the lake.
3) One of the deepest canyons in the world is in Peru
The Cotahuasi Canyon has a depth of more than 3,500 metres.
To put this into perspective, this canyon is twice the depth of the United States’ Grand Canyon.
4) Peru is home to the Nazca Lines
The Nazca Lines are a display of more than 70 giant human and animal geoglyphs – works of art made by rearranging objects within a landscape.
These images are scrawled across the Peruvian terrain near the city of Lima.
They were first brought to the public’s attention by a Peruvian archeologist in 1927.
Today, these lines in the desert plateau between Nazca and Palpa are considered one of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries.
Some people believe that the Nazca Lines are an ancient alien landing strip, while others think it forms part of a sophisticated astronomical calendar.
Interesting facts about Peru’s food
Did you know that Peru is considered one of the top foodie destinations in the world?
Michelin-star chefs from many different countries fly to Lima and Cusco to learn how to master their trade.
Need more proof about Peru’s gastronomic clout?
Every year since 2012, the country has been named the World’s Leading Culinary Destination by the World Travel Awards.
1) You can eat over 3,500 varieties of potatoes in Peru
The potato is a superfood, containing almost every kind of vitamin you need. It’s birthplace? Peru.
With more than 3,000 types of potato grown in the country, why not sample as many as possible in between conducting English classes, conservation work or community development volunteer work in Peru?
2) Peru is home to one of the best superfoods in the world
Ever heard of the camu camu fruit?
It grows in the Amazon rainforest and has a higher concentration of vitamin C than any other food in the world.
So, if you’re feeling a little jet-lagged after arriving in Peru, stop by the local supermarket, purchase a camu camu and take a bite to give your immune system a much-needed boost!
3) Guinea pigs aren’t pets
If you’re volunteering in Peru during an important cultural festival, keep a lookout for cuy. Cuy is a traditional dish that’s made from roasted guinea pig.
For the adventurous eaters that try this delicacy, it’s worth knowing that guinea pig meat is an even healthier choice than llama meat – and it contains even more protein.
4) Pisco sour is Peru’s national drink
Pisco sour is a Peruvian brandy that is mixed with lemons, sugar, water, egg whites, ice and bitters.
It was invented in the early 1920s by an American bartender. You can also try a version of the drink called chilcano, which is made without the egg whites.
Peru wildlife and flora facts
1) Peru is home to one of the world’s largest flying birds
The Andean condor is native to the Andes mountain range in Peru. It has a wingspan of 3.2 metres, stands at 1.2 metres tall and can weigh up to 15 kilograms. Because of their large size, these birds like to live in windy areas like Peru’s Colca Canyon, where they can use the air current to glide for hours with minimal effort.
The bird features on four national shields: Bolivia, Chile, Colombia and Ecuador.
The Andean condor is listed as “vulnerable” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. They are under threat due to poisoning, habitat loss, illegal hunting and the wildlife trade, as well as increased competition for food by feral dog populations.
2) Peru is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world
One of the most interesting facts about Peru is that it has 90 different microclimates – climates that are restricted to a small area, and different from surrounding climates.
So it’s no wonder that the country is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species.
One of the best places to go to grasp the sheer range of its diversity is the Manu National Park. This park holds a biodiversity record after recording more than 1,000 species of birds, 1,200 species of butterflies, and 287 species of amphibians and reptiles in 2014.
Another great place to experience this is in the Yanachaga-Chemillen National Park, home to the Amazon cloud forest. With GVI, you can live and work in the park, which will give you the opportunity to experience the incredible biodiverisity found in this special place. You’ll assist in monitoring the return of certain mammals to the area, including armadillos, agoutis and ocelots. Most recently, we have even captured images of pumas and a spectacled bear in the area – a good indication that more animals are returning to the forest.
3) The tallest flowering plant grows in Peru
The Puya raimondii can grow to a height of five metres.
This plant takes between 80 and 150 years to flower. And, once it does, it can produce over 30,000 white blooms.
It’s only found in the high Andes, growing at an elevation of 3,000–4,800 metres above sea level.
4) The Amazon rainforest covers almost two thirds of Peru
Part of the Amazon rainforest, the Peruvian Amazon covers 60% of the country and is home to around 20% of all bird species in the world. You’ll also find 700 types of ferns and 7,322 different species of flowering plants, as well as roughly 180 species of reptiles, 262 amphibians, 293 mammals, 697 fish, 806 birds and 2,500 butterflies.
5) Three-quarters of the world’s alpacas live in Peru
Over 3.5 million alpacas call Peru their home. So don’t be surprised if a curious alpaca or two find their way into your picture when you visit this beautiful country.
Frequently asked questions!
How do you prevent altitude sickness in Cusco?
The best way to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco is to be prepared. During your first 2 days you should take things easy. This means you shouldn’t take part in any strenuous activity. You should rest a lot and drink plenty of water. Alcohol and smoking isn’t a good idea as it can agitate you and make you feel a lot worse.
How to avoid altitude sickness in Peru?
You can avoid altitude sickness by spending a few days taking it easy in Cusco before you head off on any kind of trek. Trying to do a tough activity too soon could make you very ill. You should also eat lightly and avoid alcohol to feel your best.
What is the best trek to Machu Picchu?
There’s no definite answer to this as there are many options. The Inca Trail is the most popular and needs to be booked months in advance as there are only a certain number of spots each day. The best alternative trek is considered to be Salkantay, which offers a real adventure and fantastic scenery. Inca Jungle is great for those seeking a thrill and Lares is a top option if you want a quieter and more rural experience. If you have a lot of time and want to experience two incredible Inca sites, you can opt for the Choquequirao trek.
Which is better Inca Trail or Salkantay trail?
This depends on the individual who wants to trek. The Inca Trail is extremely popular as it takes you along the real trail where the Incas once walked. However, many say that the scenery on Salkantay is more beautiful. For this reason we would say go for the Inca Trail if you’re a real history lover and like to hike well-known treks, but go for Salkantay if you want to witness stunning landscapes and a variety of different climates.
Is the Salkantay Trek Dangerous?
The trek isn’t dangerous. You’re with fully qualified guides all the way to make sure you always stay on track. They are there to help you if you feel sick at all along the way. The path can be uneven, but if you take it slowly, you’ll have no issues. During wet season, November to April, you’ll have to take more care when you walk to avoid slipping.
Is the Salkantay Trek hard?
The trek is moderately challenging. This means that most people will be able to complete it if they are well-prepared. Most of the trek isn’t too challenging. It’s just the second day where you walk up to the Salkantay pass. You’ll trek for a total of 10 hours that day. What makes this trek difficult is the high altitude at which you hike and the different terrains as well as changing climate.
How high is the Salkantay Pass?
The Salkantay Pass sits at 4,600 masl.
How cold is the Salkantay trek?
Along the trail you’ll experience a lot of different climates. You’ll need to pack for the cold on the first two days. The first night will get below zero, so you need to make sure you have warm clothing and an excellent sleeping bag.
Do you need a permit for the Salkantay trek?
You don’t need a permit for the Salkantay trek. You do need to pay S/10 upon entering, but this doesn’t need to be reserved in advance, meaning that there is always space available.
How can I prepare for Salkantay Trek?
To prepare for trekking at high altitudes we recommend you start to prepare a few weeks before. You should start a fitness regime that includes daily stretching and exercises, particularly for your legs. We recommend taking hikes at home weekly before you come to do the trail.
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Tours by Machupicchu Guide Difference
- 100% Local Guides and drivers. EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL.
- It’s more affordable than you might think. Our pricing is per-tour NOT per-person so if there are 3 or more in your group, you’ll probably pay less than if you took a big bus tour.
- Every tour is private. Your guide will spend time only with you and the people you’re traveling with.
- Go at your own pace. See as much as you can or slow things down to a saunter. With your private guide, your day is flexible.
- Benefit from a local’s knowledge. Access more intimate, out of the way spots that have never seen a bus tour.
- Every tour is customizable. See the sights YOU want, try the food YOU crave, learn about what interests YOU the most.
- Customized information about the sights and places of interest
- Useful insider tips and knowledge that will help you make the most of your often short stay (transports, restaurants, where to and not to go, when, etc.)
- Comfort and privacy: private tours are for your party only, they start at the time of your choice and go at your own pace and to the places you really want to see.
- Simplicity: as independent professionals, private tourist guides often have simple and straight forward reservation and payment procedures. Hiring a private guide is also cost-effective as you deal directly with the person who will attend you.
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Perfect for your first trip to Perú
What our clients say?
ON TRIP ADVISOR ONLY WITH FIVE-STAR REVIEWS
- Andrew G
Hernan is an absolute legend! Professional, friendly and well organized. His English is perfect, which was nice as Americans.
Look no further. He's the best guide... read more
October 13, 2022JourneyWithJason Based on the great reviews here, I contacted Hernan in hopes that he would guide my group of four on a Sacred Valley tour, overnight in Ollantaytambo, and then a... read more
September 8, 2022melrosetraveler Hernan met us at the Cusco airport and we drove through the Scared Valley the first day. Hernan is a native of the area and has the most wonderful... read more
August 10, 2022T6081FGcatherinew Hernan made our trip to the Sacred Valley so incredible! I reached out to him a few months before we traveled to Peru, and he suggested the itinerary (gave... read more
July 25, 2022Christy N I can't recommend enough. An excellent tour guide who knows all the best places and people. He works hard to make sure your group is safe, well taken care of,... read more
July 11, 2022Tayter T Hernan is excellent. I gaurantee this will be the best tour to Quillabamba and choquequirao you can find. He is a great guide, both thorough and knowledgeable. He is one... read more
July 10, 2022
