Choquequirao Machu Picchu Trek
8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
Choquequirao Machu Picchu Trek Tour 8 Days
TRIP OVERVIEW
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous trail in South America. It is recognized by the National Geographic as one of the 10 most beautiful treks in the world. It is considered this for the scenery that shows a wide-range of landscapes, Andean mountains, archaeological places. During this trek, also the original Inca Trail, sunrises and sunsets in the camps. On the Inca Trail, you can see ruins during the trek, at the end of this famous trek you will have the biggest prize, enter the Inti Punku to the ruins of Machu Picchu!!
DAY
DESCRIPTION
MEALS
OVERNIGHT
DAY 1
Cusco – Cachora – Chiquisca
- (L) - (D)
Camping
DAY 2
Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
(B) - (L) - (D)
Camping
DAY 3
Choquequirao – Full Exploration
(B) - (L) - (D)
Camping
DAY 4
Choquequirao – Maizal
(B) -
---
DAY 5
Maizal – Yanama
(B) -
---
DAY 6
Yanama – Lucmabamba
(B) -
---
DAY 7
Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
(B) -
---
DAY 8
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
(B) -
---
(B) Breakfast - (L) Lunch - (D) Dinner
CLASSIC INCA TRAIL MAP
Duration: 8 days
Arrival: Daily
Departure: Daily
Destinations: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
Activities: Adventure, Trekking, Camping
Tour Details
ITINERARY
INCLUSIONS
PRICE
FAQS
MORE INFO
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
Day 4:
Day 5:
Day 6:
Day 7:
Day 8:
Cusco – Cachora – Chiquisca
Early Morning:
- Hotel Pick-up: We will pick you up early in the morning, around 5:00 a.m., at your hotel in Cusco.
- Transfer to Cachora: Drive to the town of Cachora (approximately 4 hours), where we will begin our hike.
Morning:
- Start of the Trek in Cachora: After a brief orientation and preparation, we will start our hike. The initial trail offers panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Midday:
- Lunch at Capuliyoc: Arrival at the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,915 meters / 9,564 feet) to enjoy a hot lunch prepared by our kitchen team. From here, you can see the Apurímac canyon and the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Afternoon:
- Descent to Chiquisca: Continue hiking down to Chiquisca (1,850 meters / 6,070 feet). The trail is steep and can be slippery but offers impressive views of the Apurímac canyon.
Evening:
- Dinner: Hot dinner at the campsite, prepared by the kitchen team.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents at Chiquisca.
Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Crossing the Apurímac River: Descend to the bridge over the Apurímac River (1,500 meters / 4,921 feet) and then begin the ascent to Marampata. The trail is steep and challenging.
Midday:
- Arrival at Marampata: Arrival at Marampata (2,850 meters / 9,350 feet) for lunch. From here, you can see the Choquequirao archaeological complex in the distance.
Afternoon:
- Hike to Choquequirao: Continue hiking to Choquequirao, arriving at the campsite near the archaeological site.
- Initial Exploration of Choquequirao: Time for an initial exploration of the Choquequirao ruins (3,033 meters / 9,951 feet), known as the "sacred sister" of Machu Picchu.
Evening:
- Dinner: Hot dinner at the campsite, prepared by the kitchen team.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents near Choquequirao.
Choquequirao – Full Exploration
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Guided Tour of Choquequirao: A guided tour of approximately 3 hours through Choquequirao, exploring the most important sites such as terraces, plazas, and temples. Choquequirao is a less visited site and offers a more peaceful and authentic experience.
Midday:
- Lunch at the Campsite: Hot lunch at the campsite near Choquequirao.
Afternoon:
- Additional Exploration: Free time to explore more of the archaeological site on your own or relax at the campsite.
Evening:
- Dinner: Hot dinner at the campsite, prepared by the kitchen team.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents near Choquequirao.
Choquequirao – Maizal
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Hike to Río Blanco: Descend towards Río Blanco, passing through a varied landscape of jungle and mountain.
Midday:
- Crossing the Río Blanco: Lunch on the way, followed by crossing the Río Blanco (1,990 meters / 6,529 feet).
Afternoon:
- Ascent to Maizal: Steep ascent towards the camp at Maizal (3,000 meters / 9,843 feet). The trail offers spectacular views of the valley and the mountains.
Evening:
- Dinner: Hot dinner at the campsite, prepared by the kitchen team.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents at Maizal.
Maizal – Yanama
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Ascent to San Juan Pass: Hike towards San Juan Pass (4,200 meters / 13,779 feet). The trail includes cobblestone sections and ancient Inca mines.
Midday:
- Lunch at the Pass: Arrival at the pass, time to rest and enjoy lunch with panoramic views.
Afternoon:
- Descent to Yanama: Descend towards the Yanama valley, arriving at the campsite in Yanama (3,530 meters / 11,581 feet).
Evening:
- Dinner: Hot dinner at the campsite, prepared by the kitchen team.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents at Yanama.
Yanama – Lucmabamba
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Ascent to Yanama Pass: Hike towards Yanama Pass (4,200 meters / 13,779 feet), the highest point of the trek. From here, enjoy impressive views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Midday:
- Lunch at the Pass: Lunch at Yanama Pass.
Afternoon:
- Descent to Lucmabamba: Descend towards Lucmabamba, passing through lush jungle landscapes and coffee and fruit plantations.
Evening:
- Dinner: Dinner at the camp in Lucmabamba.
- Overnight: Overnight stay in tents at Lucmabamba.
Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the campsite.
- Ascent to Llactapata: Hike towards the Inca ruins of Llactapata, situated at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). From here, you will have an impressive view of Machu Picchu from a different angle.
Midday:
- Lunch at Llactapata: Picnic lunch at Llactapata, enjoying the views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon:
- Descent to Hidroelectrica: Continue descending towards the Hidroelectrica station.
- Hike to Aguas Calientes: Hike from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This hike takes approximately 3 hours.
- Hotel Accommodation: Check-in at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Evening:
- Overnight: Overnight stay at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early Morning:
- Early Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
- Bus to Machu Picchu: Take the first bus to Machu Picchu to arrive at the citadel early in the morning.
Morning:
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: A guided tour of approximately 2 hours through Machu Picchu, exploring the most important sites according to the selected circuit.
Mid-Morning:
- Free Time: After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You can choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you have additional tickets.
Midday:
- Return to Aguas Calientes: Bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
Afternoon:
- Free Time in Aguas Calientes: You can explore the town, visit the artisan market, or relax in the hot springs (optional).
- Train Ride Back to Ollantaytambo: Board the train in the afternoon to return to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer to Cusco: From Ollantaytambo, a car will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Evening:
- Arrival in Cusco: Arrival at your hotel in Cusco around 8:00 p.m.
Included
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco.
- Train tickets from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes and return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Entrance fees to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
- Bilingual professional guide.
- Meals during the trek (9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 8 dinners).
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats).
- Porters and mules to carry camping equipment.
- Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (1 night).
Not Included
- Lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
- Additional tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Tips for guides and porters.
- Personal expenses.
Land Package
All prices listed below are per passenger and cover only the land-based portion of the trip. Flights are not included.
Comfort
CATEGORY
PRICE
Budget
U$D 890.00 / person
Standard
U$D 940.00 / person
U$D 990.00 / person
Luxury
U$D 1,250.00 / person
Note: It is considered in the prices of Comfort trains in Vistadome service and in Luxury trains Vistadome Observatory service.
Frequently Asked Questions
About INCA TRAIL
1. When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to September, when there is less chance of rain and the weather is more stable.
2. How long does it take to complete the Inca Trail?
There are two main options: the Classic 4-day Inca Trail and the Short 2-day Inca Trail.
3. Is a guide necessary for the Inca Trail?
Yes, an authorized guide is required to hike the Inca Trail. Independent hiking is not permitted.
4. How do I obtain a permit for the Inca Trail?
Permits must be reserved through an authorized travel agency. It is advisable to book several months in advance due to high demand.
5. What is included in the price of the Inca Trail tour?
The price generally includes transportation, entrance fees, guides, meals, camping equipment, and porters to carry the equipment.
6. What type of accommodation is offered on the Inca Trail?
During the trek, you camp at designated sites. Travel agencies provide tents and camping equipment.
7. Is the Inca Trail safe?
Yes, it is safe as long as you follow your guide's instructions and are well-prepared physically and with the appropriate equipment.
8. What should I bring for the Inca Trail?
Backpack, trekking boots, clothing for variable weather, sleeping bag, trekking poles, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
9. Do I need prior trekking experience?
Prior experience is not necessary, but it is recommended to be in good physical condition and have some experience with long hikes.
10. How do I acclimatize to the altitude?
It is recommended to spend at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek to acclimate to the altitude. Stay well hydrated and avoid excessive physical exertion.
11. Can I hike the Inca Trail if I have health issues?
It is important to consult your doctor before the trek. Inform your travel agency about any medical conditions you have.
12. What happens if it rains during the trek?
Be prepared for rain with waterproof clothing and a cover for your backpack. Guides will adapt the itinerary if necessary.
13. Are there toilets on the Inca Trail?
Yes, there are basic toilets at the campsites and some points along the trail, but the infrastructure is limited.
14. How is the food on the Inca Trail?
Travel agencies provide nutritious and varied meals tailored to the trekkers' dietary needs. The food is prepared by professional cooks.
15. Can I hike the Inca Trail alone?
No, all trekkers must be accompanied by an authorized guide and be part of a group organized by a travel agency.
16. What sustainability measures are taken on the Inca Trail?
Responsible agencies adopt sustainable practices, such as not leaving trash, using eco-friendly products, and supporting local communities.
17. Can I charge my phone or camera during the trek?
It is advisable to bring extra batteries or a solar charger, as there are few opportunities to charge devices on the trail.
18. What happens if I cannot complete the trek?
In case of an emergency, your guide will make necessary arrangements for you to receive assistance and, if needed, be transported back to Cusco.
19. What do I do with my luggage that I do not take on the trek?
Most agencies offer a secure storage service for your luggage in Cusco while you are on the trek.
20. How do I book my spot for the Inca Trail?
You must book through an authorized travel agency. It is recommended to do so several months in advance due to limited permit availability.
21. What is the maximum altitude of the Inca Trail?
The highest point on the Inca Trail is Warmiwañusca Pass, which is 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level.
22. How many people are in a typical Inca Trail group?
Groups usually have between 8 and 16 people, depending on the travel agency and demand.
23. What should I do if I get altitude sickness during the trek?
Inform your guide immediately. Rest, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive physical exertion. Guides carry medication and oxygen for emergencies.
24. Can I drink the water on the Inca Trail?
It is not recommended to drink water from rivers or streams. Bring water purification tablets or use a water filter, and your travel agency will provide boiled water.
25. Do I need vaccinations to hike the Inca Trail?
No specific vaccinations are required for the Inca Trail, but it is advisable to be up to date with standard vaccinations and consult your doctor.
26. Are there age restrictions for hiking the Inca Trail?
There are no age restrictions, but it is recommended that children under 12 and older adults consult a doctor before the trek.
27. Can I hire additional porters?
Yes, many agencies offer the option to hire additional porters to carry your personal equipment for an extra cost.
28. Is there cell phone signal on the Inca Trail?
Cell phone signal is limited, and many areas have no coverage. It is best to assume you will be disconnected during the trek.
29. What type of flora and fauna can I see on the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail hosts a diversity of plants, such as orchids and bromeliads, and animals, including exotic birds, butterflies, and sometimes small mammals.
30. What are the guides like on the Inca Trail?
Guides are trained professionals with extensive knowledge of the history, culture, and geography of the Inca Trail. They are certified and speak several languages, including English and Spanish.
31. How do I obtain a permit for the Inca Trail?
Permits for the Inca Trail must be reserved through an authorized travel agency. It is recommended to book several months in advance due to high demand and limited daily permits.
32. When should I book my permit for the Inca Trail?
It is recommended to book your permit at least 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to hike during the high season (May to September).
33. How many permits are issued daily for the Inca Trail?
The Peruvian government issues a total of 500 permits daily for the Inca Trail, which includes tourists, guides, and porters.
34. Can I change the date of my permit once booked?
Inca Trail permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. Changing the date of your permit can be very difficult and is not guaranteed.
35. What information do I need to provide to book a permit?
You will need to provide your full name, passport number, date of birth, and nationality. Ensure that the information matches exactly with your passport.
36. What happens if my passport changes before the trip?
If you get a new passport after booking, you must carry both passports (the old and the new one) at the start of the trek. Inform your travel agency about any changes in your passport details.
37. Does the Inca Trail permit include entry to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the Inca Trail permit includes entry to Machu Picchu for the fourth day of the trek.
38. Can I buy an Inca Trail permit without a tour?
No, it is not possible to buy an Inca Trail permit without a tour. You must book a tour through an authorized travel agency that includes guides and necessary services.
39. Are there discounts for students or minors?
Yes, there are discounts available for students with a valid ISIC card and for minors. You must provide a copy of the ISIC card or the minor’s ID at the time of booking.
40. What happens if the permits for the Inca Trail are sold out?
If permits are sold out, you can consider alternative routes such as the Salkantay, Lares, or the Short 2-Day Inca Trail, which do not require the same limited permits.
Additional Information
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous trail in South America. It is recognized by the National Geographic as one of the 10 most beautiful treks in the world. It is considered this for the scenery that shows a wide-range of landscapes, Andean mountains, archaeological places. During this trek, also the original Inca Trail, sunrises and sunsets in the camps.
On the Inca Trail, you can see ruins during the trek, at the end of this famous trek you will have the biggest prize, enter the Inti Punku to the ruins of Machu Picchu!!
Private Camps & Hotel
Accommodation
From 12 People
Group size
4,630 m / 15,190 ft
Altitude level
Moderate to Challenging
Level of difficulty
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INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
The Inca trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most popular tours, this road is full of beautiful landscapes, trails surrounded by mountains, cloud forests, etc. They are somewhat natural appeal of this road which was created by the Incas centuries ago, this path made of stones used it to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. Definitely, this route remains a bustling thoroughfare today, attracting throngs of tourists eager to embark on a journey to one of the modern wonders of the world, "Machu Picchu."
These are some of our tours the hike to Machu Picchu most popular of which you can choose according to time and budget available. It's imperative to secure your place on the Inca Trail tour as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of permits issued by the Peruvian government. There are only places for 500 people a day and only about 200 of these quotes are for hikers while it's rest is for the guides, cooks and porters.
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
ALTERNATIVE TREKS PROGRAMS
ALTERNATIVE TREKS TO MACHU PICCHU
The Inca trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most popular tours, this road is full of beautiful landscapes, trails surrounded by mountains, cloud forests, etc. They are somewhat natural appeal of this road which was created by the Incas centuries ago, this path made of stones used it to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. Definitely, this route remains a bustling thoroughfare today, attracting throngs of tourists eager to embark on a journey to one of the modern wonders of the world, "Machu Picchu."
These are some of our tours the hike to Machu Picchu most popular of which you can choose according to time and budget available. It's imperative to secure your place on the Inca Trail tour as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of permits issued by the Peruvian government. There are only places for 500 people a day and only about 200 of these quotes are for hikers while it's rest is for the guides, cooks and porters.
ALTERNATIVE TOURS TO MACHU PICCHU
DAY TREKS IN CUSCO
The Inca trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most popular tours, this road is full of beautiful landscapes, trails surrounded by mountains, cloud forests, etc. They are somewhat natural appeal of this road which was created by the Incas centuries ago, this path made of stones used it to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. Definitely, this route remains a bustling thoroughfare today, attracting throngs of tourists eager to embark on a journey to one of the modern wonders of the world, "Machu Picchu."
These are some of our tours the hike to Machu Picchu most popular of which you can choose according to time and budget available. It's imperative to secure your place on the Inca Trail tour as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of permits issued by the Peruvian government. There are only places for 500 people a day and only about 200 of these quotes are for hikers while it's rest is for the guides, cooks and porters.
TREKS IN CUSCO
LUXURY TRIPS PROGRAMS
LUXURY TRIPS TO MACHU PICCHU
The Inca trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most popular tours, this road is full of beautiful landscapes, trails surrounded by mountains, cloud forests, etc. They are somewhat natural appeal of this road which was created by the Incas centuries ago, this path made of stones used it to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. Definitely, this route remains a bustling thoroughfare today, attracting throngs of tourists eager to embark on a journey to one of the modern wonders of the world, "Machu Picchu."
These are some of our tours the hike to Machu Picchu most popular of which you can choose according to time and budget available. It's imperative to secure your place on the Inca Trail tour as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of permits issued by the Peruvian government. There are only places for 500 people a day and only about 200 of these quotes are for hikers while it's rest is for the guides, cooks and porters.
LUXURY TRIPS
MACHU PICCHU TOURS PROGRAMS
TOURS TO MACHU PICCHU
The Inca trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most popular tours, this road is full of beautiful landscapes, trails surrounded by mountains, cloud forests, etc. They are somewhat natural appeal of this road which was created by the Incas centuries ago, this path made of stones used it to reach the lost city of Machu Picchu. Definitely, this route remains a bustling thoroughfare today, attracting throngs of tourists eager to embark on a journey to one of the modern wonders of the world, "Machu Picchu."
These are some of our tours the hike to Machu Picchu most popular of which you can choose according to time and budget available. It's imperative to secure your place on the Inca Trail tour as soon as possible, as there are a limited number of permits issued by the Peruvian government. There are only places for 500 people a day and only about 200 of these quotes are for hikers while it's rest is for the guides, cooks and porters.
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