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TREKKING ALTERNATIVE Choquequirao Trek 8 Days
Embark on the ultimate trek through the Andes into the jungle of Machu Picchu with the 8-day Choquequirao Trek, where you'll discover the architectural equivalent of Machu Picchu. Although Choquequirao is larger, both Inca sites are spectacular for their similarities in geographical terrain, architecture, scenic landscape, climate types, and Inca trails. Explore the captivating ruins of Choquequirao on this spectacular trek that will provide you with lasting memories and unique experiences. The trekking trail to Choquequirao is a remote area with stunning landscapes in Peru, and by joining this 8-day adventure, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the best trekking routes, including Choquequirao, part of the Salkantay, and the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which offer sweeping photographic views of this iconic destination.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Capulilloc to Chiquisca
Embark on the Choquequirao Trek, departing from Cusco at 6:00 AM. A scenic 4-hour drive leads to Capulilloc. Begin a 3.5-hour warm-up hike, descending into the Apurimac Canyon, arriving at the first campsite in Chiquisca. Enjoy stunning views and a briefing about the trip.
Lo que se incluye:
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Transportation from Cusco to Capulilloc
- Choquequirao entrance fees
- Camping equipment (including sleeping mats)
Estadísticas del día
- Travel time by car: 4 hours
- Hiking distance: 8 km
- Hiking time: 3.5 hours
- Starting altitude: ~3,300 m.a.s.l. (Capulilloc)
- Final elevation: ~1,800 m.a.s.l. (Chiquisca)
Day 2: Chiquisca – Choquequirao Guided Tour – Inc
Get an early start to explore Choquequirao, avoiding the sun in the canyon. Cross the Rosalina Bridge, ascend the canyon, and arrive in Marampata for lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to a guided tour of Choquequirao, concluding with spectacular views. The day involves a challenging hike, covering 15 km in 9-10 hours.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Professional guide for the guided tour in Choquequirao
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 15 km
- Hiking time: 9-10 hours
- Starting elevation: ~1,800 m.a.s.l. (Chiquisca)
- Maximum elevation: ~3,050 m.a.s.l. (Choquequirao)
Day 3: Choquequirao – Río Blanco to Maizal
Embark on a challenging trek to the Pinchaunuyoc ruins and Maizal base camp. The trip begins at 6:00 AM, passing by the Choquequirao ruins, descending to the Río Blanco River, and ascending to Maizal. A total of 18 km is covered in 8-9 hours, with varied landscapes and terrain.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Camping equipment
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 18 km
- Hiking time: 8-9 hours
- Starting elevation: ~3,050 m.a.s.l. (Choquequirao)
- Final elevation: ~2,900 m.a.s.l. (Maizal)
Day 4: Maizal to Yanama
Conquer the highest pass, Yanama Pass, on a 6-hour trek. Say goodbye to the muleteers in Yanama and transfer to Lucmabamba. Enjoy the scenic surroundings of the coffee plantations and a unique viewpoint of Machu Picchu. The day covers 13 km in 4 hours.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Local transportation from Yanama to Lucmabamba
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 13 km
- Hiking time: 4 hours
- Maximum elevation: ~4,600 m.a.s.l. (Yanama Pass)
- Final elevation: ~3,500 m.a.s.l. (Yanama)
Day 5: Lucmabamba to Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes
Ascend Lucmabamba Pass, with Machu Picchu visible in the distance. Descend to the Aobamba River, head to the hydroelectric station, and finally to Aguas Calientes. The 10.2 km hike takes approximately 5 hours.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Local train from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 10.2 km
- Hiking time: 5 hours
- Starting elevation: ~2,000 m.a.s.l. (Lucmabamba)
- Final elevation: ~1,800 m.a.s.l. (Aguas Calientes)
Day 6: Sacred Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Begin the Sacred Inca Trail at 5:30 AM, walking from kilometer 104 to Intipunku and Machu Picchu. A 16 km trek in 7 hours offers diverse landscapes. Explore Machu Picchu for 2 hours before descending to Aguas Calientes.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Admission fees to Machu Picchu
- Professional guide for the tour of Machu Picchu
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 16 km
- Hiking time: 7 hours
- Maximum elevation: ~2,730 m.a.s.l. (Intipunku)
- Final elevation: ~2,400 m.a.s.l. (Machu Picchu)
Day 7: Tour to Machu Picchu, Return to Cusco
Visit Machu Picchu with the group, spending 2 hours exploring. In the afternoon, return to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a guided tour and take the train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco.
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Estadísticas del día
- Guided tour time at Machu Picchu: 2 hours
- Travel time by train: ~1.5 hours (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo)
- Transfer time: ~2 hours (Ollantaytambo to Cusco)
Day 8: Hike to Rainbow Mountain
Conclude the adventure with a hike to the mountain
Lo que se incluye:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Private transportation from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain
- Tickets to Rainbow Mountain
- Professional hiking guide
Estadísticas del día
- Hiking distance: 10 km
- Hiking time: 4-5 hours
- Starting altitude: ~4,200 m.a.s.l.
- Maximum altitude: ~5,200 m.a.s.l. (Rainbow Mountain)
Not included
Accommodation: Hotels, hostels, Airbnb, or lodges during stays in CUSCO AND AGUAS CALIENTES are not included.
Meals Not Described: Any meal not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary is not covered.
Sleeping Bag: Bring your own sleeping bag; alternatively, you can rent one in downtown Cusco.
Day 1 Breakfast: Breakfast on day 1 is not included.
Personal Tent: If you prefer a personal tent, it is not part of the package.
Horseback Riding: Horseback riding from Capuliyoc to Yanama for four days with a muleteer is not included.
Tips: Tips for the entire team (muleteers, cooks, and guides) are not included but are appreciated for the services provided during the 8-day Choquequirao trek.
Recommendations
Comfortable and breathable clothing.
Waterproof jacket.
Waterproof hiking boots.
Comfortable sandals.
Sleeping bag for cold temperatures.
Trekking poles.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Toilet paper and wet wipes.
Insect repellent.
Basic first aid kit.
Small backpack.
Waterproof bags.
Headlamp and portable chargers.
Reusable water bottle.
Energy snacks.
Passport and documents.
Credit/debit cards and cash.
Cash.
Camera and extra batteries.
Personal toiletries.
Health insurance card.
