Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Departure day

   Depart for overnight flights to Lima then Cusco.

2. Day 2: Arrive in Cusco

3. Day 3: Ruins & City Tour

   Explore the sacred temple of Qoricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo, followed by a visit to Cusco's Plaza de Armas during the city tour. Continuing, you discover the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the ceremonial site of Q'enqo, the red fortress of Puka-Pukara, and the Inca baths of Tambomachay. 

4. Day 4: Trek: Apurimac Canyon

   After leaving Cusco, the journey heads north across Antapampa, offering stunning views of mountains like Salkantay, Humantay, and Pitusiray. 

   The trek begins close to Sayhuite, with the first sights of Apurimac Canyon, the world's second-deepest. Descending, the group settles at a riverside campsite for the night.

   Walking distance: 7 km | Ascent: 250 m

5. Day 5: Trek: Chikisca to Choquequirao

   The day starts crossing via a footbridge, followed by a gradual uphill hike towards a scenic meadow. Continue uphill with breathtaking views until the path levels out as we reach the Hanging Valley, where Choquequirao is located.

   In the afternoon, we briefly explore the main plaza of Choquequirao, observing its terraces adorned with stone llama figures.

   Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 1,480 m | Descent: 790m  
    

6. Day 6: Hike: Explore ancient Inca ruins

   Today, we explore extensive archaeological sites on a hillside with stunning views of the Apurimac River and encounter the Chunchumayo River, offering striking canyon vistas. We discover restored buildings that once served as residences, storage areas, and ceremonial sites. 

7. Day 7: Trek: Pass of Choquequirao

   Climb from the campsite towards Choquequirao Pass at 3,280 metres, trekking through a beautiful cloud forest adorned with magnificent trees. Along the way, we pass ancient terracing that once supported Choquequirao. Descending alongside the Yuracmayo River, we ascend towards Maizal, stopping at lookout points with breathtaking views of the Yurahmayo and Yanama gorges.

   Walking distance: 13 km | Ascent: 1,170 m | Descent: 1,400 m

8. Day 8: Trek: Mina Victoria and Qoriwayrachina Hill

   Today's hike starts with a steep ascent towards the former Inca mine of Mina Victoria. We continue on Qoriwayrachina Hill, an archaeological site that served as a resting place for travellers in the Inca era. After crossing the pass at 3,900 metres, we begin our descent towards the village of Yanama.

   Walking distance: 10 km | Ascent: 1,220 m | Descent: 875 m

9. Day 9: Transfer to Machu Picchi

   This morning we transfer from Tqanama to the railway station and on to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, you can independently take a two-hour walk along the railway to Machu Picchu. 

10. Day 10: Machu Picchu guided visit

    Following breakfast, take a scenic bus ride to the ruins, taking approximately half an hour. Amidst the stunning beauty of Machu Picchu and its lush surroundings, a guided exploration offers insights into its structures and history. After the visit, we catch an afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transferring to the Sacred Valley.

11. Day 11: Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo

    Starting our journey in Moray, we explore one of the oldest agricultural experimental sites, featuring circular terraces designed to support various microclimates and specific crops. Then, we visit Maras, famous for its mountain-side salt ponds, taste the renowned salt and learn about traditional salt production techniques.

    In the afternoon, we discover Ollantaytambo, a town with a preserved Inca street layout and an ancient water system still in use today.

12. Day 12: Lamay Community Day

    Immerse yourself in the mountain community of Huama, joining locals in their daily activities and witnessing their traditional farming techniques, including cultivating crops. After experiencing agricultural life, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared with fresh ingredients from the community. In the afternoon, witness a traditional weaving demonstration by talented village women using yarn dyed with natural plant-based dyes.

13. Day 13: Depart Cusco

    A transfer takes you to the airport for your return home. 

    Alternatively, if you wish to extend your holiday in Cusco, we can offer additional optional extras such as cooking classes, chocolate workshops, full-day trips to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, SUP/kayaking at Piuray Lake, and day hikes offering views across Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain - contact us to find out more.
     

14. Day 14: Arrive in the UK

    Arrive back into the UK after an overnight flight.