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Group Size:
2-10 People
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Destination:
MACHU PICCHU
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Departure :
Everyday
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Level :
Moderate - Difficult
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Category :
TREK
Choquequirao Route To Machu Picchu is designed for all Adventurers who want to explore the Andes and jungle of Cusco until you reach the majestic Machu Picchu, you can see orchids, the famous Andean condor, the Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus), etc.
When doing this trek you will enjoy hiking in beautiful scenery, you'll see the impressive Apurimac Canyon, you’ll see flora and wildlife in the path. This route offers a strenuous but formidable journey due to the various existing ecosystems until you reach Machu Picchu. This is a spectacular hike through the Andes of Peru. You can visit the architectural complex of Choquequirao, which is situated in Vilcabamba at 3100 meters, and is considered the last Inka refuge and place of resistance from the invaders.
Useful Information
Starting Altitude – 2900m / 9515ft.
Highest Altitude – 4840m / 15,879ft.
Walking Distance – 100km / 62 miles
- Longest Day - Days 1 and 6, approximately 18km / 11.2 miles
- Overall Difficulty - Difficult
Aclimatization is highly Recommended.
Important: Campsites may vary depending on booking time, weather conditions or on restrictions undertaken for safety reasons by the Peruvian Goverment.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Because of its altitude, Choquequirao has a temperate climate. However, it should be noted that the road to Choquequirao is warm because of the Apurimac canyon.
Choquequirao was presumably used as a control site to ensure access to areas of Vilcabamba, connecting the jungle with other major centers like Pisac and Machu Picchu. The archaeological remains of Choquequirao are comprised of buildings and terraces on different levels, in which their terraces stand out due to 22 carvings on stone with figures known as "Llamas del Sol" arranged in 15 platforms towards the snowy Qori Hauyrachina. Choquequirao features a large system of platforms/terraces.
MACHU PICCHU INFORMATION
Machu Picchu is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, Heritage of Humanity, Historical Sanctuary of Peru and probably the most important archaeological site in Latin America.
Machu Picchu is majestic architecture comprises 140 structures throughout the citadel.
Machu Picchu was built by the Inca Pachacutec around the year 1460.
After being forgotten, it was only in 1911 that the American Hiram Bingham reached Machu Picchu on an expedition and spread the site worldwide.
Its main buildings are the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows.
In 1913 it received worldwide attention when the National Geographic Society dedicated its entire print run in April to the newly rediscovered city.
Brief Itinerary
- DAY 1: CUSCO - CACHORA - COCAMASANA - PLAYA ROSALINA.
- DAY 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – CHOQUEQUIRAO.
- DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO - PINCHINUYOC
- DAY 4: PINCHINUYOC – RIO BLANCO - MAIZAL.
- DAY 5: MAIZAL - YANAMA - DRIVE TO LUCMABAMBA.
- DAY 6: LUCMABAMBA - LLACTAPATA - AGUAS CALIENTES.
- DAY 7: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO.
Day 1: CUSCO - CACHORA - COCAMASANA - PLAYA ROSALINA.
We will pick you up at your hotel in a private bus. We start from Cusco, then we go to the town of Cachora (3100 masl), here we find the carriers and support staff, in Cachora we’ll start our walk, after 2 hours of walking we reach Capuliyoc (2915 m) from there we’ll have a beautiful view of the snowy peaks Padrayoc, Wayna Cachora and the Apurimac valley. Then we’ll descend toward Coca Masana (2330m) where the climate becomes warmer and the flora and fauna begin to change. Finally we reach the Rosalina beach (1550m) located on the bank of the Apurimac River where we will have dinner and spend the night.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Acomodación: Camp, Playa Rosalina 1550 msnm
- Climate : warm and sunny
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
- Hiking time : 6 hour
Day 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – CHOQUEQUIRAO.
This day is the hardest of the five days, we will get up very early. After breakfast, we begin our trek by a steep road for about 5 hours until we reach Raqaypata where we will have lunch. Throughout the walk we will observe many orchids and wild flowers, many birds. From Raqaypata we’ll walk for about two hours to the archaeological site of Choquequirao and there we will observe the sunset and the flight of the condor. Our campsite will be installed outside the ruins.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Acomodación: Camp, Choquekiraw 3100 msnm
- Climate : warm and cold at night
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 14km
- Hiking time : 7 hour
Day 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO - PINCHINUYOC
After breakfast. We dedicate this mornig to explore the ruins of Choquequirao, and have a little rest before lunch. In the afternoon we begin our trek by a steep road for about 2 hours until we reach Pinchinuyoc where we will camp for the night. This is definitely the easiest day of the trip
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Acomodación: Camp, Pinchinuyoc 2100msnm.
- Climate : warm, windy and cold at night
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
- Hiking time : 8 hour
Day 4: PINCHINUYOC – RIO BLANCO - MAIZAL
After breakfast, we will hike down hill for 2 hours and arrive at the canyon of the Rio Blanco (1990 m / 6527 feet), where you can dip your feet in the cool waters. where we have a rest before starting a difficult climb to our campsite of Maizal (2100 m / 6889 f.) The climb is 3- 4 hours long. Este es probablemente el día más difícil del viaje, pero si se ha preparado bien y está decidido, tendrá éxito. Y la cerveza fría a su llegada sabrá aún mejor.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Climate : warm and hummed
- Acomodación: Camp, Maizal 2100 msnm.
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 17km
- Hiking time : 8 hour
Day 5: MAIZAL - YANAMA - DRIVE TO LUCMABAMBA
After our breakfast, we will begin our trek of about 3 hours approximately until we reach the old Victoria mine, then we will walk uphill until we reach Victoria pass (4130mt / 13,546 ft). There are spectacular views from the pass as we descend to the charming village of Yanama (about 2 hours walk) following a section with some well constructed inca trail.
here we take the local transport all the way to Lucmabamba. Along the way, we get to enjoy the gorgeous views of snow-capped mountains and wáterfalls.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Climate : cold and windy
- Acomodación: Camp, Lucmabamba 1900msnm.
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 20 km
- Hiking time : 9 hour
Day 6: LUCMABAMBA - LLACTAPATA - AGUAS CALIENTES
Your final day of hiking: On this day we well hike for 3 hours by a Inca trail spectacular up through lush coffee and tropical fruit plantations, into pristine cloud forest, until reaching the Inca remains of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,907 ft). The view across of Machu Picchu is magnificent. Few tourists have ever seen it from this side.
Then we hike downhill for 2 hours to the hydroelectric plant where we have lunch. From here you have two choice. Either wait for the short but spectacular train ride (no included), or hike two to three hours along the rail track to the tourist town of Machu Picchu Pueblo and your hostel for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Climate : cold
- Acomodación: Hostel, Aguas Calientes 1650msnm.
- Distance Travelled: Approximately 9 km
- Hiking time : 4 hour
DAY 7: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
After an early breakfast at the hotel, we walk uphill to Machu Picchu at 5:00 am. or take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Optional bus $16 each way), upon arrival at the Citadel we can appreciate the enigmatic beauty and the incomparable example of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, we will have a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana, The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Cemetery, you are then given free time to stroll around the citadel . You will have all morning in Machu Picchu to take pictures, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, enjoy this mystical place. Then we´ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then calmly return by train to Ollantaytambo where our tourist transport to the city of Cusco will be expecting us, and will later transfer you to your hotel.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
- Climb up Huayna Picchu and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
- Climb Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there (We recommend that you book in advance) Not Included
- Visit the new local museum or the hot springs in Aguas Calientes later in the day. Not Included
- Meals: Breakfast
- Tour: Two-hour tour with our guide in Machu Picchu
OUR SERVICE INCLUDES
Trek briefing with your guide. one night before the trek at your hotelProfessional trek guide - in different languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese, and more) - Second tour guide for groups of 9 passengers to more.
Private transport from Cusco to Cachora trail head
Transport from la Playa to Santa Teresa (for all camping and personal luggage)
The north face or Eureka tents- 2 persons
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Dinner in Aguas Calientes
Entrance fees to Choquequirao
Entrance fees to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu
High quality camping equipment, tents are big enough for 2 persons. Mattresses, eating tent with table and chairs, bathroom tent)
Meals during the excursion (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks / option vegetarian
Cook and cooking equipment
Horseman and mules, for all camping equipment and customer’s luggage (Up to 8 kg)
Emergency horse over 6 persons
First-aid kit and oxygen bottle
NOT INCLUDED
Breakfast on the first dayLunch and dinner on the last day
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (US$75)
Hot springs (US$7.00)
Sleeping bags
Walking Sticks: you can hire from our company
Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal item allowance.
Travel Insurance
Optional up – grades (train and hotel)
**Tips, for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide)
What you need to take:
A backpackA beanie hat or ear warmer
Sun hat
Scarf
Gloves
A mid weight sweater
A longsleeve t-shirt
1 – 2 t-shirts
A lightweight suater or vest
A pair of long pants
Hiking shoes
An extra pair of shoe
2 – 3 pairs wool socks
A jacket
A small towel
Rain gear
1 – 2 pair shorts
Sunglasses
A small headlamp
Waterbottle
A toothbrust and other personal toiletries
Toilet paiper
Sun cream
Insect repelent
Camera and film
Original passport (International Student Identity Card “ISIC” if applicable)
Extra money for drinks.
Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220)
List of objects to take to the trek.
List of objects to take to the trek.
OUR PRICES:
Remember that!!! This walk is available everyday - We can depart any day of the week, as long as permits are available. Please remember, permits are only needed for your start date. Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days / 6 Nights prices are based on the number of people in a group.
Per person ( Eight, or more, trekkers)
“This trek to Machu Picchu is available everyday provided we have a minimum of 2 hikers”
Discounts:
- Student Discount: US$30.00 off per person, this discount only apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.Please send all to info@cuscodestination.com.
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
- Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy)
- Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (4 star hotel) – US $345 per person per night (double occupancy) Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy)
Train Upgrades:
- Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
- Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $485 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Need to book in advance).
Without a doubt, yes! The Choquequirao Trek is a wonderful route through the Andes. Choquequirao doesn’t get many visitors due to the fact you can only get there by hiking.
why should you choose this site?
- Walk along ancient routes and immerse yourself in peruvian history.- Walk through beautiful landscapes in the Andean.
- Know a huge amount about the fascinating ancient culture of Cusco - Peru.
- See a site just as impressive as Machu Picchu.
- Escape the crowds at the more popular tourist sites.
- Walk to a site that not many visitors to of the world get to see.
- Walk off-the-beaten-path and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature.
- See unique flora and fauna in the zone—including condors, Andean cock-of-the-rock, andean bear.
We rate this route as difficult and you’ll be walking along rough terrain. There are some difficult ascents and descents and you’ll be hiking many hours a day until you reach the site of resting place or camp.
You’ll be walking for about 6 or 7 hours approximately on an average day. If you want to get a good idea of how far you walk and for how many hours at a time, check out the our Choquequirao itinerary, that's why the difficulty of the route.
If you feel like you might need to ride a horse sometimes, you can rent an extra one during the briefing or when you book. Otherwise, you can also rent them at certain points along the route.
In the Cusco region there are 2 defined climatic seasons. The dry season tends to be from May to September, followed by a rainy season from October to April. It is possible to do the trek all year long, but we recommend avoiding January and February, as these are the wettest months.
The Choquequirao route doesn’t tend to sell out in advance because not so many people hike it. However, we still recommend booking as far in advance.
If you leave it to the last minute, they may be fully booked on other routes and not have enough staff available to accommodate you on the Choquequirao route.
Yes, But, we recommend that they be at least 10-years-old. The Choquequirao Trek is challenging in many parts and it would be too difficult for smaller children—you could end up carrying them a lot of the way. Or I could rent an extra horse for the child who will travel with us.
We like to keep our group sizes small so that you enjoy more quiet and get to spend as much time with your guide as you like to ask questions. You always enjoy front-row spots. The maximum number of people that will be in your group is 8 passengers.
Yes. when you’re traveling in another country, you like to keep in contact with friends and family. At the campsites we have wifi. However, but there is an extra charge of 10 soles for each device you connect.
Yes. At each campsite, you have the opportunity to charge your devices.
Yes. At every campsite there are bathrooms and at certain points along the route. Make sure you take toilet paper as most places won’t have this.
To avoid altitude sickness, give yourself time in Cuzco to acclimatize to the change in altitude. Two days minimum is recommended!!! Try to avoid alcohol before and during your trek, and make sure you eat lightly and drink plenty of water. Make sure to stay hydrated during the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days 6 Nights, don’t force yourself to walk faster than your body wants to, and take frequent breaks. Drinking coca leaf tea helps a lot, and you may wish to speak with your doctor about Diamox pills.
You can join us if you’re traveling by yourself but it must be on a day when we already have a tour planned. With the costs involved, we can’t start a new group with just one person. As long as two people are already signed up for a specific date, you can join their group.
We recommend to make your reservation in advance and we will guarantee your Spaces for this hike. Each reservation needs 50% of deposit as first payment. The final balance(50%) will be paid in Cusco(Briefing Day). About Payment you must choose where would you like to make the deposit: Payment system online:
- Paypal
- Western Union
- Peruvian Banking Account
We use the money from your deposit to make several important purchases, including the entrance fee to Choquequirao Route, the entrance fee to Machu Picchu, bus tickets, and train tickets. In addition, making a deposit assures us that you will be coming on the trek, and are unlikely to cancel at the last minute. This helps us with knowing how much food to buy, how many of our guides to use for the trek, etc. The deposit is non-refundable once we receive it, because we will immediately use it to purchase the tickets mentioned above.
First, we will send you an email to confirm your payment. Then we will contact you to offer you different hotel or hostel options in Cuzco, as well as inform you of other tours you might be interested in.
Two weeks before your tour date, we will contact you by email to request the final payment. We will also ask you where you will be staying in Cuzco, to be able to pick you up on the day of your hike.
After we receive the final payment, we will send you an email confirming your tour date and informing you of important contact information for our tour agency, as well as some final tips to prepare for the trek.
Once we have purchased your tickets, with your security deposit, you can only change your start date if you pay an additional amount. This amount is usually around $150 USD. The reason for this is the tickets we purchase are non-refundable and non-transferable, so we are not allowed to simply change your tour date.
The high altitude means that it can be so cold, especially during the Andean winter (May – September) when the temperature can drop below zero degrees (Celsius) at night. It can still be cool at other times of the year, so we recommend wearing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag. You can buy hats, gloves, hand knitted, warm, economical and locally manufactured in Cuzco.
We recommend 400 soles or 110 USD dollars. This is because sometimes you can need money for water, snacks, extra drinks, any kind of emergency.
Having a good guide is an essential part of having a good trek. Because of this, CUSCO DESTINATION hires and works with some of the best guides in the business. Our guides are knowledgable in the areas of history, archaeology, ecology, and are natives of the Cuzco area.
Sleeping bags are not included, so we recommend carrying a compact three-season sleeping bag. If you travel between May and October, a 4-station sleeping bag is recommended. These can be rented with us. For approximately $ 20 for the duration of the walk. Foam mats are provided, however, some travelers also bring their own self-inflating mat (ie, a Thermarest).
Our Cook prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a walk of this nature. The menu generally includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruits and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other foods for breakfast. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
Tipping is at your discretion, but is always appreciated. If you enjoyed the service you enjoyed from your guides and support staff
By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L., you agree to these Terms & Conditions.
Booking:
Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the route. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.
Cancellations:
Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 50% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.
| 91 days or more before departure | we will retain 50% of your deposit. |
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| 90 – 30 days before departure | we will retain 75% of the total tour cost. |
| 29 – 0 days before departure | we will retain 100% of the total tour cost. |
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK:
Permits: Permits for the trek are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.
Medical Information:
You must advise Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.
Tours and Treks:
All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L. may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.
Delays:
Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.
Thank you so much for choosing
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L.!!!
Cusco Destination Travel Agency E.I.R.L.!!!
