Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 9 Days

For more experienced trekkers this route is our favourite of the alternatives to the classic inca trail. It links two of the most important Inca sites, Choquequirao and Machu Picchu and passes through almost every type of ecological zone that exist in the Andes. This is one of the hardest treks in the area, but your hard effort will be rewarded with stunning views and you are unlikely to see other groups of trekkers along the way.

Day 1 Cusco to Chiquisca

Leaving Cusco early this morning we drive to Cachora where we begin walking. A two hour walk along an easy undulating path gives us the chance to warm up before descending from Capulilloq (2800m) towards the Apurimac river below. As we descend into the valley you will notice a change in climate and vegetation. We arrive at our campsite, Chiquisca (1750m) later in the afternoon.
(Total 6 hours walking)

Day 2 Chiquisca to Choquequirao

Today we begin the steep climb up to Santa Rosa where we will take a break for a snack before continuing up the zig-zag path to a plateau where the path finally flattens out. From here our hard work will be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and mountains beyond, as well as the Huanpaca waterfall. As we approach Choquequirao you will notice the beginnings of the terraces which would have been used to grow crops. The terracing creates different microclimates so that a larger variety of crops can be grown in the same area. Finally arriving at Choquequirao (3085m) we have time to rest and recuperate, ready to explore the ruins the next day.
(Total 8 hours walking)

Day 3 Explore Choquequirao

A relaxed start to the day today as we have the entire day to explore the site. Built during the reign of Pachactuec Choquequirao means “cradle of gold”.  It is larger than Machu Picchu, although to date it is believed that only 30 % has been uncovered. On the lower terraces you can see white Llamas built into the stonework, a unique feature of the site, yet to be found anywhere else in the Inca Empire. You will have a tour of the site, with plenty of time afterwards to do your own exploring or simply relax and take in the atmosphere, and perhaps the sunset over the Apurimac Canyon.

Day 4 Choquequirao to Maizal

Today we leave Choquequirao behind as we hike towards Rio Blanco.  Along the way we can see the terraces of Pinchayunuyoc before we stop for lunch alongside the river (1900m). We take time to relax and cool off at the river.  After lunch we carry on up to our campsite at Maizal 3000m.
(Total 8 hours walking )

Day 5 Maizal to Yanama

This morning we begin the climb up to the San Juan pass (4150m). Much of our route is on an inca trail which passes old silver mines. At the top of the pass the 360 degree views of the Vilcabamba mountains are incredible in good weather, and you may be lucky enough to spot a Condor. From the top of the pass the path gently descends to Yanama, a small, very remote community. Here we camp for the night (3600m).
(Total 7 hours walking)

Day 6 Yanama to Totora

After breakfast we begin the steady climb up the valley through “puna” - high altitude grasslands towards the Yanama pass. The path gets gradually steeper nearer to the top of the pass which is at 4550m.  Here, weather permitting we will have views of one of the most important mountains of the area, Salkantay. After some time to enjoy the views we begin to descend the steep path to Totora (3490m) where we camp for the night.
(Total 8 hours walking)

Day 7 Totora to La Playa

Today we gently descend into cloud forest where the flora and fauna are noticeably different from previous days. In this area it is sometimes possible to see many types of orchids and birds, including hummingbirds. We will take time to enjoy a well deserved rest at the thermal springs along the way, a perfect way to ease those tired muscles! Later we carry on alongside the river until we reach our campsite at La Playa 2000m.
(Total 8 hours walking)

Day 8  La Playa to Aguas Calientes

We leave La Playa passing through the small village of Lucmabamba, situated amoung coffee plantations.  From here we begin to ascend on an inca pathway to Llactapata (2700m). This Inca site was a small administrative centre. From here you will get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. After time to rest and enjoy the views we begin our descent to the valley floor at 1900m, a little further along we arrive at the train station. We take the train to Aguas Calientes town where we check into our hotel for a well earned rest.
(Total 7 hours walking)

Day 9 Visit Machu Picchu, Return to Cusco

This morning we take the bus up to Machu Picchu for a 2 hour tour of the site. Afterwards you will have some free time to do your own exploring, and maybe hike a little more to the Sun Gate or Wayna Picchu if you still have the energy! Later in the afternoon we return to Cusco by train.