Choquequirao – Machupicchu 8D/7N (Andino Pachamama Route)

• MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4350 meters above sea level
• TOTAL HIKING DISTANCE: Approximately 150 km
• DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Very difficult
• BEST TIME TO VISIT: March-November

The Choquequirao Trek is an incredible and strenuous hike that will take you to one of the last refuges of the Inca civilization. Choquequirao (3,303 meters above sea level) is a vast archaeological site still covered by bushes and undergoing restoration. Situated near the sacred mountain Salkantay (APU) (6,272 meters) and the Apurimac River, you’ll witness breathtaking mountain landscapes and abundant Andean flora and fauna.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO – SAN PEDRO DE CACHORA – CHIQUISCA

Depart from Cusco towards Cachora, passing through the towns of Izcuchaca until reaching the Tarawasi Archaeological Complex and Abra de Saywite. Then, hike towards a viewpoint at Wayna Qalli Grande (Capulichayoc 2850 meters above sea level), where condors and the magnificent Apurimac Canyon can be seen. Descend to Chiquisca or Rosalina Beach for our camp.

DAY 2: ROSALINA – SANTA ROSA- MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO

After breakfast, head towards the local cane liquor distillery called Santa Rosa. This second day’s hike is considered the most challenging, ascending towards the mountains on the Cusco side towards Marampata. Along the way, observe orchids, violets, and, if lucky, fauna such as deer, anteaters, and various birds and insects. After lunch and a rest in Marampata, continue towards Raqaypata, known for its orchids along the Chunchullmayo River. Arrive at Choquequirao to explore this complex with its eight sectors, including granaries, qolqas, compounds, shrines, and terraces. Camp.

DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MAIZAL

Early in the morning, walk through Choquequirao and continue our hike behind the upper plaza surrounded by vegetation. Then, hike through the Pinchiunuyoj terraces, where curious ritual fountains can be found. These terraces were cultivated during the Inca period to provide food for the local population. Continue ascending towards the Blanco River, where we’ll have lunch. In the afternoon, enter another Andean valley where we’ll camp.

DAY 4: MAIZAL – YANAMA

Start by walking around the Corihuarachina glacier, an area of archaeological importance with Inca canals. Then, pass through the Victoria mines, where silver was extracted during the colonial period. Continue hiking towards the Yanama Valley and town, camping in the shadow of the Pumacillo glacier.

DAY 5: YANAMA – TOTORA

Walk surrounded by the magnificent Vilcabamba mountain ranges covered in Ichu grass. Ascend to the Yanama Pass (4580 meters above sea level), the highest point of the trek. In the afternoon, descend to the village of Totora, offering beautiful views of the Salkantay, Pedrayoc, and Pumasillo glaciers.

DAY 6: TOTORA – PLAYA

Descend to the Totora River, observing the changing flora and fauna, including hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and various orchid and begonia species. Along the way, encounter small waterfalls where you can take a natural bath. Arrive at Playa, the largest village on the route, where you can buy snacks and see coffee and banana plantations.

DAY 7: PLAYA – AGUAS CALIENTES

In the morning, hike for 3 hours to the last pass at 2,810 meters above sea level. From there, enjoy a spectacular view of the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Descend to the hydroelectric plant on the Urubamba River, then walk or take the train to Aguas Calientes, spending the night in a hotel.

DAY 8: MACHU PICCHU FULL DAY – CUSCO

After breakfast, take the bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the archaeological site. Enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu further or hike Huayna Picchu (with prior reservation and payment). In the afternoon, take the train back to Cusco, arriving in the city by night.