Trek Choquequirao + Machu Picchu 8D/7N

We begin our adventure at dawn (around 5:30 a.m.), following the Apurímac River to the fascinating archaeological site of Sayhuite. In Cachora (2,850 m), we’ll make a short stop to buy snacks before continuing 30 minutes to the starting point of our hike: a stunning natural balcony overlooking the Apurímac canyon, dominated by the majestic Padreyoc glacier (5,571 m).

This is where we’ll meet our muleteers and begin the descent to the Chiquisca hacienda, where we’ll spend the night in a warm, natural setting.

• Distance: 6.8 km

• Elevation loss: -1,018 m

• Max altitude: 2,918 m

After breakfast, we descend to Playa Rosalina (1,550 m), then begin the ascent to Marampata (2,850 m), where we’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Choquequirao (3,033 m).

With a bit of luck, we might see the flight of the Andean condor at sunset.

Our accommodation is located just 1h30 from the ruins, at 2,950 m altitude.

• Distance: 9 km

• Elevation gain: +1,500 m

• Elevation loss: -450 m

• Max altitude: 2,850 m

Today, we set off to explore the Inca citadel of Choquequirao (3,033 m), known in Quechua as the “Cradle of Gold.” This impressive archaeological site, still little visited, offers a peaceful atmosphere and a unique energy in the heart of the Andes.

We will visit the main restored areas: the palaces, ceremonial temple, liturgical fountain, llama terraces, and the Ushnu, a ritual platform of great importance. To date, only 30% of the site has been restored, making it an authentic and mysterious experience.

At the end of the visit, we return to Marampata, where we’ll spend the night.

• Distance: 5 km

• Elevation gain: +265 m

• Elevation loss: -145 m

• Max altitude: 3,040 m

This is the most demanding but also the most spectacular stage of the trek, with constantly changing landscapes.

We will climb to the Choquequirao pass (3,275 m), offering a unique view of the site, before descending to the Río Blanco. Then, a steep climb will take us to Maizal (3,000 m), where we’ll spend the night in a stunning natural setting.

• Distance: 18 km

• Elevation gain: +1,700 m

• Elevation loss: -1,600 m

• Max altitude: 3,275 m

Today we head toward the San Juan Pass, crossing dense vegetation along a trail alternating between climbs and flat sections. On the way, we’ll take a break at the old silver mines before reaching the pass, with a spectacular view of the Vilcanota mountain range.

We’ll then descend toward the high pastures above the village of Yanama, where we’ll spend the night.

• Distance: 9 km

• Elevation gain: +1,100 m

• Elevation loss: -640 m

• Max altitude: 4,137 m

Early in the morning, we begin the ascent to the Yanama Pass (4,670 m), the highest point of our trek. Throughout the day, we’ll enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay (6,264 m) and Pintuyu (5,450 m).

After arriving in Lucmabamba, we’ll hike for about 2.5 hours up to Llactapata, where we’ll spend the night in a beautiful lodge with breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.

• Distance: 9 km

• Elevation gain: +820 m

• Elevation loss: -250 m

• Max altitude: 4,670 m

We’ll start the hike early in the morning, descending from Llactapata (2,650 m) along the Inca Trail to the hydroelectric station (1,950 m). Then, we’ll follow the railway tracks through the forest to Aguas Calientes (2,050 m).

In the evening, you can relax in the hot springs (20 soles, not included).

We’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes in a hotel.

• Distance: 18 km

• Elevation gain: +330 m

• Elevation loss: -850 m

• Max altitude: 2,650 m

Today you will experience one of the highlights of your journey: discovering Machu Picchu, a gem of Inca architecture, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Located between the Andes and the Amazon, Machu Picchu remained hidden for centuries before being revealed to the world by Hiram Bingham, with support from National Geographic. Even today, it retains its mystery and spiritual energy.

You’ll walk through its stone alleys at your own pace, among temples, plazas, and terraces, with time to pause in silence in this sacred place that continues to fascinate.

You’ll take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

The journey lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Our driver will take you from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.