Grand Expedition Trek: from the lost citadel of Choquequirao to Machu Picchu (8 Days)

Your adventure begins at dawn, leaving Cusco to follow the course of the Apurímac River to the fascinating archaeological site of Sayhuite. After a short logistical break in the village of Cachora (2,850 m), you reach a magnificent natural balcony offering a plunging view of the Apurímac canyon, dominated by the majestic Padreyoc glacier (5,571 m). There you meet your muleteers before beginning the long descent on foot towards the Chiquisca hacienda, where you set up your first campsite surrounded by nature.

Distance: 8 km
Negative elevation: -1,018 m
Maximum altitude: 2,975 m

You leave early this morning to finish descending to the bottom of the canyon to Playa Rosalina (1,550 m). After crossing the river, you tackle the great physical challenge of the beginning of the trek: a steady ascent of 1,300 meters in elevation to Marampata (2,850 m). You reach this perched village for lunch, giving you the entire afternoon to rest, contemplate the panorama over the abyss, and try to observe the majestic flight of the Andean condor at sunset.

Accommodation: Night in a campsite or rustic refuge in Marampata (1.5 hours from the ruins).

Entire day dedicated to the guided discovery of Choquequirao (3,033 m), the 'cradle of gold' in the Quechua language. Still preserved from mass tourism due to its exclusively pedestrian access, the citadel reveals a unique mystical atmosphere. You explore its most emblematic restored sectors: the ceremonial palaces, the liturgical fountain, the main temple, the terraces adorned with white stone llamas, and the Ushnu (ritual platform). Only 30% of this gigantic site has been unearthed. At the end of the day, return to Marampata for the night.

Accommodation: Night in Marampata.

Departure before daybreak for the most demanding but also the wildest stage of the circuit (about 13 hours of walking including breaks). You first cross the Choquequirao pass (3,275 m) for a farewell view of the site, before beginning a steep descent to the waters of the Río Blanco (1,900 m). This is followed by an intense and vertical ascent through the cloud forest to the hamlet of Maizal (3,000 m). You settle in for the night in the only farm in this isolated valley, offering a natural setting of striking beauty.

Distance: 18 km
Elevation changes: +1,700 m / -1,600 m
Maximum altitude: 3,275 m

The trail rises this morning towards the San Juan pass through dense vegetation, alternating climbs and flat sections. After a break near old silver mines, you reach the pass to enjoy a spectacular view of the peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range. You then descend to the Yanama alpine pastures, where a private vehicle awaits you. The road connection takes you over the Yanama pass (4,670 m), the highest point of the expedition, offering exceptional panoramas of the Salkantay (6,264 m) and Pintuyu glaciers. Evening arrival in the tropical community of Lucmabamba.

Distance: 10 km (walking)
Elevation changes: +1,100 m / -640 m
Maximum altitude: 4,670 m

A morning dedicated to slow tourism: you start with a visit to the local coffee and citrus plantations of Lucmabamba. You then resume your walk on a preserved section of the Inca Trail climbing towards the confidential archaeological site of Llactapata. This shorter day allows you to arrive early at your accommodation: a spectacular eco-lodge or campsite offering a unique and direct panoramic view of Machu Picchu taking shape on the opposite ridge.

Distance: 8 km
Elevation changes: +820 m / -250 m
Maximum altitude: 2,800 m

You begin your morning hike descending through the tropical forest from the heights of Llactapata to the hydroelectric plant (1,950 m). From there, you follow the railway for a flat and pleasant 3-hour walk through lush vegetation to the village of Aguas Calientes (2,050 m). In the evening, you have the opportunity to relax in the municipal thermal baths to soothe your muscles after these long days of walking.

Distance: 18 km
Elevation changes: +330 m / -850 m
Maximum altitude: 2,650 m

The long-awaited moment has arrived. Early in the morning, you take the shuttle to reach the gates of Machu Picchu (2,430 m), one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Accompanied by your expert guide, you enjoy an in-depth tour of this emblematic Inca city, exploring its sacred temples, paved squares, and agricultural terraces that defy the laws of gravity. After this unforgettable immersion, you head back down to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo (1h45 journey). At the station, your private driver welcomes you to ensure your return transfer to Cusco.