Luxury Choquequirao Trail – 9 Days

From today, you must be willing to live great experiences with beautiful landscapes and pleasant emotions

Have breakfast at your Cusco hotel (or box breakfast) and follow the expert tour guide in the private vehicle. After 3 hours, stop at Curahuasi town (2688 m. / 8818.9 ft.) for last minute purchases. Continue the journey through Saywite site (3630 m. / 11909.5 ft.) which is famous for the enigmatic Saywite. One hour later, reach Capuliyoc (2956 m. / 9698.2 ft.) place of the luxury picnic lunch and starting point of the trek.

The trek begins with spectacular views of the Apurimac valley and Padreyoc snow capped mountain (5771 m. / 18933.7 ft.) As we keep descending through a zigzag slope for 4 hours, there will be a delicious, warmer atmosphere. Reach the first luxury campsite at Chiquiska (1890 m. / 6200.8 ft.) located in the Apurimac canyon. Before dinner, enjoy a well-earned hot shower and a session of relaxing massages. Visit our dining tent for a fantastic gourmet dinner prepared by our high-class chefs. After dinner, sleep in your comfortable bedroom tent.

● Trek starting time: 12:30 pm
● Arrival to campsite: 16:30 pm
● Minimum altitude: Curahuasi Town (2688 masl / 8818.9 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Saywite site (3630 masl /11909.5 ft.)
● Distance covered: 7 km. / 4.4 mi. (4 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Moderate.
● Meals included: Snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

Beaches in rivers, bridges, beautiful landscapes and we continue climbing with pleasant effort

After a delicious breakfast, begin the second day hike to Machu Picchu descending 1 hour towards the Apurimac river and crossing Playa Rosalina (1490 m. / 4888.5 ft.) by a suspension bridge. A steep ascent for 2 hours follows until reaching Santa Rosa (2200 m. / 7217.8 ft.) for a short break to recover energies and enjoy the river views. Continue ascending for another 3 hours appreciating a great variety of vegetation and some endemic birds as hummingbirds. Upon our arrival to Marampata (2900 m. / 9514.4 ft.) our energetic and luscious lunch is ready for us with impressive views of the lower ruins. After lunch, we will follow a steady stroll for 3 hours until the luxury Choquequirao campsite (2900 m. / 9514.4 ft).

For a second time, the hot shower and massage tent is at your disposal, and enjoy dinner sharing your fantastic photos with your guide and then relish on your cozy bedroom tent.

● Wake-up time: 04:00 am
● Trek starting time: 05:30 am
● Arrival to campsite: 16:00 pm
● Minimum altitude: Playa Rosalina (1490 masl/ 4888.5 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Choquequirao campsite (2900 masl/ 9514.4 ft.)
● Distance covered: 11 kms/6.8 mls (9 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Very Challenging.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

This is the day of our arrival to the archaeological complex where the Incas of the Vilcabamba valley sought refuge following the arrival of the Spanish, in a final effort to regain power. 

Today is the most rewarding day, visiting Choquequirao. After our breakfast we will continue on an easy 1-hour hike to reach Choquequirao (3100 m./10170.6 ft.) Upon arrival, your well-informed guide will explain about the history and new research of this amazing citadel. Accompanied by your guide you will visit the different sectors which includes picturesque terraces, sacred temples, astronomical observatories, hydraulic channels and much more. Head back to the campsite to have our delightful lunch and share your impressions with our guide.

Then, it is time to visit Pacchayoc where we will visit an enchanting waterfall and terraces. After enjoying the site, we will return to our campsite. As customary we will relish with our hot shower and well-deserved massage session before our gourmet dinner featuring refreshing beverages and with privileged views of the complex.

● Wake-up time: 05:30 am
● Trek starting time: 07:00 am
● Arrival to campsite: 16:00 pm
● Minimum altitude: Choquequirao campsite (2900 masl / 9514.4 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Choquequirao archaeological site (3100 masl/ 10170.6 ft.)
● Distance covered touring: 5 km. / 3.1 mi. (5 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Easy.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

Another magical day at the “Cradle of Gold”, its beauty and grandeur have been compared with Machu Picchu

Another amazing day begins with a very early breakfast, then head up to a last visit to Choquequirao. Continuing for another hour we will reach the first high point, Choquequirao Pass (3280 m. / 10761.2 ft.) where we will have our last panoramic view of the Choquequirao site. Following our route, we will descend for 2.5 hours through a zigzag path towards Pincha Unuyoc terraces (2490 m. / 8169.3 ft.) where our guide will provide a short tour of the site known for its agricultural purposes. Keep walking downhill for two hours until reaching Rio Blanco (1930 m. / 6332.0 ft.) where we will taste our flavorful lunch surrounded by flora and fauna.

Then, it is time to hike uphill a steep zigzag road for 3.5 hours to our next campsite. On route, we will contemplate the diversity of nature with lush vegetation and if we are lucky some endemic animals as Andean deers, vizcachas, foxes, pumas, spectacled bears and even the representative bird of Peru: Andean cock of the rock. Upon arrival at our luxury campsite, Maizal (3050 m. / 10006.6 ft.) we will have amazing views of the Andean mountains and then receive our outstanding services such as a hot shower, massage sessions and already known sumptuous dinner before having our well-earned sleep.

● Wake-up time: 04:30 am
● Trek starting time: 06:00 am
● Arrival to campsite: 17:30 pm
● Minimum altitude: Rio Blanco (1930 masl/ 6332.0 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Choquequirao Pass (3280 masl/ 10761.2 ft.)
● Distance covered: 15 km. /9.3 mi. (9.5 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Very Challenging.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

Let’s keep climbing the heights finding impressive views; old mines and incredible experiences

Arise early with a magical sunrise over the mountains and have our energizing breakfast to continue the escapade. After stocking up on water and snacks, start our journey hiking uphill along a rocky path for about 4 hours towards the second highest point. In some sections there will be great sights of the surrounding mountains, lush green valleys and also some arid mountain peaks. Also we will be crossing some old mines of various minerals such as gold, copper and mercury that were used for many years.

As we ascend, we will notice the change in vegetation and altitude. Reach the San Juan Pass (4150 m. / 13615.5 ft.) and have superb views of Vilcabamba mountain range with the snow peaks like Apu Pumasillo, Sacsara and Qoriwayrachina. After snapping some fantastic pictures, we will start a 2.5 hour downhill walk to the charming and traditional Yanama village (3590 mts/11778.2 ft), the lunch place and luxury campsite as well. You can visit their local homes to learn more about their daily lifestyle.

Following our scrumptious lunch, you will have the afternoon free. In the afternoon, it is time to enjoy another one of a kind experience, a 30-40 mins yoga session led by our expert therapists shrouded on the inspiring essence of the Andes. Then, we will have our hot shower, massages and our delectable dinner before spending the night in our convenient bedroom tents.

● Wake-up time: 05:30 am
● Trek starting time: 07:00 am
● Arrival to campsite: 13:30 pm
● Mínimum altitude: Maizal campsite (3050 masl / 10006.6 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: San Juan Pass (4150 masl / 13615.5 ft.)
● Distance covered: 14 kms/8.7 mls (6.5 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Challenging.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

Today we woke up very early to maintain our positivism and make great climbs to the highest point of the route with views of snowy mountains and much more

Today we will scale the famous Vilcabamba mountain range. In order to cover the highest trekking distance so far, we will need to have a very early breakfast and hike towards the highest point of our journey. During the 5 hours walk, have spectacular views and some rest stops for guided explanations.

Get amazed by stunning views of snow capped mountains Salkantay, Humantay, Padreyoc and Pumasillo as well as typical flora and fauna of the region. You might spot some black bears and Andean birds such as falcons, eagles, hawks, condors, and geese. Upon arrival at Mariano Llamoja Pass (4650 m. / 15255.9 ft.), the majestic glaciers and mountains will welcome us and give us splendid sceneries ideal for photos. To celebrate this huge milestone, toast with a well-deserved glass of champagne. Now it is time to continue discovering the other secret treasures of this singular path. After hiking for 3 hours, reach Totora village (3380 m. / 11089.2 ft.) where our tasteful lunch awaits. When we have finished and rest, we will depart to our next campsite hiking for two hours and we will start feeling a different warm tropical climate.

Following our defiant day hike, we will finally reach our luxury campsite Collpapampa (2870 m./9416.0 ft.) to take pleasure with our customary services as hot showers, soothing massages and palatable gourmet dinner.

● Wake-up time: 04:30 am
● Trek starting time: 06:00 am
● Arrival to campsite: 17:15 pm
● Mínimum altitude: Collpapampa campsite (2870 masl / 9416.0 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Mariano Llamoja Pass (4650 masl / 15255.9 ft.)
● Distance covered: 20 km. /12.4 mi. (10 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Very Challenging.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks and lunch.

Impressive descent into the cloud forests enjoying beautiful views, enjoy the orchids and learn about the customs of the local people

After a boosting breakfast we will be ready for five hours of hiking through the most beautiful day of the trek. Keep descending into a thick cloud forest that will surround us with orchids, bromelains, and other amazing and exotic flora. After exiting the thick forest, we will come upon a valley filled with coffee, cacao and fruit plantations.

We will pass through the farming villages of Wiñaypoco (2650 m. / 8694.2 ft.) and Lluscamayo (2420 m. / 7939.6 ft.) that own plantations of diverse products like bananas, passion fruit and others. We will also encounter some local families and have the possibility to learn about their lifestyle. Lastly, arrive at the final campsite named Playa Sahuayaco (2100 m. / 6889.8 ft.) just to find lunch.
After finishing the luscious lunch, spend your time taking a hot shower before your relaxing massage. Once you are ready, it is time for a complete private tour of coffee plantations. Right after, move on for the fabulous gourmet dinner.

Share a final toast with the farewelling crew, for bringing all of the outstanding quality service throughout this exciting experience.

● Wake-up time: 05:45 am
● Trek starting time: 08:30 am
● Arrival to campsite: 13:30 pm
● Minimum altitude: Playa Sahuayaco campsite (2100 masl / 6889.8 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Collpapampa campsite (2870 masl/ 9416.0 ft.)
● Distance covered: 15 km. /9.3 mi. (5 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time and dinner.

Just one final effort with great satisfaction and some views of the Lost City of the Incas; the emotions are skin flower

This day will require the final effort of waking up early to have breakfast at 05:00 am approx. Firstly, take a 20 mins ride in a private transportation until Lucmabamba (2062 m. / 6765.1 ft.) where an authentic inca trail is waiting! This 3.5 hours uphill trail towards Llaqtapata archaeological site (2736 m. / 8976.4 ft.) Once we reach the archaeological site we will appreciate part of Machu Picchu citadel and the surrounding mountains. Unveil all its ancient secrets accompanied by your expert guide and take some beautiful photos.

Then, it is time to have a delicious lunch at the picturesque Llaqtapata Lodge Viewpoint (2570 m. / 8431.8 ft) which is conveniently located nearby the archaeological site. Be delighted with homemade meals and have the most splendid views of Veronica Mountain and Vilcanota River. Afterwards, head down for another 2 hours to Hydroelectric train station (1771 m. / 5810.4 ft.) where we will have some rest before continuing hiking parallel to the train tracks for another 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes town. The flora and fauna abounds along this trail where you can glimpse the variety of orchids and other greenery vegetation.
Finally, and after our tremendous 8-days excursion, reach Aguas Calientes town (2070 m. / 6791.3 ft.) and we will be escorted to our hotel. Once you have settled at your hotel and coordinated with your guide the pick-up time for the following day, it’s time for dinner and a restful sleep in a luxurious room.

● Wake-up time: 04:30 am
● Trek starting time: 06:00 am
● Arrival to Aguas Calientes: 17:00 pm
● Minimum altitude: Hydroelectric (1771 masl / 5810.4 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Llaqtapata archaeological site (2736 masl / 8976.4 ft.)
● Distance covered: 22 km. /13.7 mi. (8.5 hours walking approx.)
● Difficulty: Challenging.
● Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner (only included with your hotel accomodation on luxury and premium categories).

And the day has come to enjoy and discover the magnificent and mystery of the Most incredible citadel in the Americas

Early in the morning, our knowledgeable guide will pick you up from your hotel to catch the bus up to the citadel for a 30 mins ride. Sometimes and especially in the high season (April to July) we will have to be patient as the queues to go up to this World Wonder will be longer than expected.

Seeing the impressive Machu Picchu citadel (2430 m. / 7972.4 ft.) will definitely be worth it and will also perfectly complement your previous visit to Choquequirao. Our well-informed guide will teach us about the magnificent theories about Machu Picchu, the history of its buildings and of course, about the millenary culture of the Incas.

To end your time at Machu Picchu, enjoy lunch at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Hotel. Later you will take the bus departing back to Aguas Calientes, board your train. Upon arrival, a representative will collect you in our private vehicle and take you to your hotel in Cusco.

● Pick up time: 07:00 am
● Tour starting time: 08:00 am
● Arrival to Cusco: 21:56 pm
● Minimum altitude: Aguas Calientes Town (2070 masl / 6791.3 ft.)
● Maximum altitude: Machu Picchu citadel (2430 masl / 7972.4 ft.)
● Difficulty: Easy.
● Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, Hiram Bingham tea time and dinner on board.