Epic Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu: 7-Day Inca Hike Experience

Day 01: Cusco to Chikisca – Walk to Capuliyoc and Kick off Your Choquequirao Classic Trek Experience

We kick off in Cusco city where you will be picked up by our crew to embark on a spectacular 4-hour drive to Capuliyoc, the actual beginning of the classic Choquequirao trekking route. Throughout the trip, expect magnificent Andean landscapes with amazing vistas of local villages, agricultural terraces and many others.

On arriving at Capuliyoc, you will meet our expert guide team composed of cooks, wranglers and even horses that will carry all your equipment through the entire trip. A short briefing session together with lunch time will follow our departure to the valley bottom by descending for about 2 hours.

Afterward, you will hike further downward for another 2 hours before reaching the Chikisca camp site.

This will be an awesome place to rest while enjoying the magnificent landscape of a cloud forest and also have dinner cooked in front of you.

• Hiking distance: 17 km / 8 hours
• Elevation gain: 3200 m / 394 ft
• Highest elevation point: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 02: Chikisca to Marampata – Hard Ascent via Santa Rosa

A good breakfast gives you energy for a hard ascent to Marampata today, following the Choquequirao trek itinerary. We cross the Apurimac River and start climbing along the stone-paved path that lasts about 4.5 hours and takes us to the village of Santa Rosa, where we rest for some time and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and mountains.

We continue our hard ascent for another 2.5 hours and climb up to the campsite of Marampata situated at 2,890 m / 9,482 ft. This point of the Choquequirao pass allows seeing the panorama of the river, valley, and far Choquequirao archeological site. Trekkers can see the clouds forest and rich flora and fauna here.

After reaching Marampata, spend some time enjoying a cup of tea and watching the beautiful sunset over the canyon. It is the perfect campsite for relaxation after a hard trekking day and preparation to the next trekking day that will bring you to the citadel of Choquequirao.

• Active Time: 7 hours
• Distance: 15 km / 8.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 940 m / 3,083 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

Day 03: Marampata to Choquequirao – Explore the Inca Citadel of Choquequirao

We start our journey today by hiking for 2 hours from our camping site to the ruins of Choquequirao in order to enjoy amazing views of the Apurimac River Canyon and cloud forest. Today is a wonderful day of adventure and peace in the Choquequirao trek.

The site, sometimes known as the sister of Machu Picchu, allows us to explore this ancient complex and all its architectural constructions. In addition, trekkers may visit the white stone of llamas as well as observe flying condors at Choquequirao.

Guided tour of the ruins and explanations of the guides will allow us to learn about the history and spirituality of this inca citadel. You’ll also get an opportunity to spend some free time looking at the amazing panoramic views of Choquequirao pass. For dinner, we have camped near the ruins and enjoyed warm food in the company of stars.

• Active Time: 2 hours hiking, 4 hours exploring
• Distance Covered: 2 km / 1.24 mi
• Elevation Gain: 233 m / 764 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 04: Choquequirao to Maizal – Descending Rio Blanco and Trek to Maizal Camp

The toughest walking day of the Choquequirao hike will be today. After visiting the inca citadel of Choquequirao, we walk through a ridge and descend 1,400 m / 4,600 ft to ruins of Pinchaunuyoc and then walk another 1.5 hrs to the Rio Blanco (White River). You can freshen up in this river that offers cool water for washing up your feet. Be careful of small sand-flies named “Pumahuacachi” that mean “makes the puma cry.”

After a refreshing session, we start climbing up to a 4 hour beautiful campsite in Maizal, situated at 3,000 m / 9,840 ft. The campsite offers magnificent views of the Cusco region and cloud forest.

• Active Time: approx. 6 hours
• Distance Covered: 18 km / 11.1 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,010 m / 3,313 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 05: Maizal to Yanama and Lucmabamba – Abra San Juan Pass

The departure from the Maizal camp will bring you a beautiful 3-hour ascent passing through ancient silver mines and the recently found prehistoric site of Coryhuarachina to arrive at the high point of the trail – Abra San Juan, at 4,000 m / 13,123 ft. The best part about the day is that there will be amazing views of the Cordillera Vilcabamba range and the valley of Yanama from above. It is considered one of the most spectacular hiking days of the spectacular Choquequirao Trek.

After descending for 2 hours from the mountain top to the village of Yanama, we’ll meet our private transport and move along the dirt road crossing Totora pass to reach our campsite Lucmabamba with the views of the beautiful cloud and tropical forest landscapes. At this campsite, the trek team will be ready to offer you a comfortable night rest after the busy day with dinner and beverages.

• Active Time: approx. 8 hours
• Distance Covered: 17 km / 10.6 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 m / 3,280 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 06: Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes – Hike via Llactapata with Machu Picchu View

For our last hiking day, we climb up along the royal Inca trail for 2.5-hours to Llactapata, which is the great archaeological site and height observation point providing stunning view on Machu Picchu and the Picchu Mountain and Salkantay Mountains. The way there goes through coffee plantations, trails of tropical fruits and cloud forest showing its amazing biodiversity of the Cusco. Llactapata was found again in 2003 by archaeologists, and still remains as one of the little-known archaeological sites in Choquequirao to Machu Picchu tour.

Having seen the Llactapata, we go down into the valley until hydroelectric power station of Machu Picchu. You have two options there: you can travel with a train to the village of Aguas Calientes to have some rest, or you can take an additional 2-hours walk along the railroad tracks to reach Aguas Calientes village situated at the foot of Machu Picchu citadel. Once there, you check into three-star hotel and have dinner with your trekking group in preparation for tomorrow’s trip to Machu Picchu.

This hiking day combines moderate difficulty hike, exploration of prehistoric and natural wonders and stunning view on Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

• Walking Time: 6.5 – 8.5 hours
• Walking Distance: 18 – 29 km / 11.2 – 18 mi
• Elevation Gain: 450 m / 1,475 ft
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 07: Machu Picchu Trek and Return to Cusco

At the early morning, we take the bus to make our visit to Machu Picchu, which marks the highlight of this amazing day Choquequirao adventure. Once there, you get to enjoy an extensive tour of the citadel, visiting the most important sectors and learning about the history and importance of the place.

Once the tour of the site is completed, you will get the chance to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. The ones who are looking for more challenges can climb up Huayna Picchu, while those interested in a less strenuous activity will be able to walk around Machu Picchu Mountain and enjoy some nice viewpoints.

After that, we will head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then board our train to Cusco. At the end of the afternoon, we arrive at Cusco and our team takes you to your hotel, marking the end of this wonderful Andean experience. Whether you are looking for an extension for 2 or 3 days or the full trek, this itinerary fits all of them.

• Hiking Time: Approx. 4 hours including hiking
• Difficulty: Medium, relaxing last day
• Meals: Breakfast at hotel
• Return: Train & private transport
• Highest Elevation: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft

Professional Tour Guides

Our professional tour guides come from Cusco and know everything about the Andean culture and history. Thanks to their experience in high-altitude trekking, including such treks as Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, you will travel safely, productively, and efficiently. Being fluent in English and in other languages, your tour guide will take you into wilderness and give you a two-hour guided tour, including the famous Machu Picchu Circuit 2 inside the Machu Picchu citadel.

Permits & Entrance Tickets

All necessary permits and tickets are included in the price, and cover the ruins of Choquequirao, campsites, and entrance to Machu Picchu. This means that you will have access not only to the base of Machu Picchu, but also to the circuit of the guided visit there.

Meals on the Trail

Our chefs cook fresh meals packed with energy with the help of the local products. All specific dietary needs can be fulfilled. Meals are delivered to you three times a day in a dining tent.

Horses & Wranglers

Your horses and wranglers are included to help you carry your duffel bag so that you could travel comfortably with your day pack. Your duffel bags are restricted by weight (7 kg / 14 lbs) and include sleeping bag; these bags are provided at all camp sites for your convenience.

Camping Equipment

Four season tents specially designed for the mountain conditions are provided to you. Two travelers stay in one large four persons’ tent. Private tents are available for an extra fee. You will get a good quality and warm alpine sleeping bag rated to -10°C with extra blankets and pillows.

Transportation

Transfers to and from Cusco are inclusive. You will be transported from your hotel to the trek departure point. At the end of your trek, you will have bus transportation to Machu Picchu, followed by train transportation to Machu Picchu and private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.

First Aid & Safety

Our guides are trained in first aid procedures and have a complete first aid kit, oxygen, and satellite phone available during the trek. Your safety is our number one concern throughout the entire trip.

Pre-Trek Briefing

A full briefing is held prior to the trek, either at your hotel or at our office in Cusco. You will be given tour details, itineraries, introduced to your guide and duffel bag will be given to you.

Recommended Packing List Choquequirao to Machu Picchu (7 Days)

The luggage policy on the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is strictly enforced in accordance with the environmental laws of the Peruvian government which aim to protect this historic trail and its ecosystems. This means that trekkers should bring only the essentials during their trip. Packing light is not only a requirement, but it is also an important part of making this hard trek safer and more pleasant.

In order to make your 7-day trek easier, you will leave all your main luggage in Cusco while you complete your trekking. We recommend that you organize your things and pack only what you need to carry during the tough uphill and downhill walks in the canyons.
Why pack carefully?

• Environmental responsibility: helps preserve the trail and Choquequirao ecosystems.
• Physical comfort: less weight means less effort while climbing.
• Practicality: helps make difficult daily hiking more efficient.

Luggage Storage & Office Information

Our office is conveniently situated in the historic city center of Cusco:
Southern Peru Explorers Calle Garcilaso 265, Interior Office 5 Cusco, Peru
All participants have the opportunity to leave your main luggage before Choquequirao trek and pick up at the end of your adventure back from Machu Picchu. All your belongings will be safe during your 7-day journey.
With this option you will hike with a daypack only without carrying all your stuff.

WHAT TO PACK?

Documents & Personal Items

• Passport Original: It is required at checkpoints and to enter Machu Picchu.
• Money Small denomination cash (soles Peruvian) for snacks
• Travel Insurance Documents: Always available
• Student card Valid: For entrance fees discounts
• Contact information Emergency: On paper or in your mobile phone
• Copies/Photos of important documents: Digital and paper copy

Clothing & Footwear (Layering System)

• Hiking boots Well “broken-in” or already used
• Trekking pants Lightweight preferable quick-dry material
• Moisture-wicking shirts No cotton clothing allowed
• Fleece or Insulated Jacket Warm jacket
• Waterproof Jacket or Rain poncho: Weather changes quickly
• Base Layer/thermal clothing For high-altitude camping in the evenings
• Hat/Cap Sun hat or cap: Essential for canyon crossing
• Beanie/Chullo and Gloves: For high mountain passes
• Extra socks: woolen or synthetic to avoid moisture
• Quick dry underwear
• Lightweight Sandals for campsite relaxation.

Gear & Trekking Accessories

• Backpack: One that has a rain cover included.
• Water bottle: Either reusable or hydration system like CamelBak.
• Flashlight: With extra batteries.
• Sleeping bag: For sub-zero weather conditions.
• Trekking poles: Very recommended when doing descents.
• Goggles or sunglasses: With UV protection.
• Power bank: Mobile phone or camera charger.
• Dry sacks or plastic bags: To protect your clothes from rain while in the backpack.

Personal Care & Health

• Toiletries: Toilet paper, baby wipes, and hand sanitizer.
• Sunscreen lotion: High SPF.
• Insect repellent: Essential for Choquequirao region.
• Your medication: If you are under certain medical treatment.
• First aid kit: Adhesive bandages, disinfectant, and pills for altitude sickness (soroche).

How to Book Your Tour

Your tour booking will be fast, simple, and totally secure. In order to book your tour, we would like to ask you to fill out the information listed below. All the information should match that of your passport because this data is necessary to issue entrance tickets, train tickets, and transportation services by the Peruvian authorities.

Information about Passenger

• Name:
• Number of passport:
• Citizenship:
• Scan copy of passport:
• Date of Birth:

Travel Details

To organize logistics properly and to have smooth connections, we ask you to provide your information about accommodation in Cusco. Please inform us what hotel you will stay in before and after the trek.

Food Requests

Comfortable stay is really important for us. We would like to hear about your food preferences if you have some restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food allergies).

Secure Payment

The safety of payment is our main priority. The payment is secure and easy for you. To confirm your booking, please visit our secure page for payment via credit/debit card:
[PAYMENT LINK]
After that we will immediately book all necessary services for your trip, including:

• Access to Choquequirao ruins
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket (Machu Picchu Circuit 2)
• Train to Aguas Calientes
• Transfer from Aguas Calientes to the base of Machu Picchu
• All transportation and services mentioned in the itinerary

IMPORTANT: Entrance ticket and train schedule to Machu Picchu are limited. It is strongly recommended to make full payment as soon as possible to ensure your participation in the Choquequirao Trekking.

Booking confirmation

Once your booking is completely confirmed, you will get a confirmation e-mail containing all tour details, schedules, packing advice, etc. You can always contact our team in the Cusco office should you have any questions at any point of time.

What is Choquequirao?

Choquequirao is a unique Inca heritage site located in the region of Cusco, southern Peru, overlooking the amazing Apurímac Gorge. The name is translated as “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua and is often referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu” due to the similar construction and cultural importance. Choquequirao is actually much larger than Machu Picchu and provides a quiet and peaceful environment for those who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient Inca culture.

How long is Choquequirao Trek?

The traditional Choquequirao route is 4-5 days long, while the total Choquequirao to Machu Picchu tour takes a little longer and is more challenging. Since it is a private trip, you can adjust the schedule according to your pace and health condition.

What is the best time to visit Choquequirao?

It is the best time to go hiking at Choquequirao when it is not raining. The best period is April through October when the paths are easy to walk, and views of the Andes and Apurímac Gorge are splendid. Moreover, this is the perfect time for crossing San Juan Pass.

Is there any way of reaching Choquequirao?

There isn’t any road access to Choquequirao ruins. This trip begins with land transport from Cusco to Cachora, marking the beginning of the route. From that point onward, all the journey is done on foot.

Is Choquequirao trekking dangerous?

This Choquequirao adventure is a moderate to difficult one, however it is not dangerous when planned by professionals. The route includes steep up and down climbs within the Apurimac canyon, changing weather and altitudes. Professional guides control safety, pace, and altitude during the trip.

Are there any guides during Choquequirao-Machu Picchu trek?

Yes. Our trips provide licensed local guides who have detailed knowledge about Choquequirao and other mountain routes in the Cusco region. They will give historical information, cultural context, and assistance with altitude problems or some health issues.

Is Choquequirao safe for tourists?

Yes. Choquequirao is absolutely safe for tourists. This route is perfectly marked, and its surroundings are calm and very quiet comparing with other well known sites of Peru.

Can Choquequirao be visited in one day?

While Choquequirao can be visited in a single day, we do not recommend doing it. This route is extremely challenging, leaving no time for exploration of the ruins. Tourists spend two or three days in Choquequirao or move towards Machu Picchu.

How many visitors can visit Choquequirao per day?

Only about 500 people can visit Choquequirao in one day, though this limit is not imposed as strictly as at Machu Picchu, which preserves its peace and exclusivity.

Is it necessary to have good physical form?

It is recommended to have a good physical shape for hiking due to some difficult parts of the way, such as a climb to San Juan Pass. It is advised to get prepared beforehand if you do not have much experience of hiking on high altitudes.

Which weather can be expected?

The weather will be different along the route. Some lower parts of the Apurimac gorge will be warm during daytime, but higher regions will be colder, especially at night. At nights in the dry season it can even get close to zero.

Are horses or mules used during the hike?

Yes, pack animals (horses and mules) will be used for carrying luggage and other supplies during Choquequirao hike. Horses can be ridden on certain parts of the trail, but there are some parts where it is better to walk in order not to damage both animals and the trail.

Does Choquequirao hiking trail continue to Machu Picchu?

Yes, after finishing the Choquequirao trail, the route will lead through remote Andean valleys towards Machu Picchu. The trip will end with an amazing train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and then a guided visit to Machu Picchu Inca sanctuary.