Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu: 7 Days in Peru
Discover one of Peru’s most demanding and rewarding multi-day trekking adventures on our 7-day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu. This expedition combines remote Andean landscapes, ancient Inca archaeology, challenging mountain trails and a guided visit to the legendary sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Starting from Cusco, the journey follows the dramatic Apurímac Canyon and the mountain trails leading toward Choquequirao, an extensive archaeological complex often called the sister city of Machu Picchu. Along the way, experience steep canyon descents, remote valleys, traditional mountain landscapes and the remarkable remains of the Inca civilization.
The adventure continues through the highlands and cloud-forest landscapes toward Llactapata and Aguas Calientes, culminating in a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Organized by Inca Land Adventures, a locally based trekking company in Cusco, this itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a challenging alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, personalized local service and a deeper connection with Peru’s archaeological and natural heritage.
Planning your Peru trekking adventure for 2027? Contact our team to check route conditions, availability, inclusions and the best option for your travel dates.
Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalinas
Meals: Lunch, afternoon tea and dinner
Accommodation: Camping, subject to final itinerary confirmation
Your Choquequirao adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco and a scenic drive toward Cachora and the Capuliyoc viewpoint.
At Capuliyoc, enjoy impressive views of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding Andean mountains before beginning the descent along the trail toward Chikiska and Playa Rosalinas.
This first day introduces you to the region’s dramatic landscapes and prepares you for the demanding ascents and descents ahead.
Trekking distance: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles, as listed in the current itinerary.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Day 2: Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao Area
Meals: Confirm according to the final operating plan
Accommodation: Camping, subject to confirmation
Continue along the trail from Playa Rosalinas, following the route toward Santa Rosa and ascending through the rugged terrain of the Apurímac Canyon.
The climb requires steady pacing and good physical preparation, particularly as the trail gains elevation. Along the way, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, vegetation and remote Andean landscapes.
Continue toward Marampata and the Choquequirao area only if the authorized route and current trail conditions permit. The final walking distance, archaeological-site access and overnight location must be confirmed before departure.
Trekking distance: Approximately 13 km / 8 miles in the existing itinerary; reconfirm before publication.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Day 3: Explore Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, subject to the confirmed schedule
Accommodation: Camping at the confirmed overnight location
Spend time exploring the extraordinary Choquequirao archaeological complex with your professional guide, subject to official site access.
Discover the site’s agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, plazas and stone structures while learning about the history, engineering and cultural significance of the Inca civilization.
After the archaeological visit, continue according to the authorized trekking itinerary toward the Pinchiunuyoc area. The current webpage contains conflicting information about this day’s route and overnight camp, so the exact sequence must be verified.
Trekking distance: Approximately 10 km / 6.2 miles listed in the existing itinerary; subject to verification.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Day 4: Pinchiunuyoc – Río Blanco – Maizal
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, subject to confirmation
Accommodation: Camping, subject to confirmation
Continue through remote mountain terrain toward Pinchiunuyoc, where you can appreciate the remains of ancient agricultural terraces and the remarkable way the Incas adapted to the Andean landscape.
The original itinerary continues toward Río Blanco before climbing to Maizal. This section includes significant changes in elevation and requires careful pacing.
Critical route condition: Río Blanco was reported as not passable in the Ministry of Culture’s March 2026 reopening announcement. This day must not be operated or sold as confirmed until the authorities and local route team verify that the trail is open and safe.
Trekking distance: Approximately 10 km / 6.2 miles listed on the existing webpage; reconfirm after the route assessment.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Day 5: Maizal – Yanama – Totora – Lucmabamba
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, subject to confirmation
Accommodation: Camping at the confirmed location
Continue through the Andean mountain landscape toward the San Juan Pass, following the route through changing vegetation and highland scenery.
The original itinerary mentions Mina Victoria and the village of Yanama before continuing toward the Lucmabamba area. Enjoy the contrast between rugged mountain slopes, remote settlements and greener sections of the trail.
Daily walking time, the precise sequence of locations and the overnight camp must be confirmed by the operations team before this itinerary is finalized.
Trekking distance: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles listed in the existing itinerary; subject to route verification.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast and lunch; dinner arrangements to be confirmed
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes, with a private room and bathroom if included in the selected package
Continue toward Llactapata, an important archaeological site known for its relationship with the wider Inca landscape and its views toward Machu Picchu in suitable conditions.
After exploring the area, descend toward the Urubamba Valley and the Hydroelectric station. From there, continue to Aguas Calientes on foot or by train, depending on the selected service, availability and final itinerary.
Arrive in Aguas Calientes, check in to your hotel and prepare for the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Walking distance: Approximately 9 km / 5.6 miles listed on the existing webpage; the actual distance depends on the confirmed route and transport arrangements.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Day 7: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, subject to the confirmed package
Start early and travel to Machu Picchu by the arranged transport. Once inside the archaeological sanctuary, enjoy a guided visit following the circuit and entry time confirmed for your booking.
Your guide will introduce you to the site’s principal architectural features, terraces, ceremonial areas and historical significance. The precise visit depends on the official ticket and circuit available for your travel date.
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board the scheduled train to Ollantaytambo. A transfer will take you back to Cusco, concluding your seven-day Choquequirao and Machu Picchu adventure.
Important: Machu Picchu entry tickets, bus tickets, train service, guided visits and transfers must be explicitly confirmed in the final inclusions list before the tour is sold.
What's Included in the 7-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
Your trekking package includes the following services, subject to confirmation in your booking quotation:
Pre-trek briefing: A briefing with your guide in Cusco before departure.
Transportation: Hotel pickup and private ground transportation from Cusco to the trailhead at Capuliyoc.
Professional English-speaking guide: An experienced trekking guide throughout the expedition.
Archaeological entrance fees: Entrance to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, provided both sites are officially accessible and the relevant tickets are included in your confirmed package.
Camping equipment: Four-season tents, with a maximum of two travelers sharing a four-person tent, plus the communal camping equipment specified in your quotation.
Meals during the trek: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea as indicated in the final itinerary.
Trekking support team: Cook, horse handlers and pack animals for transporting the agreed camping equipment and up to 7 kg of personal belongings per traveler, as confirmed in advance.
Drinking water: Safe drinking water supplied during the trekking days according to the confirmed service arrangements.
Emergency support: A first-aid kit and emergency procedures appropriate for the route.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes: One night in a private room with a private bathroom, if included in your selected package.
Machu Picchu shuttle buses: Return bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and the entrance to Machu Picchu, if included in the confirmed package.
Train to Ollantaytambo: The train service specified in your booking confirmation.
Return transfer to Cusco: Ground transportation from the train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Applicable taxes: Taxes explicitly covered by the final quotation.
What's Not Included in the Choquequirao Trek
Unless explicitly stated in your booking confirmation, the following services are not included:
International flights and domestic flights.
Hotel accommodation in Cusco before or after the trek.
Meals in Cusco and any meals not specified in the itinerary.
Sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping mat, trekking poles and personal trekking equipment, unless you select the comfort equipment package.
Additional horse or porter services for personal luggage beyond the included allowance.
Optional train upgrades, including Vistadome service.
Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets. These require separate availability and advance booking.
Optional additional guided services for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Single-room supplements or additional hotel nights not specified in the package.
Personal travel insurance, including trekking and emergency evacuation coverage.
Personal expenses, snacks, alcoholic beverages and additional drinks.
Tips for your guide, cook, horse handlers and other trekking staff.
Any service not explicitly listed under “What's Included.”
Price per person :2027
1 traveler$2,480
2 travelers $1,790
3 travelers $1,620
4 travelers $1,450
5 travelers $1,400
6 travelers $1,350
Frequently Asked Questions About the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu
How difficult is the 7-day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Choquequirao Trek is a challenging multi-day hiking expedition with steep ascents and descents, uneven trails and substantial changes in elevation. Good physical fitness, prior hiking experience and proper acclimatization in Cusco are strongly recommended.
How much does the Choquequirao Trek cost in 2027?
The price depends on the number of travelers, the level of service and the inclusions selected. Private-tour prices should account for transportation, professional guiding, meals, camping equipment, trekking support, accommodation, train tickets and archaeological entrance fees. Contact Inca Land Adventures for a confirmed 2027 quotation.
Is the Choquequirao Trek an alternative to the Classic Inca Trail?
Yes. Choquequirao is an alternative for travelers seeking a demanding, multi-day Andean trekking experience with a strong archaeological focus. However, it is a different route from the Classic Inca Trail and has different access conditions, landscapes and logistical requirements.
Can I visit both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu on one trip?
A combined itinerary can connect the two archaeological destinations through a remote mountain route. However, the specific seven-day route via Río Blanco and Maizal must be verified for official access and safe passage before departure.
What is the best time to hike the Choquequirao Trek?
The drier months, generally from May through September, are often preferred for trekking in the Cusco region. Weather can still change quickly in the Andes, and trail conditions should always be checked before departure.
Do I need an Inca Trail permit for Choquequirao?
The Choquequirao route has different access requirements from the regulated Classic Inca Trail. Entrance fees and current archaeological-site access rules must be checked with the relevant authorities. A Classic Inca Trail permit should not be assumed to cover Choquequirao or this combined itinerary.
What should I pack for the Choquequirao Trek?
Bring broken-in hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, warm clothing, waterproof outerwear, sun protection, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle, personal medication and suitable trekking equipment. A detailed packing list should be provided before departure.
Is the Choquequirao Trek suitable for beginners?
This trek is best suited to physically prepared travelers who are comfortable with long hiking days and steep terrain. Less-experienced hikers should assess their fitness honestly and consult the tour operator before booking.
Can I book a private Choquequirao Trek for 2027?
Inca Land Adventures can prepare a private-tour quotation based on your travel dates, party size and preferred services. Final confirmation depends on the availability of the route, official access, accommodation and transportation.
What happens if trail access changes before departure?
Safety and official access conditions take priority. If a section of the planned route is closed or deemed unsafe, the operator must communicate the situation and explain the available options in accordance with the booking terms and applicable regulations.
EXTRAS. Confort package usd 150.00
Sleeping Bag –per trek (It will be clean and warm)
Air Mattress –per trek (Therma rest mattresses)
Walking Poles - per pair per trek (Professional poles that can be extended)
Pillow per trek.
What Makes Choquequirao the "Sister City of Machu Picchu"?
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