Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Step beyond the crowds and discover Choquequirao before reaching Machu Picchu. Our 7-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek is a challenging highland adventure through the Apurímac Canyon, remote Andean valleys, cloud forests and historic Inca landscapes.
This route is ideal for experienced hikers who want more than a conventional Machu Picchu trek. You will explore the extraordinary Choquequirao archaeological complex, cross remote mountain terrain and eventually arrive at Machu Picchu after several days immersed in the Andes.
The journey continues to the iconic Machu Picchu, completing the Choquequirao and Machu Picchu tour in an unforgettable finale. This experience combines hiking and culture tour Peru, offering guided exploration of ancient ruins while immersing you in the natural beauty of the Andes. Whether you’re seeking a challenging Cusco trekking adventure, a fully inclusive Machu Picchu trekking tour, or an authentic remote Inca trail tour, this itinerary promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Discover the magic of the Andes with our expertly planned Choquequirao hike itinerary, crafted to balance adventure, cultural insight, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Peru. Perfect for travelers looking to experience Andes trekking tours in Peru in an intimate, less-traveled setting.
Book your 7-day Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu now and step into a world where history, adventure, and nature converge on one of the most spectacular trails in South America.
What Makes Choquequirao the "Sister City of Machu Picchu"?
Day 1 – Cusco to Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalinas
Early pickup from Cusco and a scenic drive to Cachora, the trailhead for this Choquequirao hike Peru.
Visit the viewpoint at Capuliyoc, offering dramatic views over the Apurímac Canyon. Hike down to Chikiska, descending through warm canyon terrain. Overnight in a rustic camp or lodge.
Meals included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 12kms/7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2 – Playa Rosalinas to Marampata – Choquequirao
Continue your remote Inca ruins trek with a hike to the riverside of Playa Rosalina.
Cross the river and ascend towards Santa Rosa, gaining altitude and passing through lush mountain trails.
Camp overnight in Santa Rosa, resting for the days ahead.
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 13km/8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Day 3 – Explore Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc
Trek up to Marampata, an important viewpoint spot.
From there, begin the Choquequirao archaeological tour, arriving at the ruins and exploring the terraces, plazas, and temples.
Return to Marampata for a second night, giving you time to reflect on the sacred site.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10kms/6.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4 – Pinchiunuyoc – Río Blanco – Maizal
Leave Marampata and ascend toward the Choquequirao Pass, enjoying panoramic vistas.
Descend to Pinchaunuyoc, where ancient agricultural terraces remain remarkably intact.
Continue down to Rio Blanco, then climb again to reach the serene campsite at Maizal.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10kms/6.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Day 5 – Maizal – Yanama – Totora – Lucmabamba
After breakfast, trek through humid Andean forest toward the San Juan Pass — one of the highest points on the route.
Pass by the Mina Victoria, historic silver mines, before descending to the village of Yanama.
Rest overnight in La playa, immersed in the wilderness of this Inca wilderness trekking Peru route.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 12kms/7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Day 6 – Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes
Our final day of hiking takes us ON an ancient Inca Trail to Llactapata, an Inca site that has only recently been excavated. We will also have a truly amazing view of Machu Picchu from the back that few tourists get to see.
We descend sharply on a zigzagged rail to the Urubamba valley and the hydroelectric center train station. We will have lunch here and then say goodbye to our trekking chef and porters.
You will have the option to take the train (50 minute ride) or finish your trip on foot (3 hours and 20 minutes of easy walking) to the bustling tourist town of Aguas Calientes. Here we will check into a hotel and meet for our last dinner together.
Walking Distance: 9km/5.6 miles
Elevation: 2000m/6561ft
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenging
Weather: Cold (morning). Hot and humid
Day 7 – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We recommend waking up early to catch the first bus around 5:30am. After entering Machu Picchu, you will have a two-hour guided tour of the most important sites in the city.
After the tour, if you purchased a ticket in advance to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will complete those hikes at this time (tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are NOT included and must be purchased separately and early).
At the designated time, your guide will meet you down in the village of Aguas Calientes to pick up your duffel bags from the hotel and take you to the train station for your ride back to Ollantaytambo. A private van will take you back to your hotel in Cuscso from the train station.
Walking distance: varied! You can spend as much time as you like exploring Machu Picchu city or taking an additional hike.
Elevation: 2400m/7874ft
Difficulty: Moderate. Machu Picchu city is large and requires many trips up and down stairs to see it all.
Weather: Hot and humid (bring a lot of water and rain gear)
Why Choose Inca Land Adventures?
Local expertise, small groups and personalized trekking service
We are a family-owned trekking company based in Cusco, Peru. Our Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is operated by local professionals who know the route, the communities and the landscapes of the Andes.
We keep our groups small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, allowing our guides to provide more personalized attention throughout the trek.
From your pre-trek briefing in Cusco to your return from Machu Picchu, our team coordinates transportation, camping logistics, meals, entrance tickets and trekking support so you can concentrate on the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Choquequirao Trek
Is the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu difficult?
Yes. It is a challenging trek with long walking days, steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and rugged mountain terrain.
How many days is the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
Our classic Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu takes 7 days, combining archaeology, remote landscapes, mountain trails, and Machu Picchu.
How far is Choquequirao from Machu Picchu?
Choquequirao and Machu Picchu are separated by a long and remote mountain route. The exact trekking distance depends on the itinerary and route selected.
What is the highest altitude on the Choquequirao Trek?
The trek reaches high Andean elevations, with significant altitude changes throughout the journey. The exact highest point depends on the route and itinerary.
How fit do I need to be for the Choquequirao Trek?
A good level of fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable walking for several hours per day on steep, uneven terrain.
Is Choquequirao harder than the Classic Inca Trail?
For most trekkers, yes. The Choquequirao route involves longer distances, more elevation changes, and more demanding ascents and descents than the Classic Inca Trail.
What is the best time of year to hike the Choquequirao Trek?
The dry season from May to September is generally preferred for trekking, with better conditions for mountain hiking and photography.
What should I pack for the Choquequirao Trek?
Bring trekking shoes, layered clothing, rain protection, sun protection, a sleeping bag, water bottle, personal medications, and a headlamp. A detailed packing list is provided before departure.
Is the Choquequirao Trek suitable for first-time trekkers?
It can be suitable for experienced and well-prepared first-time trekkers, but it is not an easy introduction to trekking. Good preparation and acclimatization are important.
What is included in the 7-day Choquequirao Trek?
The program includes transportation, professional guides, camping equipment, meals, porters, accommodation according to the itinerary, and the services necessary for the trek and Machu Picchu visit. Exact inclusions depend on the selected package.
Do I need a permit to visit Choquequirao?
Choquequirao is an archaeological site with an entrance fee, but the permit requirements are different from those of the Classic Inca Trail. We arrange the necessary entrance and trekking services for your itinerary.
Can I do the Choquequirao Trek privately?
Yes. A private Choquequirao Trek can be arranged with a private guide, transportation, flexible pacing, and a customized itinerary based on your preferences and fitness level.
Choquequirao Trek Guides & Resources
Planning a Choquequirao Trek in Peru? Explore our practical guides to help you choose the right route, prepare for the altitude, and understand what to expect on the trail.
Choquequirao Trek vs. Classic Inca Trail: Which Is Better for You?
Compare the Choquequirao Trek and Classic Inca Trail in terms of difficulty, scenery, archaeology, crowds, hiking experience, and access to Machu Picchu.
How Difficult Is the Choquequirao Trek?
Learn about the distance, elevation, steep ascents and descents, walking hours, and fitness level required for this challenging Andean trek.
Choquequirao Trek Packing List: What to Bring
Discover what to pack for the Choquequirao Trek, including clothing, trekking equipment, personal essentials, and camping gear.
Best Time to Hike the Choquequirao Trek
Find out which months offer the best conditions for hiking, photography, and enjoying the Andean landscapes and archaeological sites.
Choquequirao Trek Altitude: Camps, Passes and Acclimatization
Understand the altitude of Choquequirao, mountain passes, camping elevations, and acclimatization recommendations before your trek.
How to Get to Choquequirao from Cusco
Learn how to travel from Cusco to the Choquequirao trailhead, including transportation, starting points, and practical planning information.
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu: Complete 7-Day Guide
Explore our complete guide to the 7-day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, including the route, camps, landscapes, archaeological sites, and daily hiking experience.
Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu: What Makes Each Inca Site Unique?
Discover the differences between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, from their archaeological significance and locations to the overall visitor experience.
Small groups. Local guides. Remote trails. Authentic Andean experiences.
Sleeping bag adequate for
temperature of minus 10°C $25
Entry fee to Huayna Picchu
Mountain $75
Additional horse for extra
personal luggage in addition of the 7kg allowance
Optional upgrades (train and
hotel)
Meals not indicated in the
itinerary
Tips for the cook, horsemen
and guide
Tips for the cook, horsemen
and guide**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not
include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you
would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra
guided tour.
Choquequirao-Machu Picchu
Trips Managed by Local Experts
Easy, Fast, Risk-Free Bookings
Personalized Small Group Tours
Great Value for Money
Unique, Customized Itineraries
Best Local Certified Guides.
WHY CHOOSE inca land adventures?Inca Land Adventures is a family owned travel agency and a local tour operator based in Cusco with personal experience over many years of trekking. Inca Laand Adventures is a 100% Cusqueñian Company without any shareholders.
Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering in PERSONALIZED and HIGH QUALITY SERVICE.
We take pride in our reputation as a RESPONSIBLE & SUSTAINABLE tour operator. Our staff are our extended family. We ensure they are supported financially by offering them a fair salary. We are so proud of our team! Without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clients.
Pre-trekking briefing with your
guide at the office
Pick-up at your hotel in the
morning of the trek departure
Private transportation from
Cusco to Capuliyoc
Entry fees to Machu Picchu and
Choquequirao
English speaking, experienced
professional guide
Guided tours of Choquequirao
and Machu Picchu
Comfortable and 4 season roomy
tents (only 2 people in a 4 person tent)
Meals as indicated in the
itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
All camping equipment such as:
dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen and toilet tent
2 Bus tickets from Aguas
Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
First Aid kit including
emergency oxygen bottle
Train ticket from Aguas
Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Transfer from the train
station back to your hotel
Celebration dinner in an Aguas
Calientes restaurant
Hotel in Aguas Calientes with
private room and bathroom
Pack horses (for equipment and
personal items) including horsemen – 7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes,
sleeping bag will be carried by our horses
Provision of a horse in case
of emergency such as illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all participants
Boiled water for drinking and
washing purposes
Clean water to fill your
bottles at each mealtime
Taxes
SMALL GROUPSTo ensure a more personalized service for our guests, at Inca Land Adventures we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.
Not Includes
Includes
25 years old: $30 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of
student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: $30 USD – All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.
EXTRAS
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.
Personal tent- $35 USD – (Tent is for single trekkers only)
Vistadome Train Upgrade –$80 USD per person (Return Only)
Huayna Picchu Mountain –$80 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
Machu Picchu Mountain – $80 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
Single supplement-$35 USD per night (for solo travellers with single room)
**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a
guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the
extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
1 people US$2280 per person
2 People US$ 1680 Per Person
3 people US$1530 per person
4 people + US$1300 per person
6 people + US$1200 per person
PRICE PER PERSON:2026
Contact
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