Embark on the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable 7-day adventure that leads you from the mystical ruins of Choquequirao to the iconic Machu Picchu. This trek offers travelers to Peru a unique opportunity to explore breathtaking Andean landscapes, ancient Inca sites, and lush cloud forests, all while avoiding the crowds typically found on the classic Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek.

Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top travel destinations in 2021, the Choquequirao trek is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Covering roughly 75 kilometers (46.6 miles), this off-the-beaten-path route begins in Cusco and takes you westward to Capuliyoc, providing an immersive experience of the Sacred Valley's natural beauty and rich history.

As you traverse rugged terrains and cascading waterfalls, you'll discover the less-explored ruins of Choquequirao, often referred to as the "sister city" of Machu Picchu. This trek not only showcases stunning views but also allows for intimate encounters with Incan heritage, making it a must-do for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Peru.

Join us on this incredible journey and uncover why the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most sought-after adventures for those looking to experience the best of Peru’s trekking routes!

Highlights of the Trek:

Choquequirao Ruins: Known as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, this remote archaeological site offers awe-inspiring views and fascinating history.

Breathtaking Andean Landscapes: Explore varied ecosystems, beautiful cloud forests, and breathtaking mountain passes.

Challenging Trails: Take on challenging hikes to test yourself and experience the adrenaline of conquering the difficulties of nature.

Remote Wilderness: Get away from the crowds of well-known tourist spots and experience the peace and tranquility of the Peruvian Andes.

Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich traditions and customs of the local communities.

Iconic Machu Picchu: Visit the well-known Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, to complete out your adventure.

ITNERARY:

Day 1: Cusco - Cachora – Capuliyuc - Chiquiska – Playa Rosalinas

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 AM to start our trip in a private van for 4 hours to northeast of Cusco city, through small towns until Cachora village, at 2880 m / 9,448 ft. A brief stop in Cachora village offers you the opportunity to gather any last-minute essentials for your hike. After our stop, we will keep driving for another 40 minutes toward Capuliyuc, at 2945 m (9,662 ft) the starting point of the trek.

Upon reaching Capuliyoc, a meeting point between trekkers and staff, you'll be introduced to our skilled horse drivers who will accompany us throughout the trek. Capuliyuc is situated on the edge of the Apurimac Canyon, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Apurimac Valley, as well as the snow-capped peaks of Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora. This is just a taste of the natural wonders that await you.

Prepare for an exciting descent as we embark on our trek towards Chiquiska, where we have lunch, situated at an altitude of 1850 m / 6,069 ft. The journey will take approximately 3 hours, allowing you to witness the fascinating changes in weather, flora, and fauna that accompany each step. Afterwards we continue with our hike for 1 hour and 30 minutes to Playa Rosalinas, located at 1550 m/5,084 ft., where we will spend the night.

Prepare to be in awe of the breathtaking views, the captivating wildlife, and the tranquility that only exists in the embrace of nature.

Maximum Altitude: 2945 m / 9,662 ft.

Minimum Altitude: 1550 m/5,084 ft.

Trekking Distance: 12 km

Estimated Time: 5-6 hours

DAY 2: Playa Rosalinas - Santa Rosa - Choquequirao

We will start with our hike early in the morning to begin to climb to Santa Rosa (2095 m / 6873 ft). and to Marampata at 2900 m / 9,514 ft., where we will have lunch. The climb from the river takes about 4 hours. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch, savoring the flavors amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the ancient ruins.

After indulging in a delicious meal, we'll continue toward our second campsite. The two-hour hike brings us closer to the awe-inspiring Choquequirao Inca site, situated at an elevation of 3100 m / 10,170 ft. As we approach this architectural marvel, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Andean condors soaring through the skies, providing an unforgettable spectacle. Take in the splendor of Choquequirao as daylight fades, immersing yourself in its mystical ambiance.

Along the way, be captivated by the diverse flora and fauna that grace the path. Discover the beauty of various orchid species, adding a touch of natural wonder to your trekking experience.

Maximum Altitude: 3100 m / 10,170 ft.

Minimum Altitude: 1550 m / 5,085 ft.

Trekking Distance: 13 km

Estimated Time: 7-8 hours

Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc

Today, we will be able to rest and discover more of the Choquequirao ancient sites after breakfast. We will return to our camp for a well-earned lunch after spending about four hours in the morning taking in Choquequirao's marvels. We afterwards descend for a few hours to the archeological site at Pinchiunuyoc (2470 m / 8104 ft) after climbing across a ridge for around an hour to reach the Choquequirao Pass. Before spending the night at the neighboring campsite of the same name, we will have the opportunity to visit these Inca sites and take in the breathtaking views. On a clear day, you will be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking campsites on the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu.

Maximum Altitude: 3300 m / 10,826 ft.

Minimum Altitude: 2470 m / 8,103 ft.

Trekking Distance: 6 km

Estimated Time: 4-5 hours

Day 4: Pinchiunuyoc - Rio Blanco - Maizal

Start your day with a hearty breakfast prior to beginning the 2-hour hike downhill to the Rio Blanco (1920 m/6299 ft). Before beginning the challenging ascent to our campground at Maizal, we take a break here and spend some time soaking our toes in the refreshing river waters.

From here, we begin a strenuous ascent to Maizal (3000 m/9843 ft), a little cleared agricultural region on the mountain. This section of the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is the most challenging for many people. The climb up is a difficult 4-hour zigzag.

After eating lunch here, we'll have the rest of the afternoon to relax and recover from a long day so that we'll be prepared for the arduous hiking the next day.

Maximum Altitude: 3000 m / 9843 ft

Minimum Altitude: 1920 m / 6299 ft

Trekking Distance: 8 km

Estimated Time: 6-7 hours

Day 5: Maizal – Yanama - Lucmabamba

Starting at around 7 am, we trek uphill through a cloud forest for approximately three hours, discovering a few blast mines known as the Victoria mines along the way. Around lunchtime, we will arrive at the 4,100-meter (13,451-foot) Victoria Pass. Possibly one of the best photo locations on the entire Choquequirao hike to Machu Picchu, this is a great place to shoot shots on a clear day! Additionally, if it's a sunny day, we have a decent possibility of seeing condors flying by. After a part with some well-built Inca Steps, we descend to the little settlement of Yanama (3700 m/12,139 ft) with breathtaking views from the pass. The walk takes around two hours. The challenging parts of the journey come to an end today. After arriving in Yanama, we take an approximately three-hour drive to Lucmabamba (2060m / 6758ft) via local transportation. You will appreciate the very distinct atmosphere and the warm, high jungle climate. We get to take in stunning views of waterfalls and snow-capped mountains as we travel.

Maximum Altitude: 4,100 m/13,451 ft.

Minimum Altitude: 2060 m / 6,758 ft

Trekking Distance: 11 km

Estimated Time: 6-7 hours + 3 hours driving

Day 6: Lucmabamba – Laqtapata – Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

On this day we walk for 3 hours along the original Inca trail and through the cloud forest to El Mirador, or Abra Qelloqasa (2860 m / 9,383 ft). then onto Llactapata Inca remains, an Inca site located at 2,700 m/8,907 ft, which is located straight in front of the Citadel of Machu Picchu. Once there, we enjoy the unique perspective of Machu Picchu from far away. Then we hike downhill for 2 hours to the hydroelectric 1890 m / 6,200 ft, where we have lunch. Following our meal, we begin on a pleasant 3-hour walk, leading us to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoying the surroundings of the iconic Machu Picchu and the wall that surrounds the Inca Citadel. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel, providing us with an opportunity to freshen up with a rejuvenating shower.

Maximum Altitude: 2860 m / 9,383 ft

Minimum Altitude: 1890 m / 6,200 ft

Trekking Distance: 18 km

Estimated Time: 7-8 hours

Day 7: Aguas calientes – MachuPicchu - Ollantaytambo-Cusco

Just in time for sunrise, we will have breakfast at 5 am in the morning and board the first bus to Machu Picchu. The journey to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, will take thirty minutes. It is an experience you will never forget. Following our arrival at Machu Picchu, our knowledgeable guide will lead us on a comprehensive tour of the site. We will delve into the history and significance of Machu Picchu, exploring its remarkable buildings and temples. This guided tour provides invaluable insights into the ancient Inca civilization and their architectural achievements.

Our tour of Machu Picchu typically concludes around 10:00 am. It's important to note that in June 2024, the Peruvian government has implemented new regulations that divide the entrance times into specific slots throughout the day. Our tour is scheduled between 6:00 am and 10:00 am. (Circuit 1 or 2) If you wish to embark on any additional hikes within Machu Picchu, such as Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to purchase an extra ticket.

Once you have thoroughly explored every corner of Machu Picchu, we will take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch. Before departing Machu Picchu, make sure to familiarize yourself with the time and location of the meeting point in Aguas Calientes, where you will receive your train tickets for the return journey to Cusco. We will then board a train to Ollantaytambo, and from there, our private transportation will transport us to our hotel in Cusco.

Total distance by bus: 6 km/3.37 miles

Machu Picchu altitude: 2400 m/7874 ft

Estimate time: 2-3 hours