Machu Picchu Excursions logo

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

6 days / 5 nights

The last refuge of the Incas, Choquequirao, a Quechuan word for ‘Cradle of Gold,’ is a captivating display of Incan archaeological artifacts. With tourist sightings few and far between on this trek, Choquequirao is a true exploration of untouched terrain, allowing travelers the space and time to really soak up the architectural genius of the Incas. Connected to the Peru Choquequirao Trek, this journey unveils the secrets of this historical site while immersing trekkers in high Andean landscapes, featuring majestic glaciers and descending into the deep Apurimac Canyons.

Located in the Vilcabamba Valley and overlooking the Apurimac River in Peru’s South, Choquequirao is often described as Little Machu Picchu, though only 40% of its magical landscape has been excavated to date, leaving many secrets and untold mysteries yet to be uncovered. A highway through the history of the Incas, the Choquequirao Trek takes hikers on a path through biologically diverse cloud forests, offering glimpses of a rich array of flora and fauna.

With the Peruvian Government authorizing the installation of a tramway, set to increase tourist capacity to 3,000 visitors a day, and Choquequirao topping Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2017’ list, this site is poised to become one of the most sought-after tourist destinations for adventure travel enthusiasts across the globe. This 6-day trek concludes with an adventurous exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel, providing insights into Inca history and culture, shedding light on the architectural and engineering genius of the Incas in an age characterized by little to no technological development.

Tour Info

Destination:Machu Picchu, Choquequirao
Duration:6 days / 5 nights
Difficulty:Moderate
Total Distance:57 km / 37 miles
Group Size:2 – 8 Persons
Price:$890.00p/p$801.00p/p
Payment Terms:Advance of US$ 210 through PayPal and Balance on Arrival
Price Includes:
  • Tour briefing, the night before you set off
  • All transportation provided including pick up and drop off at your hotel
  • Professional guides
  • Assistant tour guide (for groups of 9 or more)
  • Local chef, porters, horsemen, and mules to carry food and equipment
  • Hearty and wholesome meals to fuel you on your hiking tours (vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals available)
  • Daily water requirement
  • Daily snacks
  • Dining tent with tables and chairs
  • Entrance fee to Choquequirao
  • Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
  • Train tickets
  • Bus tickets
  • 1 night’s stay at a 3 star hotel in Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes
  • Equipment (Eureka Timberline tents)
  • Satellite phones, first aid kit, and oxygen tank
Not Included:
  • Rentals (can be hired from us)
  • Sleeping bags
  • Inflatable air mattresses
  • Walking sticks

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco, Capuliyoc, Playa Rosalinas, Santa Rosa

After a 4:00 am pickup from your hotel, we’ll begin the awe-inspiring yet challenging 6 day Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu. A 3 hour and 30 minute drive across the Andes towards Capuliyoc, will take us to our first stop where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Fueled by a nutritiously dense meal, we’ll start the trek off with a 3 hour and 30 minute hike to Chiquisca. After a scrumptious lunch, , we’ll travel another 2 hours downhill to Playa Rosalinas. The trail is dusty and slippery, but with good hiking boots and trekking poles you won’t have a problem crossing the Playa Rosalinas suspension bridge.

A further 2 hour uphill hike along a winding road will take us to your campsite located in Santa Rosa. Along the way, you’ll see spectacular views of the Apurimac Canyons, where the condors glide, sugar cane farms sway in the Andean winds, with exotic flora and fauna nestled in and around the Apurimac River, lying at the foothills of the canyon.

Once we reach the campsite, our crew will set up camp. After a long day’s hike, you’ll be treated to a warm cup of tea and delicious dinner by the fireside as you gaze up at the constellations strewn across the night sky.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:12 km / 7.5 miles
- Altitude:3,050 m / 10,006 ft. above sea level
- 2,200 m / 7,217 ft. above sea level
- Time:7 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 2: Santa Rosa, Marampata, Choquequirao

You’ll wake up to a steaming hot cup of tea. Breakfast will be served soon after. After breakfast, we’ll start off the trek to Choquequirao with a 2 hour uphill hike along a zigzag path to Marampata, where you will have a chance to bask in the glorious views from the summit.

Along the journey to Marampata, as we pass by the Marampata Villages, you’ll catch a glimpse of the local lifestyle, the animals, and the crops they grow upon their land.

A 1 hour and 30 minute walk from Marampata will take you to Choquequirao, the highlight of this amazing trek. A truly lost city of the Incas, Choquequirao was rediscovered in the early 18th century.

With the campsite set up at Choquequirao, you will be able to enjoy a delicious lunch and a short siesta before setting off on a brief hike to visit the Choquequirao terraces that cascade down in near perfect symmetry. Then we’ll hike back to the campsite for teatime and dinner to wrap up the day’s adventures.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:9.5 km / 6 miles
- Altitude:2,200 m / 7,217 ft. above sea level
- 3,033 m / 9,950 ft. above sea level
- Time:6 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao

On day three of the Choquequirao Trek, you’ll wake up to a hot cup of tea and breakfast. A 30 minute walk from the campsite we’ll take us to the summit of Choquequirao from where we’ll begin the exploration of this impressive Incan citadel which covers three times the land mass of Machu Picchu.

Our guide will share the history of Choquequirao, the last capital of the Incas, which houses an architectural layout of agricultural zones, temples, fountains, and lined terraces.

After a scrumptious lunch in Choquequirao, a steep 30 minute downhill descent will take us to the narrow farming terraces which feature white stone walls inscribed with depictions of llamas, presumably built by the Incas to represent the Llama Constellation in the Milky Way.

We’ll then return to our campsite at Choquequirao to enjoy the magnificent sunset over the Andean mountain, teatime, and a delicious dinner.

- Difficulty:Easy
- Distance:8.5 km / 5 miles
- Altitude:3,033 m / 9,950 ft. above sea level
- Time:6 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 4: Choquequirao, Marampata, Playa Rosalinas, Chikiska

After a day spent exploring Choquequirao, you will wake up the next morning to a hot cup of tea and breakfast. We will then start the journey back. A 2 hour hike back through Marampata and a 4 hour downhill hike zigzagging your way to Playa Rosalinas will take you to your lunch spot for the day.

After lunch, a 2 hour uphill hike will take us back to Chikiska where your campsite will be all set up just in time to enjoy the evening views as the sun sets behind the mountains. Here, you will enjoy teatime and a delicious dinner before getting in a good night’s rest.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:18 km / 11 miles
- Altitude:3,033 m / 9,950 ft. above sea level
- 2,100 m / 6,890 ft. above sea level
- Time: 8 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation:Camping

Day 5: Chikiska, Capuliyoc, Conocc Hot Springs, Machu Picchu Town

After the usual morning’s wakeup call with a hot cup of tea followed by breakfast, we’ll begin our journey back to Cusco. To start the trek, we will travel uphill to Capuliyoc where we say goodbye to the horsemen.

Then, all you have to do is sit back and relax while you’re whisked away in a 2 hour van ride to Conoc. Here you’ll be able to dip in the natural hot springs of Conoc, the waters of which are touted to have healing properties. Soon after your dip, you’ll be invited to dine for lunch.

After lunch, we’ll set off to Ollantaytambo town, now known as the ‘Last Living Inca Village’. The Incan built town features some interesting infrastructure with a maze of water channels built beneath the houses of Ollantaytambo town.

You’ll then get to enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant in Ollantaytambo, made with ingredients that celebrate the town’s agricultural and gastronomical identity. After dinner, we’ll catch the 90 minute train ride to Machu Picchu town, also known as Aguas Calientes. We’ll spend the night at a hotel. We recommend an early bedtime so you can fully enjoy your exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel, the following day.

- Difficulty:Moderate
- Distance:8 km / 5 miles
- Altitude:2,100 m / 6,890 ft. above sea level
- 3,050 m / 10,006 ft. above sea level
- Time: 8 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast / Lunch
- Accommodation:Hotel

Day 6: Citadel of Machu Picchu, Cusco

After an early morning wakeup call and an energizing breakfast, we’ll check-out of the hotel and catch the first bus to Machu Picchu at 5:30 am just in time to witness the spectacular sunrise.

You’ll then be taken on a 2 – 3 hour tour of the Incan citadel in which our guide will take you on a journey through the ages, shedding light on the history, engineering genius, and lives of the ancient Incas.

You’ll then get to explore Peru’s urban areas independently and enjoy a little spontaneous exploration of Peru’s famed archeological site.

You’ll then hop on the bus and head down to Aguas Calientes, where you will reunite with our tour guide. You may then take a pitstop for lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour package) before hopping on a 2 hour train ride to Ollantaytambo. From here you will be chauffer driven to Cusco where you will be dropped off safely at your hotel.

- Difficulty:Easy
- Altitude:2,000 m / 6,561 ft. above sea level
- 2,400 m / 7,874 ft. above sea level
- Time: 2 - 3 hours
- Weather:Warm and humid
- Meals:Breakfast (Hotel)

Packing List

Day Pack

  • Backpack for hiking (25L to 30L)
  • Water (we provide water with every meal)
  • Sun hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Camera
  • Music (phone)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste

Official Papers

  • Valid and Original Passport (same passport used for booking your trek)
  • Travel Insurance (we strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for your trip)

Duffle Clothing

- 5-6Wicking t-shirts
- 5-6Hiking pants
- 6 setsUndergarments
- 6 pairsHiking socks
- 1Fleece
- 1Warm down jacket (for the chilly night air)
- 1Rain jacket and pants
- 1Sun hat
- 1Woolen hat
- 1Swimsuit
- 1Headlamp (essential)
- 1 pairWaterproof gloves
- 1Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- 1Large towel (we will be providing a small towel)
- 1Sleeping bag (we recommend down bags for 14 °F (- 10 °C), at least
- Large plastic bags (to help organize and keep clean)
- Power banks (no outlet to plug in battery chargers while trekking)

Footwear

  • Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof, lightweight, broken-in with aggressive tread)
  • Comfortable shoes (walking shoes, sandals or other comfortable footwear to wear on campsites)

Travel Accessories

  • Bottle of water
  • Flashlight
  • Watch with alarm or travel clock
  • Toilet paper
  • Sunglasses and retainer strap
  • Sunblock and lip balm
  • Toiletry kit
  • Small washcloth
  • Earplugs
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Insect repellent and appropriate clothing for mosquitoes
  • Several ziploc bags

Extra Money For

  • Drinks
  • Tip or gratitude
  • Souvenirs

Reviews

Important Info

More information about Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu offers a unique and less-traveled route compared to the popular Inca Trail, providing a sense of exploration and discovery.
  • Architectural Marvels: Explore the archaeological wonders of Choquequirao, often referred to as the ‘Cradle of Gold,’ and witness Incan architectural brilliance amidst pristine landscapes.
  • Untouched Terrain: With fewer tourist sightings on this trek, travelers have the luxury of space and time to fully appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of Choquequirao.
  • Majestic Landscapes: Journey through high Andean landscapes featuring breathtaking glaciers and descending into the deep Apurimac Canyons, offering unparalleled views and photo opportunities.
  • Biological Diversity: Traverse biologically diverse cloud forests, encountering a rich array of flora and fauna along the way, adding an extra layer of natural wonder to the trek.
  • Historical Insights: Uncover the secrets of Choquequirao, often hailed as Little Machu Picchu, with only 40% of its landscape excavated, leaving room for exploration and mystery.
  • Connection to Machu Picchu: Conclude the trek with an adventurous exploration of the Machu Picchu citadel, gaining profound insights into Inca history and culture.
  • Limited Tourist Impact: Experience the Choquequirao Trek before the potential rise in tourist capacity, as the Peruvian Government authorizes the installation of a tramway.
  • Adventure Travel Enthusiast’s Delight: Topping Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel 2017’ list, Choquequirao is set to become a sought-after destination for those seeking an authentic and adventurous travel experience.

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu Map

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Availability of the Inca Trail

Iframe sin título
Share
From: $890 $801

For treks and tours, the deposit is $200 + $10 service fee = $210 per person. The remaining balance must be settled before the tour.

booking with paypal
You need assistance?

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Related Tours

Amazon and Manu National Park Tour

Amazon and Manu National Park Tour

  • 3 days / 2 nights
  • Moderate
From:
$590 $531
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

  • 4 days / 3 nights
  • Moderate
From:
$820 $738

Related Articles

cusco june festival - Machu Picchu Excursions

Complete guide Cusco june festival 2024

Hello Travel Friends At Machu Picchu Excursions, we are ready to welcome June with the celebrations for the Cusco June Festival and Inti Raymi. This historic city is always alive…
Read more

Get in touch

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu
For reservations or more information please fill up the following client/guest form:
})