Peru Trails, a team of passionate mountain enthusiasts (guides) who love exploring and leading unforgettable journeys, has prepared this long and incredible adventure for those who enjoy the mountains and a complete journey to Machu Picchu. This spectacular expedition takes you through stunning deep canyons, towering mountains, lush cloud forests, and original stone-paved Inca trails dating back 500 years, alongside well-preserved Inca ruins such as the amazing Choquequirao or the Cradle of Gold – often known as the other Machu Picchu – reaching the sacred Mount Salkantay, the highest mountain in the region, and finally connecting to the famous classic Inca Trail.

The grand and mysterious ancient city of Choquequirao, an abandoned settlement with many parallels to Machu Picchu, features temples, agricultural terraces built on steep mountainsides similar to those at Huayna Picchu, and a city constructed more than 4,000 feet above the Apurímac River, nestled high in the mountains yet enveloped by the jungle.

This journey concludes at the new world wonder, Machu Picchu.

Highlights

Hike with our passionate local guides who spend more time in the mountains than in the city
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, snow-capped peaks, jungle landscapes, deep canyons, remote mountain farms, and tropical forests
Visit two major Inca cities – Machu Picchu and its sister site, Choquequirao, the Golden Cradle
Combine the top three treks to Machu Picchu
Savor Peruvian cuisine prepared from scratch by our dedicated chefs throughout the trek

Follow the original Inca Trail once used by our ancestors

Type of transport: Van transport, train, trekking
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance covered: 154 km (96 miles)
Type of tour: Trekking, scenic, cultural, historical
Accommodation: 11 nights camping and 1 night hotel

Our guides: Peru Trails was born from a dream realized in 2015 by Jose Condor, who began guiding treks in 2014 and has visited Machu Picchu over 1,000 times. Today, Peru Trails boasts a team of top guides—both men and women—who hold professional degrees and receive annual refresher training with NOLS in Wilderness First Responder. Our treks take place in remote wilderness, and your safety is our priority. We invest in our guides because we believe they are the key ingredient to any unforgettable trip.

Location: This trip starts in Cusco city or the Sacred Valley upon request. You will fly into Lima, the capital of Peru, then connect to Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco, a small domestic airport.

Departures: This hike is operated exclusively by Peru Trails. When you book your trek or choose any of our tour packages, departures are available from April to September – the dry season when the views are spectacular. Group sizes typically range from 2 to 8 people, allowing us to provide personalized service and share our passion for this incredible country.

We accept bookings year-round, but we highly recommend reserving this trek at least six months in advance since permits are limited. For any inquiries, contact us 24/7 at +51 987467790 or email us at info@perutrails.com.

Daily Itinerary Distances

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Rio Blanco (12 km – 7.2 miles)
Day 2: Rio Blanco – Maranpata – Choquequirao (13 km – 8 miles)
Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc – Maisal (14 km – 8.7 miles)
Day 4: Maisal – San Juan Pass – Yanama (12 km – 7.2 miles)
Day 5: Yanama – Yanama Pass – Colpapampa (16 km – 9.9 miles)
Day 6: Totora – Colpapampa – Wayraqmachay (12 km – 7.2 miles)
Day 7: Waramachay – Salkantay Pass – Pampa Japonesa (14 km – 8.6 miles)
Day 8: Pampa Japonesa – Papacawana (14 km – 8.6 miles)
Day 9: Pampacawana – Wayllabamba – Ayapata (12 km – 7.2 miles)
Day 10: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha (13 km – 8 miles)
Day 11: Chaquicocha – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (15 km – 9.3 miles)
Day 12: Machu Picchu Tour and train back

Day 0: Briefing

At Peru Trails, we believe it’s essential that all our guests receive full details about the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek – including the itinerary, challenges, and what to bring – before embarking on this lifetime adventure. At a pre-arranged time, your guide will provide a complete pre-trek briefing at your Cusco hotel the day before the trek begins.

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Playa Rosalina

We will pick you up at 5:30 am for a roughly 4-hour drive in our private transport to Capuliyoc (2915m / 9563 ft). A breakfast stop is scheduled in the town of Curawasi. Enjoy spectacular views along the way as you take in herds of cows, sheep, and mountain villages.

Upon arrival in Capuliyoc, we meet our horsemen and horses and load all our equipment—including food, tents, and night gear—onto the animals. We then begin our trek, ascending and descending to reach the Capuliyoc viewpoint, where you can admire the deep Apurímac canyon, snow-capped mountains, and the majestic Choquequirao high in the distance.

After reaching Chuiquisca, we pause for lunch featuring an organic and nutritious meal, with impressive views of the Apurímac Canyon and mountains like Padreyoc. Following lunch, we descend for two hours to our first campsite at La Playa Rosalina, at the base of the canyon, where we will spend the night.

Lowest Elevation: 1,475m / 4,839 ft
Highest Elevation: 2,915m / 9,563 ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.2 miles
Approximate Walking Time: 6 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Maranpata – Choquequirao

After waking up to a warm cup of coca tea in your tent and a hearty breakfast, we begin our ascent toward Maranpata for about 5 hours. The climb is challenging due to the steep trail and heat. We will stop at Maranpata for lunch and to set up camp. After lunch, we hike for approximately 1.5 hours toward Choquequirao, where you can explore this fascinating Inca site and learn about its history while enjoying the sunset.

Distance Covered: 13 km
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Lowest Elevation: 1,550 m
Highest Elevation: 3,110 m
Level of Difficulty: Demanding

Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc – Maisal

Start your day with an early wake-up call, a cup of coffee, and a nutritious breakfast. We then hike for about 1 hour to the first pass (3,250m) through a typical cloud forest with breathtaking vistas. After the pass, we descend for a couple of hours to Rio Blanco for lunch. Following lunch, we tackle a steep trail that takes us up to camp.

Distance Covered: 14 km
Time: 4 to 6 hours
Lowest Elevation: 1,900 m
Highest Elevation: 3,250 m
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Maisal – San Juan Pass – Yanama

We begin by descending toward Rio Blanco, the trek’s lowest point (1,990m / 6,507 ft) and arguably the hottest part of the journey—a perfect spot to rest and cool your feet in the cold river. After a refreshing break, we ascend again for about 3 to 4 hours toward Maizall, enjoying beautiful vegetation and expansive views along the way. Lunch is served at the camp.

Distance Covered: 12 km
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Lowest Elevation: 1,990m / 6,507 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,130 m / 13,546 ft
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Demanding

Day 5: Yanama – Yanama Pass – Colpapampa

After an early wake-up call, we hike for about 4 hours to reach Yanama Pass (4,670m / 15,321 ft) traversing the grassy Puna. Along the way, enjoy views of many snow-capped mountains due to the elevation. On the descent to camp, the vegetation transforms as we near Totora (3,600m), where hot showers and clean bathrooms await at the camp.

Distance Covered: 16 km
Time: 8 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 3,100 m
Highest Elevation: 4,670 m
Level of Difficulty: Demanding

Day 6: Colpapampa – Wayraqmachay

Today we transition to the Salkantay Trail for the next two days. Expect to encounter fellow trekkers journeying in the opposite direction as we leave the jungle region. This leg is an uphill trek for about 6 to 7 hours toward Wayraqmachay (3,900m) through a cloud forest. Here, we stop for a delicious lunch and camp for the night, nestled at the base of the Humantay and Salkantay mountains.

Distance Covered: 12 km
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Lowest Elevation: 3,100 m
Highest Elevation: 3,900 m
Level of Difficulty: Demanding

Day 7: Wayraqmachay – Salkantay Pass – Pampa Japonesa

After enjoying a breakfast prepared by our chef, we begin an uphill trek for 3 to 4 hours toward Salkantay Pass (4,600m) through rugged terrain with impressive mountain scenery. After spending time at the pass, admiring the magnificent view of Salkantay Mountain, you will descend for about 20 minutes to Royroqocha for a satisfying lunch. Post lunch, we descend to Salkantay Pampa for about an hour and then undertake a final uphill hike for a couple of hours to reach Pampa Japonesa.

Distance Covered: 14 km
Time: 8 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 4,100 m
Highest Elevation: 4,600 m
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Demanding

Day 8: Pampa Japonesa – Pampacawana

After a delicious breakfast, we continue our journey for a couple of hours to the highest pass of the trek, Inca Chiriasca (4,860m), which offers one of the most spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, including Salkantay Mountain – a perfect photo opportunity. From the pass, we descend for about 2 hours to a lunch spot called Sisaypampa. After lunch, we continue downhill toward Pampacawana (3,650m), where we will spend the night.

Distance Covered: 14 km (9 miles)
Time: 8 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)
Highest Elevation: 4,860 m (15,945 ft)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 9: Pampacawana – Wayllabamba – Ayapata (Inca Trail)

Trek down through a narrow valley for about three hours toward the first Inca site on the trail, Paucarcancha (3,150m), where our guide will share insights into its history. We then hike down for about 30 minutes to Wayllabamba, where we join the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. At this point, our porters take over to carry all equipment for the remainder of the trek, as horses are no longer permitted on the Inca Trail.

After a satisfying meal, we begin a 1.5-hour ascent to the campsite, traversing diverse ecosystems including highland and cloud forest.

Distance Covered: 12 km
Time: 7 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 3,000 m
Highest Elevation: 3,650 m

Day 10: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha

The day starts very early at 5:00 am, with our hike beginning around 6:00 am. This day is particularly demanding due to the altitude and length. We ascend for about 2 hours to reach Dead Woman’s Pass at WAMIWAÑUSQA (4,215m), then descend to the lunch spot at PAQAYMAYO (3,650m). Next, we undertake a one-hour ascent to the following pass on the Inca Trail, RUNKURAQAY (3,950m). After a brief rest, we descend to explore the Inca ruins at SAYAQMARCA before heading to our campsite at Chaquicocha (3,590m).

Distance Covered: 13 km
Time: 8 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 3,590 m
Highest Elevation: 3,950 m
Level of Difficulty: Demanding

Day 11: Chaquicocha – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

We leave camp early after enjoying a breathtaking sunrise over the mountains. Our route takes us to the Phuyupatamarca Inca archaeological site for a brief exploration, then downhill for about three hours to WIÑAYHUAYNA – the Inca site featuring some of the most magnificent ruins along the Inca Trail. Here, you will enjoy a guided tour and the final lunch of the trek. After bidding farewell to our porters and chef, we embark on a two-hour hike to Machu Picchu, arriving before sunset. At Machu Picchu, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning photos as most visitors have already departed. A bus will then take you down to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night at a hotel and share dinner at Indio Feliz Restaurant.

Distance Covered: 15 km
Time: 7 to 9 hours
Lowest Elevation: 2,400 m
Highest Elevation: 3,700 m
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 12: Machu Picchu Tour and Train Back to Cusco

On the final day, visit the lost city of Machu Picchu—a World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Take an early bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu to witness a spectacular sunrise over this ancient marvel. Prepare for an emotional experience as you take in the magic of Machu Picchu.

A three-hour guided tour will cover the most significant sites of the city, followed by free time to explore and photograph the ruins at your leisure. If you’re adventurous and fit, consider hiking the steep Huayna Picchu Mountain, or simply relax in a shaded spot to meditate and absorb the inspiring energy of the site. When ready, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes to collect your luggage and enjoy a farewell lunch with the group before returning to Cusco by train. We will meet you at the Cusco Station and transport you to your hotel.

Distance Covered: Walking tour of Machu Picchu
Time: 3 to 4 hours
Lowest Elevation: 2,050 m (6,726 ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,400 m (7,874 ft)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Services Included

Transport to and from your hotel in Cusco
Organic meals throughout the journey
Entrance tickets for all trails including Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
Porters to carry all equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc.)
Horses to transport camping gear in the Choquequirao and Salkantay sections
Porters to carry your personal belongings (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, clothes for the night up to 8 kilos / 17 lbs) and all camping equipment on the Inca Trail section
Dedicated chef for the duration of the trek
Boiled drinking water available throughout the trek
Professional trekking guides knowledgeable in history, tradition, fauna, and flora. Our guides are trained in Wilderness First Responder to ensure your safety while exploring the mountains
Personal First Aid Kit carried by your guide
All necessary equipment (sleeping tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, table, chairs, air mattresses)
Duffle bag on request (please inform your guide during the briefing or email us in advance so we can have it ready)
Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco (expedition). For vistadome service, an upgrade is available at an additional cost of US$25 per person
Toilet tent equipped with a toilet seat

Services Excluded

Sleeping bag (rental available for US$20; our sleeping bags are washed after each use)
Gratuities for porters and guides (a recommended tip is 15% of the total trek cost for the entire porter team)

Original passport – Please bring your current original passport. If you have renewed it after booking, bring both the one used during booking and the new one. The information provided at booking must match your tickets for the Classic Inca Trail.
Sleeping bag – Recommended temperature rating of at least 5°F (rent available for US$20 if needed)
Sturdy hiking shoes – Ensure they are well broken-in. If new, break them in before the trek; they should be comfortable and offer ankle support.
Insulated fleece jacket – Should be warm for the nights and resistant to wind.
Several t-shirts – Designed for hiking. As you will perspire, pack at least 3 or 4: one for the hike, one for nighttime, and a fresh one for Machu Picchu.
Socks – Bring at least 3 pairs.
Sun hat – Essential for sunny and hot days to shield your face.
Lightweight long pants – Preferably trekking pants that can zip off and dry quickly.
Sleepwear – Warm long underwear; you can use your fleece for sleeping and consider packing gloves for the campsite.
Headlamp – Campsites are dark, so a headlamp is necessary for setting up your tent or finding your way at night.
Sunscreen – SPF 35+ recommended.
Sunglasses
Trekking poles – They help reduce leg strain by up to 30%. If you don’t have a pair, rental is available for US$10 per pair for 4 days.
Camera – With spare batteries or a charged phone for capturing memories (batteries drain faster at high altitudes).
Bug repellent – Essential year-round due to mosquitoes.

Reusable water bottle – Machu Picchu National Park prohibits plastic bottles. Use a Nalgene bottle or camel bag and fill up before leaving your Cusco hotel. Additional water will be provided as needed.
Toiletries
Prescription medications – Inform your trip leader of any medications you are taking.
Food restrictions – If you have allergies or dietary preferences, please specify them in the booking form.
Books to read – Enjoy some downtime at each camp with a good book. Recommended titles include Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie and Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time by Mark Adams.

Why Peru Trails

Peru Trails offers tailor-made treks and tours that cater to your interests.
We are dedicated to providing world-class tours with exceptional customer service.
We are a locally owned, highly experienced travel company based in Cusco, Peru.
Our team comprises members with decades of first-hand experience in Peruvian tourism.
All management and staff speak English, Spanish, and Quechua—the language of the Incas.
Our guides and team members are professionally trained in Inca history, Peruvian culture, wilderness first aid, trekking, local fauna and flora, and tourism management.
We are committed to environmental protection.
We believe in creating jobs and empowering local communities through fair labor practices and dignity for all employees.
We support programs that help the families of our porters and local communities through initiatives like tree planting and educational supplies for underprivileged areas.
We honor native communities that have safeguarded the land you visit.
An Education Fund, supported by a percentage of each tour’s income, helps provide education for the children of our porters.
Our itineraries are thoughtfully designed to meet your needs, offering diverse tours ranging from 1 to 15 days.
Peru Trails organizes worry-free trips so you can fully enjoy your adventure.

Peru Small Group Specialists

Our tours are designed for adventurers who love exploring new places, immersing themselves in local culture, savoring great food, and appreciating history or photography. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, friends, or families, our small groups (typically 4 to 8 people) ensure a personalized experience without the hassle of large crowds.

Group Service

Our tour groups are very important. We typically run tours with 2 to 8 people per group and open any tour dates with as few as 2 guests. This semi-private service provides a personalized experience, allowing you to make the most of your valuable time.

Accommodations

Costs are based on double occupancy and are in US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perutrails.com or call our 24/7 number +51 987467790 (WhatsApp).

To secure your booking, a 20% deposit is required pre-payment, with the remaining balance due 30 days prior to your trip.

Choosing this option

Once a tour date is confirmed with 2 guests, the travel date is unlikely to change.
This option is a great way to meet other travelers and socialize during the trip.
You receive the same quality of service as with private tours.
If one member is unable to continue, the tour will proceed as planned from start to finish.

Private Service

Our private service is available for groups starting from 1 person and can accommodate any number, allowing you to choose your preferred travel date.