The Choquequirao archaeological site is located in the remote mountain range of Vilcabamba on a truncated hilltop over 3,318 m (10,883 ft) above sea level. Now you have the opportunity to trek to this grand ceremonial center and continue your journey to Machu Picchu, once recognized by National Geographic as one of the best treks in the world in 2015.

Our program, Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, is led by the Peru Trails team and includes a trekking guide, muleteers, horses, and a chef, ensuring you enjoy this incredible adventure of a lifetime. Trekking through high mountains and the cloud forest is challenging but immensely rewarding for those who persist.

A Little Bit of History of Choquequirao

Choquequirao resembles Machu Picchu in design and architecture, earning it the title of Machu Picchu’s sister city. It features temples, terraces with intricate designs and decorations, open plazas, and water fountains that have remained remarkably preserved over the centuries.

Built by the Incas in the 15th century in one of the most inaccessible areas, it is believed that Choquequirao served as a control point for Vilcabamba, an administrative hub, and a vital link between Cusco and the Amazon. During the 16th century, it provided refuge for the last Incas as the conquistadores devastated Cusco. Remarkably, Choquequirao was never discovered by the conquistadores or recorded in historical documents.

The American explorer Hiram Bingham visited Choquequirao in the 20th century while searching for Incan treasures, although none were found.

Highlights

Trek with professionally trained local guides who share your passion for hiking.
Enjoy premier camping equipment each night.
Savor Peruvian cuisine prepared by our chefs, skilled in catering to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, or other dietary requirements.
Experience breathtaking views of snow-capped high-altitude mountains, tropical jungles, and deep canyons.
Wake up to a fresh cup of coffee in your tent, courtesy of our chef.
Walk along the ancient Inca trail that once connected Machu Picchu and Choquequirao.

Type of tour: Historical, guided trip, train ride, trekking, camping
Distance covered: 93 km (58 miles)
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Lowest elevation: 1,475 m (4,839 ft)
Highest elevation: 3,100 m (10,170 ft)
Level of difficulty (1 to 10, 10 being impossible): 7

Group size: Our hiking groups are kept small, with an average of 2 to 7 hikers, ensuring personalized service and meaningful encounters with nature.

Accommodation: This trek includes 7 nights in tents and one night in a hotel. We provide seasonal tents for 2 people. Solo travelers can request a private tent or join with another adventurer.

Our guides: Peru Trails was founded on a passion for trekking, with experienced guides who have led treks to Machu Picchu over 1,000 times. Starting as porters on the Inca trail and now professionally trained, our guides receive regular refresher courses, including Wilderness First Responder certification, to ensure your safety and comfort.

Location: The trip begins in Cusco city or the Sacred Valley based on your preference. You will fly into Lima and connect to Velasco Astete or Cusco airport.

Departures: This trek is operated 100% by Peru Trails. Book your trek without the need for long-term planning; departures are available year-round with group sizes averaging 2 to 5 people, ensuring personalized attention.

For any questions, contact us 24/7 via WhatsApp at +51 987467790.

Day 0: Briefing

At Peru Trails, we believe in providing all essential details about the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek—including the itinerary, challenges, and what to bring—before embarking on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. A pre-trek briefing will be held at your Cusco hotel the day before departure.

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina

You will be picked up at 5:30 am for a 4-hour drive in our private transport to Capuliyoc (2,915 m / 9,563 ft), with a breakfast stop in Curawasi. Enjoy spectacular views of mountain villages, cows, and sheep along the way.

Upon reaching Capuliyoc, meet our horsemen and pack your equipment—including food, tents, and gear—onto the horses. Begin your trek toward the Capuliyoc viewpoint for stunning panoramas of the Apurimac canyon, snow-capped mountains, and the distant silhouette of Choquequirao.

After arriving at Chiquisca, enjoy an organic and nutritious lunch while admiring views of the canyon and mountains like Padreyoc. Continue descending for two hours to reach your first campsite at La Playa Rosalina, located at the base of the canyon.

Lowest Elevation: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft
Highest Elevation: 2,915 m / 9,563 ft
Distance to walk: 10.3 km / 6.4 miles
Approximate walking time: 6 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Choquequirao Campsite

Start early at 5 am with breakfast. Ascend 1,400 m (4,600 ft) to the small town of Maranpata for a delicious lunch. After a rest, proceed on a 2-hour hike toward the Choquequirao campsite near the ruins. Once at camp, relax and freshen up with a cold shower if desired.

Lowest Elevation: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft
Highest Elevation: 2,817 m / 9,242 ft
Distance to walk: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Approximate walking time: 6 hours
Level of Difficulty: Demanding
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Choquequirao Ruins Tour – Pinchaunuyoc

Today, explore the ruins of Choquequirao. After a nutritious breakfast, hike to the main plaza, ceremonial platform, storehouses, and other significant structures. Admire the unique stone representations of llamas and snakes on ancient agricultural terraces.

Return for lunch and a nap before continuing to the Pass of Choquequirao. Later, descend to the Pinchaunuyoc ruins where you will set up camp while enjoying breathtaking views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

Highest Elevation: 3,318 m / 10,883 ft
Lowest Elevation: 2,487 m / 8,159 ft
Distance to walk: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Approximate walking time: 8 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Pinchaunuyoc – Rio Blanco – Maizal

Begin your day with a cup of coffee and descend to Rio Blanco via a 1.5-hour steep walk. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the glacier-fed river. Then, tackle a challenging climb to the small agricultural area of Maizal, known as the most demanding part of the trek. Reach the campsite by lunchtime and spend the night.

Lowest Elevation: 1,990 m / 6,527 ft
Highest Elevation: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft
Distance to walk: 10 km / 6.6 miles
Approximate walking time: 8-9 hours
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 5: Maizal – Abra San Juan – Yanama

Enjoy a scenic uphill trek through the cloud forest to the historic Victoria Mines, where you can explore ancient mining sites and admire mineral-rich outcrops. Continue climbing to the Abra San Juan pass, stopping for lunch and spotting Andean condors with expansive views of the Vilcabamba Valley.

After lunch, descend to the charming village of Yanama, a journey of about 2 to 3 hours.

Highest Elevation: 4,130 m / 13,546 ft
Lowest Elevation: 3,200 m / 10,500 ft
Distance to walk: 12 km
Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 6: Yanama – Totora

After a traditional breakfast with your choice of coffee or coca tea, begin a 4-hour gradual uphill hike to Yanama Pass (4,672 m / 15,324 ft), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy views of cascading waterfalls and meet local residents along the way. From the pass, take in the sight of Apu Salkantay, the tallest mountain in the area.

Descend for two hours, have lunch, and then complete a couple more hours of downhill hiking to Totora.

Lowest Elevation: 3,398 m / 11,445 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,672 m / 15,324 ft
Distance to walk: 14 km / 9 miles
Approximate walking time: 8 to 10 hours
Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 7: Totora – Lucmabamba (Coffee Experience Day)

Travel by private van from Totora to Colpapampa, then hike 5 to 6 hours through gentle, undulating terrain in the cloud forest along the Lluscamayo River. Enjoy views of coffee, banana, and passion fruit plantations, as well as a stunning waterfall along the way.

Arrive in Lucmabamba around noon, relax with a delicious lunch, and embark on an immersive coffee plantation tour. Learn about various coffee beans, pick your own, roast, grind, and brew a cup of the freshest coffee.

Distance Covered: 14 km (8 miles)
Time: 5 to 6 hours
Lowest Elevation: 2,050 m / 6,725 ft
Highest Elevation: 3,398 m / 11,445 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, coffee, and dinner

Day 8: Lucmabamba – Llactapata Inca Ruins – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Start your day with coffee you helped prepare. Hike for 3.5 hours through the rainforest to reach the Llactapata Inca site (2,700 m / 8,856 ft) via an ancient Inca trail in excellent condition. Enjoy your first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance.

Descend for 2.5 hours to Hydroelectric, where lunch is served. At 3 pm, board the train for a 40-minute journey to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and celebrate with dinner at Indio Feliz, one of the town’s best restaurants.

Distance Covered: 12 km / 7.4 miles
Time: 6 to 7 hours
Lowest Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
Highest Elevation: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast and lunch provided during the trek, and dinner at a restaurant
Accommodation: Hotel

Day 9: Machu Picchu Tour

Begin early with a hotel-provided buffet or boxed breakfast at 5 am. Board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for a 30-minute drive up the winding road to the citadel, where you will witness a magnificent sunrise over the Andes.

Join your guide for a 2-3 hour tour of Machu Picchu, designed to bring its history and spirit to life while avoiding the busiest tourist routes. After the tour, you may choose to climb Huayna Picchu (if you have pre-arranged a permit) or return by bus to Aguas Calientes to collect your luggage.

Take the train back to Cusco around 3 pm, relax, and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past 9 days. Upon arrival, a representative will transfer you to your hotel.

Services Included

All inclusions for the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu
Bilingual English-speaking tour guide with a university degree, trained in history, wildlife, and Wilderness First Responder techniques
Pre-departure briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before the trek
Hotel pickup and transportation to the trailhead
Three-person tent for two persons
Inflatable mattress and pillow
Kitchen tent
Dining tent with tables and chairs
Toilet tent
Expert chef and assistant chef preparing excellent food
Horse riders and horses to carry equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc.)
Duffle bag for your personal gear on the horses
Nine breakfasts, eight lunches, and eight dinners
Hot water for washing every morning and before bed
Daily boiled water provided to fill your bottles
Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit carried by your guide
Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Cusco train station)
Private van transport from the train station to your Cusco hotel on Day 9
Permits for Machu Picchu
Permits for Choquequirao
Coffee plantation tour on the afternoon of Day 7
Lodging in Aguas Calientes on the night before Machu Picchu (double occupancy)

Services Excluded

Dinner on Day 9 after the Machu Picchu tour
Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef, and guide)
Hiking poles (available for rent at $15 per pair for the entire trek)

Original passport – Bring your original passport. If you have renewed it since booking, bring both versions to ensure consistency with your travel documents.
Sleeping bag – Recommended with a rating of at least 5°F. Rental is available at $20 if needed.
Good hiking shoes – Ensure they are well broken-in. New shoes should be broken in before the trek and provide ample ankle support.
Down warm fleece – A jacket that is warm enough for cold nights and resistant to wind.
Several t-shirts – Suitable for hiking; bring at least 3 or 4: one for the hike, one for nightwear, and a fresh one for Machu Picchu.
Socks – At least 3 pairs.
Sun hat – To protect against the sun during bright days.
Light long pants – Preferably trekking pants that can convert into shorts and dry quickly.
Clothes for sleeping – Warm long underwear and possibly gloves for chilly nights at camp.
Headlamp – Essential for navigating dark camps at night.
Sunscreen – SPF 35 or higher is recommended.
Sunglasses
Trekking poles – Can reduce the strain by up to 30%. Rent available at $10 per pair for 4 days if needed.
Camera – With spare batteries or a charged phone for capturing moments, as batteries drain faster at high altitudes.
Bug repellent – Mosquitoes are present year-round, so pack adequate repellent.

Water bottle: Use a Nalgene bottle or camel bag as plastic bottles are not allowed in Machu Picchu National Park. Fill up before leaving Cusco and refill as needed during the trek.
Toiletries
Prescription medicines: Inform your trip leader of any medications.
Food restrictions: Include any allergies or dietary preferences in your booking form.
Book to read – Bring a book for leisure time at the camps; 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 designed to suit your interests.
We are dedicated to providing world-class tours with exceptional customer service.
We are a locally owned and highly experienced travel company based in Cusco, Peru.
Our team comprises experts with decades of experience in Peruvian tourism.
All staff speak English, Spanish, and Quechua.
Our guides are professionally trained in Incan history, Peruvian culture, wilderness first aid, and tourism management.
We are committed to environmental protection.
We support local communities through fair labor practices and empowerment programs.
We contribute to local development by assisting porters’ families and funding education initiatives.
We honor native communities who have preserved the lands you visit.
An Education Fund supports the education of porters’ children, with a percentage of tour income allocated to those in need.
Our itineraries range from 1 to 15 days, ensuring a unique and memorable experience.
Peru Trails organizes worry-free trips so you can fully enjoy your adventure.

Peru Small Group Specialists

Our tours are designed for adventurers of all ages—solo travelers, couples, friends, or families. Small group sizes (averaging 4 to 8 people) allow for flexible, personalized experiences that avoid the hassle of large tourist groups.

Group Service

Our tour groups typically consist of 2 to 8 people, ensuring personalized and semi-private experiences. Enjoy flexible travel dates with group tours that open with just 2 guests.

Accommodations

Prices are based on double occupancy in US dollars. For single occupancy, contact us at info@perutrails.com or via WhatsApp at +51 987467790.

A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due 30 days before your trip.

Choosing this option

Once a tour date opens with 2 guests, the travel date is typically fixed.
This option offers the chance to meet other travelers and share the adventure.
Service quality remains the same as the private option.
If one guest withdraws, the tour proceeds as scheduled.

Private Service

Our private service is available for 1 or more persons, with flexible travel dates to suit your needs.