Choquequirao is the second most important archaeological site in the Cusco region, connected to Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft) through ancient Inca roads. This demanding trek leads to Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,007 ft), meaning “cradle of gold,” perched above the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in Peru and a great spot to see condors. The journey continues through remote landscapes, passing Yanama village, glaciers, valleys, and old mining areas. The highest point is Yanama Pass (4,645 m / 15,240 ft), followed by a descent into subtropical zones with coffee and banana plantations before reaching Aguas Calientes. The final day is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu, making this a challenging and unforgettable adventure.
Early departure from Cusco in tourist transport to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. Upon arrival, enjoy a breakfast with stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon, perfect to begin this Peru trekking adventure.
We start the hike descending to Chikiska, passing through beautiful landscapes and warm valley conditions. Upon arrival, lunch is served and you will have time to relax in comfortable cabins in Chikiska, surrounded by nature.
🔹 Distance: 10 km
🔹 Hiking time: 4–5 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 1,900 m / 2,900 m
🔹 Difficulty: Moderate
🔹 Accommodation: Cabins in Chikiska
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, we descend to Playa Rosalina and cross the Apurímac River. Then we begin a challenging ascent toward Santa Rosa and continue up to Marampata, a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the mountains.
Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy a well-deserved rest in comfortable cabins in Marampata, with breathtaking panoramic views.
🔹 Distance: 14 km
🔹 Hiking time: 6–7 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 1,500 m / 2,900 m
🔹 Difficulty: Challenging
🔹 Accommodation: Cabins in Marampata
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Today we visit the impressive Choquequirao archaeological complex, one of the most important and remote Inca sites in Peru.
Guided exploration of Inca terraces, temples, and ceremonial plazas, including the famous llama terraces. After the visit, return to Marampata for lunch and rest in your cabins.
🔹 Distance: 10 km
🔹 Hiking time: 4–5 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 2,900 m / 3,050 m
🔹 Difficulty: Moderate
🔹 Accommodation: Cabins in Marampata
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, we take a less-traveled route toward Pinchaunuyoc, an impressive hidden Inca site with agricultural terraces.
We continue descending to Rio Blanco, the lowest point of the trek, before starting a steep and challenging climb to Maizal, where we camp surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
🔹 Distance: 14 km
🔹 Hiking time: 6–7 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 1,900 m / 3,000 m
🔹 Difficulty: Challenging
🔹 Accommodation: Camp in Maizal
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
This is one of the most demanding and scenic days of the Choquequirao trek. We ascend to Abra San Juan Pass, offering incredible views of the Andes Mountains.
Then we descend to Yanama and continue to Santa Teresa, where you can relax after a long trekking day.
🔹 Distance: 18 km
🔹 Hiking time: 7–9 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 1,800 m / 4,200 m
🔹 Difficulty: Challenging
🔹 Accommodation: Camp or lodge in Santa Teresa
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, we travel to Hidroelectrica and begin a scenic walk along the railway to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel in Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time to rest or explore the town.
🔹 Distance: 10 km
🔹 Hiking time: 3–4 hours
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 1,800 m / 2,040 m
🔹 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
🔹 Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
🔹 Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Early morning visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Enjoy a guided tour through the most important sectors of this iconic Inca citadel.
After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco, ending this unforgettable Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek.
🔹 Altitude (min/max): 2,040 m / 2,430 m
🔹 Difficulty: Easy
🔹 Meals: Breakfast
🚐 Transport: Private transport Cusco–Cachora; Yanama–Santa Teresa; Santa Teresa–Hidroelectrica
🏨 Accommodation: 5 nights in local hostels + 1 night in Aguas Calientes (private bathroom, hot shower & Wi-Fi)
🎟️ Tickets: Machu Picchu entrance fee (Circuit 2)
🧑🏫 Guide: Professional bilingual guide
🍽️ Meals: From lunch Day 1 to breakfast Day 7 (vegan/vegetarian options available)
🐴 Support: Horsemen & mules for luggage (up to 5 kg per person)
🥾 Equipment: 1 trekking pole per person
🏔️ Tours: Guided tour of Machu Picchu (2.5 hours)
🚗 Return: Transport from Hidroelectrica to Cusco included
🩺 First Aid: Basic first aid kit available
🚆 Train Return: Extra cost (~$70 USD tourist train / S/.12 national train – personal purchase). We can assist with booking
🎟️ Choquequirao Entrance: 60 soles adult / 30 soles student
🍽️ Meals: First breakfast, last lunch & dinner not included
💧 Drinking Water: Provided during meals; bottled water must be purchased (5–12 soles) or purified
♨️ Santa Teresa Hot Springs: 25 soles (transport & entry)
📶 Internet: Wi-Fi available at some camps (~10 soles)
🚿 Toilets & Showers: Camp toilets free; local toilets 1 sol; hot showers ~10 soles
💰 Tips: Optional but customary (staff are fairly paid)
🛡️ Travel Insurance: Not included (recommended to purchase)
Book fast and easy on our website and keep track of your reservation with our most advanced booking system, be updated on our discounts every week.
Book fast and easy on our website and keep track of your reservation with our most advanced booking system, be updated on our discounts every week.
At Choquequirao Experiences, we are passionate about showcasing Peru’s natural beauty through responsible tourism. We offer customized tours—from scenic hikes to classic adventures—designed to suit your specific preferences.
