Choquequirao Machu Picchu Trek 8 Days

The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is an epic 8-day adventure that combines visits to two magnificent Inca archaeological sites. This challenging trek takes you through Peru’s most remote wilderness, connecting the “sister city” of Choquequirao with the world-famous Machu Picchu.

The journey covers approximately 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) through diverse Andean landscapes, offering an authentic and less crowded alternative to traditional Inca Trail routes.

This trek offers the unique opportunity to explore two incredible Incan ruins in one expedition. National Geographic chose this route in 2015 as one of the most beautiful in the entire world due to its incredible natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, you’ll experience solitude and pristine wilderness while discovering Peru’s hidden archaeological treasures.

The difficulty level is rated 4 out of 5, comparable to the hike to Mount Everest Base Camp. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, with significant elevation changes up to 3,350 meters. The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is considered challenging due to its high altitude and steep terrain. However, any relatively fit person with proper preparation can complete this adventure.

Choquequirao, known as the “Cradle of Gold,” remains largely unexcavated and receives fewer than 50 visitors daily, making it an exclusive experience. This sister city of Machu Picchu offers spectacular terraced ruins perched dramatically on mountain ridges, providing an authentic archaeological adventure without crowds.

The trek ranges from 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) at the Apurimac River to 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) at Yanama Pass. Choquequirao ruins sit at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet), while Machu Picchu is at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet). Proper acclimatization in Cusco is essential before starting.

The optimal trekking season is May through September during Peru’s dry season. June, July, and August offer the most stable weather conditions. The trek is possible year-round, but the rainy season (December-March) presents additional challenges with muddy trails and increased difficulty.

Unlike Machu Picchu, no permit is required to trek to Choquequirao. However, you need advance Machu Picchu entrance tickets, which must be booked weeks or months ahead, especially during peak season. Entrance tickets to Choquequirao are purchased face-to-face before entering the archaeological site.

Trek costs typically range from $800-$1,500 USD per person depending on group size, inclusions, and operator. This includes professional guide services, camping equipment, meals, transportation, and entrance fees. Most operators require an initial payment of US$200 per person to secure bookings.

Book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for dry season dates. Machu Picchu tickets are the limiting factor and sell out quickly. Peak season (June-August) requires even earlier booking to secure preferred dates.

Student discounts (under 25 with valid ID) typically offer $20-40 reductions. Children under 17 receive $40 discounts. Group bookings of 5+ people may qualify for additional savings.

Excellent cardiovascular fitness and strong leg muscles are essential. The trek involves 6-8 hours of daily hiking with steep terrain and significant elevation changes. Begin training at least 2-3 months before your trek with regular hiking, stair climbing, and endurance exercises.

Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before your trek to acclimatize. Consider staying at intermediate altitudes and taking acclimatization hikes around the Sacred Valley. Consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention medications if you’re sensitive to elevation changes.

While challenging, determined beginners with good fitness levels can complete this trek. However, previous multi-day hiking experience is highly recommended. Consider doing easier Peru treks first, such as the Rainbow Mountain day hike or Sacred Valley treks.

Most operators accept trekkers aged 12-70 years. Minors require parental consent, and older participants need medical clearance. The physical demands make this trek unsuitable for very young children or those with mobility limitations.

Essential items include:

• High-quality hiking boots (broken in).
• Layered clothing system (temperatures vary drastically).
• Rain gear and warm sleeping bag.
• Trekking poles for steep terrain.
• Water purification tablets/filter.
• High SPF sunscreen and hat.
• Personal medications and first aid supplies.
• Headlamp with extra batteries.

Professional operators typically provide camping tents, sleeping mats, cooking equipment, and group dining setup. Some include sleeping bags, though bringing your own ensures comfort and hygiene. Confirm equipment inclusions when booking.

Bring small denomination Peruvian soles for tips, drinks at villages, and emergency expenses. ATMs aren’t available on the trail, so withdraw cash in Cusco before departing.

Natural water sources exist along the route, but purification is essential. Bring water purification tablets or a reliable filter system. Some operators provide boiled water at campsites.

Full-service treks include all meals from lunch on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 6. Professional trekking chefs prepare nutritious, high-energy meals suitable for the demanding physical activity. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

Accommodation is camping-based with provided tents at designated campsites. Sleeping locations include Chiquisca, Choquequirao area, Pinchaunuyoc, and Totora. The final night is spent in Aguas Calientes hotels before the Machu Picchu visit.

Meals feature hearty Peruvian cuisine with plenty of carbohydrates for energy. Expect fresh soups, grilled meats, rice, potatoes, vegetables, and local specialties. Breakfast typically includes eggs, bread, fruits, and hot beverages.

Most reputable operators accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requirements with advance notice. Inform your operator about allergies or dietary needs when booking to ensure proper meal planning.

With proper preparation and experienced guides, this trek is generally safe. However, the remote areas can be a mental challenge, and emergency evacuation is difficult. Choose reputable operators with safety certifications and emergency protocols.

Primary concerns include altitude sickness, dehydration, injuries from steep terrain, and weather changes. Never hike alone in the Andes Mountains and be properly acclimated. Proper preparation and experienced guides minimize these risks significantly.

Comprehensive travel insurance including evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude activities and adventure sports. Emergency helicopter evacuation from remote areas can cost thousands of dollars.

Medical facilities are extremely limited on the trail. The nearest hospital is in Cusco, requiring lengthy evacuation procedures. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and any personal medications needed.

The trek begins in Cachora village, approximately 3 hours from Cusco by vehicle. Most operators include transportation from your Cusco hotel to the trailhead. Public transportation involves taking a bus toward Abancay and stopping at “Ramal de Cachora”.

The trek concludes in Aguas Calientes after visiting Machu Picchu. Return transportation to Cusco is typically by train to Ollantaytambo, then bus to Cusco. This scenic journey takes approximately 4-5 hours total.

Experienced operators have contingency plans for weather delays. Alternative routes or extended stays may be necessary during extreme conditions. Travel insurance helps cover additional costs from weather-related changes.

Most hotels and tour operators offer luggage storage services while you’re trekking. Pack only essential items for the trek and leave unnecessary belongings secured in Cusco.

Beyond Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, you’ll encounter traditional Andean villages, interact with local communities, and experience authentic highland culture. The trek passes through areas where Quechua is still the primary language.

Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect local communities, purchase local products when possible, and choose operators committed to sustainable tourism practices. Tip guides and support staff appropriately to contribute to local economies.

The diverse ecosystems support Andean bears, mountain cats, various bird species including condors, and numerous endemic plants. The cloud forest sections are particularly rich in biodiversity.

Responsible trekking provides employment for local guides, porters, cooks, and muleteers. Many operators partner with communities to ensure tourism benefits reach local families while preserving cultural traditions.

Group treks (4-12 people) offer cost savings and social interaction, while private treks provide flexibility, personalized service, and customized itineraries. Private options cost more but allow schedule modifications and preferred pace.

Professional guides are highly recommended for safety, navigation, cultural interpretation, and logistics management. The remote terrain and complex route make self-guided trekking extremely challenging and potentially dangerous.

Many operators offer trek extensions or combinations with other Peru adventures. Popular additions include Sacred Valley tours, Amazon rainforest visits, or additional archaeological sites exploration.

This extraordinary adventure offers unparalleled access to pristine Inca ruins, spectacular Andean scenery, and authentic cultural experiences. The sense of accomplishment from completing this challenging trek while witnessing two of Peru’s greatest archaeological treasures creates memories lasting a lifetime.

All briefings are done at our office at 5:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team. Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.

Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel as long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city. We will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups. Since smaller hotels and Airbnbs on narrow or steep streets are difficult for cars to access, we highly recommend booking accommodations with better access.

Hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular after your tour. Huaynapicchu takes about 1 hour to the top and 45 minutes back down (usually booked for the 2nd session: 10-11 AM). Machu Picchu Mountain takes 2 hours to the top and 1 hour to the bottom (also usually booked for the 2nd session: 9-10 AM). Note that for 4-day treks, trekkers cannot do Machu Picchu Mountain and enjoy a full tour of the ruins due to time constraints. You will do these hikes on your own, and your guide will show you where to begin.

Entry times to Machu Picchu are fixed and non-adjustable, though a grace period is typically granted for unexpected delays (e.g., peak season entry at 07:00 am allows entry until 07:30 am; low season until 07:45 am). However, entry at the control points of Machupicchu, Waynapicchu, and Huchuypicchu mountains does not have a grace period.

You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions. Guides have first aid training and work with a clinic in Cusco, but Xtreme Tourbulencia does not provide medical advice. If you experience issues while hiking and cannot continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road to wait for a car to take you to the nearest health clinic. If extreme altitude sickness prevents hiking but you still want to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will help coordinate this with potential additional fees.

Group tours comprise people of various hiking skills and ages. Everyone can go at their own pace, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone and make the best decisions regarding any requested modifications.

Strikes can disrupt tours by blocking roads and stopping trains. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date. If tours must be canceled, our operations department will coordinate with you, prioritizing your safety above all.

You are entirely responsible for your items throughout the tour. Be diligent about checking vans, tents, and restaurants, and do not leave anything unattended during your hike, as other trekkers might accidentally pick it up.

Tipping is optional and not obligatory. Typically, group participants pool tipping money together for the porters and chef (recommended $20 USD per person per trek, with porters and chefs preferring soles). Tipping for the guide is more personal, done separately from the group, and guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or credit cards.

Adventure travel includes more risk than average trips, and travel insurance protects the investment you made in your journey against unpredictable events. We can help recommend an insurance agent if needed.

Weather is unpredictable; although the dry season is April through October, rain can still fall in June or sun appear in December. You must bring rain gear (waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves) and dress in layers to handle different microclimates and cold evenings with a warm down jacket. Weather can also force guides to change routes for safety.

We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before your trek to acclimate. Go slow, avoid racing to the top, drink plenty of fluids like water or coca tea, and avoid alcohol, coffee, smoking, and sleeping pills. Mild symptoms feel like a flu or hangover (headache, tiredness, nausea). If symptoms become severe, contact our office. Your healthcare provider can also prescribe preventive medications like acetazolamide or dexamethasone.

The best way is by air, though international travelers must disembark in Lima, clear customs, and recheck bags even for same-day connecting flights. LATAM has the most flights, but expect potential delays or cancellations due to high altitude and weather. Well-maintained and comfortable long-distance buses are also available and strongly encouraged if traveling from nearby cities like Puno (though Lima buses take about 20 hours).