Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek 8 Days: The Ultimate Inca Expedition - The 8-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is the most comprehensive and rewarding Inca trail expedition in the Peruvian Andes. This legendary route connects the "Cradle of Gold" (Choquequirao) with the world-famous "Lost City of the Incas" (Machu Picchu), traversing the rugged Vilcabamba mountain range through high Andean passes, deep canyons, and lush cloud forests.
Unlike shorter versions, this 8-day hiking adventure allows you to fully immerse yourself in the remote wilderness of the Apurimac Canyon and explore the hidden sectors of Choquequirao—a site twice the size of Machu Picchu with only 30% excavated. As a premier Inca Trail alternative, this trek offers an off-the-beaten-path experience far from the tourist crowds, culminating in the iconic sunrise at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Prepare for a physical and spiritual journey through ancient history, where you will encounter original Inca stonework, diverse microclimates, and breathtaking vistas of the Salkantay and Padreyoc glaciers. This is not just a hike; it is a true expedition into the heart of the Inca Empire.
An Epic Andean Crossing from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Cusco- Cachora- Chiquisca
- Leave Cusco early in the morning at about 5:30 am.
- Arrive at Cachora (2850m/9350f), surrounded by mountains and the Padreyouc glacier.
- Meet our team and mules who will accompany us during the trip
- Enjoy the Capuliyoc Overlook (2,800 m/ 9,186 ft)
- Descend into the canyon and arrive at our campsite Chiquisca (1,930 m/ 6,332 ft)
Climate : Warm
Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours
Day 2: Chiquisca- Playa Rosalina- Marampta- Choquequirao
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- Descend to La Playa Rosalina (1,550m/4,921f)
- Climb up to the village of Marampata (2,850m/9,350f). Nice view Choquequirao (3033m/9951f).
- Arrive to camp, about 25 minutes from the ruins (2,950m/ 9,678 ft)
- Watch to see if you spot a condor at nightfall and enjoy the stars
Climate: both cold and warm
Hiking time: 7 hours
Day 3: Choquequirao- Choququirao- Rio Blanco
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- Head for the citadel of Choquequirao (3033m/9950 ft) called “Cuna de Oro” – the ‘Cradle of Gold’
- Explore this archaeological site, visiting the palaces, liturgics fountains, the temple, stone llamas and Ushnu.
- Hike towards the pass of Choquequirao (3270m/10728ft) passing Pinchaunuyoc site (2450m/8038f).
- Descend to the deepest point of the small canyon known as Río Blanco (1900m/6234f) or Río Silvestre
- Enjoy camp and nature
Climate : warm with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 6 hours
Day 4: Rio Blanco- Maizal- San Juan- Yanama
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- Hike to Maizal (3000m/9843f) rest and enjoy the view of the beautiful landscape.
- Continue to San Juan (4170m/13681f) with views of the valleys, the mountains and the glaciers
- Arrive to camp in the little village of Yanama (3530m/11581f)
- Relax and celebrate! You just made it through the hardest day
Climate: warm and cold with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 5 hours
Day 5: Yanama- Yanama pass- Totora Pampa
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- Head for the highest pass of this trip – the Yanama (4670m)
- Enjoy frequent views of snowcapped mountains such as Salkantay (6264m) and Pintuyu (5450m).
- We will camp in the valley of Totora pampa (3200m).
Climate: warm with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 8 hours
Note: According to the group’s wishes, it is possible to change the itinerary a bit and visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa (1830 m/6004 ft) this day.
Day 6: Totora Pampa- La Playa
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- In Totora pampa we will get the chance to meet Quechua-speaking Andean people
- Hike and see plantations for coffee, papaya, passion fruit, and avocado.
- We will camp either in La Playa (2100 m/6890 ft) or in Lucmabamba (2020 m/6627 ft).
Climate: warm with mosquitoes.
Hiking time: 7 hours
Day 7: La Playa- Llactapata- Hydroelectric- Aguas Calientes
- Wake up with an engerizing breakfast and coca tea
- Follow the Inca Trail until Llactapata (2650m/8694f) with an exceptional view of the mountain Machu Picchu.
- Continue towards the hydroelectric station (1950m/6398f)
- Take the train to Aguas Calientes (2050m/6726f).
- Spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Climate: warm
Hiking time: 6 hours
Day 8: Aguas Calientes- Machu Picchu- Cusco
-Breakfast at your hotel before an early 5.30 am departure
- Bus up to Machu Picchu
- Enjoy sunrise at the citadel
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu incluing information about life and culture of the Incas
- Free time to enjoy Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu (2750m/9022f) on your own.
- Return to Aguas Calientes by hike or bus and explore the town or the hot springs
- Train back to Cusco either at 2:55 pm or at 6:10 pm.
- Drop off in your hotel in Cusco
Climate: Moderately warm
Hiking time: 02 hours
Itinerary – Eight Days of Remote Trails and Legendary Inca Sites
Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Chiquisca
We will leave Cusco early in the morning at about 5:30 am. First we will head for the little village Cachora (2850m/9350f), a place surrounded by beautiful mountains and the majestic glacier Padreyoc (5571m/18278f).
Here, we will also meet our equestrians and team who will accompany us during the trip. After passing the Capuliyoc overlook (2800m/9186f), we will continue descending to our campsite, Chiquisca (1930m/6332f).
Climate : Warm
Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours
Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao
After breakfast, we will first descend to La Playa Rosalina (1550m/4921f) and then climb up to the village of Marampata (2850m/9350f). From here, we will have a nice view of the archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3033m/9951f).
If we are lucky, we will even see a condor flying at nightfall. Our camping site in Choquequirao is about 25 minutes from the ruins at 2950m/9678f.
Climate: both cold and warm
Hiking time: 7 hours
Day 3: Choquequirao – Choquequirao pass – Río Blanco
At dawn, we will head for the citadel of Choquequirao (3033m/9950) called “Cuna de Oro” – the ‘Cradle of Gold’ – and enjoy the quietness at this place.
After, we will explore this archaeological site, of which only 30 % is restored, in more detail: we will visit the section of the palaces, the liturgics fountains, the temple of the high priest, the stone the llamas and the Ushnu.
Our trek continues towards the pass of Choquequirao (3270m/10728f) and passes the archaeological site of Pinchaunuyoc (2450m/8038f). Finally, we will head down to the deepest point of the small canyon known as Río Blanco (1900m/6234f) or Río Silvestre where our camping site is located.
Climate : Warm with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 6 hours
Day 4: Río Blanco – Maizal– San Juan pass – Yanama
Due to the ecosystem’s constant changes, this day is both the most arduous and the most spectacular one. In Maizal (3000m/9843f) we will have a short break to catch a breath and to enjoy the view of the beautiful landscape.
We continue along the Inca trail, which in this region is not in good condition during the rainy season, so we ask you to watch your steps carefully. In San Juan (4170m/13681f) we will enjoy the beautiful view of the valleys, the mountains and the glaciers, from which some peak more than 5000m/16404f. Our camping place will be in the little village of Yanama (3530m/11581f).
Climate: Warm and cold with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 5 hours
Day 5: Yanama – Yanama Pass – Totora Pampa
Early in the morning, we will head for the highest pass of this trip – the Yanama (4670m). If we are lucky, we will even see a condor flying. During the day, we will enjoy frequent views of snowcapped mountains such as Salkantay (6264m) and Pintuyu (5450m). Our camping place will be in the valley of Totora Pampa (3200m).
Climate: warm with mosquitoes
Hiking time: 8 hours
Note: According to the group’s wishes, it is possible to change the itinerary a bit and visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa (1830m/6004f) this day.
Day 6: Totora pampa – La Playa
In Totora pampa we will get the chance to meet Quechua-speaking Andean people who live from agriculture and cattle breeding. The vegetation on our way gets more and more authentic and reveals its diversity of orchids, bromeliads, and other plants. We will also see plantations for coffee, papaya, passion fruit, and avocado. Our camping site will either be in La Playa (2100m/6890ft) or in Lucmabamba (2020m/6627ft).
Climate: warm with mosquitoes.
Hiking time: 7 hours
Day 7: La Playa – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
Our journey starts early in the morning. First, we will follow the Inca Trail until Llactapata (2650m/8694f). This archaeological site is situated amidst a bizarre vegetation and offers an exceptional view of the mountain Machu Picchu.
Our trek continues towards the hydroelectric station (1950m/6398ft) from which we will take the train to Aguas Calientes (2050m/6726ft). In Aguas Calientes, we will spend the night in a hotel.
Climate: Warm
Hiking time: 6 hours
Day 8: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We will leave our hotel after breakfast at 5:30 am and head for Machu Picchu (2400m/7874f) by tourist bus. We will arrive at the citadel around 6:00 am. After a guided tour around the archaeological site, including information about life and culture of the Incas, you will have enough time to enjoy Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu (2750m/9022f) on your own. We will leave Aguas Calientes by train either at 2:55 pm or at 6:10 pm. Until then, you will have time to have lunch in one of the nice restaurants. You can also visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes to relax a bit.
Climate: Moderate warm
Hiking time: 02 hours
Inclusions – Well-Structured Logistics for a Smooth Experience
Includes:
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the town of Cachora
- Transportation from the beach to Santa Teresa and the hydroelectric station (for all camping and personal luggage)
- Train from the hydroelectric station to Aguas Calientes
- Bus up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco by bus from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Basic hotel in Santa Teresa
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu, continental or similar)
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes
- Tickets to Choquequirao
- Tickets to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
- High quality camping equipment (We use professional tents, Doite, Kailas 3 Model, extra light/4.5kgs and Doite, Himalaya Model, extra light/4.5kgs, both are big enough for 2 people. Mattresses, dining tent with table and chairs, bathing tent)
- Food during the excursion (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks / vegetarian option)
- Muleteer and mules, for all the camping equipment and client's luggage (Up to 10kg)
Excludes:
- Sleeping bag (If you do not have a sleeping bag, there is the possibility of renting one)
- Lunch on the last day in Machu Picchu/ Aguas Calientes
Packing List – Gear and Essentials for an Eight-Day Expedition
What Do I Need To Bring?
- Backpack with rain cover (35- or 45-liter capacity is sufficient)
- Clothing for both warm and cold climates
- Original passport, original ISIC student card (to receive the student discount
- Sun hat to protect neck and face (01)
- Wool hat for the cold (01)
- Long- and short-sleeved T-shirts (04)
- Fleece jacket (01)
- Hard shell jacket (01)
- Trekking pants and shorts pants (03)
- Pajama pants (01)
- Under wears (04)
- Trekking shoes/boots (01)
- Slippers or sandals (for showers and hot springs) (01)
- Woolen/synthetic socks (04)
- Flashlight or Headlamp (02)
- Water bottle or camel back (01)
- Trekking towels (01)
- Toilet paper (01)
- Bathing suit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes) (01)
- Sunscreen with UV protecction, insect repellent, toilet paper, hand cleaner/disinfecting alcohol gel
- Camera (with rain protection), a flash light/headlamp and extra batteries
- Snacks (e.g. chocolate bars and dried fruit)
- Money cash in soles / approx. 400 soles (100 dollars)
- Small lock and plastic bags
- Rain Poncho
- Since the weather can be very cold and rainy, your clothes – once wet – won’t dry at night. It’s best to take some clothes to change
Travel Info – Important Details for Group Trekkers
Briefings
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.
Pickups
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.
Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through.
They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off.
Huaynapicchu/Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.
Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM.
Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.
Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.
Machu Picchu Entrance Times
Entry times to Machu Picchu are fixed and non-adjustable. Nevertheless, a grace period is typically granted to accommodate unexpected delays.
Schedules (*)
Peak Season: Arrival Policy (**)
Low Season: Arrival Policy (**)
06:00 am
Until 06:30 am
Until 06:45 am
07:00 am
Until 07:30 am
Until 07:45 am
08:00 am
Until 08:30 am
Until 08:45 am
09:00 am
Until 09:30 am
Until 09:45 am
10:00 am
Until 10:30 am
Until 10:45 am
11:00 am
Until 11:30 am
Until 11:45 am
12:00 pm
Until 12:30 pm
Until 12:45 pm
01:00 pm
Until 01:30 pm
Until 01:45 pm
02:00 pm
Until 02:30 pm
Until 02:45 pm
03:00 pm
Until 03:30 pm
Until 03:45 pm
(*) Entry time at the main gate of the Inca city of Machupicchu.
(**) Entry at the control points of Machupicchu, Waynapicchu, and Huchuypicchu mountains does not have a grace period.
Health Concerns
You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.
You are responsible for assessing whether a tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions.
Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.
If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.
If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.
Group Tours
Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.
Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.
Strikes
Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.
Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your items throughout the tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc.
Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whose it is.
Tips
Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.
Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is $20 USD per person per trek.
For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip.
Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.
Weather
Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.
No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.
Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.
It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.
More Information About the Weather (BOTÓN)
Altitude Sickness
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs.
Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.
With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea.
Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.
You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea.
If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.
Getting To Cusco
The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.
The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LATAM tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any inclement weather will stop air traffic.
Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.
Hotels – Restful Stays Before and After the Trek
To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.
Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.
Check out our hotels (BOTÓN)
FAQs – Common Questions About the Group Expedition
What is the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
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.
Why choose the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek over other Peru trekking 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.
How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
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.
What makes Choquequirao special compared to Machu Picchu?
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.
What are the altitude levels during the trek?
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.
What is the best time to do the Choquequirao Trek?
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.
Do I need permits for the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
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.
How much does the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu cost?
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.
How far in advance should I book the trek?
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.
Are there discounts available?
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.
What fitness level is required for this trek?
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.
How should I prepare for high altitude?
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.
Can beginners attempt this trek?
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.
What are the age restrictions?
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.
What should I pack for the Choquequirao Trek?
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.
What equipment is provided by tour operators?
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.
Should I bring cash on the trek?
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.
What about water during the trek?
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.
What meals are included during the trek?
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.
Where do we sleep during the trek?
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.
What type of food can I expect?
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.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
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.
Is the Choquequirao Trek safe?
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.
What are the main risks during the trek?
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.
Should I get travel insurance?
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.
What medical facilities are available?
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.
How do I get to the trek starting point?
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”.
How does the trek end?
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.
What happens if weather affects the trek?
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.
Can luggage be stored in Cusco?
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.
What cultural sites will I visit?
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.
How can I trek responsibly?
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.
What wildlife might I see?
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.
How does this trek support local communities?
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.
What's the difference between group and private treks?
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.
Should I hire a guide?
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.
Can I extend my trek?
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.
What makes this trek worth the challenge?
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.