The Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu is a 6-day trekking tour in Peru that brings you from the secluded Incan sites of Choquequirao to the renowned Machu Picchu. Choquequirao, which translates to “cradle of gold” in Quechua, is a lesser-known Incan site located high in the Andes Mountains, and the journey to get there is difficult but worthwhile.
Journey to the Last Sanctuary of the Peruvian.
04:30 AM -Your Choquequirao Trek kicks off in Cusco with a hotel pick-up for a scenic 4-hour drive to Capuliyoc. Along the way, soak in epic views of the snow-capped Andes and picturesque valleys.
08:30 AM -Arrive at Capuliyoc (2,950 m / 9,678 ft). Meet your trekking crew and enjoy a hearty breakfast while gazing over the Apurimac Canyon.
09:30 AM – 1:30 PM – Start your trek downhill into the canyon. Hike approx. 10 km (6.2 mi) over 4 hours, descending through rugged trails with stunning vistas of mountains and the winding Apurimac River below.
Afternoon / Evening – Reach Chikiska campsite (1,950 m / 6,398 ft). Relax, enjoy a delicious dinner, and rest under a sky brimming with stars.
Early Morning – Wake up to coca tea or coffee in your tent. Fuel up with breakfast surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Morning Trek -Begin a challenging ascent toward Santa Rosa (2,300 m / 7,546 ft). The steep climb winds through lush vegetation alive with tropical birds and occasional glimpses of the mighty Andean condor.
Midday -Enjoy lunch at Santa Rosa, catching your breath and refueling for the afternoon stretch.
Afternoon Trek – Continue uphill to Marampata (2,940 m / 9,646 ft). The 3–4 hour hike offers sweeping views of cloud forests and glimpses of Choquequirao across the canyon.
Evening – Arrive at Marampata, set up camp, savor a well-deserved dinner, and marvel at the views over the Andean peaks.
Morning – After breakfast, set off for the mystical Inca citadel of Choquequirao, often dubbed the “sister city of Machu Picchu.”
2–3 Hours Trek -Hike approx. 3 km (1.8 mi) each way through undulating terrain surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Late Morning to Afternoon -Arrive at Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,006 ft). Explore its impressive ruins, including terraces, ceremonial plazas, the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the House of the Waterfalls. Your guide will share incredible insights into Inca history and architecture.
Afternoon Return – Hike back to Marampata, reliving the vistas along the way.
Evening – Dinner and overnight at the Marampata campsite.
Morning – Enjoy breakfast while admiring the sunrise over the Andes.
Morning Trek – Descend for approx. 3 hours through a lush cloud forest, gradually approaching the Apurimac River valley.
Midday – Reach La Playa village for a tasty lunch amid mountain views.
Afternoon Trek -Continue trekking about 2 more hours toward Coca Masana, passing through traditional Andean villages and scenic landscapes.
Evening – Arrive at Coca Masana campsite near the Apurimac River. Dinner and overnight beneath the Andean sky.
Early Morning – Rise early for breakfast at Coca Masana.
Morning Trek – Hike uphill for around 3 hours back to Capuliyoc (2,950 m / 9,678 ft), enjoying sweeping views of deep canyons and rugged peaks.
Midday – Celebrate your trek with a special Pachamanca lunch, a traditional Andean feast cooked underground using hot stones—a true highlight for food lovers!
Afternoon Drive – Travel approx. 4 hours by private transport to Ollantaytambo, a charming village nestled in the Sacred Valley.
Evening Train Ride -Board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-earned dinner.
Early Morning – Enjoy breakfast in Aguas Calientes before taking the bus up the winding road to Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,970 ft).
Morning Tour – Explore Machu Picchu’s legendary ruins with your expert guide. Visit iconic spots like the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana stone, all while learning about the secrets of the Inca civilization.
Midday – Free time to wander the citadel or soak in panoramic views over lush valleys and towering peaks.
Afternoon Return – Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. After lunch, board the Vistadome Panoramic Train to Ollantaytambo, then a private van returns you to Cusco.
Evening – Arrival in Cusco around 7:30 pm, full of memories from an epic adventure bridging the Choquequirao Trek and the wonder of Machu Picchu.
Your unforgettable adventure begins in the historic city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. At approximately 4:30 am, we’ll pick you up from your hotel for a scenic drive toward the small Andean village of Capuliyoc. This journey of around 4 hours winds through picturesque villages and offers breathtaking views of the towering Andes.
Upon reaching Capuliyoc (2,950 m / 9,678 ft), you’ll meet your trekking team and enjoy a hearty breakfast. From here, your trek officially begins as you descend toward Chikiska campsite. Today’s hike covers about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes roughly 4 hours, dropping from the high Andean terrain into a lush valley at 1,950 m (6,398 ft).
Along the way, you’ll traverse a dramatic canyon with jaw-dropping vistas of snow-capped peaks and the vibrant Apurimac River snaking below. Once at Chikiska, relax in a peaceful valley setting surrounded by spectacular mountain views. Dinner will be served at camp before you settle into your tent for a restful night under the stars.
Wake to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee or traditional coca tea delivered right to your tent—a perfect start to an exciting day. After breakfast, begin your ascent toward Santa Rosa (2,300 m / 7,546 ft), a quaint village nestled amid tropical vegetation.
The climb can be challenging, winding upward through verdant forests alive with birdlife, including the possibility of glimpsing the majestic Andean condor. After about 3 hours of steady climbing, we’ll pause for lunch in Santa Rosa to recharge for the afternoon.
The journey continues uphill to Marampata (2,940 m / 9,646 ft), taking another 3–4 hours. The trail leads through enchanting cloud forests and offers panoramic views of the mighty Apurimac Canyon. Upon arriving at Marampata, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping vistas over the surrounding mountains and Choquequirao ruins in the distance. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest overnight in your comfortable tent.
After an energizing breakfast, set out for a day that is often considered the highlight of the trek: exploring the majestic Inca citadel of Choquequirao. The hike from Marampata to the archaeological complex takes about 2–3 hours, covering 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) of undulating terrain, surrounded by panoramic mountain views.
Perched at 3,050 m (10,006 ft), Choquequirao is sometimes called “Machu Picchu’s sister city.” Spread across 1,800 hectares (4,500 acres), the site showcases impressive terraces, ceremonial plazas, temples, and intricately carved stone structures. Explore highlights like the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Sun, and the cascading terraces known as the House of the Waterfalls.
Your guide will reveal fascinating insights into Inca history, culture, and ingenious engineering techniques that allowed the Incas to thrive in such a remote environment. After thoroughly exploring the ruins, return to Marampata for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Rise to a peaceful morning in the Andes, followed by breakfast at the Marampata campsite. Today’s trek begins with a descent through a lush cloud forest, alive with tropical vegetation and vibrant bird calls, as you make your way toward the banks of the Apurimac River.
After about 3 hours, you’ll arrive at La Playa, a small settlement where you’ll enjoy lunch and a short rest. The trail then continues for another 2 hours to Coca Masana, winding through charming villages and offering stunning views of verdant mountain landscapes.
Tonight’s camp at Coca Masana sits close to the Apurimac River, providing a tranquil ambiance for dinner and relaxation under the stars.
Fuel up with an early breakfast before beginning the ascent back up to Capuliyoc (2,950 m / 9,678 ft). The hike takes around 3 hours and rewards you with sweeping views of deep valleys and towering Andean peaks.
Upon reaching Capuliyoc, you’ll enjoy a special lunch. After lunch, our private vehicle will transfer you on a scenic 4-hour drive to the charming town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.
From there, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy dinner in town, eager for tomorrow’s grand finale.
The final day of your journey promises an unforgettable experience as you visit one of the world’s most iconic destinations: Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, take the bus up the winding mountain road to reach Machu Picchu, perched at 2,430 m (7,970 ft).
Accompanied by your expert guide, explore the mystical citadel, marveling at its architectural wonders, including the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, and the sacred Intihuatana sundial. Learn about the Incas’ advanced engineering, astronomical knowledge, and the cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After your guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore on your own or simply soak in the mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains and lush valleys. You’ll then take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Vistadome Panoramic Train, offering spectacular views during your journey back to Ollantaytambo.
A private van will return you to Cusco.
Includes
Excludes
All briefings are done at our office at 7:00 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.
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.
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.
| Entry time to Machupicchu (*) | Grace period during months of regular visitor demand (**) | Grace period during months of high visitor demand (from June 1 to October 15 and December 30 and 31) (**) |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
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 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.
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.
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 whos it is.
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 different per trek and listed below.
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 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.
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.
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.
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. LAN 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 acclimate 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.
What Do I Need To Bring?
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.
The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is an epic 6-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 Inca 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.
Day 1: Cusco to Cachora village, then trek to Chiquisca campsite
Day 2: Cross Apurimac River, ascend to Choquequirao ruins
Day 3: Explore Choquequirao archaeological site, continue to Pinchaunuyoc
Day 4: Trek through Yanama Pass to Totora campsite
Day 5: Reach Aguas Calientes via Hidroelectrica
Day 6: Early morning Machu Picchu tour, return to Cusco by train
The total distance of the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is approximately 46.6 miles/75 kilometers. The trek involves significant elevation changes, with steep descents to river valleys and challenging ascents to mountain passes.
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:
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.
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
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Main Office: +51 84622440
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