Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek
- Cusco
- Ollantaytambo
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Overview
The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek is one of the most breathtaking and challenging adventures in Peru, connecting two of the most iconic Inca cities hidden deep in the Andes. This epic journey takes you through remote mountain trails, lush cloud forests, and spectacular archaeological sites, offering a rewarding experience far from the crowds.
Starting from the Apurímac Canyon, you’ll explore the ancient citadel of Choquequirao, often called the «sister of Machu Picchu», before continuing on to the legendary Machu Picchu via a rarely traveled and rugged route. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning landscapes, Inca ruins like Pinchiunuyoc, and cross high passes such as Yanama, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
This 7-day trek is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a more remote, off-the-beaten-path alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, combining history, nature, and authentic adventure in one unforgettable expedition.
Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu on this challenging yet incredibly rewarding 7-day trek. This route takes you deep into the heart of the Andes, combining two of the most significant Inca archaeological sites in one epic adventure.
Begin your hike at Capuliyoc with stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon, then trek to the majestic and remote ruins of Choquequirao, where you’ll explore terraces, temples, and llama carvings surrounded by dramatic scenery. From there, follow ancient Inca paths through untouched valleys, hidden ruins like Pinchiunuyoc, and high mountain passes, culminating with a breathtaking approach to Machu Picchu through the Llaqtapata viewpoint.
This trek is designed for seasoned hikers looking for a less crowded, immersive experience in Peru’s wild landscapes, offering a deeper connection to Inca history, local culture, and nature. It’s not just a hike — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
Tour Details:
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Starting Point: Cusco
- Ending Point: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
- Trek Distance: Approximately 100 km (62 miles)
- Trek Difficulty: Challenging – suitable for experienced hikers
- Altitude: From 1,500 m (4,921 ft) to 4,200 m (13,779 ft)
- Accommodation: 6 nights camping (1 night in hotel in Aguas Calientes optional)
- Group Size: Small groups (2–8 people max)
- Availability: Year-round (best months: April to October)
This Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek offers a unique combination of remote trekking, Inca ruins exploration, and scenic diversity. You’ll hike through cloud forests, high passes, and tropical valleys, encountering minimal crowds along the route.
It’s perfect for adventurers seeking a deeper experience than the typical Inca Trail, allowing you to visit Choquequirao, often called the «sister city of Machu Picchu», and culminate your adventure with a full tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlights
- Hike the ultimate Inca adventure, connecting the remote Choquequirao ruins with the iconic Machu Picchu, two of the most significant and breathtaking Inca archaeological sites in Peru.
- Discover Choquequirao, the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” with ample time to explore its temples, terraces, and ceremonial platforms — without the crowds.
- Traverse an epic route through the Apurímac and Vilcabamba mountain ranges, crossing deep canyons, lush cloud forests, and high Andean passes, offering a constantly changing and dramatic natural landscape.
- Visit remote Inca ruins like Pinchiunuyoc and the scenic viewpoint of Llaqtapata, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from a unique perspective.
- Enjoy an unforgettable mix of cultural immersion, nature, and history, while camping under the stars and being supported by a professional trekking team.
- Reach Aguas Calientes by foot and finish the adventure with a full day exploring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Perfect for experienced hikers and adventurers seeking a less-traveled but deeply rewarding trek, filled with solitude, discovery, and the legacy of the ancient Inca civilization.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Santa Rosa
Start your trek with panoramic views of the Apurimac Canyon as you descend to your first campsite near Santa Rosa. - Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
Climb up to Marampata and explore the stunning and isolated Choquequirao ruins. - Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc – Rio Blanco
Hike past lesser-known archaeological sites and descend deep into the canyon. - Day 4: Rio Blanco – Maizal – Pajonal
A challenging ascent leads to the remote Maizal valley and up to Pajonal, surrounded by majestic mountains. - Day 5: Pajonal – Yanama – Lucmabamba
Cross high mountain passes with breathtaking views, then descend into tropical cloud forest near Lucmabamba. - Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes
Visit the Llaqtapata Inca site, catch your first distant glimpse of Machu Picchu, and take the train to Aguas Calientes. - Day 7: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, then take the train and bus back to Cusco.
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Santa Rosa
We’ll pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and drive for about 4 hours to Capuliyoc (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), where we’ll enjoy breakfast with stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon. From here, we begin our descent toward Chikiska for lunch, continuing downhill to reach Santa Rosa (1,800 m / 5,905 ft), our first campsite. The trail offers breathtaking scenery and a warm introduction to the Andean highlands.
Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
After a hearty breakfast, we start our uphill trek to Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), a perfect spot for a break with a view. From here, we hike for about 2 more hours to reach the remote and majestic Choquequirao ruins, often referred to as the «sister city of Machu Picchu.» We’ll explore part of the complex and enjoy a peaceful night of camping nearby.
Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc – Río Blanco
Today begins with more time to explore Choquequirao, visiting hidden sections few travelers reach. Then, we begin a beautiful descent to Pinchiunuyoc, another Inca site surrounded by lush greenery. Our path winds down to the Rio Blanco (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), where we’ll set up camp by the riverside, nestled deep within the canyon.
Day 4: Río Blanco – Maizal – Pajonal
After breakfast, we climb steadily through thick cloud forest and vibrant mountain landscapes. The trail leads to the charming valley of Maizal and continues up to Pajonal (around 4,000 m / 13,123 ft), offering spectacular views of the snow-capped Qoriwayrachina and other sacred peaks. Overnight camping in high-altitude beauty.
Day 5: Pajonal – Yanama – Lucmabamba
Today, we cross a high pass known as Abra San Juan (4,150 m / 13,615 ft), followed by a descent into the quaint village of Yanama. From here, a short drive takes us through the scenic landscape to Lucmabamba, nestled in the lush jungle. We’ll camp in this cloud forest region surrounded by coffee plantations and orchids.
Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, we ascend along the original Inca Trail to reach Llaqtapata, an impressive archaeological site that offers a rare and distant view of Machu Picchu. We’ll rest here before continuing our descent to Hidroeléctrica for lunch. From there, a scenic train ride takes us to Aguas Calientes, where we check into a hotel for a well-deserved rest
Day 7: Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
We rise early to catch the first bus up to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, visiting iconic sites like the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana, and Temple of the Condor. After some free time to explore or hike Huayna Picchu (if booked in advance), we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and take the train back to Cusco, completing this unforgettable journey.
What’s Included
- Pre-trek briefing the day before at your hotel in Cusco
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc (start of the trek)
- Professional English-speaking trekking guide
- Assistant guide (for groups of 8 or more)
- Experienced cook and cooking equipment
- Muleteers and pack horses to carry camping gear (7 kg per person)
- 6 nights of camping/hotel accommodation:
- 5 nights in tented campsites
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- All meals during the trek (6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners)
- Snacks and hot drinks every afternoon
- Dining and kitchen tents with tables and chairs
- Four-person tents for two people for extra comfort
- Sleeping mat (foam)
- Entrance tickets to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (2 hours)
- Train ticket from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
- Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
What’s Not Included
- First breakfast and last lunch/dinner in Cusco
- Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional – must be booked in advance)
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Trekking poles (available for rent)
- Tips for guides, cook, and muleteers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses such as snacks, water, and souvenirs
Extras
- Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (clean and warm sleeping bags)
- Air Mattress – $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-Rest mattresses for extra comfort)
- Walking Poles – $15 USD per pair per trek (professional, extendable poles)
- Personal Tent – $30 USD (ideal for solo travelers who prefer privacy)
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From $60 USD (depending on hotel availability)
- Hotel Upgrade – Available upon request (price depends on category and availability)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade – $67 USD per person (return only, panoramic windows and onboard service)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – $75 USD per person (must be requested at the time of booking)
Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within the Machu Picchu citadel. It is not guided and is typically done on your own after your main tour of Machu Picchu. If you would like this extra hike to be guided, please let us know in advance – an additional fee applies.
What to Bring for the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek
Get ready for a challenging but incredibly rewarding adventure in the Andes. Here is a list of what you should bring for the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek:
👕 Clothing
- 2–3 breathable t-shirts (preferiblemente de secado rápido)
- 2–3 pairs of trekking pants
- 1 pair of warm leggings or thermal underwear (para las noches frías)
- 1 warm fleece or down jacket
- 1 lightweight wind/rain jacket
- Comfortable trekking boots (ya usadas)
- 1 pair of sandals or flip flops (para descansar en los campamentos)
- 3–5 pairs of hiking socks
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Wool hat or beanie for cold nights
- Gloves (especialmente para las mañanas en zonas altas)
🧳 Gear and Accessories
- Sleeping bag (–10°C comfort, disponible para alquilar)
- Small daypack (30–40L) for essentials
- Headlamp or flashlight (con baterías extra)
- Trekking poles (recomendados para los descensos pronunciados)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (mínimo 2L)
- Quick-dry towel
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Basic personal toiletries
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent
- Small personal first-aid kit
- Snacks (frutos secos, barras energéticas, chocolates)
- Waterproof bags or plastic bags (para mantener ropa seca)
📄 Documents and Money
- Original passport (obligatorio para entrar a Machu Picchu)
- Student ID (si aplica para descuento)
- Small amount of cash in soles (para compras personales o propinas)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek
1. What is the difficulty level of the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek?
The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek is considered a **challenging** trek due to its long distances, steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. It is recommended for hikers with good physical fitness and prior trekking experience.
2. When is the best time to do this trek?
The best time to hike the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu route is during the **dry season**, from **April to October**. These months offer clear skies and better trail conditions.
3. Will I see both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu?
Yes! This **7-day trek** allows you to explore both the majestic ruins of Choquequirao and the iconic Machu Picchu. It’s one of the few adventures that includes both Inca sites in one journey.
4. Are there campsites or lodges along the trail?
We camp every night in designated Andean campsites, surrounded by stunning nature. All camping equipment is provided by our team, and our staff takes care of meals and logistics.
5. Can I store my luggage in Cusco during the trek?
Absolutely. We offer **free luggage storage** in Cusco at our office or hotel, so you can trek light and only carry what’s needed for the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek.
6. Are train and Machu Picchu tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes the **train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo**, as well as the **entrance ticket to Machu Picchu** and your return transportation to Cusco. Everything is arranged for a hassle-free experience.
7. Do I need to carry my own backpack?
You only need to carry your **daypack** with personal essentials. Our team of **horsemen and mules** will carry your duffel bag and camping gear throughout the trek.
8. How can I prepare for the altitude?
We recommend arriving in **Cusco at least 2 days before** your trek to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, rest, and consider coca tea or altitude pills if needed. Our guides are trained to assist with altitude-related issues.
💲Prices – Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 7 Days Trek
Embark on this epic 7-day trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, one of the most scenic and off-the-beaten-path adventures in Peru. We provide high-quality service, small groups, and experienced local guides for a safe and memorable experience.
Group Service (2–10 people max):
- $1099 USD per person
*minimum number of participants: 4 people
Private Service:
For travelers who want a more personalized and flexible journey:
- 2 people: $1,850 USD per person
- 3 people: $1,450 USD per person
- 4 people: $1300 USD per person
- 5 people: $1200 USD per person
- 6 people: $1150 USD per person
All prices include transfers, entrance fees to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, Vistadome train return, professional English-speaking guide, meals, mules for carrying equipment, and camping gear.
Join Andino Tours Peru for an unforgettable adventure
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- Proudly Peruvian and Locally Operated
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