Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek: 7-Day Andean Adventure

Discover the magic in 7 unforgettable days.

7 D - 6 N

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek invites you to uncover the magic of two iconic Inca cities through a unique and unforgettable journey. This 7-day trek leads you from Cusco to the majestic ruins of Choquequirao and finally to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll hike across high-altitude trails, enjoy breathtaking views, and connect with authentic Andean culture. You will explore hidden gems such as Llactapata, and witness the first glimpse of Machu Picchu from unique vantage points. For more details, check the official Choquequirao project website.

This adventure is ideal for true explorers looking for physical challenge, rich history, and spectacular nature—all in one. Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

This awaits you on your next trip

ITINERARY Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – MARAMPATA

CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – MARAMPATA

🚌 At 3:00 a.m., we’ll pick you up from your hotel to begin the choquequirao to machu picchu trek. After a scenic drive, we arrive at Capuliyoc, where we enjoy breakfast with a beautiful view of the canyon and warm climate. From here, the adventure begins!

🥾 We descend for around 2.5 hours to Chikisca, where we’ll have lunch and rest. Then, we continue downhill to the Apurímac River. After crossing the bridge, we start a challenging uphill hike to Santa Rosa for a short break. As we ascend, we’ll admire spectacular Andean views.

🏞️ After two more hours of hiking, we arrive at Marampata, where we’ll enjoy dinner and rest in cozy cabins with double beds. Shared bathrooms and cold showers are available.

📏 Max Altitude: 2,919 m

📍 Min Altitude: 1,600 m

🚶 Distance: 27 km

⏱️ Duration: 8 hours

DAY 2: MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO (CAMP)

MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO (CAMP)

🌄 After a hearty breakfast, we continue the choquequirao to machu picchu trek toward Choquequirao, the “Cradle of Gold.” A 1.5-hour hike takes us to this majestic Inca site.

🏛️ We spend the day exploring all its corners: llama terraces, the priest’s house, and the central plaza. Many areas are still covered in lush vegetation, giving it a mysterious aura.

🌅 We return to Marampata for a warm dinner and overnight in cabins with double beds. Shared bathrooms and cold showers available.

📏 Max Altitude: 3,100 m

📍 Min Altitude: 2,919 m

🚶 Distance: 4 km

⏱️ Duration: 1.5 hours

DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MAIZAL

💪 Today is one of the most intense days of the choquequirao to machu picchu trek. After breakfast, we ascend to Choquequirao’s upper terrace and then descend steep trails surrounded by massive mountains.

🥗 We stop for lunch to recharge and then climb again, following winding paths and enjoying the silence of nature.

🏠 Eventually, we reach Maizal, where a local family welcomes us for dinner and rest.

📏 Max Altitude: 3,400 m

📍 Min Altitude: 1,800 m

🚶 Distance: 29 km

⏱️ Duration: 9 hours

DAY 4: MAIZAL – YANAMA – TOTORA

🌄 After a revitalizing sleep, we hike up toward San Juan Pass at 4,150 m. The views of surrounding hills and valleys are breathtaking.

🍃 After breakfast in Yanama village, we begin our ascent to the Yanama Pass at 4,700 m, one of the highest points of the choquequirao to machu picchu trek. Afterward, we descend through cloud forest landscapes, reaching Totora for dinner and rest.

📏 Max Altitude: 4,700 m

📍 Min Altitude: 2,040 m

🚶 Distance: 29 km

⏱️ Duration: 10 hours

DAY 5: TOTORA – LUCMABAMBA

🍊 This day is more relaxed. After breakfast, we walk downhill through lush cloud forest trails and agricultural areas filled with fruits, coffee, and cacao.

🌺 Along the way, you may spot tropical birds and colorful orchids. In Lucmabamba, you can learn about the local coffee-making process before we settle in for the night.

📏 Max Altitude: 3,400 m

📍 Min Altitude: 2,000 m

🚶 Distance: 25 km

⏱️ Duration: 8 hours

DAY 6: LUCMABAMBA – PATALLACTA – HIDROELECTRICA – AGUAS CALIENTES

🌄 At 6:00 a.m., we begin our walk along an original Inca trail. After a few hours, we reach Patallacta, a hidden gem offering stunning views of Machu Picchu.

🚿 After a descent through varied terrain, we reach Hidroelectrica for lunch. Optionally, we can take a refreshing dip in the nearby green river.

🚶 After lunch, we hike 11.5 km along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll rest in a hotel with private rooms and hot showers.

📏 Max Altitude: 3,400 m

📍 Min Altitude: 2,040 m

🚶 Distance: 25 km

⏱️ Duration: 8 hours

DAY 7: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

🏔️ The long-awaited day has arrived! Early in the morning, we take the bus (or hike if preferred) to Machu Picchu. Don’t forget your passport and entrance ticket.

🔍 A guided tour of about 2.5 hours will take you through Machu Picchu’s most iconic areas like the Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Plaza.

🚆 After the visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes and walk back to Hidroelectrica (11.5 km), where a van will take you to Cusco (6 hours). Optional return by train available (extra cost).

📏 Max Altitude: 3,400 m

📍 Min Altitude: 2,040 m

🚶 Distance: 17.5 km

⏱️ Duration: 2.5 hours

PRICE AND INCLUSIONS Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

Each trip is tailored to your specific needs and desires, so our prices vary depending on the number of people traveling, the desired level of accommodation, and the activities included, among other factors.

INCLUDE

Bilingual guide
Transportation: Cusco – Capuliyoc
Van: Hidroelectrica – Cusco
5 nights in cabins and 1 night in a hostel
7 breakfasts

6 lunches

6 dinners
Entrance tickets to Choquequirao
First aid kit
Oxygen bottle
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Transfer from train station to hotel
Dinner in Aguas Calientes
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Horseman and mules to transport camping equipment
Provision of a horse in case of emergency
Boiled water for drinking and washing
Clean water to fill your bottles at each meal
Pick-up at your hotel
Private transport
Entrance to Machupicchu and Choquequirao
Comfortable and 4 season roomy tents
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
All camping equipment
Round trip Bus tickets Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes
First Aid kit
Muleteer and horse to carry your personal belongings (5 kg)
Machu Picchu entrance ticket (subject to availability)

NOT INCLUDED

ACCOMMODATIONS

We offer you an exclusive selection of our accommodations in Cusco, ensuring that you enjoy the utmost comfort and an unparalleled experience during your stay.