Choquequirao Trek
About this tour
Choquequirao Trek – The Authentic, Untouched Inca Experience
Embark on the extraordinary Choquequirao Trek, a premier option for travelers seeking a quieter, more immersive, and culturally rich alternative to Machu Picchu. Known as the “Sister City of Machu Picchu” and often referred to as “The Cradle of Gold,” Choquequirao is one of the last great archaeological sanctuaries of the Andes—majestic, remote, and remarkably well-preserved.
This exceptional journey takes you deep into the heart of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. As you traverse ancient Inca paths, you will witness dramatic landscapes, towering snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forests, and a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna.
Unlike more crowded routes, the Choquequirao Trek offers a genuinely serene and off-the-beaten-path adventure, allowing you to fully connect with nature, history, and the profound legacy of the Inca civilization.
At Machu Picchu Trek / Machupicchu Tres, we bring over 30 years of professional experience and thousands of satisfied travelers to every expedition. Our expert local guides, deep regional knowledge, and commitment to safety and sustainable tourism ensure a meaningful, well-organized, and enriching experience from start to finish.
Discover a destination that remains untouched by mass tourism.
Discover Choquequirao—the hidden Inca jewel waiting to be explored.
Tour Itinerary
Choquequirao Trek – 4-Day Itinerary
Operated Exclusively by Machupicchu Trek – Direct Local Experts With 30+ Years of Experience
Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Santa Rosa Camp
Altitude: Cusco (3,350 m / 10,990 ft.) → Santa Rosa (2,200 m / 7,215 ft.)
Distance: Approx. 17 km / 10.5 miles
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Cusco to the traditional Andean village of Cachora, a scenic 4-hour drive through fertile valleys and mountain passes. After meeting your professional trekking team, the journey officially starts along a wide, well-marked trail that gradually descends into the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in South America.
Throughout the hike, you will enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, dramatic landscapes, and the first glimpses of Choquequirao, visible on the opposite ridge. This stretch of the trail offers rich biodiversity—wildflowers, small orchids, medicinal plants, and migratory birds.
We continue descending to the Apurímac River before making a short but steady climb to Santa Rosa Camp. This peaceful campsite, far from mainstream tourist routes, offers a quiet setting to rest and acclimatize.
Safety Note: Temperatures may be warm during the descent; hydration and sun protection are essential.
Day 2: Santa Rosa – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
Altitude: Santa Rosa (2,200 m / 7,215 ft.) → Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,005 ft.)
Distance: Approx. 14 km / 8.7 miles
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging ascent
Today is the most physically demanding day of the trek. We begin with a steady climb up the other side of the Apurímac Canyon—an elevation gain of 800 m / 2,624 ft. The trail is steep in sections, and temperatures can be hot and humid, but your highly trained guide will set an appropriate pace with rest breaks and safety checks.
As we ascend, the environment changes noticeably:
✔ Bromeliads and orchids decorate the slopes
✔ Bamboo forests become more common
✔ Birdlife thrives—Toucans, Quetzals, hummingbirds, and occasionally Andean Condors
We arrive at our campsite located just below Choquequirao, offering incredible sunset views over the canyon. On clear days, you may even witness condors soaring above the valley—an unforgettable sight.
Safety Note: Trekking poles are strongly recommended for this ascent.
Day 3: Choquequirao Exploration – Chiquisqa Camp
Altitude: Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,005 ft.) → Chiquisqa (1,800 m / 5,905 ft.)
Distance: Approx. 16 km / 10 miles
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
We begin early to make the most of our guided visit to Choquequirao, one of the last great Inca cities and considered the “Sister City of Machu Picchu.” Only about 25% of the site has been excavated, adding an element of mystery and discovery to your visit.
Your expert guide will lead you through the most important ceremonial, agricultural, and residential sectors, explaining the historical, architectural, and cultural significance of this impressive citadel—and its intriguing connection to Machu Picchu.
After exploring this monumental site, we begin our return toward Cachora. The descent into the canyon offers beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife observation. We camp at Chiquisqa, a warm and pleasant location near the Apurímac River.
Safety Note: Knees and ankles take pressure on the descent—your guide will assist in pacing.
Day 4: Chiquisqa – Cachora – Return to Cusco
Altitude: Chiquisqa (1,800 m / 5,905 ft.) → Cachora (2,850 m / 9,350 ft.)
Distance: Approx. 14 km / 8.7 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
On the final morning, we ascend gradually back toward Cachora, enjoying once more the spectacular canyon scenery. As you climb, Choquequirao appears in the distance—a breathtaking farewell view of the sacred city you explored.
Arriving in Cachora by early afternoon, we enjoy a well-deserved rest before our private transport returns us to Cusco, concluding an unforgettable adventure through one of Peru’s most authentic and least-visited trekking routes.
Safety Note: Expect mixed weather conditions; layers are essential.
Why Choose Machupicchu Trek for the Choquequirao Trek?
✔ Direct Operator – No Middlemen
With over 30 years of field experience, we were among the pioneers developing alternative trekking routes across Peru.
✔ Expert Local Guides
Certified, bilingual, and specialized in high-altitude routes and Inca archaeology.
✔ Safety & Reliability
Emergency oxygen, first-aid kits, professional equipment, and constant risk assessments.
✔ Sustainable & Responsible
We support local communities, hire locally, and minimize environmental impact.
What’s Included and What’s Not Included in This Tour?
What’s Included
Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide: Lead your trek and provide insights into Inca history, culture, and local ecology.
Assistant Tour Guide: For groups of 9 or more, ensuring safety and personalized support.
Chef: Preparing fresh, nutritious meals during the trek.
Mules: Carry camping and cooking equipment, plus up to 7 kg of personal luggage per trekker.
Hotel Pick-Up: Transfer from your Cusco hotel to the trek starting point.
Transportation: Round-trip bus service to/from the trailhead.
Water: Provided along the trek (please bring your own for the first 4 hours).
Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks, and 3 Dinners. Special dietary requests (vegetarian, gluten-free) can be accommodated if informed in advance.
Dining Facilities: Tents equipped with tables and chairs for comfortable meals.
Camping Equipment:
4-person tents shared between 2 trekkers
Sleeping mattresses
Safety Equipment: Oxygen bottle and fully stocked first aid kit.
What’s Not Included
Sleeping Bag: Can be hired from Machu Picchu Trek if needed.
Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch/dinner on the last day.
Tips: Gratuities for guides, chefs, and support staff.
Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended to cover emergencies, trip delays, or unforeseen circumstances.
What to Bring
To ensure a safe and comfortable trek, please pack:
Footwear: Sturdy walking or hiking boots suitable for rugged, high-altitude terrain
Outerwear: Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, warm jacket, hat, and gloves
Clothing: Breathable T-shirts and trekking trousers
Sun Protection: Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 35 or higher)
Personal Care: Insect repellent, toiletries, hand sanitizer
Health & Safety: Personal medications, first aid essentials
Photography: Camera or smartphone
Lighting: Torch or headlamp with spare batteries
Trek Overview & Altitudes
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Total Distance: ~64 km / 40 miles
Starting Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,515 ft
Highest Point: 3,050 m / 10,005 ft
Maximum Daily Distance: Day 1 – 25 km / 15.5 miles
Difficulty: Difficult – suitable for physically fit travelers
Tips for a Comfortable Trek
Acclimatization: Spend 1–2 days in Cusco prior to departure to adjust to altitude.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.
Layering: Temperatures fluctuate between cold mornings and warm afternoons.
Light Pack: Limit your backpack to essentials (7 kg max) to stay comfortable.
Snacks: Bring energy bars or trail mix for extra fuel during trekking hours.
Additional Info about Choquequirao Trek
Tour Facts
Price: Starting from $890
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Activity Level: Moderate / Level 2
Starting / Ending Points: Cusco / Choquequirao Trek Trailhead
Departure: Daily
Location: Peru
Altitudes & Distances
Starting Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,515 ft
Highest Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,005 ft
Total Walking Distance: ~64 km / 40 miles
Longest Day: Day 1 – ~25 km / 15.5 miles
Overall Difficulty: Difficult – suitable for physically fit travelers
Very Important Tax Information
Foreign and Peruvian travelers without residency in Peru are exempt from paying the General Sales Tax (IGV) on hotels included in the program.
To claim this exemption, travelers must present:
Original Passport, and
Andean Migration Card (TAM)
This also applies to travelers from Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, and Chile, using either a national identity card or passport. Entry into Peru must not exceed 60 days before claiming the exemption.
Important Notes for Travelers
Excursion order and timings may change depending on local conditions and availability.
Final schedules will be confirmed by the operations staff at each location.
Travelers are responsible for any additional expenses incurred at the destination.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
We provide transparent policies to protect both travelers and operators:
0–30 days before departure: 100% penalty – no refund available
31–90 days before departure: 50% of total payment
91+ days before departure: 35% administrative fee
Changes & Modifications:
Any changes after booking incur a 35% administrative fee, plus ticket rate differences for new dates.
Weather & Unforeseen Events:
Some services may be interrupted or canceled due to weather or circumstances beyond our control.
No refunds will be issued for interruptions caused by external factors.
Why Choose Our Choquequirao Trek?
Pioneers of the Inca Jungle Trail – Machu Picchu Trek opened this route to the world over 30 years ago, offering unmatched experience and knowledge of remote trails.
Professional Guides – Over 20 veteran guides with decades of experience in high-altitude trekking, ensuring safety, comfort, and authentic storytelling.
Exclusive Infrastructure – Comfortable lodges, reliable transport, high-quality camping equipment, and logistical support for a seamless adventure.
Unique & Authentic Experience – Traverse trails, rivers, and ruins exactly as the original expedition did, long before alternative routes became widely known.
Safety & Support – Oxygen bottles, first aid kits, mules for luggage, and full professional support throughout the trek.
Program Highlights
Remote Archaeology: Explore the rarely visited Choquequirao Ruins, a marvel of Inca architecture and spiritual significance.
Andean Landscapes: Trek through alpine valleys, cloud forests, and tropical jungle, with breathtaking views.
Cultural Immersion: Experience small Andean villages and interact with local communities along the trail.
Adventure & Fitness: A challenging trek with rewarding sights, perfect for active travelers seeking an authentic Inca adventure.
Conclusion
This Choquequirao Trek is more than just a hike—it is a historical, cultural, and scenic adventure curated by the original pioneers of the Inca Jungle Trail. With professional leadership, unmatched experience, and personalized service, Machu Picchu Trek offers the safest, most authentic, and memorable experience to one of Peru’s most remote archaeological treasures.
This program is highly recommended for travelers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path trek, and it stands out as one of the best Choquequirao and Inca Jungle treks available.
Tour Price
$890.00
$890.00
per person
Choquequirao Trek Tour Information
Tour Location
Peru
Languages Support
Spanish & English
Packing list
Sleeping bag
Insect repellent
Cash & cards
Medications & first‑aid
Toiletries
Headlamp
Hat & gloves
Snacks
Water bottle
Sun protection
Rain gear
Layered clothing
Comfortable hiking boots
Travel insurance
Passport & ID
Your trusted tour operator in Machu Picchu
At Machu Picchu Trek, we bring a local touch to every adventure. Our company is 100% Peruvian-owned. This unique perspective ensures ethical treatment of our staff and a deep connection to the culture and history of the region.
Our Machu Picchu team is equipped with satellite phones for 24/7 emergency support. Safety is our top priority, and we provide oxygen tanks and first aid kits on every trek. You can trust our experienced guides to lead you with care and expertise.
We offer seamless service, including hotel-to-hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Every detail is designed to make your trek comfortable and stress-free.
Choosing Machu Picchu Trek means supporting a company with an industry-leading safety record and a commitment to excellence. Let our team show you the beauty of Machu Picchu while ensuring your journey is unforgettable.
Excelente servicio y atención
Muy bien todo, los guías saben mucho y te explican muchas cosas. Te esperan y te tienen paciencia. Puedes confiar en que las cosas se hacen completamente honestas y que pagas por una experiencia muy grata.
Excelente servicio
Muy buen tour guiado, los guías saben muchísimo y te contestan cualquier pregunta que tengas, son muy amigables y tienen todo muy bien organizado. Son muy pacientes y en verdad vale la pena.
Machu Picchu experience
Amazing experience from the first beginning the communication was great and the activities were well explained. One of the best trips I’ve ever experienced.
I loved it
I loved it! Everything is very organized, amazing schedules for activities, too much fun!
An Unforgettable Experience at Machu Picchu!
Machu Picchu Trek made my trip an absolutely incredible experience. From the first contact, their team was professional, friendly, and attentive to every detail. The planning was flawless, and the guides were exceptional, sharing their deep knowledge about the history and culture of this magical place.The tour was perfectly organized, striking an ideal balance between adventure and comfort. I loved how much they cared about our safety and the environment. Every moment was special, from the breathtaking views to the delicious meals prepared during the tour.I highly recommend Machu Picchu Trek to anyone looking to explore this unique destination with a reliable and passionate company. Thank you for making this dream come true!
A Truly Unforgettable Experience – Salkantay Trek (6 Days / 5 Nights)
We were incredibly lucky to be the very first guests of 2025 with Machupicchu Trek — and what an unforgettable experience it was. From start to finish, this trek was thoughtfully planned, deeply personal, and absolutely seamless. We did the 6-day/5-night Salkantay Trek and felt like we were treated to a private, custom-curated experience unlike anything we’ve seen other companies provide.Our guide George made the trip extraordinary — his deep knowledge, energy, spirit, and genuine care turned our trek into something truly meaningful. He didn’t just lead us; he brought the entire experience to life. Every moment felt intentional and special, and by the end of the trip, George felt like family. We already miss him!Our amazing chef Santiago prepared incredible meals for us every single day. I’m someone who gets sick easily while traveling, and my cousin has multiple food allergies — but neither of us had even the slightest issue. Santiago’s food was delicious, nourishing, and prepared with great care and attention to detail. It truly added to our sense of well-being on the trail.Gladys, our warm and welcoming coordinator, greeted us at the Marriott when we arrived and ensured everything ran smoothly. The entire team — including our fantastic porters — were professional, kind, and full of fun and good energy. They worked so hard behind the scenes to make sure everything was perfect, and it absolutely was.Because of this team’s knowledge and dedication, we experienced Machu Picchu in a way most travelers never get to. If you’re considering this journey, do not hesitate — this is the company to choose. They pour their hearts into every detail and it shows. Thank you, Alexis, George, Santiago, Gladys, Juan, and the whole team — you’ve given us memories we’ll carry for a lifetime.With deepest gratitude, Karen & Alexandra
Highly recommend Juan
Highly recommend Juan! He is an excellent guide and we learned so much. My family of 6 loved the tours and would love to come back. Thank you, Juan! We will be sharing your business information with our friends.
Amazing 6 day private tour of Cusco area with our group of 13
Amazing 6 day private tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley and Macchu Picchu with Juan from Macchupicchutrek. Our group of 13 had a great time visiting sites and also the best restaurants! Very flexible and we learned so much about this beautiful country. Highly recommend!!!
Amazing tour exploring all parts of…
Amazing tour exploring all parts of Peru 🇵🇪. Our tour guide Juan from Machupicchutrek was incredibly knowledgeable, patient and accommodating, especially considering we were a group of 13 people. Just when you thought a site or destination couldn’t get better, it did! Surpassed all our expectations (especially difficult for a family with different interests who LOVE to travel throughout the world)! Recommend 100000%
ciertamente Juan es el mejor guía…
ciertamente Juan es el mejor guía turístico, tiene el mayor conocimiento en la historia de Perú, es exageradamente amable, honesto y paciente, es bilingüe. 100% recomendando 5⭐️ Juan estamos agradecido con tu excelente servicio.
El mejor guía que encontrarán.
Sumamente responsable, vasto conocimientos y siempre dispuesto a complacer nuestros gustos y deseos.
Una experiencia única
Una experiencia única. El guía muy atento amable, explica las historias al detalle. 100% lo recomiendo.💕🇵🇪
El mejor guía de todo Perú!!
El mejor guía de todo Perú!!! Añai 🙏🏼
Juan es un excelente guía
Juan es un excelente guía , amable y honesto Excelente servicio🥇
The best option for traveling
My experience with MachuPicchuTrek on the Salkantay Premium Private Trek tour was simply exceptional. From the moment we began our adventure, the punctuality and dedication of the operators were evident. Every detail was carefully planned to give me an unforgettable experience.The landscapes that unfolded before my eyes were simply breathtaking.The level of personalized attention I received throughout the tour was unparalleled. The guides were always willing to share their knowledge and passion for the region, which further enriched my experience.In summary, the Salkantay Premium Private Trek tour with MachuPicchuTrek not only met, but exceeded all my expectations. "I definitely recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most incredible places in the world.
Efficient and fair price
I usually don't leave reviews, but I gotta say that this company is just amazing. From the beginning of my booking, until I departed from Cusco, they were so attentive. Alex, who is the owner of Machupicchutrek was on top of everything. He was texting us, promptly answering my calls as needed. I traveled with my child 5 years old and they gave me a piece of mind as he was able to get me a babysitter, who assisted me in this journey. Thank you all for your dedication and care for my family. I will recommend you to all my friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Tours
Choquequirao To Machu Picchu
per person