Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
$1720
Tour Overview
Embark on a breathtaking 7-day adventure with the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, exploring the heart of Peru's Inca heritage. This unforgettable journey begins in Cusco, leading you through the awe-inspiring Apurimac Canyon to the enigmatic Choquequirao Inca Site. Traverse the off-the-beaten-path Inca Trail, discovering hidden sites from the Incas' last days. Experience the thrill of hiking through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high mountain passes, and enjoy panoramic views of the Andes. The trek culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, arriving via the scenic Llaqtapata route. With professional guides, comfortable camping, and a night in Aguas Calientes, this tour offers an immersive experience into the rich history and stunning beauty of Peru. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and photography lovers, this trek promises a memorable exploration of the lost cities of the Incas. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Santa Rosa
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Campsite in Santa Rosa village
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After being collected from your hotel at 4:30 am, drive for 4 hours to the trailhead located at the village of Capuliyoc, on the way you’ll visit the Inca site of Sayhuite, and enormous monolithic rock with geometrical and animal figures, considered as some kind of engineering map that shows the complex irrigating system of the area. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, You’ll meet the trekking staff and start the trek to the great “lost cities of the Incas”. The first 4 hours downhill to Chickiska, starting the hike in the highlands into the Apurimac Canyon where the weather is warmer, lunch is served by your trekking chef using fresh products from the area. The second part of the day is 2.5 hours uphill until the Campsite in Santa Rosa village.
Day 2 : Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
Location: Choquequirao
Accommodation Name: Campsite near Choquequirao
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you’ll start the most challenging part of the Tour. The hike starts with a 4-hour zigzag climb to Marampata where lunch will be waiting for you with an amazing view of the mountains, and a wide variety of flora and fauna. After lunch, you´ll hike for 2 more hours to Choquequirao Inca Site, in the afternoon you can go to explore and enjoy the sunset. The campsite is located near the archeological site.
Day 3 : Day 3: Choquequirao – Pinchiunuyoc – Rio Blanco
Location: Choquequirao
Accommodation Name: Campsite at Rio Blanco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up with a nice hot cup of coffee or tea in your tent while you enjoy the view on the Andes, you´ll have a guided tour to the most impressive sight at the great citadel of Choquequirao. After lunch, you start ascending for 1-hour to Choquequirao pass, next is a 3-hour downhill until the Inca Site of Pinchiuniyoc, After exploring the ancient terraces, you’ll continue for 2-more hours downhill. The Campsite is at Rio Blanco (1880 m / 6167 ft) – Be sure you bring a good mosquito repellent.
Day 4 : Day 4: Rio Blanco – Maizal – Pajonal
Location: Rio Blanco
Accommodation Name: Campsite at Pajonal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After Breakfast, you’ll continue the trek, the first part is a 4-hour challenging zig-zag climb to Maizal (2891m / 9488 ft.). After enjoying a well-deserved lunch, you’ll continue a steep climb for 4-hours until the campsite at Pajonal at (4000m /13124ft). Along the way, you’ll enjoy the beautiful views of farming lands, native plants, birds, and the ancient Victoria Mines.
Day 5 : Day 5: Pajonal – Yanama – Lucmabamba
Location: Santa Teresa District
Accommodation Name: Coffee farmer's house in Lucmabamba
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, hike for 1 hour to San Juan Pass at (4210m/135549), once reaching the top, you’ll take some time to enjoy the amazing vistas of the mountains, then you’ll go down the mountain for 3 hours until the Village of Yanama at (3700m /12139ft). After lunch, say goodbye to the muleteers, and take the transportation to Lucmabamba (2100m/6890ft. I spent the night in a coffee farmer’s house.
Day 6 : Day 6: Lucmabamba – Llaqtapata – Aguas Calientes.
Location: Aguas Calientes
Accommodation Name: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up among coffee and avocado trees, visit the organic coffee farm, learn the process of harvesting, then, you’ll follow for 3-hours through an ancient Inca Trail up to Llaqtapata from where you’ll have the first and best view of the Great Inca city of Machu Picchu. After enjoying the views, you’ll continue down to hydroelectric for lunch, then hike for 3 more hours the final part along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a Hotel at Aguas Calientes.
Day 7 : Day 7: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Location: Machu Picchu
Meals Included: Breakfast
Waking up early and prepare for the most important day of the trek, you’ll take the first bus back up to Machu Picchu to enter before the sunrise. You’ll visit the Inca bridge first and then start the guided tour, exploring the most important streets, plazas, temples. After the guided tour you’ll have time to explore by yourself or hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain (Extra hikes different from the citadel), In the afternoon take the Vistadome panoramic train back to Cusco. Drop off at your hotel around 7.30 pm where the Choquequiro trek to Machu Picchu ends.
What's Included
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Hotel Transfers
Pick up and drop off from your hotel in Cusco.
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Transportation
All transportation during the 7 days of the tour.
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Tour Guides
Professional English speaking native tour guide and a second tour guide for groups of 9 or more.
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Support Staff
Chef, porters, and muleteers included.
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Cargo Mule
Cargo mule to carry food, equipment, and 7 kilos of your personal items.
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Drinkable Water
Drinkable water provided except for the last day.
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Meals
All meals included except for the last day's lunch and dinner.
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Camping Equipment
Camping equipment including tents, table, chairs, and porta-potty.
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Accommodation
5 nights camping with comfortable equipment and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
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Sleeping Arrangements
Sleeping foam mattress, pillows, and sheets provided.
What's Not Included
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Personal Equipment
Sleeping bag, trekking poles, and air mattress (can be hired from us).
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Meals on Last Day
Last day lunch and dinner are not included.
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Additional Entrance Fees
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain (different from Machu Picchu citadel).
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Gratuities
Gratuities are optional and not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended but not included.
Requirements
- Original Passport for Machu Picchu
- Student card (if you’d booked as a student)
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Rain gear very necessary
- Sun protection every day
- Warm clothes, hat, and gloves
- Comfortable clothing for 7 days
- Insect repellant very important
- Toiletries and hand sanitizer
- Personal medication, band-aids, moleskin
- Flashlight and extra batteries
Please Note
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Mode of Transport
The tour includes all transportation during the 7 days, starting with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a bus ride from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and a Vistadome Panoramic Train back to Cusco, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Accommodation
Experience 5 nights of comfortable camping with all necessary equipment provided, including tents, tables, chairs, and a porta-potty. Enjoy a night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, complete with sleeping foam mattress, pillows, and sheets for a restful stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of views can I expect during the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?
During the trek, you can expect incredible views of the Andes, the Apurimac Canyon, and the ancient Inca sites. You'll also have the opportunity to see a variety of flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking vistas of the mountains from various points along the trail.
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What is the most challenging part of the trek?
The most challenging part of the trek is the 4-hour zigzag climb to Marampata on the second day. This section of the hike is demanding but offers rewarding views of the surrounding mountains.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?
The trek includes 5 nights of camping with comfortable equipment and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. Camping equipment such as tents, tables, chairs, and a porta-potty are provided.
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Are meals included during the trek?
Yes, all meals are included during the trek except for lunch and dinner on the last day. A professional chef prepares meals using fresh local products.
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Is there an opportunity to explore Machu Picchu independently?
Yes, after the guided tour of Machu Picchu, you will have time to explore the site on your own or opt for additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which are separate from the main citadel.
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What should I bring for the trek?
You should bring your original passport, comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear, sun protection, warm clothes, insect repellent, toiletries, personal medication, a flashlight with extra batteries, and any specific dietary requirements.
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When is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.
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When do you have to arrive in Cusco?
It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.
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How to prevent altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.
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Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?
Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.
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How many people are allowed in each group?
The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.
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Low Deposit
TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.
Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
7 Days Starting in Cusco, Peru and ending in Machu Picchu, Peru
Visiting: Cusco, Choquequirao, Rio Blanco, Santa Teresa District, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Tour operator:
Tour code:
381234
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
10-80