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Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu – 9-day adventure

Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu – 9-day adventure

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Challenge yourself with Peru’s ultimate hiking expedition, from the lost city of Choquequirao to the legendary Machu Picchu.

This demanding 9-day adventure crosses deep canyons, cloud forests, and ancient Inca trails that few travelers ever see.

Stay in eco-lodges and camps run by experienced local operators, enjoy nutritious meals, and explore ruins that rival Machu Picchu in scale and mystery.

Outer curates this route exclusively with top-rated guides, ensuring safety, comfort, and deep connection with nature.

Conquer the Andes and uncover Peru’s most secret Inca citadel, join the Choquequirao expedition.

Minimum of 2 travelers required to guarantee departure

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Key information

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ). Private transfer to Hotel Tierra Viva Centro Cusco. Free time to acclimatize.

  • Overnight in Tierra Viva or similar
  • Meals: none

Day 2: Cusco to Chiquisca

Early drive (4 hrs) to Cachora. Begin trek, descending 1,600 m into the Apurímac Canyon to Chiquisca campsite (1,900 m).

  • Overnight camp in Chiquisca (1,900 m)
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Chiquisca to Choquequirao

Cross the Apurímac River, ascend past Santa Rosa and Marampata to reach Choquequirao ruins (3,050 m).

  • Overnight at camp near site (3,000m)
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Explore Choquequirao

Full-day guided visit of Choquequirao’s plazas, terraces, and llama carvings. Return to camp at Marampata.

Camp

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Choquequirao to Maizal

Short climb then descend 1,400 m past Pinchaunuyoc ruins to Rio Blanco. Steep ascent (~1,200 m) to Maizal camp (3,000 m).

  • Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Maizal to Lucmabamba

Trek past old silver mines to Abra San Juan (4,000 m) with Cordillera Vilcabamba views. Descend to Yanama village, then transfer to Lucmabamba (coffee region).

  • Camp overnight.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes

Hike Inca Trail through cloud forest to Llactapata ruins with panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Descend to hydroelectric, then short train ride to Aguas Calientes.

  • Overnight at Hotel El MaPi by Inkaterra.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Machu Picchu

Morning guided tour of Machu Picchu (residential, agricultural, ceremonial areas). Afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.

  • Overnight at Hotel Tierra Viva Centro Cusco.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Departure from Cusco Private transfer to airport for onward flights.

  • Meals: Breakfast

What's included

  • Airport transfers (Cusco in/out)
  • 8 nights’ accommodation (Cusco hotel + camps + Aguas Calientes hotel)
  • All meals except Day 1 (none) & Day 9 (breakfast only)
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Camping gear (tents, mats)
  • Mules/horses for equipment
  • Emergency horse
  • Entrance fees: Choquequirao, Llactapata, Machu Picchu
  • Train tickets (Hydroelectric–Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo)
  • Bus tickets to Machu Picchu
  • Trekking poles provided
  • Snacks & water during trek

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Sleeping bag (available for rent)
  • Single supplement (for hotel nights)
  • Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain permits (on request)
    - Personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry)

Packing list

  • Trekking boots (broken in)
  • Sleeping bag (–10 °C)
  • Trekking poles
  • Warm layers (down jacket, fleece)
  • Waterproof jacket/poncho
  • Quick-dry trekking pants/shirts
  • Hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp
  • Daypack (20–30 L)
  • Reusable water bottle/hydration pack
  • Personal toiletries & meds

Weather

Andean Highlands:

Cold nights often drop close to freezing (0–5 °C / 32–41 °F), while days are usually sunny and range between 15–20 °C / 59–68 °F. Layering is essential to manage the strong contrasts.


Cloud Forest & Jungle:

Warm, humid, and lush. Daytime temperatures average 25–30 °C / 77–86 °F, with high humidity and frequent afternoon showers or mist. Nights are milder (18–22 °C / 64–72 °F).


Seasonality: The dry season (Apr–Oct) is the most stable, with clearer skies and easier trekking. The wet season (Nov–Mar) brings heavier rains and higher river levels, but also greener valleys and richer wildlife.

Accomodation

Hotels and campsites

  • 2 nights Hotel Tierra Viva Centro Cusco
  • 5 nights Campsites: Chiquisca, Marampata, Maizal, Lucmabamba
  • 1 night Hotel El MaPi by Inkaterra (Aguas Calientes)

How to get there?

Fly into Cusco (CUZ).

  • Private transfers in/out included.
  • Overland drives to Cachora (start) and from Ollantaytambo (end).
  • Train Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo included.

FAQs

When is the best time to travel to Peru?

The best season is during the dry months from May to October, ideal for trekking, biking, and river adventures in the Andes. The rainy season (November to March) is better suited for rainforest trips.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover adventure activities, emergency evacuation, medical
expenses, and trip cancellations.

How fit do I need to be?

Most trips require a reasonable level of fitness. Trekking and biking at altitude can be demanding. It’s recommended to train with hikes and cardio beforehand. We’ll advise you on the fitness level needed for each experience.

What should I pack?

  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers
  • Warm jacket for cold nights
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
  • Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
  • Daypack for hikes
  • You’ll receive a detailed packing list after booking.

How do you handle altitude?

We recommend spending at least 2 nights acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting
any high-altitude activity. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol. Altitude medication can be used after consulting with a doctor.

Are meals included? Can you accommodate special diets?

Yes, most multi-day adventures include all meals. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice.

Do you provide equipment?

Yes, for activities like biking, rafting, or camping, all technical gear is provided. You only need to bring personal items and clothing.

Is tipping expected?

Tips are not included but are appreciated. Suggested guidelines are shared before the trip. Generally, $5–10 per day for guides is standard, depending on the group size and satisfaction.

What’s your group size?

We specialize in small group adventures, typically between 2 and 10 people. Private departures are
also available.

What is Choquequirao?

Choquequirao is a remote Inca archaeological site often called the "sister city" of Machu Picchu. It’s larger in area, less crowded, and accessible only by a challenging multi-day trek.

How long is the trek?

The classic Choquequirao trek takes 7 days. There are extended versions of 8–9 days that continue to Machu Picchu. All routes involve steep ascents and descents,
crossing canyons and remote mountain paths.

How difficult is it?

This is one of the most physically demanding treks in Peru. Days involve long hikes (6–10 hours) with significant elevation changes. Good fitness and prior hiking experience are strongly recommended.

Is it worth it?

Absolutely. Choquequirao is breathtaking, both in terms of scenery and its untouched, mystical atmosphere. Very few tourists make it, making the experience incredibly rewarding and peaceful.

Do I need a guide?

Yes, a certified guide is highly recommended, especially due to the remoteness, technical terrain, and safety logistics involved.

What’s the altitude?

Choquequirao sits at about 3,050 meters (10,000 feet), but the trek dips down to under 1,500 meters (Apurímac River) and climbs back up, to you’ll face constant altitude shifts.

Are mules or porters included?

Yes, support teams typically include mules for carrying gear and a cook. You’ll just hike with a daypack. All camping gear and food is provided.

When’s the best time to go?

May to October (dry season) is ideal for this trek. Rainy season makes trails slippery and river crossings more dangerous. 

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our adventures and you’ll need to share your policy details before departure. Your cover must include overseas medical treatment, emergency evacuation/repatriation, baggage and equipment, plus all the activities in your itinerary.

We also strongly recommend cancellation and curtailment cover in case illness or other unforeseen events prevent you from travelling.

Standard policies often exclude adventure activities, so please check the fine print. Many travelers choose World Nomads for adventure, focused protection, select the policy that fits your needs and fully covers your trip.