Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu 8D/7N

Private tour / Group tour

From $ 1400 USD per person - 8DChoquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu 8D/7N

8 Days / 7 Nights Duration

Max 10 People Group Size

4,668m (15,315ft) Max Altitude

Very Challenging Difficulty

Camping + Domes + Hotel Accommodation

English & Spanish Bilingual Guide

All Meals Included

All Permits Included

Cusco

Choquequirao

San Juan Pass

Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu

OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
INCLUSIONS
PACKING LIST
BEFORE YOU GO
PRICING
HOW TO BOOK

Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu 8D/7N

Embark on the ultimate Andean expedition, an epic 8-day journey connecting two of Peru's most magnificent lost cities. Begin with a challenging descent into the immense Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, before ascending to the remote and rarely visited Choquequirao—the "Cradle of Gold." This massive Inca citadel, larger than Machu Picchu yet receiving only a fraction of visitors, offers an intimate encounter with ancient history. Continue your pilgrimage across high mountain passes, including the spectacular San Juan Pass at 4,668m, traversing diverse ecosystems from dry highlands to lush cloud forests. The journey rewards you with thermal hot springs, unique Jungle Dome accommodations, and views of the legendary Llactapata ruins before your triumphant arrival at Machu Picchu. This challenging trek is designed for experienced adventurers seeking the road less traveled and the profound satisfaction of earning every step toward the ultimate wonder.

Start Cusco City

End Cusco City

Style Trekking & Camping

Best Time Apr - Oct

Tour Type Multi-Day Trek

Min Age 14+ Years

Time at Site 4+ Hours

Altitude Profile

Trek from Cusco (3,400m) descending to Apurimac Canyon, ascending to Choquequirao (3,050m), crossing San Juan Pass (4,668m), then descending to Machu Picchu (2,430m).

masl

meters above sea level
1m = 3.28 ft

8-Day Itinerary

The Epic Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu Experience

The Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu is one of the most challenging and rewarding adventures in Peru. This 8-day expedition takes you through some of the most remote and spectacular Andean landscapes, visiting the "Sister City" of Machu Picchu before arriving at the legendary Lost City of the Incas.

Experience dramatic altitude changes from 1,550m to 4,668m, traverse ancient Inca trails, camp under pristine mountain skies, and explore two of the most impressive archaeological sites in South America with minimal crowds.

Day 1

Cusco - Capuliyoc - Chiquisca

Group of hikers starting the Choquequirao trek

04:00 AM

Hotel Pickup in Cusco

The epic adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Board our comfortable private transport for the scenic 4-hour drive to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek.

08:00 AM

Arrival at Capuliyoc (2,915m)

Arrive at the Capuliyoc viewpoint with spectacular panoramic views of the Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Meet your mule team and enjoy a light breakfast before beginning the descent.

09:00 AM

Begin Descent to Apurimac Canyon

Start the challenging descent of approximately 1,500 meters over the course of the day. The trail winds down through diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude grasslands to subtropical vegetation.

12:30 PM

Lunch Along the Trail

Enjoy a delicious hot lunch prepared by our chef at a scenic rest point. Take time to rest your legs and hydrate before continuing the afternoon descent.

05:00 PM

Arrival at Chiquisca Camp (1,900m)

Reach the Chiquisca campsite, nestled in the warm lower slopes of the canyon. Enjoy dinner and settle into your camping accommodation for the night, preparing for the challenging day ahead.

Day 2

Chiquisca - Playa Rosalinas - Marampata - Choquequirao

05:30 AM

Early Breakfast & Trek Start

Today is the most demanding day of the entire trek. Begin with a hearty breakfast and start the descent to the Apurimac River, reaching the lowest point of the journey at Playa Rosalinas (1,550m).

08:00 AM

Cross the Apurimac River (1,550m)

Cross the impressive Apurimac River via a footbridge at Playa Rosalinas. This is the lowest and warmest point of the trek. Take a moment to appreciate this mighty river before beginning the challenging ascent.

09:00 AM

Grueling Ascent to Marampata

Begin the steep 1,500-meter climb from the river to Marampata. This is the most challenging section of the trek, climbing through increasingly dramatic terrain with spectacular views opening up below.

01:00 PM

Lunch at Marampata

Arrive at Marampata village for a well-deserved lunch. Enjoy your first distant views of Choquequirao across the mountain ridge. Rest and refuel for the final push to the archaeological site.

04:00 PM

Arrival at Choquequirao (3,050m)

Reach the magnificent Choquequirao archaeological site! Set up camp near the ruins and enjoy your first views of this incredible "Sister City" of Machu Picchu. Dinner and overnight at Sky Camp with panoramic views.

Day 3

Choquequirao Exploration - Pinchaunuyoc - Maizal

06:00 AM

Sunrise at Choquequirao

Wake up early to witness an unforgettable sunrise over the Choquequirao ruins. Watch as the first golden rays illuminate the ancient terraces and temples of this remote Inca citadel.

07:00 AM

Guided Tour of Choquequirao

After breakfast, enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the archaeological complex. Explore the main plaza, ceremonial buildings, and the famous llama terraces. Learn about the history and significance of this site, believed to be even larger than Machu Picchu.

12:00 PM

Lunch & Departure Toward Rio Blanco

Enjoy lunch at camp before saying goodbye to Choquequirao. Begin the trek toward the remote sector of Pinchaunuyoc, descending into the Rio Blanco valley through pristine cloud forest.

05:00 PM

Camp at Maizal (3,000m)

Arrive at the remote campsite of Maizal, surrounded by cloud forest vegetation. This area sees very few visitors, offering a truly wilderness camping experience. Dinner and overnight in tents.

Day 4

Maizal - Minas Victoria - San Juan Pass - Yanama

05:00 AM

Early Start - Minas Victoria

Today is the highest day of the trek. Begin early with a challenging ascent through the abandoned mining area of Minas Victoria. The trail climbs steadily through increasingly barren, high-altitude terrain.

10:00 AM

Summit: San Juan Pass (4,668m)

Reach the highest point of the entire expedition at San Juan Pass! At 4,668 meters, enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the Salkantay and Humantay mountains in the distance. Participate in a traditional offering ceremony.

11:30 AM

Descent to Yanama Valley

Begin the long descent from the pass toward the Yanama Valley. The landscape transforms dramatically as you drop in elevation, with warmer temperatures and greener vegetation appearing.

01:00 PM

Lunch on the Trail

Enjoy a hot lunch at a scenic point during the descent. Rest and celebrate conquering the highest point of the journey before continuing toward camp.

04:30 PM

Arrival at Yanama (3,900m)

Arrive at the small village of Yanama for the night's camp. This remote community offers a glimpse into traditional Andean highland life. Enjoy dinner and rest in the comfortable camp setting.

Day 5

Yanama - Totora - Collpapampa

Hiking through cloud forest to Collpapampa

06:30 AM

Breakfast & Morning Trek

After breakfast, continue the journey toward the Santa Teresa Valley. The trail descends gradually through beautiful high-altitude grasslands, with views of the Salkantay massif in the distance.

10:00 AM

Totora Village

Pass through the charming village of Totora, enjoying the changing landscape as you enter the cloud forest zone. The vegetation becomes increasingly lush and tropical.

12:30 PM

Lunch in the Cloud Forest

Enjoy lunch surrounded by the misty beauty of the cloud forest. The air is warmer here, and you'll notice exotic plants, orchids, and perhaps even hummingbirds and other wildlife.

04:00 PM

Arrival at Collpapampa (2,900m)

Arrive at the campsite in Collpapampa, an area where the Choquequirao and Salkantay routes converge. Enjoy the milder climate and lush surroundings. Dinner and camping under the stars.

Day 6

Collpapampa - Wiñay Pocco - Lucmabamba (Jungle Domes)

06:30 AM

Breakfast & Departure

Today's trek takes you deeper into the lush Santa Teresa Valley. The trail follows the river through increasingly tropical vegetation, with waterfalls and natural pools along the way.

10:00 AM

La Playa & Local Plantations

Pass through La Playa and the surrounding coffee, banana, and avocado plantations. Learn about local agriculture and enjoy the warm, tropical climate of the high jungle.

12:30 PM

Lunch & Coffee Tasting

Enjoy lunch in the jungle setting, followed by a visit to an organic coffee farm. Learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup, and taste some of Peru's finest organic coffee.

04:00 PM

Arrival at Lucmabamba - Jungle Domes (2,100m)

Arrive at the unique Jungle Domes accommodation in Lucmabamba! These comfortable geodesic domes offer hot showers and a comfortable bed after days of camping. Enjoy dinner and a well-deserved rest in this stunning jungle setting.

Day 7

Lucmabamba - Llactapata - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

First view of Machu Picchu from Llactapata

05:00 AM

Early Climb to Llactapata

An early start for the challenging climb to the Inca ruins of Llactapata (2,700m). This archaeological site offers the first panoramic views of Machu Picchu across the valley - a truly unforgettable moment after 6 days of trekking!

08:00 AM

Llactapata Ruins - First View of Machu Picchu!

Explore the Llactapata archaeological site while enjoying spectacular views of Machu Picchu in the distance. Your guide will explain the historical connection between these two Inca sites. Take memorable photos of this incredible vantage point.

11:00 AM

Descent to Hidroelectrica

Descend through the jungle to Hidroelectrica station. Here you'll say goodbye to your support team - the mules, horsemen, and porters who made this incredible journey possible. Enjoy a final trail lunch together.

01:30 PM

Walk Along Railway to Aguas Calientes

The final 2-3 hour walk follows the railway tracks through beautiful jungle scenery to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. This flat, scenic walk brings you ever closer to your ultimate destination.

05:00 PM

Arrival in Aguas Calientes & Hotel

Check into your comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes. Enjoy a hot shower and relax before dinner. Your guide will provide a detailed briefing about tomorrow's visit to Machu Picchu - the climax of your epic 8-day adventure!

Day 8

Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

05:00 AM

Early Bus to Machu Picchu

The grand finale begins with an early bus ride up to Machu Picchu. Arrive in time to witness the magical sunrise over the citadel, watching the morning mist clear to reveal this wonder of the world - your ultimate reward after 7 days of trekking!

06:00 AM

Comprehensive Guided Tour (2-3 Hours)

Your expert guide leads an in-depth tour of the principal temples, plazas, and terraces. Visit the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, Temple of the Three Windows, and the Royal Tomb. Learn about the incredible engineering and spiritual significance of this sacred site.

09:00 AM

Optional: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

For those who booked the optional climb, ascend Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for spectacular aerial views of the citadel (additional permit required, book 2-3 months in advance). Both climbs take approximately 2-3 hours round trip.

12:00 PM

Free Time & Final Exploration

Enjoy free time to wander the citadel, take final photos, and reflect on your incredible 8-day journey from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu. At the designated time, descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own).

02:00 PM

Train to Ollantaytambo

Board the scenic Expedition train for the journey through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. Enjoy panoramic windows and complimentary snacks as you reflect on the adventure of a lifetime.

06:00 PM

Private Transfer to Cusco

Your private transport awaits at Ollantaytambo for the drive back to Cusco. Arrive at your hotel filled with unforgettable memories of completing one of Peru's most challenging and rewarding adventures - the epic Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu!

What's Included?

✓

Included

Pre-Tour Preparation

Pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Cusco
Entrance ticket to Choquequirao Archaeological Site
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Citadel
All required permits for Choquequirao route

Transportation

Private hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
Private transport Cusco to Capuliyoc (trek start)
Expedition Train ticket Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Bus tickets Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes (round trip)
Private transfer Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Professional Team

Licensed bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
Professional chef and cooking staff
Experienced horsemen with pack horses/mules
Porters for camping equipment
24/7 emergency support and satellite communication

Meals

7 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 7 Dinners
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
Fresh snacks, fruits, and unlimited drinking water
Hot beverages (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, coca tea)

Accommodation

5 nights camping (quality 4-season tents)
1 night at Sky Camp/Mountain Dome in Collpapampa
1 night at Jungle Domes in Lucmabamba
1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Hot water for washing each morning and evening

Safety & Extras

Comprehensive first aid kit and emergency oxygen
Satellite phone for emergencies
Daily health checks by guide
Entrance to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Comprehensive guided tours of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu

Not Included

Breakfast on Day 1 before pickup
Lunch on Day 8 in Aguas Calientes
Sleeping bag rental ($25)
Trekking poles rental ($20)
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($75 extra)
Vistadome train upgrade ($55 extra)
Tips for guide, porters, horsemen, and cook
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Extra nights in Cusco or Aguas Calientes
Emergency evacuation by horse (if needed)

Recommended Packing List

Click items to mark them as packed. For this challenging 8-day trek, be prepared for extreme temperature variations from hot valleys to freezing passes!

Documents & Money

Valid Passport (Original and current)

Student card (if applicable for discount)

Travel insurance documents

Cash for tips (Peruvian Soles recommended)

Booking confirmation printout

Emergency contact list

Clothing

Sleeping bag (-10°C rated or rental)

Rain jacket/poncho (waterproof)

Down jacket (essential for cold nights)

Fleece jacket (mid-layer)

Trekking pants (3-4 pairs, quick-dry)

Shorts (for warmer valley sections)

Long-sleeve shirts and T-shirts (5-6)

Thermal underwear (top and bottom)

Broken-in hiking boots (waterproof)

Sandals (for camps)

8+ pairs trekking socks

Sun hat and warm beanie

Warm gloves (waterproof)

Waterproof rain pants

Accessories & Gear

Daypack (25-35 liters)

Duffel bag for mules (max 7kg)

Trekking poles (highly recommended)

Water bottles or hydration system (3L)

Headlamp with extra batteries

Sunscreen (SPF 70+)

Insect repellent (DEET recommended)

Sunglasses with UV protection

Camera and extra batteries

High-capacity power bank (no electricity!)

Toilet paper and hand sanitizer

Personal first aid kit

Energy snacks (chocolate, trail mix)

Dry bags for electronics

Altitude sickness pills (Diamox)

Blister plasters/Moleskin

Before You Go

Essential information to prepare for your Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu adventure

Physical Preparation

This is Peru's most demanding trek reaching 4,668m altitude. Start training 2-3 months before with hiking, cardio exercises, and stair climbing. Build up to 8-10 hour hikes on steep terrain with a weighted pack.

Altitude Acclimatization

Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco (3,400m) before the trek. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, take it easy, and try coca tea. Consider altitude medication (consult your doctor about Diamox).

Weather Conditions

Expect extreme temperature variations: -5°C at San Juan Pass to 30°C in the valleys. Be prepared for rain any time of year. Best months are April-October (dry season). Layer your clothing.

Vaccinations & Health

Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever). Bring personal medications, altitude sickness pills (Diamox), and insect repellent with DEET for lower elevations.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for this trek. Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking (up to 5,000m), emergency helicopter evacuation, and medical expenses. Bring proof to the pre-trip briefing.

Passport Requirements

Your original passport is required for Choquequirao and Machu Picchu entry. The name and number must exactly match your reservation. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.

Money & Tipping

Bring cash in Peruvian Soles for tips and personal expenses. No ATMs on the trek. Suggested tips: Guide ($10-12/day), Cook ($6-8/day), Muleteers ($4-5/day). Bring $200-300 extra for emergencies.

Booking Timeline

Book 2-3 months in advance for peak season (May-September). Submit passport details within 48 hours of booking for permit processing. Full balance due 30 days before departure.

Luggage Storage

Leave excess luggage at your Cusco hotel (most offer free storage). Mules carry up to 7kg of your personal items during the trek. Pack only essential gear for 8 days of trekking and 7 nights of camping.

Tour Packages & Pricing

Choose the perfect option for your Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu 8D/7N adventure

Our prices vary depending on your group size and the level of service chosen — ensuring you find the perfect balance between adventure, comfort, and value! Every package includes private transportation, professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, all meals on the trail, camping equipment, and permanent assistance throughout your 8-day expedition.

Private

PRIVATE ADVENTURE

Exclusive Private Tour

Perfect for: Couples, families, or groups seeking an exclusive, personalized experience.

Conquer Choquequirao and Machu Picchu with exclusive comfort, personalized service, flexible dates, and your own private guide and team.

+51 969 373 000

+51 958 748 089

info@peru-reservations.com

perureservations1@gmail.com

Best Value

PERU RESERVATIONS CREW

Shared Group Tour

$1,400.00 per person

Deposit: $700.00 per person

Perfect for: Solo travelers or small groups who enjoy a social atmosphere.

Join a shared adventure — the most affordable and social way to explore Choquequirao and Machu Picchu while meeting new people from around the world!

Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades

Huayna Picchu $60 Requires 2-3 months advance booking

Machu Picchu Mountain $60 Alternative view, slightly less demanding

Trekking Poles $25 Per pair for entire 8-day trek

Sleeping Bag $35 -10°C / 14°F rating

Flexible Payment Options

You can pay the full amount or secure your spot with a 50% deposit. The remaining balance is due 30 days before your departure date.

How to Book with Peru Reservations

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking on WeTravel

Follow these simple steps to secure your Choquequirao Trek & Machu Picchu 8D/7N adventure quickly and securely:

Click "BOOK NOW"

Find this button on our tour page, and it will direct you to our secure booking platform on WeTravel.

Choose your travel date

Select your desired departure date from the calendar. Remember this is an 8-day trek starting from Cusco. We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance for this demanding expedition.

Select your package

Choose between The Intimate Duo (Private for 2) at $2,400/person or the Peru Reservations Crew (Shared Group) at $1,400/person.

Choose your payment method

Decide whether you want to pay only the deposit to secure your booking or the full payment upfront. The deposit is 50% of the total price ($700 for shared group).

Complete traveler information

It is VERY IMPORTANT that you enter the full names and surnames of each participant exactly as they appear on their passport or national ID document. Fill in all required fields with accurate information.

Proceed to secure payment

Complete your transaction using your bank account (US Checking Account) or your credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). WeTravel uses high-security encryption to protect your data.

Receive your instant confirmation

Upon completing the payment, you will immediately receive a confirmation email from WeTravel with your transaction receipt at the email address you registered.

Send your documents

Within the next few hours, you will receive a second email from our Peru Reservations team. We will kindly ask you to reply to that email attaching a clear photo of the data page of your passport (or ID) so we can purchase your Choquequirao and Machu Picchu entrance tickets with the correct names.

Need help during the process?

Our team is here to support you. If you have any questions or issues, contact us immediately:

WhatsApp: +51 969 373 000

WhatsApp: +51 958 748 089

Email: info@peru-reservations.com

Email: perureservations1@gmail.com

Your booking will be secured and confirmed within a maximum of 48 hours! We will maintain communication with you to remind you of the details and the countdown to your trip.

Have Questions?

Send us your inquiry and we'll get back to you shortly

Book Your Adventure

Select your preferred date and secure your spot

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

Terms & Conditions

Key points from our booking policies

Payments

50% deposit required to confirm
Balance due 30 days before trek
Prices in USD

Cancellations

60+ days: 50% refund
30-60 days: 25% refund
Less than 30 days: No refund

Your Responsibilities

Valid passport required
Travel insurance mandatory
Accurate personal information

Force Majeure

No refunds for weather issues
No refunds for strikes/protests
Trail conditions may vary

Non-Refundable

Choquequirao entrance
Machu Picchu entrance
Train and bus tickets

Documentation

Minors need authorization
Good physical fitness required
Use passport from reservation

This is a summary of our key terms. For complete details and full legal terms, please review our complete Terms and Conditions document.

View Full Terms & Conditions

PHOTO GALLERY

vista_aérea_de_terrazas_incas_en_machu_picchu-aerial_view_of_inca_terraces_at_machu_picchu

vicuña_entre_terrazas_de_piedra_verdes_con_árboles_perú-vicuña_among_green_stone_terraces_with_trees_peru

senderistas_en_el_camino_inca_perú-hikers_on_the_inca_trail_peru

ruinas_incas_en_montaña_verde_con_nubes-inca_ruins_on_green_mountain_with_clouds

río_brillante_serpenteando_en_valle_oscuro-bright_river_winding_in_dark_valley

personas_y_mulas_cruzando_puente_sobre_río-people_and_mules_crossing_bridge_over_river

personas_explorando_ruinas_incas_entre_montañas_y_nubes-people_exploring_inca_ruins_among_mountains_and_clouds

pared_de_piedra_con_cruz_y_plantas_verdes-stone_wall_with_cross_and_green_plants

hombre_posando_junto_a_cartel_de_marampata-man_posing_next_to_marampata_sign

grupo_de_excursionistas_en_sendero_de_montaña-group_of_hikers_on_mountain_trail

hombre_caminando_sendero_andino_con_montañas-man_walking_andean_trail_with_mountains

hombre_con_cámara_camina_por_sendero_de_piedra-man_with_camera_walks_on_stone_path

hombre_en_montañas_andinas_con_terrazas_incas-man_in_andean_mountains_with_inca_terraces

hombre_excursionista_en_ruinas_incas_andinas-man_hiker_in_andean_inca_ruins

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machu_picchu_montañas_y_turistas-machu_picchu_mountains_and_tourists

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the maximum group size for shared tours?

Our shared tours maintain an intimate experience with a maximum of 10 travelers to ensure personalized attention from our guides and a lower environmental impact throughout the remote trail sections.

What is the most challenging part of the Choquequirao trek?

The most difficult section is the descent into and ascent out of the Apurímac Canyon (Day 1 and 2). This involves extreme elevation change over steep, hot terrain. We highly recommend physical training focusing on leg endurance and acclimatization.

How do I prepare for the high altitude (up to 4,668m)?

We strongly recommend acclimatizing in Cusco for a minimum of 3 days before the tour. Acclimatization is key to mitigating altitude sickness symptoms, along with staying hydrated, resting, and considering over-the-counter altitude medication after consulting your doctor.

Are trekking poles provided or should I bring my own?

Quality trekking poles are available for rent at a nominal fee (e.g., $20.00 per pair for the duration). Many experienced travelers prefer this to carrying them internationally, as they provide stability and reduce joint impact on the steep descents.

What is the accommodation like on the trek?

For 6 nights, you will stay in high-quality, four-season tents (using exclusive campsites like the Mountain Sky View and Jungle Domes). On the final night (Day 7), you will have a comfortable 3-star equivalent hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathrooms and hot water.

What happens if I have dietary restrictions?

We comfortably accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific dietary needs (such as allergies). Our Andean chef is experienced in preparing high-energy, delicious meals for everyone, provided you inform us during the booking process.

What is the deposit and final payment policy?

A non-refundable deposit of $700.00 (for shared tours) is required to secure your reservation and permits. The remaining balance can typically be paid in cash (Peruvian Soles or USD) or via credit card in Cusco before your departure date.