This isn’t your grandma’s Machu Picchu tour. This is six days of raw, unfiltered adventure, trekking from the lost ruins of Choquequirao—Machu Picchu’s untamed sister city—through valleys and cloud forests to the big prize itself. You’ll get bruised, you’ll get breathless, but you’ll see Peru at its finest, far from the tourist crowds. This is the way Machu Picchu was meant to be done: real, rugged, unforgettable.

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek

The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is best described as 6 day adventure, suited to those for whom Machu Picchu isn’t simply another box to be ticked, but instead a real bucket list destination to be appreciated and enjoyed. This off-the-beaten-path trek is the perfect addition to your custom Peru tour!

Choquequirao is sometimes described as Machu Picchu’s “sister city”. However, a significant difference between the two is that Choquequirao is seldom visited, so it offers a fantastic opportunity to visit a real “lost city”! The Peruvian government is planning to open up Choquequirao in the next few years by building a cable car, so now could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the city at its best.

Enjoy a true adventure that is the ultimate expression of “off-the-beaten-track”, as you descend valleys, climb mountain passes, and hike through the cloud forest, culminating in the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu!

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Highlights Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek:

On the Choquequirao Machu Picchu trek, you will hike through one of Peru’s most beautiful unspoiled wildernesses.
Explore the majestic ruined city of Choquequirao, the last refuge of the Incas and the last refuge away from the crowds at Machu Picchu!
Walk along authentic Inca trails and discover seldom-visited archaeological sites.
Enjoy a huge diversity of landscapes, climates, flora and fauna over the course of a challenging seven-day hike.
Be overwhelmed when you finally arrive at Machu Picchu, a wonder of the world and the endpoint of your odyssey!

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek Itinerary Overview:

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquishca- Santa Rosa

Your private transportation will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, marking the start of your unforgettable Choquequirao trek adventure! Enjoy a scenic drive to Capuliyoc, the trailhead for this challenging yet rewarding journey. Begin with a mostly flat, easy hike to Chiquishca, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and your first glimpse of the legendary Choquequirao ruins.

From Chiquishca, descend into the canyon and make your way to Santa Rosa, your campsite for the night. This day offers a taste of the incredible landscapes and adventure to come, blending the beauty of the Andes with the excitement of the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek.

Trekking time: 8:00 – 9:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 12 km. (7.45645 mi.) approx.
Low point:930m. / 6332 ft. – High point: 2850m/ 9470ft. approx.

Day 2: Santa Rosa – Maranpata -Choquequirao

Start your day with an invigorating hike along the canyon floor before beginning the challenging ascent to Choquequirao. This section of the trekking Choquequirao route offers stunning changes in climate and scenery as you gain altitude, with an incredible variety of flora and fauna to admire along the way.

Upon reaching Maranpata, enjoy the breathtaking views before continuing to the Choquequirao archaeological site. Spend your afternoon exploring this enigmatic Inca city with your expert guide. Discover the nine ancient towns that made up the city and marvel at the intricate llama mosaics, twenty-four stone carvings that showcase the artistry of the Inca civilization.

Trekking time: 7:00 – 8:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 12.5 km. (7.76714 mi.) approx.
Low point: 2850m/ 9470ft. – High point: 3033m/ 9950.787ft. approx.

Peru Choquequirao Trek 31

Peru Choquequirao Trek 8

Peru Choquequirao Trek 14 1

Peru Choquequirao Trek 49

Day 3: Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal

Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise at Choquequirao, watching the first rays of light illuminate the ancient ruins. Spend a bit more time exploring this vast, mystical site, soaking in the history and grandeur before continuing your Choquequirao trek.

The trail takes you over the Choquequirao Pass, offering stunning mountain vistas, before descending into the lush Río Blanco Canyon. Along the way, stop at Pinchayunuyoc, an incredible yet little-known Inca ruin with cascading terraces that seem to emerge from the jungle itself.

After lunch by the river, prepare for the most challenging section of the trek—a steep climb to the Maizal campsite. Though tough, the effort is rewarded with jaw-dropping views that might just be the best of the entire journey. As the sun sets, relax under a canopy of stars, feeling accomplished and inspired by the adventure so far.

Trekking time: 7:00 – 8:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 15 km. (9.32057 mi.) approx.
Low point: 3000/ 9842.52ft. – High point: 3500m/ 11482.94ft. approx.

Peru Choquequirao Trek Collage 3

Peru Choquequirao Trek 150

Peru Choquequirao Trek Collage 4

Day 4: Maizal – San Juan – Yanama

Begin your morning trekking along a well-preserved Inca trail, winding through lush cloud forests as you ascend to the San Juan Pass. This section of the Choquequirao trek offers a unique blend of history and breathtaking natural beauty. Along the way, explore an ancient mine and marvel at the stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, with its towering snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes.

From the pass, descend into the valley to reach your campsite at Yanama, a tranquil spot surrounded by the majestic Andes. Nestled at the base of the valley, Yanama provides a perfect retreat after a day filled with adventure and awe-inspiring scenery.

Trekking time: 7:00 – 8:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 11 km. (6.83508 mi.) approx.
Low point: 3500/ 11482.94ft. – High point: 4200m/ 13779.53ft. approx.

Day 5: Yanama – Hidroelectric – Aguas Calientes

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before continuing your Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. Start the day with a scenic bus ride to Hydroelectric, where the journey transforms into a tranquil hike. Walk along the train tracks for approximately three hours, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of the Urubamba River, as the anticipation for Machu Picchu builds.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your comfortable hotel and unwind. Take the evening to explore the charming town or simply relax and prepare for tomorrow’s crowning moment—your sunrise visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.

Trekking time: 3:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 10 km. (6.21371mi.) approx.
Low point: 2000/ 6561.68ft. – High point: 4200m/ 13779.53ft. approx.

Day 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
You’ll catch the first bus up to Machu Picchu in order to beat the crowds! Enjoy a Machu Picchu tour with your expert guide, before spending some free time exploring the site by yourself. Next, hike up Huayna Picchu with your guide for spectacular views of Machu Picchu itself, and of the surrounding mountains. Travel back to Cusco in the afternoon, feeling very proud of your achievement, and full of wonderful memories of the Choquequirao Machu Picchu trek!

Trekking time: 3:00 hours approx.
Kilometers covered: 2.5 km. (1.55343mi.) approx.
Low point: 2000/ 6561.68ft. – High point: 2400m/ 7874.016ft. approx.

Ready to take on this unforgettable challenge? Don’t wait! Book your Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek today and make memories that will last a lifetime.

 Enjoy our amazing gallery about this amazing tour HERE

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What our travellers are talking about our experiences?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Alvin C 
 
 
 
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¡Un viaje absolutamente alucinante!
¡Qué viaje tan increíble! Brindan la mejor y especial experiencia a las personas interesadas en la comunidad Inka local. Nuestro guía turístico Rodrigo, ¡tenía años de experiencia en el área Inka! Tiene una gran red y conocimiento para describir y explicar todas las preguntas. Machu Picchu es el "lugar de visita obligada" en la vida. La vista es impresionante y absolutamente asombrosa. ¡Lo recomiendo encarecidamente!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Muy complaciente y conocedor.
¡Las experiencias PIE fueron increíbles! Nos encantó nuestro recorrido con Juan al Valle Sagrado. PIE también nos acomodó para recogernos y dejarnos en el aeropuerto. ¡Te los recomendamos ampliamente para tu viaje!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 martin c 
 
 
 
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Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu es un lugar absolutamente fantástico, mi viaje no hubiera sido posible si no fuera por Katherine en Pie Expierences, ella organizó todo de principio a fin, incluso adelantó mi reserva un año debido a mi salud. Mi guía fue el mejor y, para colmo, el clima fue fantástico. No puedo calificar lo suficiente las experiencias de Katherine y el pastel.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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¡Reserva tu próxima aventura a través de PIE!
Katherine fue increíblemente complaciente y comunicativa con respecto a mi viaje. Reservé mi viaje en diciembre de 2019 para realizarlo en abril de 2020, y luego llegó la pandemia. Ella respetó las tarifas cotizadas hace cuatro años para este viaje y me aconsejó bien sobre las mejores opciones. Habían surgido un par de problemas relacionados con que los guías no podían fijar fechas fijas y Katherine siempre tuvo opciones y soluciones sólidas. El viaje en sí fue único en la vida: la caminata de 4 días tuvo el nivel adecuado de desafío e interés, los 3 días en el Amazonas fueron alucinantes. ¡Recomiendo reservar tu próxima aventura peruana a través de Katherine y PIE!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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¡Compañía increíble! No te pierdas a jorge
Pie Experiences fue increíble de principio a fin. Katherine y su equipo fueron los mejores. Reservamos en el último minuto y se aseguraron de llevarnos a Machu Picchu. Nos ayudaron con el proceso del boleto, conseguir el autobús y la guía. Nuestro guía Jorge fue inolvidable. Jorge estaba muy bien informado y organizado. Incluso nos recibió de antemano para coordinar la logística. En Machu Picchu Jorge no nos apuró y nos permitió tomar muchas fotos y respondió todas nuestras preguntas. Lo recomendaremos a nuestros amigos y familiares.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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La mejor decisión que hemos tomado para conocer Perú — con Pie Experiences
Con Pie Experiences reservamos nuestro viaje completo de 10 días a Perú, que incluía Lima, Arequipa, Cañón del Colca, Puno, Cusco y Machu Picchu. Permítanme decir esto: la decisión de elegir Pie Experiences fue la más importante y la mejor decisión que tomamos al planificar este viaje.Desde el principio, Katherine y su equipo fueron increíbles, ayudándonos y guiándonos a crear el mejor itinerario dentro del tiempo que le dedicamos a este viaje. Era nuestro primer viaje a Perú y queríamos ver las principales atracciones, sin saber qué esperar. El itinerario que Katherine diseñó para nosotros nos permitió visitar todo lo que queríamos y mantenernos dentro de nuestro presupuesto. Al mismo tiempo, el itinerario propuesto contaba con mejores hoteles y mejores arreglos que las propuestas de otra agencia. Los hoteles seleccionados por Katherine fueron simplemente increíbles, ¡y siempre cumplieron con creces las expectativas!El viaje estuvo muy planificado y todos los segmentos estuvieron muy bien unidos. De hecho, bromeábamos diciendo que el itinerario nos recordaba a la arquitectura inca donde todas las piedras encajan tan bien entre sí que ni siquiera se puede insertar una hoja de papel entre ellas. Eso fue exactamente eso con nuestras Pie Experiences: hoteles, aviones, tours y traslados fueron planificados al minuto, y siempre supimos lo que sucedería a continuación.Disfrutamos muchísimo de nuestro viaje a Perú: el país, la gente, la historia y la cultura son sorprendentes. Y no me hagas hablar de la comida, ¡es simplemente increíble! Pudimos disfrutar de todo eso y sumergirnos en una parte del Perú que hay en nosotros porque el equipo de Pie Experiences y Katherine pudieron organizar este viaje para nosotros. Ahora no podemos dejar de hablar de regresar y obtener más de eso, ¡y definitivamente lo haremos con la ayuda de Pie Experiences!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Excursión de un día a Machu Picchu
Katherine pudo acomodarnos incluso en el último minuto, entre 5 y 7 días antes de nuestra llegada. Todo estuvo bien comunicado a través de correo electrónico y WhatsApp, y toda la logística de un viaje de un día a Machu Picchu con autobús y guía se desarrolló sin problemas. Jorge era muy agradable y fácil de tratar. Conocía mucho sobre los incas y Machu Picchu. ¡Estamos muy agradecidos de que hayan podido hacer que todo esto suceda para nosotros!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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Inca Jungle
Realizamos la semana pasada el Inca Jungle con un grupo de 10 amigos.Nuestro tour fue mas corto, por falta de tiempo. Frederick supo entender lo que buscabamos y armo el programa que exactamente queriamos hacer. Henry fue nuestro guia, por recomendacion del Eco Quechua, donde ya habiamos hecho reservas.Tuve un pequeño accidente en el descenso en bici, y tanto Henry como Walter siempre estuvieron dispuestos a ayudarme.El viaje fue increible, inexplicable con palabras. Nada fue el azar, nada se escapo de lo previsto, todo estaba perfectamente organizado y Henry se ocupaba de preveer que todo estuviera ok, adelantandose a cada paso. 100% recomendable, el mejor viaje de nuestras vidas.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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La mejor opción lejos!!!!
PiePeru es la mejor opción lejos para hacer el Inka Jungle trail. Al principio pense que era un poco costoso pero valio la pena cada centavo invertido. Todo fue supremamente organizado. La acomodacion super limpia y con agua caliente, las actividades del dia a dia fueron increibles! (Lo mejor el zipline). Nuestro guia Henry sin dudas es el mejor, tiene la mejor onda y ademas sabe mucho de la cultura Inka. Lo que más me gusto es que se preocuparon en todo momento por conseguirme alimentos VEGANOS para mi dieta. Recomiendo esta agencia 200%.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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¡Genial!
Todo preparado al milímetro. Grandes recuerdos del inka jungle. También felicitar a Frederick, un gran tipo, estuvo con nosotros en todo momento pendiente de hasta el último detalle.Ginés Bernal desde Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia, España
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
    
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions – Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

1. What is the duration and difficulty of this trek?

• Duration: The trek lasts approximately 6 days and 5 nights, covering a challenging hiking route.
• Difficulty: This is an advanced-level trek, suited for individuals in good physical condition and with experience in long-distance hiking. The route includes steep ascents, descents, and high altitudes.

2. What’s included in the tour?

• Includes: Local expert guides, campsite accommodation, all meals during the trek, entry fees to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, and transportation back to Cusco.
• Excludes: Personal equipment such as sleeping bags and trekking poles (available for rent), tips, and certain snacks or additional beverages.

3. What should I bring?

• Essentials: Durable trekking boots, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, layered clothing for variable weather, and a daypack.
• Recommended: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a lightweight rain jacket.

4. Is this trek safe for people with pre-existing health conditions?

• Health precautions: Due to the high altitude and physical demands, individuals with heart, respiratory, or high blood pressure conditions should consult their physician before attempting the trek. We also recommend prior acclimatization in Cusco.

5. When is the best time of year to do this trek?

• Ideal season: The dry season, from April to October, is ideal for the trek due to stable weather conditions. During the rainy season (November to March), the trail can become slippery and more challenging.

6. How is safety managed on the trek?

• Safety protocols: Our guides are trained in first aid and carry basic first aid equipment. Safety checks are conducted before and during the journey. Additionally, guides monitor participants’ acclimatization to altitude.

7. What is the maximum group size?

• Private Tour Only: This trek is operated exclusively as a private tour, allowing for a highly personalized experience tailored to your group’s needs and interests. This setup also ensures minimal environmental impact on the sites visited.

8. What is the accommodation like on the trek?

• Accommodation: You’ll stay in organized campsites with high-quality tents. Participants are encouraged to bring their own sleeping bags, but for convenience, a sleeping bag can be rented directly through us during the booking process.

9. Is travel insurance required?

• Insurance Recommendation: While travel insurance is not mandatory, we strongly recommend it for this trek, as it involves challenging terrain and the potential for accidents. Having insurance provides added peace of mind and protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

10. Are there options to customize or extend my trip?

• Customization: PIE Experiences offers options to personalize the trek with additional activities, such as visits to local communities or excursions in Cusco before or after the trek. Contact our advisors for more information on custom options.

11. Do I have to carry my own backpack?

• Luggage Support: You won’t need to carry your main backpack, as there will always be a mule or horse to assist with transporting luggage. Passengers will only need to carry a daypack with essentials like snacks and water.

12. Who is this trek not recommended for?

• Trek Suitability: This trek is not recommended for individuals with serious heart, respiratory, or mobility issues, or those with knee problems, due to the physically demanding nature of the route and high altitudes. Additionally, those who are not accustomed to long-distance hiking or have not acclimatized to high elevations should consider other, less strenuous options.