Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu – 6 Days / 5 Nights
Embark on one of the most rewarding trekking adventures in the Peruvian Andes, connecting two of the country's most extraordinary Inca sites in a single journey: the hidden city of Choquequirao and the world-famous citadel of Machu Picchu. The 6-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience designed for adventurous travelers who want to venture beyond the classic routes and experience a deeper connection with Peru's history, breathtaking landscapes, and Inca heritage.
Over six incredible days, you'll hike through the spectacular Apurímac Canyon, cross rugged mountain trails, explore warm valleys, admire scenic viewpoints, pass traditional Andean communities, and follow ancient paths rich in history. The adventure begins with an unforgettable trek to Choquequirao, often called the "Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu," an impressive archaeological complex that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. From there, the journey continues with scenic transportation, a panoramic train ride, and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes before concluding with a guided tour of the magnificent Machu Picchu.
With Responsible Trekking, every detail of your adventure is carefully organized so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Our experienced local team takes care of the logistics, including professional guides, transportation, camping equipment, freshly prepared meals by trekking chefs, muleteers, horses, entrance tickets, train tickets, hotel accommodations, and full support throughout the trek. All you need to do is hike, take in the incredible scenery, and enjoy one of Peru's most remarkable adventures.
Important Information
- Tour Type: Trekking, nature, archaeology, adventure, Andean culture, and Machu Picchu.
- Ideal For: Active travelers, trekking enthusiasts, couples, friends, and anyone seeking an authentic off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights.
- Start & Finish: Cusco – Cusco.
- Difficulty: Challenging.
- Maximum Elevation: Approximately 3,050 m / 10,007 ft in the Choquequirao area.
- Accommodation: Four nights of camping along the trail and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Languages: English and Spanish.
- Meals Included: Freshly prepared meals during the trekking portion according to the confirmed itinerary.
- Best Season: April through October (dry season).
- Main Destinations: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
- Operated By: Responsible Trekking, a locally owned tour operator based in Cusco, Peru.
Tour Highlights
- Experience both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu in one unforgettable adventure.
- Explore Choquequirao, one of Peru's most impressive and least-visited Inca cities.
- End your journey with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
- Trek through the spectacular Apurímac Canyon.
- Discover a remote, authentic, and less-crowded hiking route.
- Enjoy comfortable camping throughout the trek.
- Savor freshly prepared meals cooked by professional trekking chefs.
- Hike alongside experienced bilingual guides.
- Benefit from the support of muleteers and pack horses throughout the expedition.
- Spend one comfortable night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
- Return aboard a scenic train, depending on your selected service.
- Travel with comprehensive safety support, including a first-aid kit, oxygen, and emergency communication equipment.
Why Travelers Love This Tour
This tour is the perfect choice for travelers looking for a complete trekking adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and seamless logistics. Unlike traditional routes to Machu Picchu, this journey begins with an unforgettable trek to Choquequirao—one of Peru's most spectacular and least-visited Inca archaeological sites—before culminating with the iconic experience of visiting Machu Picchu.
One of the highlights of this itinerary is the remarkable contrast between these two legendary destinations. Choquequirao offers an intimate and peaceful atmosphere surrounded by towering mountains and dramatic views of the Apurímac Canyon. Machu Picchu provides the perfect finale, allowing you to explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with an expert guide.
Travelers also appreciate the excellent organization behind this experience. Throughout the trek, you'll be supported by professional guides, comfortable camping equipment, freshly prepared meals cooked by trekking chefs, experienced muleteers, pack horses, and a dedicated support team that ensures your safety and comfort every step of the way.
What's Included
- Professional English-speaking bilingual guide.
- Pre-departure briefing before the trek.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc.
- Private transportation from Capuliyoc back to Cusco.
- Scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
- Entrance ticket to Choquequirao.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (subject to availability and government regulations).
- Four nights of camping during the trek.
- One night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- All meals specified in the itinerary.
- Professional trekking chef.
- Complete camping equipment (tents, dining tent, tables, and chairs).
- Horses or mules for transporting camping equipment.
- Duffel bag for personal belongings (within the permitted weight limit).
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Full trekking support staff throughout the expedition.
What's Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1 (unless otherwise specified).
- Dinner on the final day.
- Additional beverages.
- Personal snacks.
- Sleeping bag (unless included in your selected package).
- Trekking poles (unless included).
- Single tent supplement (available upon request).
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for guides, cooks, muleteers, and trekking staff.
- Any service not specifically mentioned under What's Included.
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
Your adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We then travel by private tourist transportation toward Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. Along the way, you'll pass traditional Andean villages, scenic farmland, and breathtaking mountain landscapes that set the stage for the incredible days ahead.
Upon arriving at Capuliyoc, your guide will provide an overview of the trek, review safety recommendations, and allow time to organize your gear before beginning the hike. From this spectacular viewpoint, you'll enjoy your first panoramic views of the impressive Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Today's hike is primarily downhill as we descend along well-defined mountain trails surrounded by dramatic scenery. Throughout the day, your guide will maintain a comfortable pace, making regular stops to rest, take photos, and appreciate the changing landscapes as the dry highlands gradually transition into warmer canyon terrain.
By late afternoon, we'll arrive at our first campsite in Chiquisca, where our trekking staff will already have camp prepared. Enjoy a freshly cooked dinner before relaxing under the stars and preparing for the adventure ahead.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 8–10 km (5–6.2 mi)
- Starting Elevation: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
- Campsite Elevation: 1,900 m (6,234 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Marampata – Choquequirao
After an early breakfast, we begin one of the most physically demanding yet rewarding days of the expedition. We first descend to Playa Rosalinas, located beside the Apurímac River, the lowest point of today's route.
After crossing the river, we begin the long ascent toward Marampata. Although this section is challenging, the effort is rewarded with spectacular views of the canyon, towering mountains, and ever-changing scenery. We'll hike at a steady pace, stopping regularly to rest, rehydrate, and enjoy the incredible surroundings.
Once we arrive in Marampata, we'll enjoy lunch while taking in one of the best panoramic viewpoints overlooking Choquequirao. Depending on the day's schedule and the group's pace, we may continue directly to our campsite near the archaeological complex or make our first introductory visit to portions of the ancient Inca city.
As the afternoon light settles over the mountains, you'll begin to understand why Choquequirao is considered one of Peru's greatest hidden treasures.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 12–15 km (7.5–9.3 mi)
- Maximum Elevation: 3,050 m (10,007 ft)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 3: Explore Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
Today is dedicated to discovering one of the largest and most fascinating archaeological sites built by the Incas. After breakfast, we'll spend the morning exploring the impressive Choquequirao Archaeological Complex with our expert guide.
You'll visit ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, temples, stairways, ceremonial fountains, and spectacular viewpoints while learning about the site's history, architecture, engineering, and the theories surrounding its importance within the Inca Empire.
Unlike many famous archaeological sites, Choquequirao remains remarkably uncrowded, allowing you to experience its peaceful atmosphere while surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Much of the complex is still being uncovered, adding an exciting sense of mystery and discovery to every step.
After completing the guided exploration, we'll return to our campsite near Marampata, where you'll have time to relax, enjoy another delicious dinner prepared by our trekking chef, and take in an unforgettable Andean sunset.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 8–10 km (5–6.2 mi)
- Maximum Elevation: 3,050 m (10,007 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 4: Choquequirao – Marampata – Playa Rosalinas – Chiquisca
Today is dedicated to discovering one of the largest and most fascinating archaeological sites built by the Incas. After breakfast, we'll spend the morning exploring the impressive Choquequirao Archaeological Complex with our expert guide.
You'll visit ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, temples, stairways, ceremonial fountains, and spectacular viewpoints while learning about the site's history, architecture, engineering, and the theories surrounding its importance within the Inca Empire.
Unlike many famous archaeological sites, Choquequirao remains remarkably uncrowded, allowing you to experience its peaceful atmosphere while surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Much of the complex is still being uncovered, adding an exciting sense of mystery and discovery to every step.
After completing the guided exploration, we'll return to our campsite near Marampata, where you'll have time to relax, enjoy another delicious dinner prepared by our trekking chef, and take in an unforgettable Andean sunset.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 8–10 km (5–6.2 mi)
- Maximum Elevation: 3,050 m (10,007 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Our final day of trekking begins early with breakfast before tackling the last ascent back to Capuliyoc. Although this climb requires one final effort, reaching the trailhead brings a tremendous sense of accomplishment after completing one of Peru's most rewarding trekking routes.
Once in Capuliyoc, we'll say goodbye to our trekking crew before boarding our private transportation back to Cusco. Along the way, you'll have time to relax and reflect on the incredible journey you've just completed.
From Cusco, we continue to Ollantaytambo Train Station, where you'll board a scenic train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Upon arrival, our staff will meet you and escort you to your hotel.
In the evening, your guide will hold a briefing to explain the next day's visit to Machu Picchu, including your entrance time, transportation details, and recommended schedule.
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 8–10 km (5–6.2 mi)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After an early breakfast, you'll board one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to experience the ancient citadel during the quieter morning hours.
Your professional guide will lead you through the archaeological site following your assigned circuit, explaining the fascinating history, architecture, engineering, and spiritual significance of one of the world's greatest archaeological treasures. You'll visit the most important sectors while enjoying spectacular panoramic views and learning how the Incas transformed this mountaintop into an extraordinary city.
After the guided tour, you'll have free time according to your entrance ticket to take photographs, admire the scenery, or simply appreciate the magic of this iconic destination. If you have reserved an additional permit for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you'll continue independently at your scheduled time.
Later, you'll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you'll have free time for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.
This marks the end of an unforgettable six-day adventure that combines two of the greatest wonders of the Inca civilization in one extraordinary journey.
- Maximum Elevation: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Not Included
Packing List
To fully enjoy your Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, we recommend bringing the following items:
Essential Documents
- Original passport (required for Machu Picchu entry).
- Travel insurance information.
- Student ID (if applicable for discounted tickets).
- Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses.
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking hiking shirts.
- Hiking pants and one pair of shorts.
- Warm fleece or insulated jacket.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Lightweight clothing for warmer sections of the trail.
- Thermal base layers for cooler nights.
- Hat for sun protection.
- Warm beanie for evenings.
- Gloves (recommended during the dry season).
- Several pairs of hiking socks.
- Comfortable clothes for sleeping.
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for camp and Aguas Calientes.
Daypack Essentials
- Refillable water bottle or hydration system.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended).
- Lip balm with sun protection.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Insect repellent.
- Personal medications.
- Small first-aid kit for personal use.
- Headlamp with extra batteries.
- Snacks such as energy bars or trail mix.
- Camera or smartphone.
- Portable power bank.
Optional Items
- Trekking poles.
- Sleeping bag (if not included in your package).
- Travel pillow.
- Binoculars.
- Waterproof backpack cover.
- Lightweight towel.
- Extra memory cards and camera batteries.
Price
Starting at: USD 870 per person
Final pricing may vary depending on your travel date, group size, service type, availability, optional upgrades, and any additional services requested.
The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is a unique trekking and train adventure that connects two of Peru's most important Inca archaeological sites in a single itinerary. You'll first hike through the spectacular Apurímac Canyon to reach Choquequirao before continuing by land transportation and train to Aguas Calientes for your guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Yes. This itinerary combines both destinations into one complete adventure. You'll first trek to Choquequirao and then continue by tourist transportation and train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you'll enjoy a professionally guided tour of the Inca citadel.
The tour lasts 6 days and 5 nights. It includes four nights of camping during the trekking portion and one night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes before your visit to Machu Picchu.
This is considered a challenging trek. The Choquequirao section includes long descents, demanding uphill climbs, warm canyon conditions, and multiple days of hiking through remote mountain trails. A good level of physical fitness is highly recommended
The highest point during the Choquequirao section is approximately 3,050 m (10,007 ft). Machu Picchu sits at approximately 2,430 m (7,972 ft) above sea level.
During the trekking portion, you'll stay at fully equipped organized campsites. On the final night before visiting Machu Picchu, you'll stay at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, according to the confirmed itinerary.
Yes. Your Machu Picchu entrance ticket is included in the tour, subject to official availability and government regulations at the time of booking.
Your Machu Picchu circuit depends on official availability when your reservation is confirmed. Whenever possible, we prioritize the most comprehensive circuit available under the current regulations established by the Ministry of Culture.
Yes. The tour includes transportation by train to Aguas Calientes as well as the return train to Ollantaytambo. The train category will depend on the service selected and confirmed at the time of booking.
