+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$750

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Length

6 Days, 5 Nights

Group

Min 2, Max 12

Trip Style

Trekking, Cultural Tour

Difficulty

Moderate.

Overview.

Choquequirao Archaeological Park is one of the largest Inca archaeological sites in Peru, often called the “sister of Machu Picchu.” It means “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua. Located above the Apurímac Canyon in the Andes, it features terraces, temples, and ceremonial structures. Built in the 15th century, only part has been excavated, making it a remote, less-visited but highly important Inca destination for trekking, history, and adventure in Peru.

Highlights

Choquequirao, known as the “Sister of Machu Picchu,” is one of the most impressive Inca sites in Peru.
A 6-day trekking adventure through the remote and spectacular Apurímac Canyon.
Stunning Andean landscapes with views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay mountains.
Exploration of an almost untouched Inca complex with terraces, temples, and ceremonial plazas.
Authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, perfect for trekking and history lovers.
One of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu in Peru.
Professional guides and complete trekking logistics throughout the journey.
Camping in beautiful natural settings surrounded by Inca history and Andean nature.

At a Glance

Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
Departure and return: Cusco
Tour type: Adventure trekking and cultural experience
Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Camping and hostel in Aguas Calientes
Meals included: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners
Main activities: Trekking, hiking, camping, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu
Highlights: Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Apurímac Canyon, Andean landscapes, cloud forest, and Machu Picchu
Best time to visit: April to November (dry season). However, the trek operates year-round.
Group size: Small groups for a more personalized experience

Inclusions

Pre-trek briefing in Cusco (preparation + safety instructions)
Hotel pick-up in Cusco (Cusco city center)
Private tourist transport: Comfortable and safe transfer to the starting point or trailhead.
Professional bilingual guide (English, Spanish & Quechua)
Entrance fee to Choquequirao Archaeological Park included.
Machu Picchu Tickets: Entry is usually at 7:00 or 8:00 AM for Circuit 2 (or Circuits 1 or 3). Tickets are limited, so booking early is recommended.
Muleteers & horses: A team carries all equipment and camping gear on mules or horses.
Duffel Bag Service: You will be provided with a duffel bag for up to 7 kg, which will be transported by horse to the campsites.
Meals & chef: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners included, with vegetarian options available, prepared by professional chefs.
Accommodation: 4 nights camping and 1 night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes.
First Aid Kit: Basic medical kit for minor injuries and emergencies during the trek.

Excludes

Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 / Lunch and dinner on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu.
Hot springs: Aguas Calientes hot springs, S/20 entry fee, payable on site.
Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Personal Horse: Available for emergencies, US$ 65, payable on site. Please let us know in advance.
Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and staff not included (optional but appreciated).
Travel insurance: Not included, it is recommended to purchase it independently.
Optional hike: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (US$70, on request).
Return from Machu Picchu: by car (~$15) or train (~$75), we will help you purchase and organize it separately.
Trekking poles: Recommended for stability and knee support, especially on rough terrain.

What to bring

Original passport: Required (valid for at least 6 months and 2 blank pages). Copies are not accepted.
Student ID (if applicable): required for student fares (up to 25 years old).
Personal medication: Bring any required medication and a basic first aid kit.
Insect repellent: Recommended with at least 15% DEET.
Light backpack: Small, comfortable, and suitable for hiking.
Trekking poles: Recommended for the Choquequirao Trek; also available for rent.
Hiking boots: Comfortable, well-fitted, and broken-in.
Water container: At least 2L capacity (bottle or CamelBak recommended).
Headlamp: Essential for early morning hikes or nighttime use at the campsite.
Emergency cash: Recommended 300 soles or 90 USD in cash.

Itinerary

DAY 01 :Cusco – Cachora – Coca Masana – Playa Rosalina

Your adventure will begin early in the morning when you will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:30 a.m. You will travel by private tourist transport for around 4 hours through the stunning Andean highlands until you reach the traditional village of Cachora (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), the starting point of the Choquequirao trek.

Here, you will meet your professional trekking team, including muleteers and chef, before starting your adventure with a short briefing and preparation for the hike.

You will begin your trek with a steady ascent towards Capuliyoc, where you will enjoy your first panoramic views of the impressive Apurímac Canyon and surrounding snow-capped Andean peaks. As you continue hiking, you will descend through Coca Masana, where the landscape gradually changes from high Andean terrain into warmer, semi-tropical vegetation typical of the cloud forest transition zone.

You will continue descending along scenic mountain trails until you reach Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 ft), located on the banks of the powerful Apurímac River. Here, you will set up your first campsite and enjoy dinner surrounded by nature, mountain sounds, and a star-filled sky.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Distance: 16 km (approx.)
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Max altitude: 3,000 m (Capuliyoc)
Min altitude: 1,550 m (Playa Rosalina)

DAY 02 : Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao

After an early breakfast, you will begin one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the Choquequirao trek as you start the steep ascent from Playa Rosalina toward the high Andean village of Marampata. This demanding uphill hike will take you through changing ecosystems, where you will feel the temperature drop and the landscape shift from tropical canyon vegetation to high-altitude Andean scenery.

You will continue climbing along narrow mountain trails with spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The route is known for its intense but breathtaking scenery, and it is one of the most iconic trekking experiences in Peru’s adventure tourism routes.

By midday, you will reach Marampata, where you can rest and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. From here, you will continue the final stretch to Choquequirao Archaeological Park, one of the most important Inca sites in South America and often considered the “sister city of Machu Picchu.”

Upon arrival, you will explore the vast Inca complex with your professional guide, discovering terraces, ceremonial platforms, temples, and ancient agricultural systems that demonstrate the advanced engineering of the Inca civilization. After the visit, you will continue to the nearby campsite at Raqaypata, where you will spend the night surrounded by silence, mountains, and star-filled skies.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (2 people per tent)
Distance: 15 km (approx.)
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Max altitude: 3,050 m (Choquequirao)
Min altitude: 1,550 m (Playa Rosalina)
Difficulty: Challenging – high mountain trekking in the Andes
Approximate Walking Time: 7- 8 Hours

DAY 03 : Full Day Exploration of Choquequirao Archaeological Pa

This day will be dedicated entirely to exploring the incredible Choquequirao Archaeological Park, one of the most impressive and least-visited Inca sites in Peru. You will enjoy a guided visit through the main sectors of the citadel, discovering its terraces, temples, ceremonial platforms, and ancient Inca architecture spread across the mountain ridge.

You will explore the different archaeological zones, including residential areas, storage structures (qullqas), ceremonial plazas, and agricultural terraces that demonstrate the advanced engineering of the Inca civilization. Choquequirao is divided into multiple sectors, revealing its role as a major political, religious, and administrative center of the late Inca Empire.

During your visit, you will also learn about the ongoing excavations and partially uncovered areas, which continue to reveal the secrets of this “Lost City of the Incas.” From strategic viewpoints, you will appreciate the scale of the complex and its dramatic location above the Apurímac Canyon.

In the afternoon, you will have the chance to observe the majestic flight of Andean condors, often seen gliding over the canyon using thermal winds—a truly unforgettable natural spectacle.

After the visit, you will return to your campsite for lunch and enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by the silence and energy of the Andes.

DAY 04 : Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa – Chiquisca

After breakfast, you will begin one of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the Choquequirao trek. You will cross the Apurímac River at Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 ft) and immediately start a steep and continuous ascent toward Santa Rosa.

You will hike up a challenging zigzag trail surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon. As you gain altitude, you will notice how the vegetation becomes more abundant and the climate gradually changes from warm canyon temperatures to cooler Andean conditions.

After approximately 2 hours of steady climbing, you will reach Santa Rosa, where you will take a short break before continuing the ascent through rural mountain terrain. You will then proceed along scenic trails toward Chiquisca, passing remote valleys, panoramic viewpoints, and changing ecosystems typical of the Andes.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at Chiquisca (1,930 m / 6,332 ft), where you will set up camp, enjoy dinner, and rest after a challenging but unforgettable trekking day in the Apurímac Valley.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (2 people per tent)
Distance: 17 km (approx.)
Hiking time: 8–9 hours
Max altitude: 3,200 m (Choquequirao sector)
Min altitude: 1,550 m (Playa Rosalina)
Difficulty: Challenging – steep ascent in the Andes

DAY 05: Chiquisca – Cachora – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

You will wake up surrounded by the sounds of birds and the peaceful Andean landscape. After breakfast, you will begin your final descent from Chiquisca back toward Cachora, enjoying the changing scenery as the canyon gradually opens and the climate becomes warmer.

You will hike for approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on your physical condition, until you reach Cachora, where your private transport will be waiting for you. From here, you will travel by road to Ollantaytambo, passing through beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

From Ollantaytambo, you will board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train journey offers spectacular views of the Urubamba River, cloud forest, and Andean mountains as you descend into the jungle. You will arrive in Aguas Calientes in the evening, where you will spend the night in a comfortable hostel, resting before your visit to Machu Picchu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hostel (Aguas Calientes)
Distance: 10 km (approx. hiking)
Hiking time: 5–7 hours
Max altitude: 3,000 m (Capuliyoc area)
Min altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
Difficulty: Moderate – descent trek + transport + train
Approximate Walking Time:7 – 8 Hour

DAY 06 : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco (Machu Picchu Guided Tour)

After an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes, you will take the first bus at approximately 5:30 a.m. to Machu Picchu, arriving around 6:15 a.m. You will enter the citadel early to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds in one of the world’s most important archaeological sites.

You will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu (UNESCO World Heritage Site) for approximately 2 hours, where your expert guide will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of the Inca civilization, including temples, terraces, ceremonial areas, and sacred viewpoints.

Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic destinations in South America and a highlight of Peru travel and adventure tourism. Built in the 15th century under Inca Emperor Pachacuti, it is considered a masterpiece of Inca engineering, sacred architecture, and Andean cosmology, hidden among the lush cloud forest of the Andes.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the citadel on your own. Optional hikes include Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability and advance booking), offering panoramic views over the Urubamba Valley.

At the scheduled time, you will return to Aguas Calientes and board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:Not Included,
Maximum Altitude:2,700 m / 8,856 ft
Minimum Altitude:2,400 m / 7,872 ft ( Machupicchu )
Distance Travelled:8 Km approx plus exploration of Machu Picchu
Approximate Walking Time:6-7 hours / Descent : 300 m

Photos

Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek 6 Days Unique

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FAQs

1.What is Choquequirao, and where is it located?

Choquequirao is an ancient Inca city often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. It is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Cusco region of Peru, at an altitude of around 3,050 meters (10,010 feet) above sea level. The site is known for its remote location and stunning archaeological remains.

2.How difficult is the hike to Choquequirao?

The hike to Choquequirao is considered challenging, requiring a good level of physical fitness. The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days round-trip and involves steep ascents and descents, crossing valleys and rivers. The journey is demanding but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the Andes and a unique experience at the less-crowded archaeological site.

3.Is Choquequirao similar to Machu Picchu?

While Choquequirao shares some similarities with Machu Picchu, such as its Inca architecture and mountain location, it is less excavated and much less visited. This gives Choquequirao a more authentic and serene atmosphere. The site is also larger than Machu Picchu, with many of its structures still covered by jungle, adding to its sense of mystery.

4.What is the best time of year to visit Choquequirao?

The best time to visit Choquequirao is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with clear skies and less rain, making the trek safer and more enjoyable. The rainy season, from October to April, can make the trails muddy and more difficult to navigate.

5.What wildlife can I expect to see during the Choquequirao trek?

The trek to Choquequirao offers the chance to see a variety of wildlife, especially birds. You might spot Andean condors soaring above the valleys, as well as other bird species like hummingbirds and toucans. Mammals such as spectacled bears, deer, and foxes may also be seen, though they are more elusive. The diverse ecosystems you pass through, from cloud forests to high-altitude grasslands, are home to a rich array of flora and fauna.

2 Reviews

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Giovanni P.

Solo Traveller

Choquequirao is an incredible hidden gem! It’s like Machu Picchu without the crowds—remote, peaceful, and surrounded by stunning mountains. The trek is tough but totally worth it for the views and the sense of discovery. If you love adventure and history, this place is a must-see!

August 29, 2024

Carla M.

Solo Traveller

Experience an extraordinary adventure with the 6-Day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek, exploring the impressive Choquequirao ruins and the majestic Machu Picchu in a compact yet immersive journey.

April 13, 2023

Choquequirao + Machu Picchu Trek 6 Days – Epic Lost Inca Adventure