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

Price

From$950

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Length

8 Days, 7 Nights

Group

Min 2, Max 12.

Trip Style

Trekking Tours

Difficulty.

Moderate to challenging.

Overview

Choquequirao Archaeological Park, known as the “sister of Machu Picchu,” is a remote Inca archaeological site located high above the Apurímac River in the Peruvian Andes. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it was an important ceremonial center dedicated to Pachamama and the Apus. With only part of the site excavated, Choquequirao offers a unique combination of trekking adventure, Inca history, and untouched nature in Peru.

Highlights

Discover the legendary Choquequirao Archaeological Park, the hidden “sister of Machu Picchu” deep in the Peruvian Andes.
Experience one of the most epic trekking adventures in Peru, far from crowds and mass tourism.
Explore impressive Inca terraces, temples, and sacred ceremonial platforms.
Marvel at breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon and surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Step into a lost Inca city surrounded by untouched cloud forest and dramatic landscapes.
Follow ancient Inca trails through one of the most remote archaeological sites in Peru.
Enjoy a true off-the-beaten-path expedition combining history, culture, and adventure.
Visit one of the largest and least explored Inca cities, offering a unique and authentic experience.

At a Glance

Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Departure & Return: Cusco
Tour Type: Adventure, trekking, cultural & Inca expedition
Difficulty: Challenging – suitable for experienced hikers; good physical condition required
Accommodation: Camping and selected local lodges (depending on itinerary)
Meals Included: Full board, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek
Main activities: Guided trekking, Inca trail exploration, archaeological sites, mountain hiking, wildlife observation, cultural experiences, and Machu Picchu visit
Highlights: Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Apurímac Canyon, remote Inca trails, cloud forest, high mountain passes, Andean landscapes, Machu Picchu, sacred valleys, ancient terraces, wildlife observation, camping under the stars
Best time to visit: All year round; best trekking conditions are during the dry season
Group size: Small groups for a more personalized trekking experience
Transportation: Hotel pickup in Cusco, private transport, trekking support, and train to Machu Picchu included

Inclusions

Pre-trek briefing in Cusco (preparation + safety instructions)
Hotel pick-up in Cusco (Cusco city center)
Private tourist transportation to the trailhead and return (safe and comfortable travel included).
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: An experienced team transports all equipment and supplies on horses or mules, so you can enjoy the trek without carrying heavy loads.
Duffel Bag Service: You only carry your daypack; a 8 kg duffel bag is provided and transported by horse to the campsites.
Meals & chef: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners included, with vegetarian options available, prepared by professional campsite chefs.
Accommodation: 6 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: Santa Teresa thermal baths (S/50 incl. transport & entrance) or Aguas Calientes (S/20 entry fee). Pay on site.
Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
Sleeping bag: 70 soles (rated to -10°C), available for rent from us.
Return from Machu Picchu: by car (~$15) or train (~$75), we will help you purchase and organize it separately.
Personal Horse US$ 65
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 ($70 USD; on request).
Trekking poles: Recommended for stability and knee support; very useful 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: Minimum 15% DEET recommended.
Light backpack: Small, comfortable, and suitable for hiking.
Trekking poles: Recommended for the Salkantay Trek; also available for rent.
Waterproof trekking shoes: With ankle support for greater safety on mountain terrain.
Water container: At least 2L capacity (bottle or CamelBak recommended).
Sleeping Bag (-10°C / 14°F): 40 soles (comfort rating up to -10 °C), available for rent from us.
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 – Playa Rosalina (Apurímac River)

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco at around 5:00 a.m. and travel by private tourist transport for approximately 4 hours to Cachora, the starting point of your Choquequirao trekking adventure. Upon arrival, you will meet your trekking team, including muleteers and horses, and prepare for the hike into the Andes.

You will begin the trek with a steady ascent to the Capuliyoc Pass, where you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and, on clear days, possible sightings of Andean condors. From there, you will descend through cactus-covered landscapes and rugged Andean terrain until reaching Playa Rosalina, located on the banks of the Apurímac River.

You will camp overnight at Playa Rosalina, surrounded by nature and the sounds of the river, ready for the next day’s ascent toward Choquequirao.

Camping: Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 ft)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 16 km
Approx. hiking time: 6–7 hours
Tour type: Trekking expedition
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:3000 masl Capulichayoc
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl chiquisca

DAY 02 : Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao

Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao (Golden Cradle)
After an early breakfast, you will start a challenging uphill trek through a narrow Andean trail surrounded by lush vegetation and beautiful orchids. You will descend briefly to cross the Apurímac River and then begin a demanding ascent toward Santa Rosa, taking in the dramatic canyon landscapes along the way.

After a short rest, you will continue hiking for approximately 3.5 hours until reaching Marampata, where you will stop for lunch and enjoy panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon. From here, you will continue to the legendary archaeological site of Choquequirao Archaeological Park, known as the “Golden Cradle” and the sister city of Machu Picchu due to its similar Inca architecture and dramatic mountain setting.

The site is located around 1,500 meters above the Apurímac Canyon, offering breathtaking views where Andean condors can often be seen soaring overhead. After exploring the area, you will camp near Choquequirao (3,050 m), surrounded by pristine Andean nature.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Max altitude: 2,800 m (Marampata)
Min altitude: 1,750 m (Chiquisca)
Distance: 15 km
Approx. hiking time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging – high mountain trekking in the Andes
Maximum Altitude:2800 masl Marampata
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl chiquisca

DAY 03 : Choquequirao – Pinchinoyoc – Río Blanco – Maizal

After breakfast at around 7:00 a.m., you will begin a challenging trek through the Choquequirao archaeological area, continuing uphill along narrow trails surrounded by cloud forest, mountains, and deep valleys until reaching the Choquequirao Pass.

After approximately 5 hours of hiking, you will continue through the agricultural terraces of Pinchinoyoc (2,750 m), an impressive Inca site known for its stepped terraces and fertile landscapes. Along the way, you will observe diverse bird species, orchids, and local coca plantations.

You will stop for lunch near Río Blanco, where you can also enjoy a refreshing optional swim in the cold mountain river. You will cross the river on foot, as there are no bridges in this remote area.

After a short rest, you will begin a steep ascent of approximately 3 hours to reach your campsite at Maizal, located high above the valley near the sacred Apus of the Incas.

You will camp in a remote mountain setting at around 3,000 m, surrounded by Andean nature and silence.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Distance: 12 km
Approx. hiking time: 7–8 hours
Max altitude: 3,000 m (Maizal area)
Difficulty: Challenging – high-altitude trekking in the Andes
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude: 3000 masl Choquequirao
Minimum Altitude: 2750 masl chiquisc

DAY 04 : Maizal – Minas Victoria – Yanama.

Maizal – Corihuarachina Glacier – Minas Victoria – Yanama
After an early breakfast, you will begin a scenic and challenging trek through the Corihuarachina glacier area, known for its ancient Inca canals and archaeological remains.

You will continue uphill through lush cloud forest and then into the high Andean puna, covered with ichu grass. Along the route, you will pass the historic Minas Victoria, an old silver mining site used during both Inca and colonial times.

As you approach higher altitude, you will walk on original Inca trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You will reach the Victoria Pass (approx. 4,200 m), where you will have lunch with panoramic views of the Choquetakarpo mountain. On clear days, you may also observe Andean condors soaring above the valley.

After lunch, you will descend to your campsite in Yanama, a remote mountain village surrounded by glaciers and high peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Distance: 14 km
Approx. hiking time: 8–9 hours
Max altitude: 4,200 m (Victoria Pass)
Difficulty: Challenging – high mountain trekking in the Andes
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:3000 masl Maizal – Minas Victoria
Minimum Altitude:3800 masl Yanama

DAY 05: Yanama – Yanama Pass – Totoral

After an early breakfast, you will begin a challenging ascent to the highest point of the trek, the Yanama Pass (approx. 4,200–4,700 m, depending on conditions). Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Saqsarayoc and Pedreyoc mountain ranges.

As you climb, you will pass through changing landscapes, from lush highland valleys to cloud forest and open Andean puna covered with ichu grass. In clear weather, you may also walk across patches of snow and observe Andean condors soaring above the valleys.

After reaching the pass, you will begin a long and scenic descent through misty mountain terrain, grassy fields, and small forested areas, crossing rustic wooden bridges along the way. You will continue toward the remote community of Totoral, where you will camp surrounded by untouched nature and stunning mountain scenery.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Distance: 14 km
Approx. hiking time: 8–9 hours
Difficulty: Challenging – high altitude trekking in the Andes
Maximum Altitude:4250 masl Yanama
Minimum Altitude:3850 masl totorayoc

DAY 06 : Totoral – La Playa (Santa Teresa Valley)

After breakfast, you will begin a 7-hour descent from the high Andes (approx. 3,850 m) into the lush Santa Teresa Valley, reaching La Playa at 2,125 m. Along the way, you will experience a dramatic change in landscape, from high-altitude grasslands to tropical cloud forest.

You will observe rich biodiversity, including hummingbirds, woodpeckers, orchids, and begonias. As you descend, you will follow trails along the Santa Teresa River, passing small plantations of bananas, coffee, and passion fruit.

You will also stop at natural waterfalls where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear mountain water. The route continues through the fertile valley, with increasing signs of local life and agriculture.

La Playa is the largest village along the route, where you will find small local shops and basic services. You will camp in a beautiful natural setting surrounded by mountains and tropical vegetation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Distance: 13 km
Approx. hiking time: 7–8 hours
Max altitude: 3,850 m (Totoral)
Min altitude: 2,125 m (La Playa)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging descent

DAY 07: La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, you will take a local transport to the town of Santa Teresa, crossing the Vilcanota River and enjoying beautiful high jungle landscapes. From there, you will continue by vehicle to the Hydroelectric station Central Hidroelectrica Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu from a different angle and the impressive Aobamba Canyon.

You will have your last lunch in this area before starting a scenic 3-hour walk along the train tracks toward Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). On the way, you will pass lush vegetation, rivers, and optional viewpoints of the surrounding Inca trails.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you may optionally visit the nearby hot springs Cocalmayo Thermal Waters or relax in town.

You will spend the night in a comfortable hostel in Aguas Calientes, preparing for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel (Aguas Calientes)
Distance: 11 km (approx.)
Approx. hiking time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate descent and walk
Maximum Altitude:2800 masl La Playa.
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl Aguas Calientes Pueblo.

DAY 08: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

After an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes, you will take the bus or hike up to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site, exploring its temples, terraces, and sacred Inca structures while learning about its history and significance.

After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. You may optionally hike Huayna Picchu or visit the Moon Temple for additional panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

At the designated time, you will meet your guide and return to Aguas Calientes around 3:00 p.m. Later, you will board the train back to Cusco, arriving approximately at 8:00 p.m.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance: 7 km (approx.)
Difficulty: Easy – guided cultural visit and light walking
Tour type: Machu Picchu visit & return to Cusco
Maximum Altitude:2100 masl Aguas Calientes.
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl Machu picchu citadel.
Approximate Walking Time: 2- 4 Hours

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.

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Javier M.

Solo Traveller

Embark on the 8-Day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek for a truly unique adventure, exploring the remote ruins of Choquequirao and the iconic Machu Picchu in a breathtaking journey.

February 1, 2024

Choquequirao + Machu Picchu Trek 8 Days – The Ultimate Lost City Adventure