Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 8 Days
8 Days Days
977
/ Per PersonChoquequirao, meaning “Cradle of Gold” and is located above the bustling Apurimac River which is fueled by the glaciers. It is surrounded by towering snowcapped peaks and sits on a high ridge. Choquequirao is a secluded and seldom visited “Lost City of the Incas”. Known as the sister of Machu Picchu, it does not get nearly as many visitors, even though its roughly 3 times larger than Machu Picchu. Used as a refuge by the Incas during the Spanish invasion, it was later abandoned and was subsequently covered by the encroaching vegetation of the Amazon Rainforest.
It’s an enchanting path. From the majestic snow-covered towering mountains, to the enthralling diverse flora with bright splashes of color, a product of the tropical climate from the Amazon Rainforest. It hugs the fringes of the high elevations of the Andes Mountains and the high jungle, which is regarded as one of the most biodiverse place in the world. This prime location has such incredibly varied and picturesque landscapes. Hike through high Andean landscapes with breathtaking glaciers, descend into deep canyons where the condors fly and pass through diverse cloud forest ecosystems. You will also catch glimpses of native wildlife such as Andean Condors, various birds, native flora and fauna, orchids and much more. On arrival, find an archeological site that is a true engineering marvel, looking statuesque among undisturbed lush vegetation.
We are specialists in this incredible area and offer the most frequent departures with experienced guides. We are the only company who takes you to the hot springs of CONOC after the Choquequirao Trek, and explores the unique Inca ruins of Saywite. This incredible trek also takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage site and 7 New Wonder of the World: Machu Picchu
please note: difficulty of trek is subjective
“If you are short on time, we offer the 4-day Classic Choquequirao Trek. This tour is ideal for exploring the incredible ruins of Choquequirao, although it does not include a visit to Machu Picchu.”
Spacious tents with private portable toilets. Private cook for each group. Exclusive modern vehicles with private driver.
Challenging hike with undulating terrain. You need to be in good physical condition and well acclimatized before embarking on this trek.
Cultural, hike, adventure, camping, train, shuttle bus and 1 night in a mid-tier hotel.
Small group experience; Max 12, Avg 5..
Full Itinerary
WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS?
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide at the office
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc
- Entry fees to Machu Picchu and Choquequirao
- English-speaking, professional guide
- Guided tours of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
- Comfortable waterproof tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
- All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen and toilet tent
- 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
- First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from the train station back to your hotel
- Celebration dinner in Aguas Calientes restaurant, day 7
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
- Mules and horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen – 7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bag will be carried by our mules
- Provision of a horse in case of emergency such as illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all participants
- Boiled water for drinking and washing purposes at each mealtime
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Sleeping bag adequate for temperature of minus 15°C (available to rent)
- Air mattresses (available to rent)
- Trekking poles (available to rent)
- Entry fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Additional horse for extra personal luggage in addition of the one for the personal item allowance
- Optional upgrades (train and hotel)
- Tips for the cook, horsemen and guide
- Hotels before and after the trek
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Flight tickets
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
|---|---|
| 2 to 12 people | $ 977 USD per person |
***This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs. We will provide you a duffel bag you can put your things in.
***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.
DISCOUNTS
- 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
- Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Group of 5 or more: $30 USD. – All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.
EXTRAS
- Sleeping bag –$20 USD per person per trek (They are steam cleaned after every trek)
- Air mattress –$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
- Walking poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
- Personal tent: $30 USD – (Tent for solo trekkers only)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade –$57 USD per person (For the return to Poroy at 4:43pm)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain –$75 USD per person (Please request when you book your trek)
- Hotel single supplement –$35 USD for solo travelers
ADDED VALUES FOR FREE
- TRANSFER – from the airport to hotel (Cusco only)
- DUFFEL BAG AND LINER BAGS – included in the trekking price
- EXTRA PACK HORSE is included in the price, the porter will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs /14p like sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc
- BOILED WATER is included along the Inca Trail
- OXYGEN TANK will be available along the trek
- EMERGENCY HORSE is included in the price which can be ridden if you get tired or sick
- CAMPING PILLOW & FOAM MATTRESS
WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK MACHU PICCHU
- Original passport (it has to be the same as the one used to book the trek)
- Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
- Good daypack
- Water storage: 2-3L reusable bottles (non disposable)
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from Orange Nation)
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet Paper
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra pack horse which will carry up to 7 kgs or 14lbs including your 2kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
- 2 t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants at least
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 sets of hiking socks
- Bathing suit for the thermal waters
- Fleece/ Thermals
- Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º Celsius.
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quick dry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
- Battery charger: No electricity along the trek
- Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them
- Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us
TOILETRIES
- Face moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and paste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
- Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bri ng your reusable bottles
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp: essential
- Wool hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Rain poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
977
/ Per Person- Best price guaranteed
- No booking fees
- Worry Free Travel
Why travel with Orange Nation Peru?
We have become the leaders in small group adventure travel over the past three decades by consistently listening to our travelers and delivering what they desire: adaptable itineraries, the freedom to explore, smaller group sizes, safety and peace of mind, and knowledgeable local guides who provide unique insights into the destination that would be missed through any other means of travel.
Design Your Ideal Adventure
Forget generic tours. With Orange Nation, you can create a tailor-made itinerary with the level of adventure, culture, or relaxation you choose.
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Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days
We have the best-designed itinerary by the only specialist in “trekking OFF the beaten track,” Orange Nation. The itinerary combines visits to two major archeological sites: remote and seldom visited Choquequirao and the legendary Machu Picchu. It is a fascinating adventure through part of the old empire of the Incas and one of Peru’s most unspoiled wilderness areas.
The name Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold.” The Inca Archeological site is considered, the sister to Machu Picchu, it is less known and 3 times larger than Machu Picchu. Suspected to be the last refuge for the Incas who continued to resist Spanish occupation after the conquest. The site eventually was abandoned and was later covered by the dense cloud forest vegetation and to this day archeologists continue to discover new sectors of the city.
On the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek, we will walk on Inca highways, hike through high Andean landscapes with majestic glaciers, descend into deep canyons where the condors fly and pass through biologically diverse cloud forest ecosystems. You will also visit Inca silver mines and isolated Inca communities. When you arrive to Machu Picchu, our last campsite is by the Llactapata Inca Ruins, which are located right in front of Machu Picchu. From this viewpoint, enjoy the greatest angles of different views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains like Huayna Picchu Mountain, Machu Picchu Mountain and Salkantay Mountain.
We also offer only the Choquequirao trek of 4 days.
*** please note: difficulty of trek is subjective
5 Days
5-Day Choquequirao Trek – Journey to the Lost City
Choquequirao, meaning “Cradle of Gold”, is located above the Apurimac River. It is surrounded by towering snowcapped peaks and sits on a high ridge. Choquequirao is a secluded and seldomly visited “Lost City of the Incas”. The Inca archaeological site is considered the sister of Machu Picchu. It is no where near as well known despite being 3 times larger than Machu Picchu. It was one of the last safe havens for those Incas who continued to resist the Spanish after the conquest. The site was eventually abandoned and became covered by dense vegetation. On this unique trek, we will walk on Inca highways, hike through high Andean landscapes with breathtaking glaciers, descend into deep canyons where the condors fly and pass through diverse cloud forest ecosystems. You will also catch glimpses of native wildlife such as Andean Condors, various birds, native flora and fauna, orchids and much more. We are specialists in this incredible area and offer the most frequent departures with experienced guides. We are the only company who takes you to the hot springs of Conoc after the Choquequirao Trek, and explores the unique Inca ruins of Saywite. With the 5 day Trek, you get an entire day to explore the extensive Choquequirao archeological site!
*** please note: difficulty of trek is subjective
4 Days
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days – An Alternative Trek in Cusco
The name Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold” and is located above the wild, raging Apurimac River, surrounded by high snowcapped peaks and set on a high ridge. The Inca archaeological site is considered the sister of Machu Picchu but is less known even though it is 3 times larger than Machu Picchu. This is one of the last known refuge for the Incas who continued to resist the Spanish conquistadors and who were forced to continue to retreat further into the dense Amazon Jungle. The site was eventually abandoned and became covered by dense cloud forest vegetation and to this day archeologists continue to discover new sectors of the city.
On the 4-Day Choquequirao trek, we hike through high Andean landscapes with beautiful glaciers, descend into deep canyons where the condors fly and pass through cloud forests with astonishing bio-diversity. We will also observe native animals such as Andean Condors, other types of birds, native flora and fauna such as numerous varieties of orchids and much more. We are specialists in this amazing route and offer the most frequent departures with experienced and professional guides.
*** please note: difficulty of trek is subjective
Our Reviews
Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.
Jaffet hasan c
The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.
Written June 22, 2025
Friends
Glen
We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.
Written July 14, 2025
Family
Kendall C
Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.
From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is
Written July 8, 2025
Couples
