Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days - Orange Nation Peru

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Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days

Duration: 9 Days

From USD

$1077

Group Price
Per person

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

Service Level:

Spacious tents with private portable toilets. Private cook for each group. Exclusive modern vehicles with private driver.

Difficulty:

Challenging hike with undulating terrain. You need to be in good physical condition and well acclimatized before embarking on this trek.

Travel Style:

Cultural, hike, adventure, camping, train, shuttle bus and 1 night in a mid-tier hotel.

Group Size

Small group experience; Max 12, Avg 5..

Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days

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Pick up starts bright and early, your guide to your hotel at 5am ready to begin the 4 hour drive to the village of Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,407ft). Along the way, there are spectacular views of villages, valleys and snow-capped mountains.

Once at Capuliyoc we meet our horsemen and pack all our equipment onto the horses. Here, we will enjoy the spectacular view of the Apurimac Canyon and the stunning snow-capped mountains.

Our first 3 hours of the hike are downhill, arriving to Chikisca in time for lunch. After we have had our fill of delicious freshly prepared food, we get back on the trail for another 2 hours.

After these 2 hours we make our first camp of the trek at La Playa Rosalinas.

Meals: Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 14kms/9 miles
Time: 5hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 2 starts with an early breakfast, and the hike begins easy with a nice bridge crossing. Unfortunately, that is the end of the easy work for the next few days. Immediately after we cross the bridge, so begins a 4 hour uphill slog.

The reward at the end of this uphill battle is lunch accompanied by a fantastic view in Marampata. The view is made even better by our first proper sighting of the Choquequirao ruins. After lunch we continue winding closer to the ruins, stopping at our second campsite of the trip.

Our second campsite is only 20 minutes walk from the ruins. It’s a fantastic spot to see condors swooping overhead as the sun sinks behind the valley. If we arrive to the campsite in good time, then you will also have the opportunity to explore the ruins before the sun sets.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 16kms/10 miles
Time: 6hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

After breakfast, we start the first major highlight of this trek: fully exploring the ruins of Choquequirao (Quechua for “cradle of gold”). Our guide will show us all the nooks and crannies, explaining the importance of each place.

We will visit temples, palaces, ritual water fountains, llamas’ section and the amazing Ushnu (ceremonial platform). There’s a lot to see so come ready!

In the afternoon, we climb over the ridge to the stunning Choquequirao Pass (3,277m/10,814ft). Then we descend for 2 hours towards Rio Blanco (1,990m/6,567ft) and onto the third evening’s campsite. The route passes along great canyons and the Pinchiunuyoc Inca ruins, so make sure your camera has plenty of charge!

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 8kms/5 miles
Time: 2hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

Today is one of the shorter days of the trek, so we can enjoy a slightly later breakfast before continuing along the trail.

We will wind our way through multiple different microclimates, accompanied along the way with spectacular views of canyons, rivers rushing 3km below, and incredible landscapes. This is the Peru that you came for, and the Peru that hardly anyone sees.

Before you know it we will be arriving at our fourth campsite, Maisal (3,277m/10,814ft), where we will share dinner together before heading off to our tents.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10kms/6 miles
Time: 5hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

It’s another early start today, as we want to be back on the trail for 7am ready for a 3 hour uphill hike. This route is on an original Incan Highway and winds in and out of jungle vegetation.

We will pass by ancient silver mines on our way up to Victoria’s pass (4,170m/13,700ft). From here, you can appreciate the great canyons, the spectacular snow-capped mountains of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, and Pumasillo. Then we descend to Yanama (3,650m/12,037ft), which is our fifth campsite.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 16kms/10 miles
Time: 8hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

Today is one of our most challenging days as we pass over several mountain peaks. We will set off early as we have a full 9 hours of hiking ahead of us.

Make sure to take in the beauty of the moments as they pass- including the chain of snow peaks that can be seen from the first section of today’s trek.

Before you know it we will have climbed to the highest point of our trek: Yanama pass (4,670m/15,407ft). The view from this point is amazing. Snow-capped mountains and impressive valleys surround us.

We then descend to Totora for lunch and after that, we walk for 2 hours to Colpapampa (2,870m/9,470ft) to our sixth campsite.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 22kms/14 miles
Time: 9hrs approximately
Difficulty: Challenging

Congratulations, we made it to the homestretch! Today kicks off with a mere 3-hour hike through the lush tropical rainforest. We will pass tropical fruit trees, coffee and cacao plants, fruit plantations and blooming orchids.

We arrive to the fabulous Lucmabamaba for lunch, and then have a little time to rest before the afternoon activities begin.

Right next to the campsite there is a coffee plantation where we can learn about the process of making coffee. From the different types of beans to how to pick and process your own, you will learn about every step of the process.

We will also be able to explore the nearby fields of tomatoes and avocados, learn about the ecosystems, and pick our own fresh produce, used by our chef to prepare dinner in the evening.

As 3pm rolls around, we’ll take a local transportation service to the natural hot springs of Cocalmayo, the perfect place to soak your aching muscles after 6 days of hard hiking.

Our return to camp will be celebrated with a meal freshly prepared from the ingredients you gathered earlier in the day. A job well done.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 14kms
Time: 5 to 6 hrs approximately
Difficulty: Moderate.

Our last day of hiking kicks off with another delicious breakfast before we join another ancient Inca Trail. We hike up this trail for 3 hours before reaching the Puncuyoc Pass (2,700m/8,858ft).

From the pass we continue our hike. Along the way, we will have amazing views of unique valleys and fruit plantations. We arrive to Llactapata Inca Ruins, located right in front of Machu Picchu, with views of Huyana Picchu, Machu Picchu and the Aobamba Canyon.

After your guide has shown you around, we descend for 2 hours to the hydroelectric plant, the main electricity source for Cusco, where we will have lunch.

This is the final hurdle, as we walk along the train tracks to Aguas Calientes through the Machu Picchu National Park. The flat walk should feel like almost nothing after the previous days, and it’s the final stretch!

You will start to feel the energy of Machu Picchu as we get closer, and once we arrive to Aguas Calientes you will be able to curl up in a real bed, and enjoy a real, hot shower before an early night ready for tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Accommodation: Wiracocha Inn Hotel or Andean Terra Hotel
Distance: 15kms / 9 miles
Time: 9hrs approximately
Difficulty : Moderate

We have an early start today, so grab some breakfast in your hotel and get ready to catch the 5:30am bus up to Machu Picchu. This gives you time to watch the sunrise in the magical citadel- the perfect way to start your Machu Picchu tour.

If you have an advanced booking for one of the peaks in the citadel (either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) you will have time to complete the hike after the conclusion of your guided tour. Once you have had your fill of the citadel (either up the mountains or on the ground) you are free to head back down to Aguas Calientes using the shuttle bus.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes you are free to explore as you wish, grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants (not included), visit the market for some souvenirs, or if there’s time, take a dip in the natural hot springs that gave the town its name.

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 4:22pm Be sure to watch the mountains and the Urubamba river from out the window. When you arrive in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 8:30pm.

Meal: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU 9 DAYS

Pick-up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure
Private transport from Cusco to Cachora (starting point of the trek)
Entrance fee to Choquequirao Inca Ruins
Entry fees to Machu Picchu
English speaking, experienced professional guide
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent)
Thick foam mattress
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
1 emergency horse which can be ridden if you’re feeling exhausted or ill
All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet ten
2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
Train ticket (expedition service) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco
Celebration dinner in Aguas Calientes (tourist restaurant)
Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
Mules or 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.
Boiled water for drinking and washing purposes
Transport from La Playa to Hydroelectric platform(for equipment and personal items)
Camping right in front of Archeological site of Choquequirao

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU 9 DAYS

Sleeping bag adequate for temperature of minus 10°c
Air Mattresses
Trekking Poles
Breakfast on the first day, lunch and dinner on the last day
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain
Additional horse for extra personal luggage in addition to the one for the personal item allowance
Hotels before and after the trek
Flight tickets
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Optional upgrades (train and hotel)
Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of ORANGE NATION PERU

The Choquequirao Machu Picchu trek can be booked on any date that is best suited for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers

Our best prices for the Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 days will be?

No. OF PEOPLE	PRICE
2 to 12 people	$ 1077 USD per person

DISCOUNTS

18 to 25 years old: US$30 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: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: US$40 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: US$30. – All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS

Sleeping Bag : US$20 –warm -15° (They are steam cleaned after every trek)
Air Mattress: US$20
Trekking Poles: US$15
Personal tent: US $30 – (Tent for single trekkers only)
Vistadome up-grade train US$57 per person (For the return to Poroy (Cusco) at 4:43pm)
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain – US $75
Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain – US $75
Single Supplement – US$35 for single travelers

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU

Original Passport (it has to be the same as the one used to book the trek)
Valid, GREEN ISIC card (if you booked as a student)
Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
Water storage: 2-3 liter Camelbacks are encouraged.
Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
Sleeping bag (can be rented from Orange Nation Peru)
Headlamp: essential
Toilet Paper

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFLE BAG

As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffle bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds 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
Couple 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.
Swimming Suit

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

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40Litres 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 bring your canteens.
Sun Hat
Sunscreen
Headlamp: essential
Wool Hat
Rain gear
Fleece
Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
Coca leaves.
Rain plastic poncho (provided by Orange Nation)
Gloves
Camera
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
Extra Money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
Valuable items

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.

Learn more

EXPERT GUIDES : Our expedition staff are experienced, enthusiastic and among the best in the industry - they are our secret to success

SMALL GROUPS: Travelling with us will always feel like going with friends and not with a group of strangers in an organized tour.

OUR EXPERIENCE: With fifteen years’ experience and over 25 Packages to Machu Picchu alone, our team knows how to deliver a successful expedition.

ENVIRONMENTAL: Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.

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Our Reviews

Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.

Tripadvisor Reviewed by

5.0

645 reviews

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

See all reviews

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