Formidable | Max 8 | 9 Days | 8 Nights, 7 Camp + 1 Hotel

Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days

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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu the Two Greatest Inca Cities in One Trail over 9-Days

This is the only trek in Peru that gives you both. You start with Choquequirao, the lost city you have almost to yourself, and you finish with a sunrise guided tour inside Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

No train to the back door. No day-tour crowds on day one. Nine days on the original Inca highway linking the empire’s two most important cities.

Choquequirao means Cradle of Gold and sits on a remote ridge above the Apurimac Canyon at 3,050 meters. The complex covers about 1,800 hectares, yet only 30 to 40 percent has been cleared from the cloud forest. It was a royal estate, then one of the last refuges of the Incas after the fall of Cusco. You will explore it properly, not rush it.

Then you walk toward Machu Picchu. You cross Victoria Pass at 4,170 meters beneath the spectacular snow-capped mountains of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, and Pumasillo, climb to Yanama Pass at 4,670 meters, the highest point of the trek, then descend through cloud forest to coffee country. You soak in the Cocalmayo hot springs, tour a family coffee farm, and on day eight you climb to Puncuyoc Pass at 2,700 meters to reach Llactapata. From Llactapata you get the classic postcard view few trekkers ever see, the full citadel of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the Aobamba Canyon laid out directly in front of you.

You carry a daypack. Our horses and local arrieros carry the rest. Seven nights wild camping, one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, chef-cooked meals every day, and expert Quechua guide. Maximum eight trekkers. This is a formidable trek for experienced hikers who want the complete traverse.

Choquequirao 5 Day Trek - Orange Nation Peru Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 9 Days - Orange Nation Peru

Highlights

The Two Most Important Inca Cities in One Trek
Walk from Choquequirao, three times larger and almost empty, straight into Machu Picchu. The two most important and incredible cities of the Inca Empire, this is the only route that connects them on foot.
Choquequirao: Cradle of Gold, Fully Explored
A full afternoon guided tour of temples, palaces, ritual water fountains, storehouses and the ceremonial Usnu. See the famous Llama Terraces with 22 life-size white stone llamas built into the walls, a feature you will not find at Machu Picchu.
Victoria Pass and the Vilcabamba Giants
Hike the original Inca highway past ancient silver mines to Victoria Pass at 4,170 meters. From the pass you appreciate the great canyons and the snow peaks of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, and Pumasillo.
The Roof of the Trek, Yanama Pass
Climb to 4,670 meters with views of the Padreyoc massif at 5,571 meters. The highest, hardest, and most spectacular day.
Llactapata and Puncuyoc Pass with your First View of Machu Picchu
After a three-hour climb to Puncuyoc Pass at 2,700 meters, arrive at Llactapata ruins located right in front of Machu Picchu. This is where you see the strategic location of the citadel from far away, with Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu mountain, and the Aobamba Canyon below, a view our competitors cannot offer.
Cocalmayo Hot Springs and Coffee Farm
Day seven is for recovery. Tour a working coffee plantation in Lucmabamba, pick and roast your own beans, harvest avocados and tomatoes for dinner, then take local transport to the natural hot springs at Cocalmayo to soak in the jungle.
Four Climates, Zero Crowds
From high puna to deep Apurimac canyon to warm cloud forest in nine days. Watch Andean condors soar, pass orchids and bromeliads, and camp under star-filled skies with no light pollution.
Fully Supported Formidable Expedition
Seven nights in 4-season tents with thick mattresses, one hotel night in Aguas Calientes, all meals by our trek chef, horses for your 7kg duffel, emergency horse and oxygen, and professional bilingual guides. Group size up to 8 people.

9 Days / 8 Nights

Duration

Formidable | Max 8 | 9 Days | 8 Nights, 7 Camp + 1 Hotel

Type

Cusco

Location

Book Now

+51 992 126 224 info@orangenationperu.com

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9-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu Expedition

The 9-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek links the two greatest Inca cities on foot, no permits, no crowds. You get a full afternoon inside Choquequirao, the Cradle of Gold, then cross the Vilcabamba range over Victoria Pass (4,170m) and Yanama Pass (4,670m) before descending through coffee farms and hot springs to Llactapata for your first view of Machu Picchu. Seven nights wild camping, one hotel night in Aguas Calientes, and a sunrise Circuit 2 tour to finish, built for experienced trekkers fit for 6 to 9 hours of hiking a day.

Why Choose Orange Nation?

Orange Nation Peru is a Cusco-based, family-owned trekking company specializing in remote high-altitude routes to Machu Picchu: Choquequirao, Salkantay, Ausangate, and the Inca Trail. Our guides are licensed professionals from Cusco who lead Choquequirao departures every month of the season, with full certification in wilderness first aid and high-mountain rescue. This focused operation is why we maintain a 4.9-star average across 1,200+ verified reviews, with travelers consistently highlighting our organization on long expeditions, camp quality, and guide knowledge of Choquequirao history.

What to expect from us, on your trek:

Groups limited to 8 travelers
Smaller groups mean a quiet camp at Choquequirao, safe pacing on the Yanama Pass ascent, and personal time with your guide in the ruins. You will not be walking in a line of 20 trekkers.
Certified local high-altitude guides
All guides are licensed by the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism, certified in wilderness first aid, and born in the Cusco region. They are full-time staff, paid under Peruvian law, and lead the full Choquequirao to Machu Picchu traverse regularly, not once a season.
Itineraries designed for acclimatization and exploration
With 9 days you get a proper build-up. Day 1 drops to 1,550m, days 2-4 stay between 2,000m and 3,300m for Choquequirao, then you climb gradually to Yanama Pass at 4,670m on day 6. You get a full 3-hour private tour of Choquequirao, not a 45-minute walk-through.
Chef-prepared meals and comfortable wild camping
All meals on the mountain are cooked fresh by our trek chef, hot soups, quinoa, grilled chicken, trout, fresh vegetables, and fruit. We provide 4-person tents for 2 people, thick foam mattresses, dining tent with tables and chairs, and boiled water daily. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free accommodated with advance notice.
Comprehensive safety and support
Every departure carries an emergency horse, emergency oxygen, full first aid kit, satellite communication, and horses/mules for your 7kg duffel. We provide private transport to the trailhead, all entrance fees, Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets, and a detailed pre-trek briefing at 6pm the night before.
Direct booking and full logistics management
You book directly with our Cusco office. We handle your Choquequirao permit, Machu Picchu Circuit 2 tickets, Expedition train, hotel in Aguas Calientes, and all camping equipment. Complimentary airport pickup and luggage storage included.

Choquequirao Trek Comparison

All three routes end at Machu Picchu. Choose based on difficulty, time, and how much you want to see.

9-Day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu

Duration 9 days / 8 nights.
Activity 120km+ trekking, 2 major passes (4,170m & 4,670m), full Choquequirao exploration, Llactapata, Cocalmayo hot springs.
Accommodation 7 nights wild camping, 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Best for Experienced trekkers wanting both Inca cities, maximum solitude, and the most complete route. No permit required.

5-Day Salkantay Classic

Duration 5 days / 4 nights.
Activity High-mountain trekking only. 1 major pass at 4,650m, 6 to 8 hours hiking per day.
Accommodation 3 to 4 nights camping at 3,500m to 4,600m.
Best for Trekkers wanting classic Andean scenery, glacial lakes and high passes with full camping support.

4-Day Classic Inca Trail

Duration 4 days / 3 nights.
Activity Trekking only on original Inca stonework. 3 passes, max 4,215m at Dead Woman’s Pass.
Accommodation Camping on designated platforms, permit required 6 months in advance.
Best for History lovers who want archaeological sites every day and accept hiking with 500 people per day.

Who The 9-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu Is Perfect For

Experienced Trekkers
Comfortable hiking 6 to 9 hours a day for multiple days with significant elevation gain and loss. You have trekked above 4,000m before or run/train regularly.
History and Archaeology Lovers
Wanting more than just Machu Picchu. You get a full guided tour of Choquequirao, the last Inca refuge, plus Llactapata, Pinchiunuyoc and the original Inca highway.
Photographers and Solitude Seekers
Wanting empty ruins, condors over the Apurimac, snow peaks, cloud forest, and the Llactapata view of Machu Picchu with no one else in frame.
Adventure Travelers with Time
With 9 days you see four climates, cross two high passes, soak in jungle hot springs, tour a coffee farm, and still finish at the Wonder of the World.

Other Expeditions to Consider

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days with Sky Domes
Five days to Machu Picchu via Salkantay Pass, with nights in glass-roof Sky Domes and lodges instead of tents.
Salkantay + Inca Trail 7-Day
Seven days combining Salkantay Pass at 4,650m with two days on the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

How to Book the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Booking takes two quick steps and we handle all the logistics from Cusco.

Step 1: Complete your booking form
Click BOOK NOW and fill out the form for each traveler. We need the following details exactly as they appear on your passport to secure your Machu Picchu entry and train tickets:

Full name.
Gender.
Passport number.
Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy).
Nationality.

We cannot purchase your Machu Picchu Circuit 2 ticket without this information, so please double-check spelling before submitting.

Step 2: Confirm with your deposit
A deposit of $200 USD per person locks in your dates and allows us to immediately purchase your Machu Picchu ticket and train seats. You can pay securely online by Visa or PayPal.

Paying the balance
You can avoid international card fees by paying the remaining balance in cash at our Cusco office in US dollars or Peruvian soles. ATMs are available throughout the historic center. If you prefer to pay online, Visa and PayPal are accepted with a 5.5% processing fee.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send your official confirmation, detailed packing list, and briefing information within 24 hours. Your in-person pre-trek briefing is held at 6pm the night before departure at our office in central Cusco.

Note: This tour requires good physical fitness and is not recommended for beginners. We operate March through December; January and February are closed due to heavy rains on the Choquequirao route.

Machu Picchu Experience 2026 Circuits

Circuit 2 Priority
We secure Circuit 2 (Classic Route) for all bookings made 4+ months in advance. Circuit 2 gives you the upper terraces and the classic postcard photo. Book later than that and we will confirm Circuit 1 or 3, which still includes the main temples and panoramic viewpoints.
Early Entry Times
We request the earliest available entry slot for your date (usually 6-7am). This is the quietest time in the sanctuary.
Expert Interpretation
Your Choquequirao guide leads you inside Machu Picchu. No handover to a different city guide. You get the same Quechua specialist who has walked the full 9 days with you.

Full Itinerary

The big drop from cold puna to warm canyon in one morning.

Hiking Time ∼5 hours.
Altitude 2,850 m – 1,550 m (Capuliyoc 2,850 m).
Distance 14 km / 8.7 miles.
Difficulty Challenging.
Meals Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp at Playa Rosalinas.

We pick you up at 5:00 am in Cusco and drive four hours through the Sacred Valley, past the carved ceremonial stone at Saywite and the fruit orchards of Curahuasi. The road climbs, then stops at the trailhead on the rim at Capuliyoc. Step out and the wind hits you. Below is the Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, and straight across is the snow dome of Padreyoc (5,571m). The Apurimac speaking god in Quechua roars 1,500 meters below, but you can barely hear it yet.

The trail drops fast on wide, dusty switchbacks. In three hours you walk through three worlds: cold puna grass, then dry cactus and agave, then warm thorny scrub where lizards dart across the path. Andean condors often circle the thermals above you here. You will feel the descent in your legs, but every turn opens a bigger view of the canyon. Lunch is waiting at Chiquisca, a tiny oasis with cold drinks and shade.

After lunch it is two more hours down to the river. The air gets humid, the sound gets louder, and you cross the steel bridge to Playa Rosalinas. Your tents are already up on the sand. Jump in the river, have a hot tea, and watch the canyon walls turn gold at sunset. No signal, no road, no one else.

Day 1 Highlights

Sunrise drive past Saywite.
First view from Capuliyoc into the Apurimac Canyon.
1,300m descent through three climates.
Riverside camp at Playa Rosalinas.

The climb that keeps Choquequirao empty.

Hiking Time ∼6 hours.
Altitude 1,550 m – 3,050 m (Marampata 2,900 m).
Distance 16 km / 10 miles.
Difficulty Challenging.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp 20 minutes from Choquequirao.

You start early while the canyon is still cool. Cross the river and the trail goes straight up. It is a steady, relentless climb for four hours through dry forest to the little rest stop at Santa Rosa, then on to Marampata. The heat builds, but so do the views behind you sd the river is getting smaller, the canyon gets bigger.

Lunch is served on a grass terrace at Marampata, and this is the moment. Across the valley you see it for the first time: Choquequirao spread over three hilltops, stone terraces stepping down into cloud forest. It is bigger than you expected, and there are no buses, no ticket lines, just stone.

Ninety minutes after lunch you reach camp, perched on the ridge just below the ruins. Drop your pack and walk up for sunset if you want. The main plaza glows, the wind drops, and condors often glide right over the usnu platform. You fall asleep 20 minutes from a lost city.

Day 2 Highlights

The classic 1,500m climb out of the Apurimac.
Lunch viewpoint at Marampata.
First sight of Choquequirao.
Sunset camp under the ruins

A full morning inside the Cradle of Gold.

Hiking Time ∼2 hours (plus 3-hour private exploration).
Altitude 3,050 m – 1,990 m (Choquequirao Pass 3,277 m).
Distance 8 km / 5 miles.
Difficulty Moderate.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp at Rio Blanco.

You wake to mist in the terraces. While the rest of Peru is still on a bus, you walk into Choquequirao with your guide and have it to yourself for three hours. You explore the main plaza, the ceremonial usnu, the temple complex, the priest houses, and the still-working water channels. Then you drop to the lower sector to see the Llama Terraces, 22 life-size llamas made from white stone set into the wall, only fully uncovered in 2004. Your guide will show you how the Incas used the light to make them appear to walk at sunrise.

After a late lunch at camp you hike 40 minutes up to Choquequirao Pass for one last look back, then start the long descent. The trail dives into humid cloud forest filled with orchids, bromeliads and hummingbirds. You pass the small, perfect terraces of Pinchiunuyoc, an Inca farming outpost, then drop all the way to the steamy valley floor at Rio Blanco (1,990m). The river is warm enough for a swim before dinner.

Day 3 Highlights

Private 3-hour tour of Choquequirao.
Llama Terraces up close.
Cloud forest descent via Pinchiunuyoc.
Swim at Rio Blanco camp.

Short, steep, and unforgettable.

Hiking Time ∼5 hours.
Altitude 1,990 m – 3,050 m (Maizal 3,050 m).
Distance 10 km / 6.2 miles.
Difficulty Challenging.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp at Maizal.

After a slow breakfast you start climbing. In five hours you gain more than 1,000 meters and walk through four different worlds, hot jungle at the river, dry scrub with giant cactus, then cool cloud forest with moss-covered trees, then open puna grass at the top. Look back often; the canyon opens wider with every switchback.

You reach Maizal by mid-afternoon. The camp sits on a narrow ridge with nothing but air on three sides and a straight 3km drop to the Apurimac below. At sunset the whole Vilcabamba range turns pink. This is the most remote night of the trek, and the stars here are unreal.

Day 4 Highlights

Climb through four microclimates.
1,000m+ gain to Maizal.
270-degree canyon views.
Highest, most isolated camp.

Walking the real Inca highway.

Hiking Time ∼8 hours.
Altitude 3,050 m – 4,170 m – 3,650 m (Victoria Pass 4,170 m).
Distance 16 km / 10 miles.
Difficulty Challenging.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp in Yanama.

Start at 7am on original Inca paving. The trail contours up through high scrub for three hours, passing the stone ruins of the old Spanish silver mines at Minas Victoria. You can still see the tunnel mouths in the hillside.

You hit Victoria Pass at 4,170 meters around lunch. Stop and turn around. From here you get the full postcard: the glaciated peaks of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, and Pumasillo lined up in a row, with deep green valleys falling away on both sides. It is cold and windy and completely silent.

The descent is long and gentle into the farmlands of Yanama (3,650m), the first Quechua village in five days. Kids wave from the school, smoke comes from adobe kitchens, and our camp is on the grass beside the river. Hot showers are available for a couple of soles.

Day 5 Highlights

Original Inca Trail to Victoria Pass.
Minas Victoria silver mines.
Views of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, Pumasillo.
First village Yanama.

The highest point and the biggest day.

Hiking Time ∼9 hours.
Altitude 3,650 m – 4,670 m – 2,870 m (Yanama Pass 4,670 m).
Distance 22 km / 13.7 miles.
Difficulty Formidable.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Dinner.
Accommodation Wild camp at Colpapampa.

Headlamps on for a pre-dawn start. The climb to Yanama Pass takes four steady hours through cold puna grass and past small glacial lakes. At 4,670 meters you are standing on the roof of the trek. The air is thin, the wind is sharp, and the view is endless, snow peaks in every direction, with the trail you just walked looking like a tiny thread below.

After coca tea and photos, you drop four hours down through valleys dotted with wild lupines and small herds of alpaca to Totora for a huge late lunch. Then two more hours down as the air gets warm and humid, the trees get bigger, and banana plants appear. You camp at Colpapampa (2,870m) surrounded by coffee bushes and the sound of the river. You just walked from ice to jungle in one day.

Day 6 Highlights

Summit Yanama Pass at 4,670m.
360-degree Vilcabamba panorama.
Descent from puna to high jungle.
Lush camp at Colpapampa.

Congratulations, you made it to the homestretch! Coffee, fruit, and jungle hot springs to come.

Easy start. Three hours on a soft trail through working farms in Colpapampa and Lucmabamba. Your guide will stop to pick fresh coffee cherries, cacao pods, mandarins, and avocado straight from the trees, taste the difference. The air is warm and smells like flowers and wet earth.

Lunch is at camp, then you spend the afternoon on the family coffee plantation right next to the tents. Learn the whole process, picking, de-pulping, drying, roasting, and drink a cup you yourself helped make.

At 3pm we drive 30 minutes down to the Cocalmayo Hot Springs. Three large stone pools sit right in the jungle at the edge of the river, with water at different temperatures. Soak for an hour while the steam rises into the trees and your legs finally relax. Back to camp for a celebration dinner under the trees.

Day 7 Highlights

Farm trail through coffee and cacao.
Hands-on coffee tour in Lucmabamba.
Soak in Cocalmayo natural hot springs.

Your first view of Machu Picchu, and you earned it.

Hiking Time ∼9 hours.
Altitude 2,000 m – 2,700 m – 1,900 m (Puncuyoc Pass 2,700 m).
Distance 15 km / 9.3 miles.
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Accommodation 3★ Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Three-hour climb through cool, dripping cloud forest to Puncuyoc Pass. Orchids hang from branches, hummingbirds zip past, and the Inca steps are still perfectly placed under the moss. From the pass it is 30 minutes to Llactapata (2,700m).

Stop here. This is the moment people do the nine days for. Llactapata sits on a ridge directly opposite Machu Picchu across the Aobamba Canyon. From this one spot you see the entire citadel, Huayna Picchu rising behind it, and Machu Picchu Mountain to the south, all in one frame, with no crowds and no ticket scanner. Take your time.

Two hours down through thick forest to Hydroelectric for a hot lunch, then the final three-hour walk on the flat railway line through the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary to Aguas Calientes. The river is on your left, the cliffs are on your right, and you can look up and see the terraces of Wiñay Wayna high above. Check into your hotel, take the first hot shower in eight days, and meet for dinner in town.

Day 8 Highlights

Cloud forest climb to Puncuyoc Pass.
Llactapata viewpoint of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Aobamba Canyon.
Walk through the Historic Sanctuary.
Hotel night in Aguas Calientes.

Sunrise in the Wonder of the World.

Hiking Time ∼2 to 2.5 hours guided.
Altitude 2,430 m.
Difficulty Easy.
Meals Breakfast.

First bus at 5:30 am winds up through cloud forest to the gate of Machu Picchu. You walk in as the mist lifts off the terraces and the sun hits Huayna Picchu.

Your guide leads Circuit 2, The Classic Route, the full loop in 2026. You start at the Guardhouse for the iconic photo, then follow the one-way trail down through the heart of the city.

You will see:

The Guardhouse – the classic photo spot, Machu Picchu laid out with Huayna Picchu right behind it.
The Agricultural Sector – hundreds of steep terraces that fed the city and keep the mountain from sliding.
Temple of the Sun – the curved tower built to catch the June solstice sunrise through its window.
Temple of the Three Windows – three massive frames looking straight out to the sacred peaks.
Sacred Plaza and Intihuatana – the Inca sun clock, carved from a single rock and still perfectly aligned.
Temple of the Condor – a natural stone outcrop shaped into wings, with the head and beak carved on the floor below.
Royal houses and fountains – stone water channels that have run clear for 500 years.
The Sacred Rock – your final wide-open viewpoint over the whole citadel.

After the tour you have free time on the lower terraces. Bus down, lunch in town, then the 4:22pm train down the Urubamba to Ollantaytambo and private van to Cusco. You arrive around 8:30pm with two of the greatest Inca cities in your memory and your legs.

Day 9 Highlights

Sunrise entry to Machu Picchu.
Full Circuit 2 guided tour.
Free time for photos.
Scenic train return to Cusco.

Included

Private Transport
Hotel pick-up at 5:00am in Cusco, private van to Cachora trailhead, and private van from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco on Day 9. Includes transport of equipment from La Playa to Hydroelectric.
Professional Guide
Licensed English-speaking guide with extensive Choquequirao experience and wilderness first aid certification. Includes full guided tour of Choquequirao ruins and guided tour of Machu Picchu on Circuit 2.
Entrance Tickets
Entrance fee to Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Machu Picchu entrance, and all sites visited including Llactapata and Pinchiunuyoc.
Machu Picchu Buses
Two bus tickets for the round-trip ascent and descent between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Train Ticket
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on Day 9.
Accommodation
Seven nights wild camping in comfortable 4-person tents (2 trekkers per tent) with thick foam mattress — including one night camping right in front of Choquequirao. One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom.
Meals
Day 1: lunch, afternoon tea, dinner. Days 2-8: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner. Day 9: breakfast. Includes celebration dinner in Aguas Calientes. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available with advance notice.
Horses, Mules and Porters
Horses and mules with horsemen for all group equipment and 7kg of your personal items (sleeping bag, clothes, etc.). One emergency horse available on the trek if needed.
Camping Equipment
Complete camp set-up including dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, and toilet tent.
Safety Equipment
First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle carried by your guide at all times.
Water
Boiled water provided daily from lunch on Day 1 for drinking and washing. Bring bottles for 2-3 liters capacity.
Briefing and Support
Pre-trek briefing at 6pm the night before at our Cusco office. Includes free luggage storage and airport pickup in Cusco.
Taxes and Fees
All local taxes and community fees included.

Not Included

Meals Not Covered
Breakfast on Day 1, and lunch and dinner on Day 9.
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping bag rated to -10°C and air mattress. Available to rent from us for $25 USD each.
Trekking Poles
Not included. Available to rent for $20 USD per pair.
Hotels Before and After
Accommodation in Cusco before Day 1 and after Day 9.
Optional Hikes
Entrance to Huayna Picchu ($75 USD) or Machu Picchu Mountain ($75 USD). Must be booked in advance.
Extra Luggage Horse
Additional horse for personal luggage over the 7kg allowance.
Flights and Insurance
International and domestic flights. Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended for high-altitude trekking.
Tips
Tips for your guide, cook, and horsemen are not included and are at your discretion.
Upgrades
Vistadome panoramic train upgrade ($67 USD), single tent supplement, and hotel upgrades.

Pricing

Small group departures require a minimum of 2 people.

2 to 12 people | $1,077 USD per person

This price combines nine days of remote Vilcabamba trekking, a full afternoon inside Choquequirao, two high passes over 4,100m, seven nights of fully-supported wild camping, one hotel night, and Machu Picchu Circuit 2 — for less than the cost of booking a private Choquequirao expedition and Machu Picchu separately.

This tour operates March through December only. We do not operate in January and February due to heavy rains on the Choquequirao route.

Included in the Price

All Entrance Tickets
Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Machu Picchu Circuit 2, and all Inca sites including Llactapata and Pinchiunuyoc.
Accommodation
Seven nights wild camping in 4-person tents (2 per tent) with foam mattress, including one night camping at Choquequirao. One night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom.
Train and Bus Tickets
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Private Transport
Private van from Cusco to Cachora trailhead, and return from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. Equipment transport from La Playa to Hydroelectric.
Professional Guide
English-speaking licensed guide for all 9 days, specialized in high-altitude trekking and Choquequirao history.
Meals as per Itinerary
Day 1 lunch through Day 9 breakfast, plus celebration dinner in Aguas Calientes. Fresh ingredients cooked by our trek chef.
Horses and Camping Equipment
Mules and horsemen for all group gear plus 7kg of your personal items. Complete camp set-up with dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, tables and chairs.
Safety and Support
First aid kit, emergency oxygen, one emergency horse, pre-trek briefing at 6pm, boiled water daily, and 24/7 Cusco office support.

Extras (Optional)

Vistadome Train Upgrade
Panoramic windows and glass ceiling for the return to Poroy (Cusco). $57 USD per person.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Add the summit hike inside the citadel. $75 USD per person, must be booked in advance.
Sleeping Bag Rental
Warm -15°C, steam-cleaned after every trek. $20 USD per trek.
Air Mattress Rental
Inflatable mattress for extra comfort. $20 USD per trek.
Trekking Poles
Adjustable poles for the descents. $15 USD per pair per trek.
Personal Tent Supplement
Private tent for solo trekkers. $30 USD per trek.
Single Hotel Supplement
Private room in Aguas Calientes. $35 USD for solo travelers.

Discounts

18 to 25 Years
$30 USD off per person. Valid ISIC card required with university name, photo and expiration date. Copy needed at booking.
Under 18 Years
$30 USD off per person. Passport copy required at booking.
Under 11 Years
$40 USD off per person. Passport copy required at booking.
Groups of 5+
$30 USD off per person when booking together at the same time.

Added Value Experience

Two Lost Cities in One
Visit Choquequirao, three times larger than Machu Picchu and still mostly covered in cloud forest, then finish at Machu Picchu — no other commercial trek links both on foot.
Nine Days Not a Rush
Time for proper acclimatization, a full 3-hour tour of Choquequirao, and the high passes without 12-hour forced marches.
Camp at Choquequirao
Sleep 20 minutes from the ruins and watch sunset over the terraces — something day hikers never experience.
Small Group Guarantee
Maximum 12 travelers, average group size 4 to 6, for personal guide time and quiet campsites.

Packing List for 9-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

The Choquequirao trek climbs from 1,550m in the hot Apurimac Canyon to 4,670m at Yanama Pass, then drops to humid cloud forest. You will carry a 30 to 40L daypack every day. Your duffel bag (max 7kg) is carried by mules between camps. There is no electricity for seven nights.

Essentials (Carry in Your Daypack)

These must be with you at all times.

Documents

Original passport (must match the name used for your booking and Machu Picchu ticket).
Valid ISIC student card with expiration date (if booked as student).
Travel insurance card (strongly recommended for high-altitude trekking).

Water and Hydration

Water bottles or hydration bladder (2 to 3L total). Bring water for the first morning to Capuliyoc. We provide boiled water from lunch Day 1 onward. No single-use plastic bottles.

Sun and Cold Protection

Sun hat or cap.
Warm wool hat or beanie.
Buff or neck gaiter.
Sunglasses with UV protection.
High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.

Rain Protection

Waterproof jacket with hood (essential).
Rain pants.
Rain poncho (provided by Orange Nation).

Layers for Trekking

2 to 3 t-shirts (synthetic or merino, no cotton).
1 long-sleeve shirt for sun and cold.
1 fleece or light insulated layer.
1 warm down jacket (nights at Maizal and near Yanama Pass can reach 0-3°C).
2 pairs hiking pants (zip-offs ideal). No jeans.
1 pair thermal leggings for high camps.

Footwear

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.
Camp shoes, sandals or trainers for evenings.
3 to 4 pairs hiking socks (wool or synthetic).
Waterproof gloves (ski gloves work well).

Daypack Extras

Headlamp with spare batteries (essential).
Power bank (no charging for 7 nights).
Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents).
Camera or phone.
Snacks: chocolate bars, cereal bars, dried fruit.
Coca leaves or altitude tablets.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
Toilet paper plus small zip bag for waste.
Personal medications and blister kit (moleskin, band-aids).
Small cash in soles for drinks and tips.
Bathing suit for Cocalmayo hot springs.

What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag (Max 7kg – We Carry)

Keep this under 7kg including your sleeping bag.

Sleeping bag rated to -15°C (can be rented from us).
Inflatable air mattress (optional, can be rented).
2 t-shirts.
1 pair hiking pants.
4 sets of underwear.
3 pairs hiking socks.
1 to 2 fleece tops or thermals.
Warm down jacket.
Sleepwear for camp.
Quick-dry towel (we provide a small one).
Small bottle of biodegradable soap.
Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Face moisturizer.
Large plastic bags for wet clothes (we provide at briefing).

What NOT to Bring

Large suitcases or wheeled bags (store free at our Cusco office).
Cotton jeans or cotton t-shirts (they stay wet and cold).
Heavy mountaineering boots or ski jackets.
Drones (prohibited in Choquequirao and Machu Picchu).
Disposable plastic water bottles.
Valuables you do not need on the trail.

Orange Nation Provides

Pre-trek briefing, duffel bag, and free luggage storage in Cusco.
All private transport to and from trailhead.
7 nights wild camping: 4-person tent (2 per tent), thick foam mattress, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, tables and chairs.
1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with breakfast.
All meals as per itinerary, plus boiled water daily from lunch Day 1.
Horses and mules for all group gear and 7kg of your personal items.
Emergency horse, first aid kit and emergency oxygen.
Professional licensed guide for all 9 days.

Circuits and Safety

The 9-Day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu is a remote point-to-point traverse, not a loop trek. We designed it around one full day inside Choquequirao, two high passes, and a gradual descent to the jungle, not around rushing to Machu Picchu.

By starting at Capuliyoc and dropping 1,300m to the Apurimac River on Day 1, then spending three nights between 1,900m and 3,100m at Choquequirao, you acclimatize before the Vilcabamba range. That slow build is why this trek works for fit hikers despite reaching 4,670m at Yanama Pass on Day 6. You see the Cradle of Gold without crowds, cross snow peaks, coffee farms and Llactapata, but you never sleep above 3,650m.

Route Structure

Day 1 – Capuliyoc Descent
We pick up at 5am from Cusco and drive 4 hours to Capuliyoc at 2,850m. After meeting the mule team you hike 5 hours downhill to Playa Rosalinas at 1,550m. You carry only your daypack, mules carry your duffel. First camp is beside the Apurimac River.
Day 2 – Choquequirao Climb
Early breakfast then 6-hour climb to Marampata. Lunch with views of Choquequirao, then 20 minutes to our camp right above the ruins at 3,050m. No other groups camp here.
Day 3 – Choquequirao Exploration
Three hour private guided tour of the terraces, temples and llama sector in the morning. After lunch we cross Choquequirao Pass at 3,277m and descend 2 hours to Rio Blanco at 1,990m. Second river camp.
Day 4 to 6 – High Passes
Day 4 climbs to Maizal at 3,000m. Day 5 crosses Victoria Pass at 4,170m with views of Sacsara and Pumasillo, sleeping at Yanama at 3,650m. Day 6 is the longest day: 9 hours over Yanama Pass at 4,670m, the highest point of the trek, then down to Totora and Colpapampa at 2,870m.
Day 7 – Cloud Forest and Hot Springs
We enter coffee country to Lucmabamba at 2,000m. Afternoon tour of a family coffee farm, then local transport to the Cocalmayo hot springs. Camp at Lucmabamba.
Day 8 – Llactapata and Aguas Calientes
Three-hour climb to Llactapata at 2,700m for your first view of Machu Picchu. Descend to Hydroelectric for lunch, then 3 hour flat walk through the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary to Aguas Calientes. Hotel night with hot shower.
Day 9 – Machu Picchu Circuit
Early 5:30am bus to the gate. Guided tour on Circuit 2 for 2.5 hours, the classic upper terrace route with the postcard views. After free time you return by Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and private van to Cusco, arriving around 7pm.

Safety Management

Altitude First
Maximum sleeping altitude is 3,650m at Yanama, not 4,600m. We spend three nights below 3,100m at Choquequirao before attempting the passes. Guides monitor for soroche daily and carry emergency oxygen on all high days.
Remote Trail Safety
This is a true wilderness route with no road access between Capuliyoc and Lucmabamba. The trail includes steep, loose descents into the Apurimac and long stone staircases. We set a slow, steady pace, provide trekking poles on request, and cross the river on a secure bridge at Playa Rosalinas.
Weather and Terrain
You will hike through four climates: hot dry canyon, temperate cloud forest, cold puna above 4,000m, and humid jungle. Afternoons in the canyon can reach 30°C, nights at Maizal can drop to 0°C. We check conditions at the 6pm briefing and adjust start times for the passes if needed.
Real Guides
Certified English-speaking guides from Cusco who specialize in Choquequirao. Maximum 8 travelers per guide. Guides are trained in wilderness first aid and high-altitude rescue, and carry satellite communication on the remote sections.
Camp Safety
We use established campsites with toilet tents and dining tents. Mules carry all gear so you hike with only a daypack. One emergency horse travels with the group every day and can evacuate to the nearest road at Yanama or Lucmabamba if needed.

What We Provide for Safety

Professional guide with wilderness first aid and emergency oxygen.
Emergency horse and mule support for evacuation on remote sections.
Satellite communication device between Capuliyoc and Lucmabamba.
Complete camping set-up so you are not exposed to weather.
Boiled water provided from lunch Day 1.
Pre-trek briefing at our office the night before.
First aid kit carried on all days.

How to Arrive Ready

You do not need to be an elite athlete, but Choquequirao rewards preparation.

Spend at least 2 nights in Cusco before Day 1. Your body needs it for the passes over 4,100m.
Train with long hikes carrying a daypack, including steep descents. The downhills into the Apurimac are harder than the uphills.
Bring layers for freezing mornings at Yanama Pass and hot afternoons in the canyon, plus broken-in boots with ankle support.
Pack a good headlamp and power bank. There is no electricity for seven nights.
Tell your guide immediately if you feel headache, nausea or unusual fatigue on the high days. We control the pace and can use the emergency horse at any time.
Bring strong sun protection and insect repellent. The sun is intense above 4,000m and the bugs are active in the cloud forest.

This is why we run Choquequirao as a 9-day expedition, not a 4-day race. You get a full day in the lost city, time to acclimatize for the high passes, and you arrive at Machu Picchu via Llactapata rested, not exhausted from a forced march.

Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days

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Travelers' Choice
2025

5.0

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

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Choquequirao Hike to Machu Picchu 9 Days

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu the Two Greatest Inca Cities in One Trail over 9-Days

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Full Itinerary

DAY 1. CUSCO · CACHORA · CAPULIYOC · CHIQUISCA · PLAYA ROSALINAS

DAY 2. PLAYA ROSALINAS · SANTA ROSA · MARAMPATA · CHOQUEQUIRAO

DAY 3. CHOQUEQUIRAO · CHOQUEQUIRAO PASS · PINCHIUNUYOC · RIO BLANCO

DAY 4. RIO BLANCO · MAIZA

DAY 5. MAIZAL · VICTORIA PASS · YANAMA

DAY 6. YANAMA · YANAMA PASS · TOTORA · COLPAPAMPA

DAY 7. COLPAPAMPA · LUCMABAMBA · COCALMAYO HOT SPRINGS

DAY 8. LUCMABAMBA · PUNCUYOC PASS · LLACTAPATA · HIDROELECTRICA · AGUAS CALIENTES

DAY 9. AGUAS CALIENTES · MACHU PICCHU · CUSCO

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Extras (Optional)

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Added Value Experience

Packing List for 9-Day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Essentials (Carry in Your Daypack)

What NOT to Bring

Orange Nation Provides

Circuits and Safety

Route Structure

Safety Management

What We Provide for Safety

How to Arrive Ready

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