Overview
This itinerary offers an exciting blend of cultural immersion and rugged adventure, taking you deep into the heart of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. From traversing high Andean trails to exploring ancient Inca ruins, the tour seamlessly combines physical challenge with rich historical context, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Every day is designed to immerse you in a diverse range of environments—from the vibrant highlands of Cusco to the mysterious allure of Machu Picchu. With expert guides, carefully planned logistics, and an emphasis on authentic local experiences, this journey promises both the thrill of adventure and the comfort of well-organized travel.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – La Playa
- Day 2: La Playa – Marampata – Choquequirao
- Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao
- Day 4: Choquequirao – Marampata – La Playa – Chikiska
- Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Day 6: Machu Picchu visit – Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – La Playa
Your Travels to Machu Picchu team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. for the scenic four-hour drive to the trailhead. There, over a hearty breakfast with your trekking staff, you’ll meet the horsemen, hand over your duffel bags, and learn about today’s route on the Choquequirao Peru Tour (also known in Quechua as Choquekiraw). The first four hours of trekking lead you steadily downhill to lunch at the village of Chikiska-Chikiska, nestled among lush fruit plantations. En route, savor sweeping views of the Apurimac River, the surrounding canyon, and distant snow-capped peaks. As you descend, the air grows warmer; after crossing the river via a suspension bridge, you’ll tackle a two-hour ascent to reach your riverside campsite at La Playa.
Day 2: La Playa – Marampata – Choquequirao
Following an early farm-style breakfast prepared by your Travels to Machu Picchu chef, you’ll cross the river and begin the four-hour zigzag ascent to Marampata. Along the way you’ll pass sugarcane fields, spot condors gliding overhead, and encounter vibrant Andean flora and fauna. This stretch is among the most demanding of the trek—an emergency horse is on standby if needed. At 3,350 m you’ll pause for lunch with panoramic canyon vistas. Rest or nap briefly before embarking on the final two-hour climb to the base of the Choquequirao ruins. Here, your porters will have your tents ready at the campsite situated at the foot of the Inca site. If energy permits, enjoy a 30-minute hike up to the terraces for a spectacular sunset over Choquequirao.
Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao
After an early breakfast, set out on a 30-minute walk to the main entrance of Choquequirao. Your guide will lead a detailed exploration of this vast Inca stronghold, once concealed by cloud forest and considered even larger than Machu Picchu. Discover terraced agricultural zones, ceremonial temples, astronomical observatories, and intricate water channels—each carefully sited by the Incas. Following a four-hour guided tour, return to camp for lunch and a restorative break. In the afternoon, hike down to the llama terraces—a steep 30-minute descent where white-stone carvings depict the llama constellation—and then ascend to the Usno platform to watch the sun dip behind the Andes before heading back to camp for the night.
Day 4: Choquequirao – Marampata – La Playa – Chikiska
Breakfast fuels your return journey. Retrace your steps on a two-hour hike back to Marampata, where cloud banks rising from the canyon floor and distant waterfalls create a moving backdrop. Your guide will point out any flora and fauna missed on the way in. From Marampata, descend steeply for four hours to La Playa, using trekking poles to ease your knees, with a midway pause to sample fresh cactus fruit. After lunch by the river, climb two more hours to Chikiska Camp, located beside a local family’s home—keep an eye out for spectacled bears, hummingbirds, and condors as you arrive.
Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Enjoy an early breakfast before tackling the final four-hour uphill stretch to Capuliyoc, where you’ll celebrate the completion of the Choquequirao trek with your team. Share a farewell lunch with your guide, porters, and horsemen, then transfer to Ollantaytambo for the 3:36 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in town, you’ll be escorted to your hotel and later to a local restaurant for a well-earned dinner.
Day 6: Machu Picchu visit – Cusco
Rise early for breakfast and board one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (departures begin at 5:30 a.m.). Your hotel in Aguas Calientes will safeguard your main luggage, so you only carry essentials. The 30-minute bus ride delivers you to the citadel at sunrise, where your guide will lead you to an exclusive vantage point for photos before embarking on a 2.5-hour walking tour of the main plaza, temples, and terraces, unveiling the secrets of the Inca Empire. If you’ve pre-booked the Huayna Picchu hike (advance permit required, approx. $75), your guide will point out the trailhead for the two-hour round trip. Conclude your visit in time to catch the return train to Ollantaytambo—allow at least two hours prior to departure—then transfer by car back to your hotel in Cusco (approx. 2 hrs).
Inclusions
Included
- A briefing at your hotel (6 p.m.) the night before you depart
- Pick up from your hotel and private van transportation to the trailhead
- Professional English speaking tour guide
- Professional trekking chef
- Porters, horsemen
- Horses to carry the camping equipment, food, and your personal belongings (up to 8 kg)
- Meals, breakfast, snacks, happy hours, dinner
- Camping equipment, sleeping tents, foam mats, dining tents, kitchen tents, chairs, dishes and more
- Entrance fees for Choqueuiraw Inca ruins and Machu Picchu ruins
- First-aid kit
- Private, portable toilets
- Drinking water three times a day
- Emergency horse to ride in case you feel tired
- Taxes included
- Last night hotel in Aguas Calientes village
- The train ride back to Ollantaytambo and a bus to Cusco
- Guided tours in Machu Picchu and Choquequirao
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Inflatable air mattress for extra comfort – 3 in /8 cm thick (rentals available)
- Walking sticks (rentals available)
- Last lunch
- Tips for your crew
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: High-ankle support and grippy soles to tackle slippery trails and uneven terrain.
- Lightweight Rain Jacket: Breathable and packable protection against sudden rain showers at high altitude.
- Thermal Base Layers: Moisture-wicking tops and bottoms to keep you warm during chilly mornings and evenings.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: Shields your face and neck from intense Andean sun.
- Sunglasses with UV Protection: Reduces glare from snow and bright skies for comfortable vision.
- High-SPF Sunscreen: Prevents sunburn on exposed skin, especially on the descent into the canyon.
- Insect Repellent: Keeps midges and mosquitoes at bay in the river valleys and campsites.
- Trekking Poles: Helps maintain balance and reduces strain on knees during steep ascents and descents.
- Hydration Bladder or Water Bottles: Carry at least 3 liters to stay fully hydrated throughout long trekking days.
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Essential for pre-dawn starts and navigating camp after sunset.
- Quick-Dry Travel Towel: Compact and absorbent for washing and drying in remote camps.
- Warm Insulating Jacket: Down or synthetic layer for crisp mornings and cold nights at high camps.
- Personal First Aid Kit: Stocked with bandages, blister care, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Energy Bars & Snacks: Nutritious, high-calorie snacks to maintain energy between meal stops.
- Dry Sacks or Ziplock Bags: Protect electronics, documents, and clothes from moisture and dust.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 6-day adventure along Choquequirao for USD 825 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tour requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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