Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek-8-Days

We begin our adventure with an early departure from Cusco at 5:00 a.m. in a private vehicle. After approximately 4 hours, we arrive at Capuliyoc (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), a stunning viewpoint perched on the edge of the Apurímac Canyon, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and the dramatic landscape below.

From here, we officially start our Choquequirao trek, descending along a scenic trail with panoramic vistas of the canyon and the Apurímac River. The route is surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of the Andes.

After a few hours of trekking, we reach Chiquisca (1,930 m / 6,332 ft), a warm and tranquil spot at the base of the canyon. We enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and settle into our campsite for a restful night under the stars.

• Meals: Lunch and dinner
• Difficulty: Moderate to Defiant
• Overnight: Chiquisca Campsite
• Starting elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
• Maximum elevation: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
• Campsite altitude: 1,930 m / 6,332 ft
• Walking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
• Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours approx.
• Climate: Warm at Chiquisca; colder temperatures at higher elevations. Weather can change quickly.

After an energizing breakfast, we begin the day with a 1-hour descent to Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 ft), a scenic riverside point at the bottom of the Apurímac Canyon. Crossing a suspension bridge over the river, we prepare for the most challenging section of the trek.

We ascend a steep, zigzagging trail for approximately 3 hours until we reach Marampata (2,850 m / 9,350 ft). Along the way, you'll witness dramatic shifts in vegetation and climate as we climb back into the cloud forest. Upon arrival in Marampata, we'll enjoy lunch while taking in the first panoramic views of the majestic Choquequirao archaeological complex (3,033 m / 9,951 ft) in the distance.

In the afternoon, we continue along a gentle trail for about 25 minutes to reach our campsite, located near the Choquequirao ruins. Rest and relax in preparation for tomorrow’s in-depth exploration of this lost Inca city.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Overnight: Campsite near Choquequirao
• Starting elevation: 1,930 m / 6,332 ft
• Maximum elevation: 3,033 m / 9,951 ft
• Campsite altitude: 3,030 m / 9,940 ft
• Walking distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours approx.
• Climate: Warm in the lower canyon; fresh and cool at higher altitudes like Marampata and Choquequirao.

We begin the day with an early visit to the stunning Choquequirao archaeological complex, exploring its majestic terraces, ceremonial plazas, temples, and ancient structures in peace and quiet without the crowds. Soak in the mystique and spiritual energy of this hidden Inca city.

After our guided tour, we begin an uphill hike to Choquequirao Pass (3,270 m / 10,728 ft), then gradually descend through the lush, cloud forest to Pinchiunuyoc (2,450 m / 8,038 ft), a little-known Inca site perched on the mountainside. From here, we descend steeply to the Río Blanco (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), a tropical section of the trail full of lush vegetation and birdlife.

After a short break and river crossing, we begin a challenging 3-hour uphill trek toward Maizal Camp (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), where we will spend the night surrounded by verdant hills and spectacular Andean views.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Difficulty: Demanding
• Overnight: Maizal Campsite
• Starting elevation: 3,030 m / 9,940 ft
• Maximum elevation: 3,270 m / 10,728 ft
• Campsite altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
• Walking distance: 16 km / 9.94 miles
• Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours approx.
• Climate: Warm at the river, humid and fresh at higher altitudes; tropical vegetation in the valley.

Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the Choquequirao trek, as we tackle steep and rugged Andean terrain. After breakfast at Maizal Camp (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), we begin a steady ascent through high jungle cloud forests, passing ancient Inca mining terraces and water channels still in use today.

After several hours of uphill hiking, we reach the stunning San Juan Pass (4,170 m / 13,681 ft), one of the highest points of the trek. From this breathtaking viewpoint, you’ll witness panoramic views of deep valleys, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic glaciers that rise above 5,000 m / 16,404 ft a true highlight of the Andean experience.

We then descend through remote trails to the peaceful village of Yanama (3,530 m / 11,581 ft), where we camp for the night surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Difficulty: Demanding to strenuous
• Overnight: Yanama Campsite
• Starting elevation: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
• Maximum elevation: 4,170 m / 13,681 ft (San Juan Pass)
• Campsite altitude: 3,530 m / 11,581 ft
• Walking distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles
• Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours approx.
• Climate: Cold and windy at high altitudes; fresh and clear in Yanama.

Today we tackle one of the most breathtaking and physically demanding sections of the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek. We start early, ascending toward the highest point of the entire journey Yanama Pass (4,670 m / 15,321 ft). This section offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Salkantay (6,264 m / 20,551 ft) and Pintuyuq (5,450 m / 17,881 ft) snow-capped mountains. If we’re lucky, we might even spot majestic Andean condors soaring overhead.

After conquering the pass, we begin a scenic descent into the high jungle. Along the way, the ecosystem begins to shift, offering a lush landscape filled with waterfalls, orchids, and dense vegetation. Our descent leads us to the Totora community (3,200 m / 10,498 ft), where a local transport will be waiting to take us to Collpapampa (2,200 m / 7,218 ft).

We’ll spend the night in a comfortable campsite equipped with foam beds, surrounded by the warm, humid environment of the cloud forest marking a significant transition from the high Andes to the tropical zone.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Overnight: Collpapampa Campsite (with foam beds)
• Starting elevation: 3,530 m / 11,581 ft
• Maximum elevation: 4,670 m / 15,321 ft
• Campsite altitude: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
• Walking distance: 17 km / 10.56 miles
• Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours approx.
• Climate: Cold in the morning at high altitude, warm and humid in the jungle region.

Today, the trek takes us deeper into the lush cloud forest as we descend from the Andes into the high jungle. After breakfast, we begin our hike toward La Playa (2,060 m / 6,758 ft) along a trail rich in biodiversity. The path is lined with dense vegetation, including a vibrant variety of orchids, bromeliads, and countless native plant species.

As we descend, the environment transforms into a tropical paradise. We’ll pass through small agricultural plots and plantations of coffee, papaya, passion fruit (maracuyá), and avocado a vivid reminder that we’re now in the heart of the Peruvian jungle.

We’ll camp in Lucmabamba (2,020 m / 6,627 ft), a beautiful spot surrounded by plantations and greenery. This area is also home to a local coffee-growing community, and you’ll have the chance to learn about traditional coffee-making methods.

💡 Optional: If the group prefers, today’s itinerary can be modified to include a visit to the hot springs of Santa Teresa (1,830 m / 6,004 ft) a relaxing treat after days of hiking.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Overnight: Lucmabamba Campsite
• Starting elevation: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
• Maximum elevation: 2,300 m / 7,546 ft
• Campsite altitude: 2,020 m / 6,627 ft
• Walking distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours approx.
• Climate: Warm and humid during the day; cool at night

Today, we begin our hike early in the morning, ascending through lush cloud forest along a preserved section of the original Inca Trail. After a scenic climb, we’ll reach the fascinating Llactapata archaeological site (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). This strategic Inca outpost offers one of the first tantalizing glimpses of Machu Picchu from a distance an unforgettable moment of anticipation.

After exploring Llactapata and enjoying the incredible views, we begin our descent toward Hidroeléctrica (1,950 m / 6,398 ft), located along the Urubamba River. This portion of the trail offers stunning mountain and jungle scenery, with waterfalls and abundant plant life.

From Hidroelectrica, you’ll have two options to reach the town of Aguas Calientes (2,050 m / 6,726 ft):

• Hike for approximately 3 more hours following the train tracks.

• Or take the scenic train ride (at an additional cost), a relaxing journey through the lush valley.

Tonight, we sleep in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, where we’ll prepare for our long-awaited visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Starting elevation: 2,020 m / 6,627 ft
• Maximum elevation: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft
• Ending elevation: 2,050 m / 6,726 ft
• Walking distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
• Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours approx.
• Climate: Warm and humid during the day; cool in the evening

Today marks the grand finale of our unforgettable trek. After an early breakfast around 5:30 a.m., we’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 ft), the Lost City of the Incas.

Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 to 3 hours, exploring the site's most iconic areas: the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana (Sun Stone), the Main Square, the Sacred Rock, and more. Your guide will share fascinating insights into Inca architecture, history, and cosmology.

After the tour, you'll have free time to wander the citadel at your own pace, take photos, or if booked in advance, hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for sweeping panoramic views.

We’ll then descend by bus to Aguas Calientes where you’ll have time for lunch (not included) and can optionally visit the local hot springs to relax your muscles after the trek.

In the afternoon or evening (depending on train availability), we’ll take the scenic train ride back to Cusco. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel ending this epic adventure through the Andes and ancient Inca lands.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Difficulty: Easy
• Starting elevation: 2,050 m / 6,726 ft (Aguas Calientes)
• Maximum elevation: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft (Machu Picchu)
• Hiking time: Varies depending on optional hikes
• Overnight: Not included (return to Cusco)
• Climate: Mild and humid at Machu Picchu; cooler in the evening in Cusco