Choquequirao, Salkantay Trek & Machu Picchu 9D/8N
Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek 9D/8N
The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 9-Day Trek is one of Peru’s most spectacular adventures, crossing the majestic Andes Mountains through an extraordinary combination of high-altitude trails, cloud forests, and lush jungle landscapes. Along the route, you will experience the incredible diversity of the region’s flora and fauna while trekking through some of the country’s most pristine natural scenery.
This remarkable journey connects two of the greatest archaeological treasures of the Inca Empire: Choquequirao, often called the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu,” and the world-famous Machu Picchu. Both citadels played an important role during the Inca civilization, and throughout the expedition, your expert guide will reveal their fascinating history, legends, architectural achievements, and the enduring legacy left behind by the ancient Incas.
Combining breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable trekking experiences, this expedition offers a truly unique way to discover the heart of the Andes.
Route Highlights
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Itinerary
- DAY 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Coca Masana – Chiquisca.
- DAY 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata.
- DAY 3: Marampata – Guided Tour and Visit to the Inca Citadel of Choquequirao – Marampata.
- DAY 4: Marampata – Chiquisca.
- DAY 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Soraypampa – Cconoc Hot Springs (Optional).
- DAY 6: Humantay Lake Expedition – Pachamama Ceremony – Soraypampa.
- DAY 7: Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Playa Loreta.
- DAY 8: Playa Loreta – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes.
- DAY 9: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco.
DAY 1 – CUSCO – CACHORA – CAPULICHAYOC –COCA MASANA – CHIQUISCA
At 5:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and begin our journey in private transportation to the town of San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, you will have free time to enjoy breakfast before meeting the rest of our trekking team, including the chef, muleteers, and horses.
We then continue by vehicle for about 2 more hours to Capuliyoc, the starting point of our Choquequirao Trek. From here, we begin our first hike, which lasts approximately 3 hours. Along the trail, you will experience a remarkable variety of landscapes and ecosystems, with spectacular views of the snow-capped Padreyoc Mountain. Throughout the hike, your guide will share fascinating information about the local flora, fauna, and the surrounding Andean environment.
Eventually, we reach the Coca Masana Viewpoint, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Peru, unfold before us. Here, the mighty Apurímac River carves its way through the valley below. This is also where we enjoy our first freshly prepared lunch, while taking in our first distant views of the magnificent Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
After lunch, we descend for approximately 2 hours to Chiquisca (1,800 m / 5,906 ft), where we will spend the night in comfortable cabins surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery near the Apurímac Canyon.
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Distance: 8 to 9.3 km (5 to 5.8 miles)
Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
Elevation Loss: Approximately 1,100 to 1,200 m (3,609 to 3,937 ft) descent
Starting Elevation (Capuliyoc): 2,915 to 2,970 m (9,564 to 9,744 ft) above sea level
Ending Elevation (Chiquisca): 1,900 m (6,234 ft) above sea level
DAY 2 – CHIQUISCA – PLAYA ROSALINA – SANTA ROSA- MARAMPATA .
Day 2 will begin with breakfast at the Chiquisca camp, prepared fresh by our personal chef.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek. The first section is a 45-minute downhill walk to the suspension bridge at Playa Rosalina, where we cross the mighty Apurímac River.
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek. The first section is a 45-minute downhill walk to the suspension bridge at Playa Rosalina, where we cross the mighty Apurímac River.
From here, we begin the most challenging part of the day: a continuous uphill ascent lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours to Marampata (2,950 m / 9,678 ft). Along the way, we pass through Santa Rosa Baja and Santa Rosa Alta, with several opportunities to rest, rehydrate, and admire the spectacular mountain scenery.
As we gain elevation, breathtaking panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and the river far below unfold before us, making every step worthwhile and providing excellent opportunities for unforgettable photographs.
Upon arriving in Marampata, a delicious lunch prepared by our trekking chef will be waiting for us. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore this peaceful Andean village and enjoy one of the most magical sunsets of the journey, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Later, we gather for afternoon tea, followed by a freshly prepared dinner before settling in for a well-deserved night’s rest, ready for the adventures awaiting us the next day.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Distance: 9.4 km (5.8 miles)
Total Hiking Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
Elevation Gain: Approximately +1,500 m (4,921 ft)
Starting Elevation: 1,900 m (6,234 ft) above sea level
Ending Elevation: 2,919 m (9,577 ft) above sea level
DAY 3 – Guided Tour and Visit to the Inca Citadel of Choquequirao – Return to Marampata
Today is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Inca citadel of Choquequirao, one of Peru’s most impressive and least-visited archaeological treasures. Accompanied by your expert guide, you will discover the fascinating history and significance of this ancient city, often referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu” due to their many architectural and historical similarities.
Perched 1,500 meters (4,921 ft) above the dramatic Apurímac Canyon, Choquequirao occupies a spectacular mountain ridge, much like Machu Picchu overlooks the Urubamba Canyon. Both sites lie on a similar latitude and were among the most important administrative and ceremonial centers of the Inca Empire.
Covering more than 8 hectares, only about one-third of Choquequirao has been excavated, with archaeologists continuing to uncover new structures and artifacts each year, making it one of the most exciting ongoing archaeological sites in South America.
During today’s guided exploration, you will visit the three main sectors of the citadel, including:
- The Urban Sector, where the Inca elite once lived.
- The impressive Agricultural Terraces, ingeniously built into the mountainside.
- The Religious and Ceremonial Sector, home to sacred temples and ritual spaces.
If weather conditions are favorable, you may also be rewarded with the unforgettable sight of the majestic Andean Condor soaring above the canyon.
After thoroughly exploring Choquequirao, we return to our camp in Marampata, where you can relax with afternoon tea, enjoy another delicious dinner prepared by our trekking chef, and spend a peaceful night surrounded by the beauty of the Andes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Distance: 4 to 5 km (2.5 to 3.1 mi).
Hiking Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours (at a moderate pace).
Elevation Gain: Approximately +135 m (+443 ft).
Starting Elevation: 2,919 m.a.s.l. (9,577 ft).
Ending Elevation: 3,050 m.a.s.l. (10,007 ft).
DAY 4 – MARAMPATA – SANTA ROSA BAJA – CHIQUISCA.
We will start the day early, waking up at 5:00 a.m. to enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing our adventure.
After breakfast, we begin our trek with an approximately 3-hour hike to Santa Rosa Baja Camp, where we will take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Apurímac Valley.
After lunch, we continue with an approximately 2-hour descent to Playa Rosalina. Along the way, you will once again be treated to spectacular views of the majestic Apurímac Canyon and the rushing waters of the Apurímac River.
From Playa Rosalina, we begin the final stretch of the day, hiking for approximately 3 hours to our campsite in Chiquisca. Upon arrival, you will have time to relax and settle into camp before enjoying a comforting dinner. Tonight, we spend the night in Chiquisca, bringing another unforgettable day of trekking, stunning landscapes, and incredible Andean scenery to a close.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Distance: 8.9 to 12 km (5.5 to 7.5 mi).
Hiking Time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours (at a moderate pace).
Descent: From 2,919 m.a.s.l. (9,577 ft) to 1,520 m.a.s.l. (4,987 ft) at Playa Rosalina.
Final Ascent: From 1,520 m.a.s.l. (4,987 ft) to 1,900 m.a.s.l. (6,234 ft) at Chiquisca.
DAY 5 – CCHIQUISCA – CAPULIYUC- SORAYPAMPA.
On the fifth day, we begin the morning with a nutritious breakfast before preparing for the final stretch of our trek back to Capuliyoc. This section of the trail takes approximately 5 hours, offering one last opportunity to admire the spectacular scenery of the Apurímac Canyon.
Upon arriving in Capuliyoc, we will enjoy a delicious lunch and have some time to relax while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views for the last time.
After lunch, our private transportation will be waiting to take us on a scenic 4-hour drive to Soraypampa. Upon arrival, we will settle into our accommodation and enjoy a comforting dinner, preparing for the next stage of our adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours (at a moderate pace).
Elevation Gain: Approximately +1,000 m (+3,281 ft).
Starting Elevation: 1,900 m.a.s.l. (6,234 ft).
Ending Elevation: 2,915 m.a.s.l. (9,564 ft).
Private Transfer: Capuliyoc to Soraypampa.
Driving Time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours.
DAY 6 – HUMANTAY LAKE EXPEDITION – SORAYPAMPA .
After the long journey of the previous day, today’s adventure begins at 7:00 a.m. with a delicious breakfast while enjoying breathtaking views of the majestic Humantay and Salkantay snow-capped mountains.
After breakfast, we will begin our hike to the stunning Humantay Lake, located at over 4,200 m (13,780 ft) above sea level. Along the trail, you will be surrounded by spectacular Andean landscapes and enjoy panoramic views of the towering glaciers, regarded as sacred mountain spirits by the local communities.
Upon reaching the lake, you will have plenty of time to admire its crystal-clear turquoise waters, relax, and capture unforgettable photographs. In this extraordinary natural setting, we will also participate in a traditional Pachamama (Mother Earth) offering ceremony, a meaningful cultural experience that provides insight into the Andean worldview and a deeper connection with nature.
After enjoying this remarkable experience, we will hike back to Soraypampa Camp, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for us. In the evening, we will gather for a freshly prepared dinner before settling in for a restful night, recharging our energy for the next stage of our adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Distance (One Way): Approximately 3.5 km (2.2 mi).
Hiking Distance (Round Trip): Approximately 7 km (4.3 mi).
Elevation Gain: Approximately +300 m (+984 ft).
Ascent Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Descent Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Total Hiking Time (Round Trip): Approximately 3 to 4 hours, including time at Humantay Lake.
DAY 7 – Soraypampa – Paso Salkantay – Loreta Playa.
We will begin the day with a hearty, protein-rich breakfast to fuel our bodies for one of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the trek.
After breakfast, we will start a steady uphill hike along a winding mountain trail for approximately 3 to 4 hours until we reach the Salkantay Pass (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), the highest point of the expedition. From the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the towering Salkantay Glacier and the surrounding Andean peaks, making this one of the most memorable moments of the journey.
After taking time to rest, capture photos, and soak in the spectacular scenery, we will begin a continuous descent of approximately 5 hours. Along the way, we will stop at Huayracmachay for a delicious lunch before continuing toward lower elevations.
As we descend to around 2,900 m (9,514 ft) above sea level, you will witness a remarkable transition in the landscape, from the rugged high Andes to the lush cloud forest, where warmer temperatures and abundant vegetation begin to dominate the scenery.
By late afternoon, we will arrive at Playa Loreta, where we will spend the night in comfortable Sky Domes surrounded by nature. After settling in, we will enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the Cusco cloud forest, ending another unforgettable day of adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Distance: 22 km (13.67 mi).
Starting Elevation: 3,900 m.a.s.l. (12,795 ft).
Maximum Elevation: 4,630 m.a.s.l. (15,190 ft) at Salkantay Pass.
Accommodation: Luxury Sky Domes at 2,900 m.a.s.l. (9,514 ft).
Difficulty: Challenging.
DAY 8 – Loreta La Playa – Santa Teresa – Central Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes..
After breakfast, we will take a short walk to the lower valley of the Salkantay River to visit a local coffee plantation located near our Majestic Ecolodge. Here, you will learn about the entire coffee production process, from cultivation and harvesting to roasting and preparation, ending with a delicious coffee tasting.
Along the way, we will pass through plantations of coffee, coca, tea, bananas, passion fruit, avocados, and papayas, offering a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural richness of the region.
We will return to the Majestic Ecolodge at around 11:00 a.m., where you will have time to relax before enjoying lunch at the lodge’s dining area.
After lunch, we will board our private vehicle for a scenic 90-minute drive to the Hydroelectric Station (1,900 m / 6,234 ft). From there, we begin a pleasant hike following the railway tracks alongside the Urubamba River toward Aguas Calientes.
During the walk, we will visit the Intihuatana Archaeological Site, home to an ancient Inca sundial believed to have been used for astronomical observations. As we continue, we will enjoy impressive views of Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu, while walking through the lush Cloud Forest, famous for its incredible biodiversity, including a wide variety of orchids and native plants.
After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we will arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will check into a comfortable hotel. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner at a local tourist restaurant before resting for the night in preparation for our visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.21 mi).
Starting Elevation: 1,900 m.a.s.l. (6,234 ft).
Maximum Elevation: 2,040 m.a.s.l. (6,692 ft).
Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m.a.s.l. / 6,692 ft).
Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 9: MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO.
The big day has finally arrived! After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we will get ready to visit Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
We will travel up to the Inca citadel, where your professional guide will lead a comprehensive 3-hour guided tour through this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the visit, you will discover the fascinating history, remarkable engineering, and the most important sectors of the ancient Inca city while enjoying spectacular panoramic views and plenty of opportunities to capture unforgettable photographs.
After completing the guided tour, we will return to the town of Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.
With this unforgettable experience, our adventure comes to an end, leaving you with incredible memories, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of Peru.
Machu Picchu Viajes Perú… More than a journey, an experience.
Meals: Breakfast.
Guided Tour Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Starting Elevation: 2,400 m.a.s.l. (7,874 ft).
Transportation: Shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, return train to Ollantaytambo, and private transfer back to Cusco.
Difficulty: Easy.
What is included in the Choquequirao Trek?
Included
- Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish).
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Entrance ticket to Choquequirao.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Cachora.
- Private Transportation from Chaullay to Playa Loreta.
- Private Transportation from Capuliyoc to Soraypampa.
- Private Transportation from Playa Loreta to Hidroelectrica.
- Round-trip bus transportation to Machu Picchu.
- 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners.
- Muleteer and horses for transporting duffel bags.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- Special dietary options available (vegetarian meals upon request).
- Trekking poles.
- 2 nights at a lodge in Chiquisca.
- 2 nights at a lodge in Marampata.
- 2 nights in Soraypampa.
- 1 night at a lodge in Playa Loreta (Sky Domes).
- 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Not Included
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, US$75 per person, subject to availability).
Recommendations to bring :
- Original passport (must be valid for at least 7 months beyond the travel date).
- ISIC card or valid student ID (if applicable). It must be submitted at the time of booking.
- Hiking boots and sandals (highly recommended).
- Trekking poles (available for rent at our office).
- Headlamp or flashlight (essential).
- Camera and spare batteries.
- Sunscreen, sun hat, and sunglasses.
- Personal first aid kit and medications.
- Insect repellent.
- Rain gear: a waterproof jacket, rain pants, and a plastic rain poncho.
- Toilet paper.
- Small travel towel.
- Extra cash (Peruvian Soles or US Dollars) for drinks, tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
- Reusable water bottle (recommended capacity: 1 liter).
Packing List
ESSENTIAL ITEMS:
- Original Passport
- VALID STUDENT ID CARD (if booked as a student)
- Immigration card (delivered on the airport upon entering Peru)
- Good quality backpack (medium sized)
- Water storage bottle or canteen: Camelbak bottles are recommended, but all need to be sufficient to hold 1-2 litres
- Comfortable shoes, preferably light with good soles (waterproof goretex for rainy seasons)
FOR YOUR BAGGAGE:
The horses and the train have a luggage limit of 7kg. We therefore recommend only bringing essentials with you to Machu Picchu.
- 8 Long sleeve shirts
- 8 Breathable t-shirts
- 8 Sets of underwear
- 8 Pairs of socks
- 2 Hiking trousers
- 2 Shorts (suitable for hiking)
- 2 Fleece
- 1 Waterproof coat and pants (for rainy seasons)
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sandals – In case you want to visit the hot springs in Machu Picchu town
- Small quick-drying travel towel
- Portable battery charger for your phone and cameras
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Facial moisturiser
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.
ITEMS TO TAKE INSIDE MACHU PICCHU:
We recommend taking a backpack into the citadel, however please be aware that bags of more than 25 liters will not be allowed. Larger backpacks will need be stored outside the gates of the citadel.
- Water canteen
- Sun hat
- Rain clothes
- Camera or phone camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Map
Additional Information
- Departure dates: We have groups for the Choquequirao trek every day of the year. But it is more advisable to make this trek between the months of April to December, since the months of January, February and March are the rainy season in Cusco.
Where does the tour start and end?
- All ours tours begins with the pick up to the tourists at the door of their hotels “We pick up to our clients from any hotel located in the city of Cusco”, We recommend to stay close to the historical center of the city of Cusco, it will make it easier to find your hotel.
- All our tours ends at the door of the hotels, it means the tours will finish with transfer to your respective hotel located in Cusco.
How to prevent altitude sickness?
- The altitude sickness or soroche can cause you some discomfort during your visit such as dizziness, fatigue or nausea. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages and fatty foods before the visit.
- To reduce symptoms, try to acclimatize yourself one day before to the altitude of the city of Cusco. We recommend to drink infusions of coca leaf (natural plant used by the Incas) is an excellent option to avoid the actitude sickness.
How is the accommodation?
- For all the tours which include hotels. We offer hotels of 3* and 4* category, it has spacious and comfortable rooms, bathrooms, hot showers and bueffet breakfast. If the tourist like, you can change the accommodation to a better service. You just have to request it via email for an additional cost.
Which season is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
- The dry season months between April to December are the best time to come and visit Cusco. During those days the possibility of rain is very little, so the roads are not swampy and the landscapes can be better to enjoy and takes the best pictures. On the other hand, the months with the most rain are January, February and March.
What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?
- The coldest season in Cusco are in the months from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes and Jackets are necessary to bring during these months.
How long in advance can I request the tour?
- We recommend to purchase the tours weeks or months in advance, this because the train and Machu Picchu tickets has a limit of spaces, dont wait until the lust minute to book your tour, other ways you will not be able to find spaces.
During the trip to Machu Picchu, where the big luggages will stay?
The train company that operates to Machu Picchu does not allow the traveler to carry a suitcase that weighs more than 7 kilograms. To go up and visit the city of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to carry a light and small backpack for your convenience; the rest of the luggages you can leave them without any problem at the storage of your hotel in Cusco, or you can also leave at our office in Cusco city, we have an storage too.
Very Important in case you want to book the Inca trail to Machu Picchu:
- CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS: If you want to book the Classic Inca Trail 4 days, you must to book early to get your desired date. Depending on the month you prefer to do the hike, you may need to book 6 months or more in advance, the limit of spaces for the inca trail 4 days is 400 people per each day.
- SHORT INCA TRAIL: If you are booking the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail, it is preferred that you also book in advance, however 2 to 4 month in advance would be good, the limit of spaces for the short inca trail is 200 people per each day.
When is the best season to hike the Inca Trail?
- The best time of year to do the inca trail is between May to October, with August and September being the best months of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season between November to April the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult.
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