Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu: What You Need to Know

What if I told you that you can walk a trail that almost no one knows? It’s just you, nature, and history waiting to be discovered on the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu.

For several days, you cross canyons, forests, and constantly changing landscapes. You reach Choquequirao, almost empty And if you continue, you end up in Machu Picchu. Two Inca sites. One route that few dare to experience. Keep reading and take your journey to the most extraordinary place!

What Makes This Trekking Route Different?

It Connects Two Archaeological Destinations Few Manage to Combine

Imagine walking a famous trail. This trail connects two great Inca sites.

One is Choquequirao, which is like a sister to Machu Picchu. The other is the stunning Machu Picchu itself. Two Inca cities, linked by a challenging path that few dare to walk, offering an adventure that only a privileged few get to experience on the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu.

An Authentic Route, Free of Crowds and Filters

Walk a path where nature and history are revealed as they truly are, without crowds or interruptions. Every step on this trek shows you beautiful landscapes. The only sound is the peace of the Andes. You see the beauty of these places just as they are.

Itinerary of the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca

We begin the journey in Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. From here, we head towards Capuliyoc, a spectacular viewpoint where the landscape unfolds before you. Then, we descend to Chiquisca, where we will camp, enjoying views of the Apurímac River and the tranquility of nature.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours | Weather: Warm

Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao

Day two of the trek takes the adventure to another level. We descend to Playa Rosalina and then climb up to Marampata, a small village with stunning views of the landscape surrounding Choquequirao.

At the end of the day, we reach our camp near Choquequirao, where you can relax and rest before continuing to explore this amazing region the next day.

Hiking time: Approximately 7 hours | Weather: Cold and warm

Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal

Day three is for exploring Choquequirao, known as the ‘sacred sister’ of Machu Picchu. After exploring this stunning archaeological site, we continue our journey towards Río Blanco, a secluded spot surrounded by natural beauty. From there, we head to Maizal, where we will camp after a challenging day of hiking.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours | Weather: Warm

Maizal – Paso San Juan – Yanama

This day will take you through tough and beautiful landscapes. You will cross different ecosystems that will surprise you at every turn.

We will climb to Paso San Juan. This is a natural viewpoint where you can see beautiful views of the mountains and glaciers. At the end of the day, we will reach Yanama, a picturesque village nestled in the mountains, where we will spend the night and recharge for the next day of adventure.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 hours | Weather: Warm and cold, with mosquitoes

Yanama – Paso Yanama – Totora Pampa

We begin the day with an ascent to Paso Yanama (4670 m), the highest point of this trek. From there, you’ll have breathtaking views of the glaciers crowning the mountains around you. As we go down, the landscape changes. We arrive at Totora Pampa, a valley surrounded by mountains. Here, we will spend the night in the pure nature of the Andes.

Hiking time: Approximately 8 hours | Weather: Warm and cool

Totora pampa – La Playa

Today, we continue our journey towards La Playa, a spot where the warm climate and tropical vegetation welcome us. Along the way, you’ll pass through local communities that still live according to Andean traditions, cultivating products like coffee and fruits. This day is perfect for enjoying the tranquility of the landscapes and the diversity of flora and fauna surrounding the area.

Hiking time: Approximately 7 hours | Weather: Warm

La Playa – Llactapata – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

The journey continues towards Llactapata, another site full of history and stunning views of Machu Picchu Mountain. From there, we walk to the Hidroeléctrica station, where we take the train to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to Machu Picchu. This route allows you to enjoy beautiful views of the river and the mountains as we approach our final destination.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours | Weather: Warm

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Finally, the long-awaited day arrives. We will depart early for Machu Picchu to explore the Inca citadel. Enjoy a guided tour of the site and take advantage of your free time to explore this magnificent place in more detail. After exploring Machu Picchu, we return to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back to Cusco, completing this incredible adventure.

Hiking time: Approximately 2 hours | Weather: Mildly warm

How Challenging is the Trek?

The Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is an intense physical challenge. With steep climbs, long hiking days of up to 8 hours, and altitudes exceeding 4,600 meters, this trek requires good physical condition. Are you ready for the challenge? Book today and start the most beautiful adventure of your life!

What to Bring for the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu?

Clothing for All Weather Conditions

• Sun hat: Protect your face and neck from the strong sun with a good hat.
• Wool hat: Ideal for cold nights in the high mountains.
• Long and short-sleeve shirts: Provide versatility to adapt to heat or cold depending on the time of day.
• Fleece jacket: Perfect for staying warm when temperatures drop.
• Waterproof jacket: Protects you from rain and wind, especially on wetter days.
• Trekking pants: Durability and comfort for long hikes.
• Shorts: Useful for warmer areas during the day.
• Pajama pants: For comfort when resting at night.
• Underwear: Comfort and breathability for days of intense hiking.

Footwear and accessories:

• Trekking shoes/boots: Make sure you have a good pair that provides support on uneven terrain.
• Wool/synthetic socks: Keep your feet dry and comfortable with proper socks.
• Swimsuit: For enjoying the hot springs in Aguas Calientes at the end of the adventure.

Essential Items You Must Pack

• Original passport
• Flashlight
• Water bottle
• Toilet paper
• UV sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Camera
• Snacks
• Money in soles
• Rain poncho

What You Don’t Need to Bring

• Unnecessary clothing: Avoid packing too many clothes, just the essentials.
• Unnecessary electronic devices: There’s no need to bring a laptop, tablet, or heavy equipment.
• Heavy food: Avoid packing foods that are impractical or don’t keep well.
• Large bags: Use a lightweight backpack, not big suitcases or unnecessary luggage.

Not Everyone Reaches Machu Picchu by This Route… and That’s What Makes It Special

Eight days, two Inca cities, and one path that will change you completely. This isn’t for everyone. It’s for those who seek a true adventure: walking every day surrounded by extreme nature, sleeping high in the mountains, and waking up to views that seem unreal.

The Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is for those who don’t settle for the typical. It’s for those who want to feel the path, earn every landscape, and live an experience that few can tell. Do it differently and travel with us now!

Traveling is about discovering, learning, and creating unforgettable memories, and Peru is the perfect destination for all of that. Its landscapes, history, and culture make every experience unique, filled with moments that will change your life.

We invite you to explore our Peru packages Your experience in Peru is just one step away. Contact us now and start living the unique adventure you’ve always dreamed of.

More information:

• Visit our English website: Peru Grand Travel
• Visit our Spanish website: Viajes Machu Picchu Tours
• Visit our Portuguese website: Machu Picchu Pacotes