Incas Expeditions Machu Picchu Tours

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days

7 Days / 6 Nights from US $ 0.00
Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days
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Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7 Days

Cusco, Cachora, Capuliyoc, Santa Rosa, Marampata, Chiquisca, Choquequirao Ruins, Llactapata, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
Incas Expeditions Machu Picchu Tours
Physical Level
Easy
Incas Expeditions Machu Picchu Tours
Trip Style
Incas Expeditions Machu Picchu Tours
Max Altitude
Incas Expeditions Machu Picchu Tours
Group Size

INCA EXPEDITIONS presents this remarkable itinerary designed to explore two of the most significant Inca cities in Cusco: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. The journey commences in Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire. Traverse the high Andes to reach the impressive Choquequirao site, where you will have the chance to explore and understand the purpose of this historical location. You will also visit Llactapata, where you will get your first view of Machu Picchu along with the surrounding peaks, including Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountains, and Salkantay Mountain. Upon arriving at the Inca city, your guide will provide an informative tour, followed by time to explore at your leisure. Afterward, you will return to Cusco.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISKA – PLAYA ROSALINAS

The adventure begins at 5 a.m. when our guide picks you up from your hotel in a private van. We drive for about 4 hours to Capuliyoc, perched on the edge of the Apurimac Canyon with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains. En route, you’ll see charming villages and stunning valleys. At Capuliyoc, we meet the horsemen and load our gear onto the horses. You will only need to carry a small daypack with essentials. From here, we descend for 2 hours to Chikiska, where we’ll enjoy lunch. We then continue for another hour to Playa Rosalinas (1,550 m/5,084 ft), our first campsite. Hot drinks and appetizers will be ready upon arrival, and your tents will be pre-set. You’ll have time to settle in before a hearty dinner.

Meals included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 12 km/7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Start your day with a hot tea or coffee brought to your tent, followed by breakfast. Early departure takes us uphill to Santa Rosa and then to Maranpata for lunch. The climb from the river is steep and takes about 4 hours. From our lunch spot, we get our first substantial view of Choquequirao’s expanse. We then hike for another 2 hours to reach the Choquequirao Archaeological Site (3,110 m/10,120 ft). Upon arrival, drinks, appetizers, and tents will be ready. Enjoy a relaxing evening, watching the sunset and condors soaring above.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 13 km/8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge

After breakfast, we will thoroughly explore the Choquequirao archaeological site and take a brief rest before lunch. In the afternoon, we will leave camp and hike over a ridge before descending for 2 hours to the intriguing Pinchiunuyoc site, where we will camp overnight. This day is considered the easiest of the trek.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10 km/6.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Enjoy a hot drink in your sleeping bag and a delicious breakfast before departing camp. We’ll hike downhill for 2 hours to the Rio Blanco Canyon (1,990 m/6,527 ft) for lunch. After a rest, we’ll begin a challenging climb to our next campsite at Maizal, which takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 10 km/6.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge

We set out at 7 a.m., ascending for about 3 hours through a subtropical jungle to the Victoria Mines, where we explore the site and some Inca ruins. We then climb for another hour to the Victoria Pass (4,130 m/13,546 ft), offering spectacular views. We descend to the quaint village of Yanama (about 2 hours walk), navigating some well-built Inca steps.

Upon reaching Yanama, we will take local transport to Lucmabamba, enjoying breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and waterfalls along the way.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 12 km/7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge

Today, we will walk for 3 hours along the original Inca Trail and through the cloud forest to the Puncuyoc Pass, then to the Llactapata Inca site (2,700 m/8,907 ft), directly facing Machu Picchu Citadel.

From this vantage point, we will enjoy a unique view of Machu Picchu from afar. After taking in the scenery, we’ll descend for 2 hours to the hydroelectric plant for lunch. We then continue walking to Aguas Calientes through the Machu Picchu National Sanctuary, surrounded by the iconic Machu Picchu.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu (3*)
Distance: 18 km/11.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge

The day has arrived for Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise—a truly extraordinary experience. Your guide will provide a tour of the site, which lasts about two hours, covering the essential parts of Machu Picchu Citadel and explaining its division into agricultural, residential, and religious sectors.

After exploring, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.

The Expedition train will depart for Ollantaytambo at either 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., traveling along the scenic Urubamba River. The train offers views of Wiñay Wayna from the steep canyon wall. At Ollantaytambo, our driver will meet you at the train station and transport you back to your hotel in Cusco, with an expected arrival time of around 7:00 p.m.

Meal included: Breakfast
For those who booked in advance for an extra hike up Huayna Picchu, this tour will be self-guided.

IMPORTANT:
You have the option to upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same departure times—2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., 4:22 p.m., or 4:43 p.m. The cost for this upgrade is $67 USD. Early trains can be arranged upon request at the time of booking

Inclusions

Included:

  • Pre-trek briefing with your guide at our office
  • Morning pick-up from your hotel on the day of departure
  • Private transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc
  • Entry fees for Machu Picchu and Choquequirao
  • English-speaking, experienced professional guide
  • Guided tours of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
  • Comfortable, 4-season spacious tents (2 trekkers per 4-person tent)
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (vegetarian options available upon request)
  • Camping equipment including: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent, and toilet tent
  • 2 bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back
  • First aid kit with emergency oxygen bottle
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Transfer from the train station to your hotel
  • Celebration dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
  • Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom
  • Pack horses for carrying equipment and personal items, including horsemen – 7 kg of personal items such as extra clothes and sleeping bags will be carried by the horses
  • Provision of an additional horse in case of emergencies to ensure all participants can complete the trek
  • Boiled water for drinking and washing
  • Clean water available at each mealtime
  • Taxes

Not Included:

  • Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures of minus 10°C ($25)
  • Air mattress ($25)
  • Trekking poles ($20)
  • Entry fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($75)
  • Additional horse for extra personal luggage beyond the 7 kg allowance
  • Optional upgrades (train and hotel)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Tips for the cook, horsemen, and guide

Note: Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within Machu Picchu Citadel and does not include a guide. Typically, the climb is done independently after the Machu Picchu tour. If you prefer a guided hike, please request this in advance as it incurs an additional cost.

What to Bring

PACKING LIST FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU:

  • Original Passport: Must be the same passport used for booking.
  • Valid University Card: Required if you booked as a student.
  • Good Daypack: Small and comfortable.
  • Water Storage: 2-3L reusable bottles (no disposable bottles).
  • Comfortable Hiking Boots: With ankle support.
  • Sleeping Bag: Can be rented from INCA EXPEDITIONS.
  • Headlamp: Essential for nighttime.
  • Toilet Paper, Hand Sanitizer, and Small Plastic Bags: For personal hygiene.

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG (7 Kgs/14 lbs Maximum):

  • 2 T-Shirts
  • 2 Hiking Pants
  • 4 Sets of Undergarments
  • 3 Sets of Hiking Socks
  • Bathing Suit: For thermal waters.
  • Fleece/Thermals
  • Warm Clothes: Down jacket (temperature around 3ºC at the 2nd campsite).
  • Waterproof Gloves: Ski gloves are acceptable.
  • Comfortable Shoes: For camp.
  • Quick-Dry Towel: We provide small towels; you might prefer a larger one.
  • Small Bottle of Soap: We provide warm water each day for washing.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek.
  • Large Plastic Bags: Provided to line your duffel bag.
  • Sleeping Bag: Should be at least -15ºC. Available for rent.

TOILETRIES:

  • Face Moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet Wipes
  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste
  • Personal Medications
  • First Aid Kit: Band-aids, moleskin, etc.

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK (Daypack 30-40L):

  • Water: Reusable bottles; we provide boiled water after the first lunch spot.
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellent
  • Headlamp: Essential.
  • Wool Hat
  • Rain Gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks: Chocolate bars, cereal bars, dry fruits, etc.
  • Rain Poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toilet Paper and Small Plastic Bag: For waste.
  • Extra Money: For souvenirs, drinks, and tips.

 

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

  • Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
  • ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
    • The name of the university
    • The student’s name and photo
    • A valid expiration date
  • ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

  • The traveler is older than 25
  • The ID is expired
  • The ID does not have an expiration date
  • ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “INCA´S EXPEDITIONS”?

“INCAS EXPEDITIONS” is a 100% Peruvian local company and tour operator in Cusco, with many years of experience in hikes, adventure tours, and travel packages. We are a 100% local company.

Our dream as a local company is to offer personalized travel and hiking experiences, operated solely by local professional staff, focusing on a PERSONALIZED and HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel operating agency, in addition to practicing RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE actions with the environment and local people.

We consider our staff as family and guarantee them a fair salary. We are very proud of our team! Without their support, we could not offer the quality of service that hundreds of our travelers have enjoyed.

At “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we are aware that our reputation and what our passengers say are crucial for our travelers to trust their next vacations; you can check the reviews our travelers leave on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google; in an honest and reliable operator to create your adventure in Peru.

We offer small groups of travelers.

To offer a more personalized service at “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we maintain a limit of 8 people for each of our groups. This distinguishes us from other companies that operate with larger groups.

About our tour guides

We are very proud of our guides. They are experts and professionals, fluent in English. They are experts and knowledgeable about the routes, and they are passionate about Inca heritage and history. Our guides are dedicated to their continuous personal and professional development, researching to offer you accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with degrees in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

About our treatment of Inca Trail porters

Hiking with “INCAS EXPEDITIONS” is an uplifting experience, we prioritize your comfort and enjoyment throughout the hike, and you will have the assistance of our porters. You will interact with local people, explore incredible sites, and rediscover ancient Inca ancestral towns. Our porters carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up our camp tents, and take care of you while you relax.

We provide our porters for free with: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable travel bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. All are hired from isolated communities, improving their economic circumstances and supporting the education of their children. We treat all our porters like family!

Our team

Our team (guides, cooks, porters, muleteers) and our equipment make “INCAS EXPEDITIONS” stand out among our competitors. On our adventure hikes, we include:

  • Our tents: Enjoy a good rest in our 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents. Our tents are for 4 people, but only 2 sleep in each, providing space for greater comfort and storage. They have a small vestibule for boots and poles.
  • Our foam mats: Separate and insulate from the ground.
  • Air mattresses: Available for rent for $20 USD.
  • Kitchen and dining tents: Used as a meeting room during meals, ideal for relaxing and chatting.
  • Tables and chairs: In the dining area, adapted to the day’s weather.
  • Travel bags: Provided the night before the trek.
  • Others: Pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and chemical toilets are provided during the trek.

Our commitment to social projection

At “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we have always believed in giving back to isolated local communities. As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we carry out various social projects and always hire local people.

We are very proud to support our local people. We not only employ them but also support their families, contributing to a holistic approach with our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones.

Pricing

PRICES
The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu for 7 days is available on nearly any date that fits your schedule! We require a minimum of two people to book.

  • Group trek: $977 USD per person
  • Private trek: $1,257 USD per person

Note: For solo trekkers, please inquire about the price.

Additional Information: The price includes an extra pack horse to carry up to 7 kg of your belongings. A duffel bag will be provided for your items. We use large Eureka 4-person tents for every 2 trekkers.

DISCOUNTS

  • Ages 18 to 25: $30 USD. Provide details from your student card: university name, student name, photo, expiration date, etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Send a copy of your passport at booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Send a copy of your passport at booking.
  • Groups of 5 or more: $30 USD discount. Book together at the same time to receive the discount.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag: $25 USD per person per trek (clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $25 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $20 USD per pair per trek (extendable professional poles)
  • Personal Tent: $30 USD (for solo trekkers)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (return to Poroy/Cusco at 4:43 p.m.)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (request when booking your trek)
  • Hotel Single Supplement: $40 USD (3* accommodation for solo travelers)

Note: Huayna Picchu is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel and typically does not include a guide. The climb is generally undertaken independently after the tour of Machu Picchu. If you wish to have a guided hike, please request this in advance for an additional fee.

 

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

  • TRANSFER: Complimentary transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cusco.
  • DUFFLE BAG AND LINER BAGS: Included in the trekking price!
  • EXTRA PACK HORSE: The cost includes an extra pack horse to carry your belongings up to 7 kg (14 lbs) such as sleeping bags, mattresses, clothes, etc.
  • BOILED WATER: Available throughout the trek on the Inca Trail.
  • OXYGEN TANK: Provided along the trek.
  • EMERGENCY HORSE: Included in the price, available for use if you feel tired or unwell.
  • CAMPING PILLOW AND FOAM MATTRESS: Provided for your comfort.

Aditional information

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your full flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS sign at the arrival terminal exit.

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will occur the evening before the trek at 6:00 p.m. at our office, located at Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 207 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

 

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Yes, you can store your main luggage at our office or at your hotel in Cusco, whichever is more convenient for you, during the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu.

HOW TO BOOK THE 7-DAY CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

  1. Complete the Booking Form: To start the booking process, fill out our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or use this link.
  2. Provide Participant Information: We need the following details from each participant:
    • Full name (as per passport)
    • Gender
    • Passport number
    • Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
    • Nationality
  1. Deposit Payment: A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to purchase the permit. You can make the deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL icons on our homepage or booking page.
  2. Balance Payment: To avoid high credit card fees, you may pay the balance in cash at our office in Cusco (US dollars or Peruvian soles). Alternatively, you can pay by VISA or PAYPAL online with a 5.5% service fee. For PAYPAL payments, use our email address incasexpeditions@gmail.com.

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

  • Under 18 Years Old: Discount of $30 USD. A copy of your passport is required at booking.
  • Students Aged 18 and Above: Discount of $30 USD. University ID card is required, showing a photo, university name, and expiration date.
  • Children Aged 2 to 11 Years: Discount of $40 USD. A copy of the passport is required.
  • Children Under 2 Years: Free.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Changes to Machu Picchu tickets are not allowed once purchased. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you need to change your date, contact us as soon as possible. Deposits are non-refundable.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

Yes, you must bring your original passport, which should match the number provided for your booking. If you renew your passport or change your name, send us the old passport details, and we can update it for a fee of $25 per person. Alternatively, bring both old and new passports to Peru.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

The weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

Acclimatization generally takes 24 hours to 2 days. Remedies include drinking water, coca tea, and using oxygen if needed. Our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

Group size is limited to a maximum of 8 people. Most groups range from 2-6 participants. INCA EXPEDITIONS specializes in small, private groups for personalized service.

HIKING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

The evening before the trek, you will receive a small duffel bag for your clothes (up to 7 kg/14 lbs). Your day backpack should be 30-40L to carry essentials like a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, snacks, and water. You will not have access to your duffel bag until the end of each day.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT? DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The trek is moderate to difficult. While you don’t need to be an athlete, good fitness is beneficial. Regular exercise or hiking beforehand will enhance your experience.

WHAT ABOUT TOILETS ON THE TREK?

We provide private, clean, and sanitary toilet facilities with a camping toilet and individual tent, set up a comfortable distance from the campsite.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK?

If you cannot complete the trek due to health issues, we will assist you to the nearest town for transportation. Extreme cases may require helicopter evacuation at your expense (travel insurance required). No refunds are provided if you cannot finish the trek.

ARE WE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE TREK?

Yes, we include drop-off at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba). If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up there.

AT WHAT TIME IS THE TRAIN DEPARTURE?

Train departure times vary but are usually booked for 14:55 or 15:20 to maximize your time at Machu Picchu and enjoy the scenic return.

WHAT ABOUT THE VISTADOME TRAIN UPGRADE?

The Vistadome train upgrade costs $67 USD per person and features panoramic windows, nicer seats, snacks, and a dance show. The journey from Aguas Calientes to Cusco takes about 3.5 hours with this upgrade, including transfer to your hotel.

TIPPING

Tips are appreciated but not compulsory. They are a significant part of the tourism industry and motivate our staff to provide excellent service. Tip as you see fit based on the service received.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?

Yes, INCA EXPEDITIONS is a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator. We protect the environment, benefit local communities, and respect their culture and religion. Our staff are trained to understand and respect local people and places.

Incas Expeditions

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