Embark on a demanding 4-day expedition that pushes your limits. This trek takes you deep into the heart of the Andes, crossing the dramatic Apurímac Canyon to reach two of Peru’s most spectacular archaeological sites: the remote “Sister City” of Choquequirao and the world-renowned Machu Picchu.
This is a high-level adventure designed for those who thrive on physical challenges. You will camp under the mountain stars and test your endurance on one of the most rugged routes in the Cusco region. Are you ready?
Embark on a demanding 4-day expedition that pushes your limits. This trek takes you deep into the heart of the Andes
3,050 meters (10,006 feet) m.s.n.m
Up to 8
Group or private
Guided / Private or Shared Group
Challenging
4 days / 3 nights
We start early with a 3:00 am pick-up for a 5-hour drive to Capuliyoc, our trailhead. After final preparations, we begin our descent toward the floor of the Apurímac Canyon. The rocky, dry trail takes 3 to 3.5 hours, passing through small patches of forest. After resting and having lunch at the canyon base, we begin the steep climb to Santa Rosa. This section takes approximately 3 hours; we recommend a steady pace due to the heat. We finish our day camping in the mountains of Santa Rosa.
After an early breakfast, we hike for 2 hours to the village of Maranpata. From here, we continue along rolling trails for another 2 hours until we reach the archaeological site of Choquequirao. After lunch, we enjoy a private guided tour. You will explore temples, palaces, water fountains, the Usnu platform, and the famous llama-patterned terraces. We spend the night camping at this magical site.
This is our longest day. After a sunrise coffee in the mountains, we begin our journey toward Aguas Calientes. We climb toward Yanama, transitioning from dry desert terrain into the vibrant cloud forest. After lunch in Yanama, we continue through the forest and utilize local transportation to reach the Hidroelectrica area. From there, we take the train to Aguas Calientes, where we check into a hotel for a restful night before our visit to Machu Picchu.
The highlight of your trip. After an early breakfast, we take one of the first buses to the Machu Picchu citadel to witness the sunrise. Your guide will lead a 2-hour tour covering the religious, residential, and agricultural sectors. Afterward, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). You will have free time to explore the town or visit the hot springs before taking the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our driver will return you to your hotel in Cusco by approximately 7:00 pm.
Our trekking days follow natural phases, designed to keep you energized and safe while maximizing your time in the mountains:
What to bring with you
What to put in your Duffle Bag
As a professional local operator, we provide a duffle bag at your briefing. An extra porter will carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs), including your sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing.
Toiletries
What to put in your Backpack
The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu (4 days) is available on any date that suits your schedule, provided we have a minimum of 2 hikers.
Price: $777 USD per person (Includes personal porter for up to 7 kg)
Discounts
Optional Extras
Added Value (Included for Free)
This adventure lasts 4 days and takes you through the Apurímac Canyon, the Choquequirao Archaeological Site, and Machu Picchu.
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 5:00 AM before traveling to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek.
This trek includes Capuliyoc, Playa Rosalinas, Santa Rosa, the Choquequirao Archaeological Site, Yanama, Aguas Calientes, and Machu Picchu.
Accommodation includes camping in Santa Rosa, camping at Choquequirao, and one night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
Yes. The itinerary includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu on the final day of the trek.
Yes. You will explore the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex with a guided tour, visiting important areas such as temples, palaces, water fountains, terraces, the Usnu platform, and the famous llama terraces.
Yes. Meals are included throughout the trek as indicated in the itinerary. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are provided on most trekking days, while breakfast is included on the final day.
Yes. Meals are included throughout the trek as indicated in the itinerary. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are provided on most trekking days, while breakfast is included on the final day.
Yes. The itinerary includes transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc, transportation from the cloud forest route toward the Hidroelectrica area, the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes, bus transportation to Machu Picchu, and transportation back to Cusco.
Yes. A professional guide accompanies the trek and provides guided tours of both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
During the trek you will camp in tents, and before visiting Machu Picchu you will spend one night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
The itinerary includes the Expedition Train from the Hidroelectrica area to Aguas Calientes and the return train to Ollantaytambo before driving back to Cusco.
This is a challenging adventure. The first two days are challenging, the third day is moderate to challenging, and the final day at Machu Picchu is considered easy.
No. Due to the steep terrain and the physical endurance required for the deep canyon descents and ascents, this trek is recommended only for those who are very fit and have previous high-altitude hiking experience.
We highly recommend them. Given the steep nature of the canyon trails, trekking poles provide essential stability for your knees and help with balance on the rocky paths.
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