Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Andes, where breathtaking landscapes meet ancient history. This trek offers an immersive experience, blending challenging hikes with the wonder of exploring hidden Inca ruins and vibrant natural scenery. Every step is carefully planned to showcase the dramatic contrasts of the Andean environment—from high mountain passes to verdant valleys and remote archaeological sites.
Designed for both seasoned trekkers and adventurous novices, the journey is enriched by professional guides and a dedicated support team ensuring your safety and comfort. Along the way, you will not only experience the physical thrill of the trail but also gain insights into the cultural heritage of Peru, making it a truly transformative expedition.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – La Playa
- Day 2: La Playa – Marampata – Choquekirao
- Day 3: Exploring Choquekirao
- Day 4: Choquekirao– Marampata – La Playa – Chikiska
- Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – La Playa
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. and transfer you by private van to the trailhead at Capuliyoc (3,200 m). There, you’ll meet your horses, horsemen and our trekking chef, who will serve a hearty breakfast while your guide introduces the team. After a group photo with the snow-capped Andes in the background, begin the three-hour descent toward your first lunch spot, pausing as needed. The trail winds above the Apurimac River, with dramatic canyon views, lush flora and possible wildlife sightings. Following lunch, continue another three hours down to the riverside campsite at La Playa (1,800 m). In the evening, enjoy a hot drink by the campfire and gaze at the star-filled Andean sky.
Day 2: La Playa – Marampata – Choquequirao
After an energizing breakfast, you’ll cross the river gorge and begin the four-hour ascent via switchbacks past sugar cane terraces. Keep an eye out for soaring condors and vibrant orchids along the way. An emergency horse is available should you need a boost. At Marampata (3,350 m), refuel with a picnic lunch and relax with a warm herbal tea. Then tackle the final two-hour climb to the rim of the canyon, where the imposing ruins of Choquequirao come into view. Your campsite is nestled at the foot of the citadel—perfect for an afternoon stroll to catch the sunset over the ancient stonework.
Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao
Rise early for breakfast and hike 30 minutes up to the main plaza of Choquequirao. Join your guide for a four-hour tour of this sprawling Inca site—larger than Machu Picchu yet hidden by forest canopies. Explore the temples, astronomical observatories and intricate water channels, learning how the Incas selected each mountain shelf for construction. After lunch at the site, continue to the llama terraces—steep stone steps that depict the llama constellation—and then to the Usno platform, ideal for panoramic mountain views at sunset. Return to camp for a second night beneath the ancient walls.
Day 4: Choquequirao – Marampata – La Playa – Chikiska
Following breakfast, retrace your steps two hours down to Marampata, where new angles of the canyon and distant waterfalls await. Your guide will highlight any flora or fauna you may have missed. Resume the descent for another four hours to La Playa, stopping midway to sample locally grown cactus fruit. After a riverside lunch, ascend two hours up to Chikiska Camp, set beside a Quechua family’s homestead. Watch for spectacled bears, hummingbirds and condors as you settle in for the night.
Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
Enjoy a final breakfast in camp before the four-hour climb back to Capuliyoc (3,200 m). Celebrate with your team over a farewell lunch, then board the van for a scenic three-hour drive through the Anís tea plantations of Curawasi. You’ll arrive in Cusco around 6:00 p.m., where we’ll drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of your Choquequirao adventure.
Inclusions
Included
- A briefing at your hotel (6 p.m.) the night before you depart
- Pick up from your hotel and private van transportation to the trailhead
- Professional English speaking tour guide
- Professional trekking chef
- Porters, horsemen
- Horses to carry the camping equipment, food, and your personal belongings (up to 8 kg)
- Meals, breakfast, snacks, happy hours, dinner
- Camping equipment, sleeping tents, foam mats, dining tents, kitchen tents, chairs, dishes and more
- Entrance fee to Choquekirao
- First-aid kit
- Private, portable toilets
- Drinking water three times a day
- Emergency horse to ride in case you feel tired
- Taxes included
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Inflatable air mattress for extra comfort – 3 in /8 cm thick (rentals available)
- Walking sticks (rentals available)
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Hiking Poles: Provide extra stability on steep ascents and descents, reducing stress on knees and ankles.
- Quality Trekking Boots: Waterproof, broken-in boots with good ankle support to handle rocky and slippery terrain.
- Layered Clothing: Lightweight base layers, insulating mid-layers and a windproof shell to adapt to fluctuating mountain temperatures.
- Sun Hat & Neck Gaiter: Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking gaiter to shield your face and neck from intense high-altitude sun.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Protects skin from strong UV rays—reapply every few hours during long hikes.
- UV-Protection Sunglasses: Wraparound lenses to safeguard eyes from glare and ultraviolet exposure.
- Water Purification Tablets: Ensure access to safe drinking water when refilling from streams.
- Lightweight Backpack: Comfortable daypack (25–30 L) with hip belt to carry essentials and distribute weight evenly.
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Hands-free lighting for early starts, late returns or moving around camp after dark.
- Insect Repellent: Helps ward off mosquitoes and biting insects, especially around campsites near water.
- Quick-Dry Towel: Compact microfiber towel for washing or wiping off sweat and humidity.
- Personal First Aid Kit: Include blister care, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes and any personal medications.
- Altitude Sickness Remedies: Acetazolamide or natural remedies like coca tea—use as advised to ease acclimatization.
- Travel Insurance Documentation: Keep a waterproof copy of your policy and emergency contact details.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Carry at least 2 L capacity; refill at safe water sources to stay hydrated.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 5-day adventure along Choquequirao for USD 650 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tour requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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