Choquequirao 6 days / 5 nights + Machu Picchu

Choquequirao 6 Days + Machu Picchu 2025: The Most Authentic Experience of the Andean Peru

The 6-day journey to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking adventures in Peru's adventure tourism. Along this demanding yet unforgettable trekking route, you will discover two jewels of Peru's archaeological heritage: Choquequirao, the mystical lost city of the Incas, and Machu Picchu, the wonder of the world that continues to amaze the entire planet.

With Wayraq Perú, a travel agency with more than a decade of experience in sustainable tourism, you will enjoy an authentic experience, accompanied by expert guides, personalized attention and a real connection with Andean nature.

This tour is ideal for those looking for a multi-day hike that combines history, culture, physical effort and direct contact with the most impressive landscapes of Apurímac and Cusco.

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska

We begin the adventure very early, travelling from Cusco to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the Choquequirao trek. Along the way we will enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay peaks. From there, the descending hike into the Apurímac Canyon begins, one of the deepest areas in South America.

The landscape changes quickly: we go from cold mountains to a warm valley climate. Our first camp is set up in Chikiska, where we will share a welcome dinner and a night beneath the stars of the Andean sky.

• Approximate distance: 10 km
• Maximum altitude: 2,900 m a.s.l.
• Climate: warm

Day 2: Chikiska – Playa Rosalina – Marampata

The second day takes us to Playa Rosalina, beside the Apurímac River. After crossing the bridge, a demanding climb begins up to Marampata, where we will be rewarded with an unrivalled view of the canyon and the surrounding mountains.

Along the trail you will be able to appreciate the flora and fauna of Choquequirao, including wild orchids, hummingbirds and, with luck, the majestic Andean condor. In Marampata we will enjoy a well-deserved dinner and rest with one of the most beautiful views of the entire route.

• Approximate distance: 16 km
• Maximum altitude: 2,900 m a.s.l.
• Climate: warm to mild

Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao

This is the most eagerly awaited day. After an energizing breakfast, we will walk to the Inca citadel of Choquequirao, one of the most impressive and least crowded archaeological sites in Peru.

Considered the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao rises on a mountain ridge surrounded by clouds, agricultural terraces and ceremonial temples. Guided by our experts, you will explore the main archaeological sectors: the Priest's House, the Temple of the Sun, the Llama terraces and the ceremonial Ushnu.

On this day you will live a profound experience: the silence of uncrowded Inca ruins, the energy of the ancient walls and the feeling of being in a place that still holds unrevealed mysteries.

• Approximate distance: 6 km
• Altitude: 3,050 m a.s.l.

Day 4: Return towards Capuliyoc

After a farewell morning, we will begin the return along the same route, enjoying a different perspective of the valley and its landscapes. We will hike back to Chikiska and then on to Coca Masana, where we will spend our last night camping.

Sunset in this area is spectacular: the light filters through the mountains and the reddish hues of the Apurímac seem to set the landscape alight.

• Distance: 18 km
• Climate: warm and dry

Day 5: Capuliyoc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

In the morning we will complete the last stretch of the Choquequirao trail, arriving back in Capuliyoc, where we will say goodbye to our muleteers. From there we will travel by private transport to Ollantaytambo, in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

In the afternoon, we will board the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). There you will enjoy a farewell dinner for the trek and rest in a comfortable hotel, getting ready for the big day ahead.

• Altitude: 2,040 m a.s.l.
• Climate: mild and humid

Day 6: Visit to Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

At dawn, we will take the bus up to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy a unique experience guided by our experts. You will discover the temples, terraces and ceremonial enclosures that make this place one of the 7 wonders of the modern world.

You can do the classic tour or, if you wish, climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required). After the guided visit, we will return to Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo and finally the transfer to Cusco.

• Altitude: 2,430 m a.s.l.
• Climate: mild and humid

Choquequirao, whose name in Quechua means “Cradle of Gold”, is one of the most enigmatic Inca cities in Peru. Located at 3,050 metres above sea level, on the border between Cusco and Apurímac, it is believed to have been a highly important administrative and ceremonial centre during the final years of the Inca Empire.

Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao still preserves an atmosphere of isolation and mystery. Surrounded by cloud forests, it offers visitors a spiritual connection with Inca history, without the crowds that usually accompany the famous wonder of the world.

It is known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, and in recent years it has gained recognition thanks to its archaeological conservation project and the future Choquequirao cable car, which aims to make access easier and promote sustainable tourism.

• Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
• Type of trip: adventure trek and archaeological visit
• Difficulty level: moderate to challenging
• Total distance: approximately 60 km
• Maximum altitude: 3,050 m a.s.l.
• Best time to travel: April to November (dry season)

The Choquequirao trek is an ideal alternative to the classic Inca Trail, less crowded and with more unspoiled landscapes. Combining it with Machu Picchu makes this route the most complete Andean experience.

• Acclimatization: stay at least two nights in Cusco before the trek.
• Recommended gear: trekking poles, sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight and a rain poncho.
• Physical fitness: the trek requires good physical condition; we recommend doing some hikes beforehand.
• Hydration: carry enough water and energy snacks.
• Respect for the environment: help preserve the Andean ecosystem and local communities.

What the Tour Includes

• Private transport Cusco – Capuliyoc – Cusco
• Tourist train Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
• Entrance tickets to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu
• Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
• Cook, muleteers and full camping equipment
• All meals during the trek (vegetarian options available)
• One hotel night in Aguas Calientes
• First aid kit and oxygen

Not Included

• First breakfast and last lunch in Cusco
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu (optional and subject to availability)
• Tips (optional)
• Personal travel insurance