Choquequirao Trek & Macchu Picchu Challenge 6D/5N.
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
Would you like to travel back in time and reconnect with nature, exploring the ancient paths of a legendary civilization? You are excited by the opportunity to visit two incredible archaeological complexes.
Then, join us on this unforgettable expedition to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, two of the most important Inca sites. We will take care of every detail to make your experience unforgettable. The trip to Choquequirao is considered one of the ten best hikes in the world, thanks to its impressive landscapes, biodiversity and wildlife.
Along the trail, you will cross high mountains and deep jungle valleys. The word unique does not even begin to describe this experience. Choquequirao is a hidden treasure, an uncrowded destination away from the crowds, ideal for lovers of adventure and nature.
Our next stop is Machu Picchu, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Here you will share the path with other hikers, but the majesty of this place will make every step an unforgettable experience.
Due to the remote and challenging nature of the trek, it is essential to travel with highly trained tour operators. Our professional team is prepared to make your trip safe, comfortable and exciting.
So what are you waiting for? Join us today and experience this incredible adventure that you will remember forever.
Day 1: Cusco | Cachora - Capuliyoc - Chiquisca - Playa Rosalina - Santa Rosa
Your epic adventure begins at 5:00 a.m. when we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. From there, we will travel in our private transport for five hours to Capuliyoc, enjoying breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped mountains along the way.
Upon arrival in Capuliyoc, a delicious breakfast awaits you before meeting the team that will accompany you on this journey—our cook and muleteer—who will ensure your belongings reach each campsite safely and that you enjoy nourishing meals throughout the trek.
We begin our hike descending through the majestic landscapes of the Apurímac Valley on a three-hour downhill trek. Along the way, you will admire the imposing Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina mountains before reaching Chiquisca, where we will enjoy a revitalizing lunch.
With renewed energy, we continue the hike for another hour and twenty minutes to the bottom of the valley. There, we will encounter the powerful Apurímac River, whose name in Quechua means “God that speaks.” Its class V rapids make it an ideal destination for rafting.
To end the day, we will take on the final two-hour ascent to Santa Rosa (1,970 m / 6,463 ft), our first campsite. Here, after a delicious dinner, you can relax and regain energy for the next day’s adventure.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Camping
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 7 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Moderate – Challenging
📉 Minimum altitude: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 2,890 m / 9,482 ft
📍 Accommodation altitude: 1,970 m / 6,463 ft
Day 2: Santa Rosa | Marampata - Choquequirao
Early in the morning, a delicious breakfast will be waiting for you, giving you the energy boost you need to start the day. At 5:30 a.m., we will begin our hike, ascending a zigzag trail for approximately three hours until we reach the community of Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft).
From here, you will enjoy spectacular views and have the chance to capture incredible photos of the breathtaking landscape, including snow-capped mountains and the deep canyon below. We then continue hiking for another hour and a half until we reach our campsite in Choquequirao, where we will have a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, you will have plenty of time to admire the stunning scenery and absorb the special energy of this ancient site. Your guide will provide insight into the history and significance of Choquequirao.
To date, only about 40% of the Inca ruins of Choquequirao have been excavated. However, what can be seen today is truly impressive and makes the challenging hike to this place completely worthwhile. While Choquequirao’s stonework is not as sophisticated as Machu Picchu’s, this is due to the difficulty of carving the local stone. Nonetheless, its massive structures suggest that it was an important and high-status site. Beyond its architectural value, Choquequirao is a place that inspires awe.
As night falls, you will witness a spectacular sunset, where the last rays of the sun illuminate the surrounding mountains and massive rocks in an orange hue, creating a peaceful and mesmerizing atmosphere.
As darkness sets in, we will return to the campsite to enjoy a delicious dinner, perfect for restoring energy after a day of exploration. Finally, you will head to your tent for a restful sleep, preparing for the next day’s journey.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Camping
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 5–6 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
📍 Accommodation altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
Day 3: Choquequirao | Pinchaunuyuc - Río Blanco - Maizal
We recommend waking up as early as possible to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises you can imagine. The first rays of the sun will bring color and life to every corner of this magical site, welcoming a new day. Take a moment to thank Mother Nature for all the wonders she has given us—it’s the perfect way to say goodbye to Choquequirao.
After a nutritious breakfast, we will start our uphill hike toward the cloud forest, a fascinating and unique area where you will truly feel like you’re walking among the clouds. Next, we will reach Choquequirao Pass (3,270 m / 10,728 ft) and begin our descent to our next archaeological site, Pinchaunuyoc (2,420 m / 7,940 ft). This impressive site will amaze you with its terraces, which appear to be suspended over the canyon of the Río Blanco. Here, we will take a short exploration break before continuing our journey.
We will continue descending to our lunch spot, located by the Río Blanco. Along the way, we will observe a great variety of bird species, exotic orchids, and plantations of the sacred coca leaf. You can refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the river—a welcome relief after several days of hiking.
Then, we will cross the river and begin a challenging four-hour uphill climb to our campsite in Maizal. This has been one of the most demanding days of the trek, but once at camp, you can relax, enjoy a delicious dinner, and rest.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Camping
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 18 km / 11.18 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 8–9 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Challenging
📉 Minimum altitude: 1,990 m / 6,528 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 3,270 m / 10,728 ft
📍 Accommodation altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
Day 4: Maizal | Minas Victoria - San Juan Pass - Yanama - Collpapampa
This morning, you will wake up surrounded by mountains and misty forest. Another hearty breakfast will await you before starting an uphill trek along a trail lined with lush vegetation. The snow-capped mountains will soon reappear, reminding you of their grandeur. Whether the sky is clear or cloudy, you will enjoy a spectacular view.
Today, we will hike uphill for about four hours along a narrow Inca trail until we reach the top. One of our favorite parts of the fourth day is waking up on the mountainside and listening to the sounds of the forest and birds. It’s a truly remarkable experience that strengthens your connection with Mother Nature, or Pachamama.
This section of the trail is historically significant due to the many ruins found along the way. We will pass by the impressive Inca mines, known as Minas Victoria, from which silver was extracted. Then, we will head to San Juan Pass (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), where we can admire the Salkantay and Humantay mountains.
Afterward, we will descend for three hours to Yanama (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a small community nestled in a breathtaking valley. From there, we will take our transport to our Collpapampa campsite, where a comforting dinner awaits under the starry sky. Tonight, we will stay in cozy Mountain Sky cabins, a well-deserved rest after several nights of camping.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Mountain Sky cabins
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 6–7 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Challenging – Moderate
📍 Accommodation altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Day 5: Collpapampa | La Playa - Lucmabamba - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Today, we will wake up around 5:30 a.m. with a coca tea wake-up call! Afterward, we will have breakfast and begin our hike directly toward La Playa, walking through the dense jungle and following the banks of the Salkantay River on a gradual trail. Along the way, we will stop at several local villages to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, including passion fruit, banana, coffee, avocado, mango, orange, and papaya.
The trail distance is 14 km, with a hiking time of approximately 4 hours until we reach Lucmabamba, our lunch spot. This will be our last meal prepared by our amazing chefs, allowing us to relax while enjoying a coffee tour demonstration. After some rest, we will board private transport to Hidroelectrica. From there, we will walk alongside the train tracks, facilitated by a pedestrian pathway that makes the journey more enjoyable.
Along the way, surrounded by the tropical paradise of the Urubamba River, you will see more plantations and beautiful flowers, as well as a great variety of birds, including Peru’s national bird, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
After three hours of walking, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes, where we will transfer you to your hotel. Here, you can relax in your comfortable room with a private bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi. In the evening, we will gather for dinner at a tourist restaurant.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
🛏 Accommodation: Hotel
🚶♂️ Total hiking distance: 25 km / 15.53 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 7 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
📈 Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
📍 Accommodation altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Day 6: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco
Today is Machu Picchu day! You will need to wake up before dawn to get ahead of the crowds and take the first bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, a 25-minute ride.
Once at Machu Picchu, your guide will take you to a strategic viewpoint where you can admire the Inca architecture and capture postcard-perfect photos of the citadel. Then, you will begin a guided tour of the main sectors of the archaeological site, which will last approximately two hours. During this tour, you will learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
After the guided tour, you will have free time to take more photos, explore any remaining areas of interest, or, if you have booked in advance, hike Huayna Picchu. Your guide will show you where to begin this hike, which takes approximately two hours round trip. (This requires an additional reservation, as spots sell out quickly, and costs $60 USD per person).
Alternatively, you can hike Machu Picchu Mountain instead of Huayna Picchu. This is a more challenging hike that takes at least three hours round trip (also with an additional cost of $60 USD per person).
Once you have enjoyed the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have some extra time for shopping, sightseeing, visiting the museum, or relaxing in the hot springs.
The Expedition train will depart from Aguas Calientes at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the spectacular Urubamba River. Near Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow, and the river features many beautiful whitewater sections. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the train station to take you back to Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
📌 Tour Details
🍽 Meals: Breakfast
🏛 Machu Picchu tour duration: 2–3 hours
🥾 Difficulty level: Easy
📍 Machu Picchu altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
⛰ Huayna Picchu mountain altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
⛰ Machu Picchu mountain altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
Incluye
✓ PRE-DEPARTURE BRIEFING:
- You will meet with your guide one day before the trek at our office or your hotel for an orientation before your hike. At this time, we will provide you with the duffel bags that our horses will carry. The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCES:
- Entry ticket to Choquequirao.
- Entry ticket to the Archaeological Zone of Machu Picchu – Circuit 2.
The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu offers several circuits to explore the citadel, and we ensure the best available option at the time of your booking.
- Our first choice, if available, is Circuit 2:
Llaqta Machu Picchu / Classic Route 2-A, which takes you to the iconic panoramic viewpoint and allows you to explore about 70% of the citadel.
- If this circuit is not available, we will book Circuit 2-B: Lower Terrace, which also offers the classic viewpoint and access to 60% of Machu Picchu.
✓ FIELD STAFF:
- Professional Guides – Guide Protocols:
Specialized in trekking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have between three and ten years of experience in different treks in the region. They are experts in handling groups under pressure and are trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring their cultural heritage. Along with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience. - Chefs – Cook Protocols:
Trained in local gastronomy schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian food, international food styles, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. They have a deep understanding of the nutritional properties of the meals they prepare and are skilled at cooking efficiently. All of this, of course, with a strong emphasis on hygiene and food safety during preparation. - Horsemen and Horses:
Our team of horsemen and their horses are essential for the success of the experience, as they are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The horses also carry the duffel bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This way, you can hike with just a small backpack carrying your essentials, while our team transports your luggage from one campsite to another, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek.
✓ DUFFEL BAG SERVICE FOR THE TREK (7 KILOS):
- During the briefing session, you will be provided with a duffel bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffel bags on horses throughout the journey, ensuring you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with just your backpack.
✓ MEALS:
- 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, hot chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet style, with soup, 2-4 different main courses, and hot drinks. The main dishes will include Peruvian classics such as Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and Ají de Gallina (creamy, slightly spicy shredded chicken dish), among other options. We can also accommodate vegetarian and vegan options.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, vegetables.
- Wake-up Tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent to keep you warm before starting the day.
- Tea Time or Happy Hour: Popcorn, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Daily Trail Snacks: Fresh and dried fruits, crackers, sweet and savory cookies (chocolate, other sweets).
- Water: We will provide boiled water from the first day’s lunch until the fifth day’s lunch.
- Hygiene Products: We will provide you with a small towel and soap to clean your hands before each meal.
✓ ACCOMMODATION:
- 3 Nights Camping in Tents:
Like our ancestors, we are very considerate of Pachamama (Mother Earth). That is why our campsites and lodges are adapted to the environment to avoid negative impacts. - On Day 4, you will spend the night in the Mountain Sky Cabins.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 5:
You will spend the last night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes with a private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and luggage storage included while you visit Machu Picchu.
✓ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT:
- Tents:
High-mountain tents for 4-season use. They can withstand harsh winter weather, including heavy rain and snow. - Sleeping Mats:
Our inflatable Thermarest sleeping mats ensure a warm and comfortable night’s sleep on the trail. - Dining Tent:
Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, provides all the space we need to enjoy our meals regardless of the weather outside. - Kitchen Tent:
Equipped with all the necessary tools for our chefs to prepare your meals (gas stove and all cooking utensils).
✓ TRANSPORTATION:
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel by private transportation to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek.
- Day 4: Private transportation for the group from Yanama to Collpapampa.
- Day 5: Private transportation for the group from La Playa to Hidroelectrica.
- Day 6: Consettur bus ticket (round trip) between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Day 6: Private transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
✓ Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo:
- Typically, the train ticket is for 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. You will have time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax. Make sure to arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, a Bestreks agency representative will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. You will then travel by car back to Cusco, which takes another 2 hours, arriving at Plaza Regocijo. Expect to return to Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
- Pack Mules:
During the trek, pack mules will carry all camping equipment and your permitted luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lb). The horsemen will take care of your duffel bag and personal belongings.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE:
- Radios:
They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks, and porters to communicate with each other. - First Aid Kit:
We carry alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical adhesive tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach aches, and antipyretics. If you take prescription medications, you may bring your own. - Portable Oxygen Tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Please note that only a medical professional can prescribe medication. Our guides do not have the authority to prescribe treatments to clients. All medications will be administered only with your consent and at your own responsibility. If you have a prescription, we recommend bringing your own medications.
No Incluye
× SLEEPING BAG:
- If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after every trip.
(Rental available for $20 USD at the Bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES:
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, these are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available for $20 USD at the Bestreks agency).
× HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Huayna Picchu is the mountain behind the citadel, commonly seen in the background of classic Machu Picchu photos. Only 400 permits are available per day, divided into two time slots: from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. (200 spots) and from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (200 spots). Tickets are required and sell out months in advance. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit, with a round-trip hike lasting approximately 2 hours. The most spectacular aspect of this hike is the breathtaking 360-degree view from the top, overlooking the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountainous landscape.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN:
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu. It offers a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, Huayna Picchu Mountain, Putucusi Mountain, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, the lush mountainous landscape, and the final section of the Classic Inca Trail. The hike is not particularly dangerous or difficult, but it does require endurance. The time needed to reach the top depends on a person’s physical condition and can vary from 1 to 1.5 hours for the ascent or 2 to 3 hours for the round-trip hike.
Machu Picchu Mountain: $60 USD.
× LUNCH IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 6.
× PERSONAL HIKING CLOTHING AND GEAR.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase travel insurance in case of flight disruptions or unexpected health issues. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies become void above (4,000 m / 13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS:
- Delays beyond our control (landscapes, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPS FOR YOUR CREW:
- Tipping is customary in tourism and on any excursion to Machu Picchu. While we pay fair wages to our entire team, any extra contribution is always appreciated, especially given the hard work they do. Usually, group members pool their tips to distribute among the porters and chefs collectively, while the guide and assistant receive their tips after the Machu Picchu visit.
✓ Why tipping is important:
- Recognizes the worker’s effort.
- A way to show gratitude for good service and treatment received.
- Contributes to the local economy in tourist destinations and communities.
- Encourages excellent service, motivating staff to continue providing exceptional support and hospitality.
- Strengthens positive relationships between hikers and the team supporting them.
- A meaningful way to thank porters, cooks, and guides who work tirelessly 24/7 to ensure your trek is comfortable and unforgettable.
✓ Price per person:
- $980 USD – Adults
- $950 USD – Children and students
To book the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $490 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office located in Cusco.
✓ Student discount:
- All travelers under the age of 17 receive a $30 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can obtain the discount with your student ID. Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ Valid student ID for Machu Picchu:
- To receive the student discount, travelers must have a valid ID that meets the following criteria:
✓ Note about the ISIC card:
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, it is not accepted by the Peruvian government for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced by any other type of ID for international procedures, a student ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.
- The Peruvian government has strict policies regarding student accreditation. It is essential to present an ID that meets these criteria to qualify for student-priced tickets. Upon entering Machu Picchu, you will be required to show the physical student ID. If you do not meet these requirements when arriving at Machu Picchu, there is a significant risk that you will be denied entry and have to pay the full ticket price, subject to availability. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your student ID complies with Peruvian regulations before booking your Machu Picchu trip as a student.
✓ Add-ons and upgrades:
Additional services and upgrades you can include in this trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Single hotel (Hotel in Aguas Calientes): $30.00 USD
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ Additional equipment:
Additional items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD
✓ Price guarantee:
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Therefore, before booking, please make sure to read all the important information about the tour.
✓ How to book:
- Booking the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is easy. You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking platform will guide you step by step. The tour payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home currency for greater convenience.
✓ Choquequirao trek and Machu Picchu reservation:
- To reserve your spot on the Choquequirao trek and Machu Picchu, we require a non-refundable deposit of $490 USD. This deposit secures your place on the tour and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu tickets, Inca Trail permits, and train tickets, which must be bought well in advance.
- Our booking platform gives you the option to pay only the deposit along with any selected add-ons, or you can choose to pay the full tour amount in advance. If you decide to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
✓ Remaining balance payment:
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in soles or US dollars in cash or by card (with an additional 5% fee). You also have the option to pay online on our website with a 5% fee.
✓ Full payment option:
- You may choose to pay the full tour cost online at the time of booking.
✓ Cancellation of your reservation:
- Bestreks agency has the following policies regarding reservation cancellations: Due to the strict regulations established by the Machu Picchu and Choquequirao National Park, once the reservation is made, the acquired space and permits cannot be canceled. It is also not possible to transfer the permit to another person with a different name. The permit date cannot be changed either. Therefore, if you cannot arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be issued. The permits are non-refundable, and Bestreks will purchase them as soon as your reservation confirmation is sent. If you cancel 30 or more days in advance, you will lose your initial deposit but will still have access to the tickets we have purchased for you.
- If you cancel between 2 and 3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show,” and you will have to pay 100% of the total cost. You will still have access to the entrance tickets we purchased for you, a guided visit to Machu Picchu on your originally scheduled itinerary date, a train ticket, and a bus ticket.
- If you decide to stop for personal reasons once the trek has started, you will automatically lose all included services. Any costs incurred during your return, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be at your own expense. However, you may rejoin the group in Machu Picchu for the visit, where you can use your entrance ticket, participate in the guided tour, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, and board the return train to Ollantaytambo.
Events beyond our control that make any part of the trip impossible, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel or flight overbooking, may occur. In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any costs associated with these alternative arrangements will be the responsibility of the traveler.
✓ Recommendations:
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure that your investment is protected and that you have a seamless booking experience for your Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek.
✓ Informative Meeting or Briefing:
- All briefings take place the evening before your trip at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. Your guide will also provide you with the duffle bag during this meeting. Briefings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you cannot attend, you must coordinate another time via email or phone call.
✓ Payment of Trek Balance (in Cusco):
- If you have a pending balance, you must pay it at least one day before your trek/tour. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed. If possible, we appreciate payment in cash (USD or local currency) at our office in Cusco or during the briefing. There are several ATMs along Avenida El Sol where you can withdraw money in both USD and Peruvian soles. You can also pay with a credit/debit card or through IZIPAY, either online or in person, but a 5% service fee will be charged by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and IZIPAY.
✓ Client Pickup:
- Please note that all pickups take place within the city of Cusco. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a good location. Your guide or our staff will confirm the pickup time the day before your tour. Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes. Cusco is an old city with many narrow and cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located in areas with no vehicle access or on steep inclines, making luggage transport difficult. We strongly recommend choosing accommodation with easy access.
✓ Health:
- If you have medical restrictions for any activities in your itinerary, consult your doctor about the risks before participating.
✓ Weather:
- The weather is unpredictable. The dry season in Cusco usually runs from April to October, but rain can still occur in June, and the sun may shine in December. Be prepared regardless of the month of your hike. Bring rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Many people forget gloves, but the cold and humidity can make hiking uncomfortable.
Prepare for all four seasons. Andean treks involve multiple microclimates, so you need to be ready. Layering is key to adjusting to changing temperatures easily. Bring a warm jacket, as nights can be cold.
✓ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) & Stomach Issues:
- For those arriving in Cusco directly from sea-level locations, we recommend arriving at least two days before your hike. Two of the most common health issues among tourists in Cusco are altitude sickness (soroche) and stomach issues caused by slow digestion.
✓ Altitude Sickness:
- Symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Diamox, Soroichi Pill, and Alti Vital can help minimize symptoms. If symptoms persist, oxygen is the next step. We have the equipment and staff ready to assist you if needed.
✓ Stomach Issues:
- Drink 3-4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated. Hot beverages such as coca leaf tea are especially recommended. Eat soups, vegetables, and carbohydrates (avoid fried or heavy foods). Sweets, chocolate, cookies, and fruits are also good options. Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Get at least 8 hours of sleep and avoid excessive physical activity. Keep your body at a comfortable temperature by wearing warm clothing. During altitude adjustment, follow the general rule: eat in moderation and drink plenty of fluids.
✓ Medical Restrictions:
- Clients must inform their travel agencies of any medical restrictions before the start of the trip. Examples include allergies, special diets, current medications, and health conditions. If you have severe medical restrictions, we recommend consulting your doctor for approval before joining the hike. The information you provide is essential in helping us ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
✓ Water:
- After our first lunch, we will provide boiled water until the end of the trek. You must bring a water bottle to carry with you throughout the hike.
- We strongly recommend using reusable bottles or canteens to help protect the trail, as plastic water bottles negatively impact the environment, especially when waste management is inadequate.
If you wish to purchase bottled water during the trek, you can do so on the first, second, and fourth days. You can also bring water purification tablets or a filter. However, previous hikers who opted for these alternatives often experienced stomach issues. For this reason, we recommend refilling your bottle with the boiled water we provide.
✓ Lost Items:
- Please pay attention to where you leave your belongings and ensure you collect everything before leaving our transportation, campsites, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your belongings during the tour.
Absolutely! The trek to Choquequirao is one of the most impressive and challenging routes in Peru, and many travelers consider it one of the best trekking experiences in South America. Choquequirao, known as the “sister” of Machu Picchu, rises over 3,050 meters above sea level, and the trek around it offers spectacular views of mountain landscapes and glaciers.
Additionally, the route passes through rural communities that maintain ancestral traditions, giving you the opportunity to connect with local culture. Although it is a demanding trek due to the elevation gain and terrain, the landscapes along the way make the effort worthwhile. If you love challenges and nature in its purest form, this is an unforgettable experience.
The project to build a cable car connecting the town of Cachora to Marampata was not completed due to frequent landslides, which gradually led to the abandonment of the plan. While a cable car would benefit tourism, it would also take away from the trekking experience, which is highly significant due to the beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna along the route.
While compared to other routes in the Cusco region it is not considered a high-altitude hike, its difficulty should not be underestimated. The highest point of the trek is the Choquequirao ruins at 3,050 m (10,007 ft).
What makes this trek truly challenging is the extreme elevation gain. On the first day, you descend 1,500 m; on the second day, you ascend more than 1,500 m. After exploring the ruins, you must repeat this effort. Although Choquequirao’s altitude is not extreme by Cusco’s standards, it is still significantly high (almost twice the altitude of Denver, Colorado!).
The Choquequirao trek does not usually sell out since not many people take this route. However, it is recommended to book as early as possible to ensure that the tour agency you choose can organize everything for your desired dates. If you wait until the last minute, they may be fully booked on other routes and might not have enough staff available to accommodate you on the Choquequirao trek.
The trek to Choquequirao is safe if you consider key factors and prepare properly. Most tourists complete the route without serious incidents, but it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with altitude and the ever-changing terrain conditions. As long as you follow safety guidelines, the trek is an incredible experience.
Even the fittest person will find the Choquequirao trek a challenge! Everyone planning this trek should follow a training plan. Many older individuals successfully complete this hike, but they are in excellent physical shape and well-prepared.
Anyone who is not in shape should train under the guidance of a medical and fitness professional. The specifics of training will depend on each person’s physical capabilities. The main difficulty of the trek is the steepness of the trail. In short, the better your physical condition, the easier and more enjoyable the trek will be.
The average daily trekking time is 7-8 hours per person. However, this depends on your physical condition, the pace of the group, and other factors (for example, enthusiastic photographers may take longer).
Our Choquequirao trekking guides are experts in planning according to each group’s specific needs.
Since the Choquequirao trek is not crowded, weather conditions are the most important factor when choosing the best time to go.
- Dry Season (May to October): This is undoubtedly the best time for the trek, as there is minimal rain, making the trail safer and more comfortable. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cold nights, allowing for clear mountain views. Additionally, the trail is less slippery, making the journey easier.
- Rainy Season (December to February): While the trek is still possible during this time, the terrain is much more challenging due to rain, mud, and possible landslides.
The most common way to get to Cusco is by taking an international flight to Lima (Peru’s capital) and then a domestic flight to Cusco.
- First, fly from your country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Lima is Peru’s main international air hub.
- From Lima, take a domestic flight to Cusco. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines that operate this route include LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air.
- If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, but this road trip takes 20-24 hours. Flying is highly recommended for comfort and time savings.
- If you are coming from nearby countries like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may find direct flights to Cusco, but they are less frequent than flights to Lima.
- Minimum 2-3 days in Cusco: If you arrive directly in Cusco, it is recommended to spend at least 2 days there before starting the trek. Use this time to rest, take it easy, and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Light walking around the city is ideal, but avoid intense physical activity.
- If you have been in high-altitude areas (Arequipa, Puno, or the Sacred Valley), you may acclimatize faster. In this case, 1 day of rest in Cusco might be enough before starting the trek.
Trekking shoes with ankle support are highly recommended, especially for those who are not used to long hikes or rough terrain. The steep inclines and rocky paths require stability, and good ankle support helps prevent sprains or injuries. High-cut hiking boots are ideal for this trek.
Trekking poles are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended, as they reduce stress on the knees. The steep ascents and descents put a lot of strain on the knees, and trekking poles help distribute effort, relieving pressure on the legs and joints.
- Increased stability: The trails are often uneven, rocky, and steep.
- Easier ascents and descents: When climbing, poles help push forward, reducing leg strain. On descents, they help control speed and prevent falls or stumbles.
Any luggage that is not necessary for the trek should stay in Cusco.
- All hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage for trekkers.
- If you have no place to store your luggage, you can leave it at our office until the end of your adventure. We will securely store your belongings—no worries!
Many of our travelers say that the food is one of the highlights of their trip! Our professional chefs do an amazing job preparing delicious meals along the journey.
We understand the importance of nutrition during the trek, as it provides the energy you need each day. That’s why we work with trained chefs and nutritionists to create the best meal plan for your Choquequirao trek.
- Each meal includes a variety of options, incorporating all food groups with fresh, local ingredients.
- You will also get to try some local dishes that will amaze you!
- Do you have allergies or dietary restrictions? No worries! Just let us know before your trip, and we will ensure that you eat just as well as everyone else.
- Afternoon snacks and drinks are also provided before dinner.
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