Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek 8D/7N Exploring two Andean wonders in one adventure.
Experience the Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek 8D/7N: nature, history, and culture on a unique trekking route through the Peruvian Andes.
Trek Choquequirao and Machu Picchu 8D/7N
Andes of PeruExplore two Inca jewels in a single journey: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu connected by ancient Andean paths.
The Trek Choquequirao and Machu Picchu 8D/7N takes you along ancestral trails through deep canyons, misty forests, and Andean valleys. You will discover the "cradle of gold" of Choquequirao and culminate in the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu, enjoying spectacular views and the natural and cultural wealth of Tahuantinsuyo.
The itinerary integrates complete day-to-day logistics: starting in Cusco, guided hikes with key stops such as Capulichayoq, Marampata, Llactapata, and the final visit to Machu Picchu; includes overnight stays in camps and hotels, meals along the route, and permanent specialized assistance.
Transformative experience: Eight days of hiking, living culture, and Andean nature to connect with Inca history among canyons, snow-capped peaks, and mountain forest, culminating in the unforgettable Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek 8D/7N – Andean Adventure
General Information
Service Type: Shared/Private (min. 2 people)
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Start: City of Cusco
Maximum Altitude: 4,400 m a.s.l. (Yanama Pass)
Difficulty Level: High – Formidable
Guide Language: Spanish and English
Description
The Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek 8D/7N is a journey designed for those seeking deep contact with Andean nature and history. Along this unique route, you will traverse ancient Inca paths, crossing the majestic Andes mountain range, entering deep canyons and descending to the lush cloud forest of the mountains.
The tour begins with a visit to Choquequirao, an impressive archaeological site that still retains much of its mystery. Considered the sister city of Machu Picchu, it offers agricultural, urban and ceremonial sectors surrounded by spectacular landscapes and the imposing Apurímac canyon, one of the deepest in the world.
Subsequently, you will continue through traditional Andean communities, high mountain passes and valleys covered with vegetation, where you can appreciate snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and the diversity of flora and fauna typical of the Andes and the cloud forest. The hike will take you to Llactapata, an archaeological complex with one of the most impressive views of Machu Picchu from another privileged angle.
Finally, the journey culminates with a guided visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Modern Wonder of the World. There you will experience the perfect closure of this eight-day experience that combines history, culture, adventure and nature in one unforgettable trip.
Highlighted Sites of the Route Places and experiences
- Choquequirao – The Golden Cradle of the Incas
Explore this sister city of Machu Picchu with its agricultural terraces, urban and religious sectors. Admire the imposing Apurímac canyon and learn about the engineering and spirituality of the Inca Empire.
- Llactapata – Natural Viewpoint of Machu Picchu
Enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from this ancient archaeological site, surrounded by mountains and jungle, showing the connection of the Inca roads.
- Yanama and Corihuayrachina – Andean Communities
Traverse Inca agricultural terraces and historical paths, and appreciate the traditional life of Andean communities while crossing natural landscapes of great beauty.
- La Playa and La Puerta – Mountain Passes
Cross high passes with views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains, including La Puerta (4,400 m.a.s.l.), where you will feel the magnitude of the Andes and enjoy impressive landscapes.
- Machu Picchu – Wonder of the World
Culminate the trek at the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu, exploring temples, palaces and plazas while connecting with the history and culture of the Incas in a unique natural environment.
Why choose this experience? Advantages and reasons
- Exploration of two Andean wonders in one trek: Live the unique opportunity to traverse Choquequirao and Machu Picchu in the same trip, connecting history, culture and nature while following ancient Inca paths.
- Exceptional natural landscapes and biodiversity: Throughout the trek, you will enjoy mountains, valleys, high-altitude jungle and canyons, observing the typical flora and fauna of the Andes, from condors and birds to local species of mammals and native plants.
- Cultural and archaeological immersion: You will learn about the life of Andean communities, their traditions and the Inca legacy, while discovering citadels, agricultural terraces and Inca temples, living an educational and enriching experience.
Why travel with us? Quality Guarantee
- We are tourism operators in the city of Cusco
- We work professionally
- We offer 100% tourist vehicles
- We care about the safety of our visitors
- We make your trip the best experience
- We are 100% responsible
- We care for the environment
- We are committed to service quality
- We have our own tourist restaurant
DAY 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capulichayoq – Chiquisca Start
Pickup at hotel and transfer to Cachora: At 5:00 a.m., our private transportation will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco and take you to San Pedro de Cachora (2800 m), a trip of approximately 3 hours. During the journey, you will have the opportunity to admire the first landscapes of the Andes and prepare for the adventure.
Meeting with the team and trek preparation: In Cachora you will meet the rest of the team, including cooks, porters and horses for equipment and luggage transport. A talk about the route and safety recommendations will be given.
Hike to Capulichayoq: We start the hike of 6 to 7 hours along trails that cross different Andean climates and landscapes. During the journey, the guide will explain about local flora and fauna and impressive views of the Padreyoc snow-capped mountains will be appreciated.
Capulichayoq viewpoint and lunch: Arrival at the viewpoint with views of the deep Apurímac canyon, where the first lunch will be served while enjoying the panoramic view of Choquequirao.
Descent to Chiquisca and camp: After lunch, we descend approximately 3 hours to Chiquisca (1800 m), where the camp will be set up. You will spend the night surrounded by a majestic landscape near the Apurímac canyon.
DAY 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao Hiking
Start of the hike after breakfast: We begin with a 45-minute descent to Playa Rosalina, crossing a suspension bridge and enjoying the canyon and Apurímac river.
Ascent to Marampata: We continue uphill for 4 to 5 hours to Marampata (2950 m), lunch point with impressive views of the canyon and Apurímac river.
Arrival at Choquequirao: After lunch, we continue hiking approximately 1 hour to the Inca citadel of Choquequirao (3033 m), known as the "Golden Cradle".
Initial exploration and camp: Camp setup with views of the citadel and canyon. In the afternoon, you can visit the agricultural sector and enjoy tea time and dinner.
DAY 3: Guided tour and complete visit to Choquequirao Exploration
Guided tour of the citadel: The guide will explain the history and archaeological relevance of Choquequirao, visiting the urban, agricultural and religious sectors.
Observation of the condor flight: You can enjoy the majesty of the condors flying over the Apurímac canyon.
Camp and rest: Return to camp, tea time, dinner and preparation for the next trekking day.
DAY 4: Choquequirao – Corihuayrachina Trek
Mountain crossing and ascent: After breakfast, we cross the mountain over Choquequirao and descend to the next valley, starting the ascent again towards the camp in Corihuayrachina.
Exploration of the Pincha Unuyoq area: We visit agricultural terraces and Inca paths while appreciating the cloud forest vegetation.
Camp setup: Arrival at the camp after 7 to 8 hours of hiking, dinner preparation and rest.
DAY 5: Corihuayrachina – Yanama Trek
Visit to Qorihuayrachina: Exploration of the recently discovered archaeological site, including ancient silver mines and Inca roads.
Ascent to Yanama: Continuation of the trekking through the mountain, appreciating flora, fauna and panoramic views until arriving at the camp in Yanama.
DAY 6: Yanama – La Puerta – La Playa Altitude
Ascent to the mountain pass: Morning hike towards the second pass of the trek (4,400 m), surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.
Descent to La Playa: After crossing the pass, descent to a meadow next to a river, continuing to the camp in the small town of La Playa.
DAY 7: La Playa – Llactapata – Aguas Calientes View
Ascent to Llactapata: Hike of approximately 3 hours along an original Inca path to the Llactapata archaeological zone, with unique panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
Descent to Hidroeléctrica: 2-hour hike to the last lunch prepared by the group's cook.
Arrival at Aguas Calientes: After lunch, hike to Aguas Calientes (2h 30min), passing through Mandor and its botanical gardens, arriving at the hotel for accommodation, dinner and rest.
DAY 8: Machu Picchu – Cusco Closure
Morning ascent to Machu Picchu: 1-hour hike to the citadel to be among the first to enter and enjoy the sunrise.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu: 2-hour tour of the main temples, palaces and enclosures.
Free exploration and optional Huayna Picchu: Possibility to climb Huayna Picchu (additional cost $70 USD) or explore Machu Picchu on your own.
Return to Cusco: Descent to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo and private transportation back to Cusco, with approximate arrival at 8:00 p.m.
✅ Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek Includes
Professional bilingual guide
English and Spanish, with extensive experience in trekking and archaeology.
Private transfers
Pickup at hotel in Cusco and transportation Cusco – Cachora – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Entrance tickets
Access to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
7 nights, including 1 night in a private hotel in Aguas Calientes and campsites during the trek.
Meals
8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners and 7 snacks during the route.
Camping equipment
Kitchen and dining tents, double tents for participants, inflatable mattress, first aid kit with oxygen tank.
Porters and horses
Transportation of camping equipment and luggage, and emergency horse if needed.
Dietary options
Vegetarian options available upon request.
Return train
Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo included.
❌ Not Included
Last day's lunch
In Aguas Calientes before return to Cusco.
Sleeping bag
Available for rent at the office ($40 USD for the entire trip).
Trekking poles
Available for rent at the office ($25 USD for the entire trip).
Huayna Picchu entrance
Optional with additional cost ($70 USD per person).
Personal expenses
Drinks, souvenirs, tips and other extras not specified in the tour.
🌟 XTravel Recommendation
Book in advance, train beforehand and check the mandatory equipment for high altitude. Enjoy the challenge of connecting Choquequirao with Machu Picchu safely and responsibly!
What to Bring - Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek 8D/7N
- Original passport Valid for at least 7 months.
- ISIC student card (if applicable)
- Alien card (for foreigners)
- Cash For personal expenses and tips.
- Medium backpack Recommended 25–35 liters.
- Water bottle or hydration system Total capacity 1–2 liters.
- 4–5 long-sleeve shirts
- 2–3 long trekking pants
- 4–5 sets of underwear and socks
- Fleece or sweater for cold weather
- Waterproof jacket and rain pants Only during rainy season.
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Sandals (optional, for hot springs)
- Trekking poles (optional) Available for rent.
- Headlamp and spare batteries
- Camera or smartphone and chargers
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Extra water bottle
- Toilet paper and waste bags
- Personal first aid kit Usual medications, bandages, pain relievers.
- Small quick-dry towel
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Facial or body moisturizer
- Medium backpack allowed in the citadel
- Sun hat and light clothing
- Camera or phone for photos
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Extra money for souvenirs and drinks
Sitios destacados del sitio
Available Service Options
Prices in US dollars (USD) per person
Small Group (2-3 people)
More personal and exclusive experience
Medium Group (4-7 people)
Perfect balance between price and privacy
Check your availability and secure your spot today.
What do our customers say?
Thousands of travelers have trusted XTravel Peru to live unforgettable experiences. Discover what they say about us on the main review platforms.
Gerard C
January 31, 2025
Thanks Eco Tour Cusco
Mr. Torres
January 24, 2025
One of the best tours you can do
Louis Martinez
January 18, 2025
Exceptional service to Machu Picchu
Backed by the trust of our customers
More than a decade creating unforgettable experiences in Peru
4.9
Average rating
15,000+
Satisfied customers
12
Years of experience
50+
Unique destinations