Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek: 5-Day Exploration
Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek: 5-Day Incan Heritage Journey
Embark on a 5-day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek, a journey that reveals the heart of the Incan Empire in a way few ever experience. This private tour starts with an awe-inspiring hike into the Apurimac Canyon to explore the secluded ruins of Choquequirao. Feel the grandeur of the Andes as you traverse through breathtaking landscapes, with the snow-capped Vilcanota mountain range as your backdrop. Each night, immerse yourself in local culture by staying with Peruvian families instead of camping, contributing directly to the community’s economy. The adventure leads to the town of Ollantaytambo, steeped in Incan history. The climax of your journey is a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, where you’ll explore the sacred Incan city’s majesty and mystery. This trek is not just a hike; it’s a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Peru, perfect for those seeking a sustainable and authentic travel experience.
Highlight
- Explore the Secluded Ruins of Choquequirao: Traverse the Apurimac Canyon and uncover the hidden Choquequirao ruins, a lesser-known yet majestic testament to the Incan Empire.
- Immersive Cultural Experience with Local Families: Stay in local homes for a unique cultural immersion, supporting community-based tourism and experiencing genuine Peruvian hospitality.
- Breathtaking Andean Landscapes: Hike through diverse terrains with stunning views of the snow-capped Vilcanota mountains, embracing the raw beauty of the Andes.
- Machu Picchu Exploration: Experience the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a World Wonder, unveiling the sacred city’s mysteries with an expert guide.
- Sustainable and Authentic Travel: Engage in a sustainable journey that emphasizes authentic Peru experiences, promoting responsible tourism and deep connections with local cultures.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Capuliyoc and Descent to Chiquisca
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to Capuliyoc. From there, embark on a descent to Chiquisca, immersing in the serene beauty of the Andean landscapes. Witness the panoramic views that set the stage for your upcoming trek.
Day 2: Conquering the Apurimac Canyon to Marampata
Tackle the day with a challenging yet rewarding journey across the Apurimac Canyon. The ascent to Marampata offers breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding peaks, providing a sense of accomplishment and awe.
Day 3: Full-Day Exploration of Choquequirao Ruins
Dedicate this day to exploring the magnificent Choquequirao ruins. Discover the ancient Incan architecture and learn about the history and significance of this less-traveled archaeological site, nestled high in the mountains.
Day 4: Hike Back to Capuliyoc and Transfer to Ollantaytambo
Retrace your steps back to Capuliyoc, soaking in the last views of the Apurimac Canyon. After the hike, transfer to Ollantaytambo, a town rich in Incan heritage, where you’ll spend the night and prepare for the next day’s highlight.
Day 5: Majestic Visit to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Conclude your journey with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. Delve into the history of this World Wonder, exploring its intricate stone constructions and enjoying the stunning natural backdrop that makes Machu Picchu a truly unforgettable destination.
Prices for this trek
PRIVATE TOUR PRICE | |
---|---|
1 person | US$ 2068 per person |
2 people | US$ 1269 per person |
3 people | US$ 1025 per person |
4 people | US$ 923 per person |
5 to 8 people | US$ 907 per person |
9 to 14 people | US$ 824 per person |
More than 15 people | US$ 749 per person |
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
* Prices are based on the number of people traveling together.
Includes and excludes
Included
- Lodging: 1 night in Ollantaytambo hotel and three nights in Chiquisca and Marampata Homestay with local families; basic accommodation, rooms, and beds are simple. We use these houses instead of tents.
- The itinerary includes all admission costs (Saywite, Choquequirao, and Machu Picchu).
- English-speaking local guides lead the tours.
- All transfers: airport, train station, bus station transfers, Hotel pickup, and drop-offs.
- Train ticket: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Cusco (Expedition Class).
- Meals: According to the itinerary (vegetarian or special diets are available). The meal is prepared by the local families where we lodge.
- We bring a first-aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- All ground transportation.
- Sleeping bag.
- Pack animals to carry personal gear up to 5kg per person.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Breakfast on the first day.
Trip code: CMP5D01-PVT
Day 1 – Drive to Capuliyoc and descend to Chiquisca
- Pick up from the hotel at 06:00 and transfer to the head of the trail at Capuliyoc (2,920m/9,580ft), where we meet our horse riders and pack all our equipment onto the horses. The drive takes roughly four hours.
- Stop visiting an Inca monolith, several water faucets, and ceremonial platforms at the Saywite archeological site. Then on to Capuliyoc, where we will first see the stunning Apurimac Valley below us while the snow-capped peaks of Padrayoc and Huayna Cachora tower above us!. We meet our horse riders, pack all our equipment onto the horses, and have a delicious lunch before starting the hike.
- After a fantastic view, we will start our descent for 3 hours to Chiquisca (1,850m/6,070ft) through beautiful landscapes and see many medicinal plants our ancestors used. If we are lucky, we will see the famous Apurimac Canon.
- At Capuliyoc, we can share, cohabitate, and stay with a local family. The family prepares dinner and will also provide us with clean bedrooms and toilet facilities.
- Distance estimate: 6 km (3, 73 miles) – Estimated walking time: 3-4 hours
- Dinner and overnight with local family.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2 – Cross the Apurimac Canyon and climb to the Marampata
- We depart Chiquisca at 7:00 am to descend to Playa Rosalina (1,520m/4,986ft), which will take around one hour. We reach the roaring Apurimac River, known as “Speaking God.”
- We next cross the River and begin zigzagging up a steep hill towards Santa Rosa (1,970m/6,463ft). This ascent will take around two hours, and we must go early so that the heat does not make it more difficult than necessary.
- In Santa Rosa, we stop for a half-hour to rest and refresh. After that, we continue hiking for another two and a half hours till we reach the Marampata village (2,900m/9,514ft).
- As soon as we arrive, the homeless family may offer us lunch.
- Afternoon free to relax and explore. We may live with a local family.
- The family cooks dinner and provides clean, pleasant rooms with toilet facilities.
- Distance estimate: 11 km (6, 83 miles) – Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
- Dinner and overnight with local family.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3 – Visit and tour the Choquequirao ruins for a whole day
- After breakfast, we trek for another two hours to reach the 3103m/10178ft-high Choquequirao ancient site. These enormous Inca remains have only been partially cleared of undergrowth. When Choquequirao’s full splendors are unveiled, it is believed to be just as spectacular as Machu Picchu. The ongoing excavation of the site continues to find fresh archaeological discoveries, some of which are unique to this site. Among the excavated remains are a sizeable sloping bank of excellent terracing, a series of ritual baths, and a central plaza surrounded by formal and high-rank residential structures. We explore the main square, the distinctive llama terraces, and the Usnu (altar).
- The Choquequirao site is far more extensive than Machu Picchu, yet only 40% has been explored.
- The whole day will be spent at the spectacular archeological site of Choquequirao. Enjoy the private guided tour and visit the temples, terraces, castles, and llama sector.
- After the tour, we begin walking back to Marampata, where we will spend the evening and eat dinner.
- Distance estimate: 8 km (4, 97 miles) – Estimated walking time: 4-5 hours
- Dinner and overnight with local family.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4 – Return to Capuliyoc, Transfer to Ollantaytambo
- Early breakfast at 06:00 today is a more extended day, and we will hike one hour down to Santa Rosa. Then we continue for another hour and a half until we reach Playa Rosalina, where we may cool off in the Apurimac River.
- After this, we will continue our ascent to Chiquisca; along the route, we will have the opportunity to bask in the beauty of the Apurimac Canyon again!. One-hour walk up to the Chiquisca, where we will have lunch and rest.
- After lunch, we climb for about three hours to Capuliyoc, where our hike ends, saying goodbye to our muleteers.
- We will embark on the 4-hour drive to Ollantaytambo and drop off at the hotel.
- The approximate arrival time is between 20:00.
- Distance estimate: 17 km (10, 56 miles) – Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
- Overnight at the hotel in Ollantaytambo.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 5 – Visit the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
- Hotel breakfast; at 07:00 transfer to the train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes town.
- Upon arrival, take a bus to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,430m/7,972ft).
- Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the mountaintop fortress earned every bit of its notoriety.
- Around 11:00, the guided tour begins; the guide expertly directs through the astounding ruins and main streets. Then wander around the town squares and climb the intricately carved stairways made of stone. Machu Picchu is considered the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom.
- The guided tour takes around two hours.
- From 13:30 to 14:30, take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
- From 14:30 to 16:00, take lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Board the train to Cusco later in the day. Arrive at Poroy station and then be picked up and transported to the Cusco hotel.
- Train Schedule — Ollantaytambo (07:45) – Aguas Calientes (09:15)
- Train Schedule — Aguas Calientes (16:43) – Cusco (20:23)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.