From Cusco: 5-Day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek
Hike from Cusco to Choquequirao and Machu Picchu on a thrilling 5-day trek. Explore remote Inca ruins, wild Andes scenery, and timeless mountain culture.
From Cusco: 5-Day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek
Discover Peru’s ultimate Inca trail adventure on this 5-day Choquequirao and Machu Picchu trek. Journey from Cusco through the Apurimac Canyon, explore Choquequirao’s hidden citadel, and end with a sunrise visit to iconic Machu Picchu. A perfect mix of nature, history, and culture for true explorers.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 4:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Capuliyoc Viewpoint, Apurimac River, Marampata Camp, Choquequirao and Machu Pichu |
From Cusco to the Calm of Santa Rosa
Your Andean journey begins before sunrise as we collect you from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 a.m. The drive to Capuliyoc unveils ever-changing scenery—deep valleys, terraced slopes, and the snow-capped guardians of Salkantay and Humantay.
Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty local breakfast and meet the trekking team who will guide you throughout the expedition. The descent from Capuliyoc winds down toward the Apurimac River, its distant murmur following your steps through warm canyon landscapes.
Reach the private Santa Rosa campsite by late afternoon, where dinner is served under a star-filled sky and the first taste of mountain tranquility awaits.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Tea, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours (15 km)
Ascent to the Lost Citadel of Choquequirao
Wake to birdsong and the golden light of dawn as you prepare for the climb to Choquequirao, the “Cradle of Gold.” The trail ascends through mist-kissed cloud forests and rugged ridgelines until the first terraces of this majestic Incan city appear.
Spend the afternoon exploring plazas, ceremonial platforms, and intricate stonework depicting sacred llamas. As your guide recounts ancient legends, the grandeur of the site unfolds around you—a powerful connection to the spirit of the Andes.
At day’s end, return to the Marampata campsite for a warm meal and breathtaking stargazing over the canyon below.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours (10 km)
Important Notice:
As of 2022, camping on Choquequirao terraces is prohibited to protect this heritage site. We adhere to these rules and have selected Marampata, a beautiful and nearby location, as our new camping site. This change ensures an authentic experience while respecting the site’s integrity. We’re committed to offering a memorable journey while preserving Choquequirao’s legacy.
Following Inca Trails and Local Flavors
After breakfast, trace your path back through Choquequirao and descend toward Santa Rosa. Pause at a family-run hacienda to sample Cambray, a sugar-cane spirit distilled in the valley—an authentic glimpse into Andean life.
Continue the descent to Rosalinas Beach and cross the Apurimac River before the rewarding climb to Chiquisca. The evening is spent around a shared meal, stories, and laughter beneath an endless canopy of stars.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours (11 km)
From the Canyons to Ollantaytambo / Aguas Calientes
Begin your morning ascent back to Capuliyoc, soaking in the last sweeping views of the Apurimac Canyon—a fitting farewell to Choquequirao’s wilderness. After a celebratory lunch, travel through picturesque Andean villages en route to Ollantaytambo, the living Inca town in the Sacred Valley.
From Ollantaytambo, board the scenic train that follows the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Settle into your hotel and unwind to the sound of the flowing river as anticipation builds for the grand finale tomorrow.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 4 hours (8 km)
The Majestic Exploration of Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Rise early to catch the first light over Machu Picchu, entering the citadel before the larger crowds arrive. Join your guide for a two-hour exploration of its temples, terraces, and astronomical points, discovering the genius of Incan architecture and spirituality.
After the guided tour, enjoy free time to wander, meditate, or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, with permits).
In the afternoon, descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train and private transport back to Cusco, where your incredible five-day journey through two legendary Incan cities comes to a close.
Accommodation: Return to Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Exploration of Machu Picchu with guided narratives.
Important Notice for Machu Picchu Visitors
As of June 1, 2024, new circuits and routes have been introduced at Machu Picchu to preserve the site and enhance visitor management. Upon booking your tour, we will immediately begin securing your Machu Picchu tickets, prioritizing Circuit 2, Route 2-A (Ruta Clásico Diseñada) for its iconic highlights and photo opportunities. If this route is unavailable, we will book the next best option to ensure an unforgettable experience. Please note that the Ministry of Culture’s system may take time to process reservations, so we recommend booking your tour well in advance. Be attentive to your email or WhatsApp for updates on your ticket status. For more information about the new circuits and tips for visiting Machu Picchu, please visit our blog: [Everything You Need to Know About Machu Picchu Tickets].
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Special Discounts
- Adult (12+ Years): Standard rates apply for travelers over 12 years old.
- Student (-25 Years with Student Card): Save USD 20 with a valid Student Card for those younger than 25 years old.
- Child (3 – 11 Years): Save USD 30 for children between 3 and 11 years old.
- Infant (0 – 2 Years): Infants younger than 2 years old are free (must ride on the adult’s lap; for a separate seat, add them as a child).
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
*Please note that the applicable age is considered at the time of completion of the trip.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 30% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 70% of the tour cost is due no later than 48 hours before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Huaynas Expeditions accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Huaynas Expeditions will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Huaynas Expeditions does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
Provided Duffle Bag and Packing Tips
Pack Wisely with Our Essential Packing Tips
We’ll provide a returnable duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing, held 1-2 nights before your tour. Familiarize yourself with the bag, pack efficiently, and get essential trek details, safety guidelines, and updates. It’s a great chance to ask questions, meet fellow trekkers, and prepare for your adventure.
Our Packing Tips:
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