Choquequirao Trek + Machu Picchu

We start the adventure early, picking you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM and driving for about 4 to 5 hours toward Capuliyoc. As the sun slowly rises over the mountains, enjoy panoramic views of the snowcapped Vilcabamba range.

At Capuliyoc, meet the local horsemen and trekking team, then enjoy a hearty breakfast while taking in your first dramatic views of the Apurimac Canyon. After a short briefing, begin the hike.

The trail follows a scenic balcony path with constant views of the deep canyon and river far below. Hike downhill for about 2 hours to Coca Masana for lunch and a short rest, then continue descending for around 2 hours to Chikisscca.

At camp, enjoy IPA's happy hour with hot drinks and snacks, followed by dinner under the stars.

Wake-up is around 5:00 AM with a hot drink served at your tent. After breakfast, descend for about 1.5 hours to La Playa beside the Apurimac River, the warmest point of the trek.

Cross the bridge and begin one of the most challenging but rewarding sections: a steady uphill climb toward Santa Rosa, taking about 2 hours and opening impressive canyon views.

At Santa Rosa, stop at a family house for lunch and the opportunity to try a traditional sugarcane-based drink produced locally. Continue uphill for another 2 to 3 hours to Marampata.

Marampata is a natural balcony with sweeping views toward Choquequirao and the surrounding valleys. At sunset, the landscape glows in golden tones, and condors may sometimes be seen riding the thermals.

Today is dedicated entirely to Choquequirao, often called the sister city of Machu Picchu because of its size, layout, and ceremonial importance, yet still wonderfully free of large crowds.

After breakfast, walk along a relatively flat trail for about 1.5 hours to the entrance of the archaeological complex. Your guide explains the site's history, strategic location, and role in the final stages of Inca resistance.

Explore the main plaza and ceremonial platforms, upper and lower agricultural terraces, the famous llama terraces, recent sectors still hidden by vegetation, and the remarkable water channels that feed the site.

Enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic area inside the complex before hiking back to Marampata for hot drinks, dinner, and rest.

After a nourishing breakfast, begin the descent from Marampata back toward the canyon. Walking poles are especially useful today because much of the morning is downhill.

Pass Santa Rosa and continue to La Playa, enjoying warmer temperatures and lush vegetation around the river. From La Playa, begin a final climb of about 1 hour to Chikisscca for lunch and a short siesta.

In the afternoon, walk for about another hour to Coca Masana, the final campsite on the trail. Celebrate the end of the trekking portion with a special dinner and a quiet night under the stars.

After breakfast, hike uphill for about 2 hours to reach Capuliyoc again. This is the last chance to fully take in the Apurimac Gorge and the mountains explored over several days.

At the trailhead, share a final lunch with the trekking crew and thank the horsemen for their support. Then board private transportation for a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo.

In Ollantaytambo, board a panoramic train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, your guide helps with hotel check-in. Enjoy dinner at a selected local restaurant and rest before Machu Picchu.

After breakfast at your hotel, bring a small daypack with passport, sun protection, water, and camera. Walk to the Aguas Calientes bus station and ride to Machu Picchu.

Your guided visit follows Circuit 2 or the best available circuit, including the panoramic viewpoint near the Watchtower, agricultural terraces, ritual fountains, royal quarters, and masterful Inca stonework. Expect approximately 2.5 to 3 hours of interpretation.

If reserved in advance, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Permits are limited and sell out early.

After the visit, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own. Board the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation meets you for the drive to Cusco and hotel drop-off.

Cusco Airport currently handles mainly domestic flights. Most international travelers first arrive in Lima, complete immigration and customs, collect checked luggage, and then check in again for the domestic flight to Cusco.

• By plane: LATAM, Avianca, SKY, and other airlines operate daily services from Lima. LATAM usually offers the greatest frequency and punctuality, although fares can be higher.
• Flight disruptions: Delays and cancellations can occur because Cusco is a high-altitude airport with mountain weather and operational restrictions.
• By bus: Lima to Cusco takes approximately 20 to 22 hours. Modern buses with VIP or reclining seats can be comfortable.
• Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before departure.
• Final-day planning: Do not schedule an outbound flight on the evening the tour returns to Cusco.

The mandatory pre-trek briefing takes place in Cusco on the evening before departure. You meet your guide for a complete route review, safety orientation, and final gear check.

• Your passport details and emergency contact information are confirmed.
• Daily distances, camp elevations, weather, trail conditions, and support logistics are reviewed.
• You receive your IPA expedition duffel, maximum 7 kg / 14 lb.
• The Sleep-Warm Kit and return requirements are explained.
• Keep passport, cash, medicine, electronics, and other valuables in your personal daypack.

• IPA duffel: Maximum 7 kg / 14 lb, transported between camps by horsemen.
• Suggested distribution: Approximately 4 kg for clothing and personal items and approximately 3 kg for the Sleep-Warm Kit.
• Daypack: Maximum 25 L for water, snacks, rain gear, sun protection, camera, phone, passport, and daily essentials.
• Main luggage: Extra bags are stored securely in Cusco and returned after Machu Picchu.
• Valuables: Never place your passport, medication, cash, electronics, or fragile items in the expedition duffel.
• Machu Picchu: Large bags are restricted inside the citadel. Enter with a compact daypack.

For high-altitude expedition camping, IPA includes a complete Sleep-Warm Kit at no extra cost.

• Warm sleeping bag.
• Inflatable insulated sleeping pad.
• Clean liner.
• Soft pillow.
• All items are professionally cleaned and sanitized between departures.
• If packed inside the IPA duffel, the complete kit counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb limit.
• The Sleep-Warm Kit and duffel must be returned together.

Your IPA duffel is issued during the briefing and transported between camp overnights by the horsemen.

• Maximum weight: 7 kg / 14 lb.
• Pack only clothing and personal items required during the expedition.
• Access to the duffel is normally available only after reaching each campsite.
• The same duffel is returned at the end of the trip.
• Replacement or cleaning fees may apply for loss or damage.

This is a true expedition trek, not lodge-based. You camp at remote mountain campsites in high-quality expedition tents.

• Double-occupancy mountain tents.
• Dining tent with tables and seating.
• Kitchen tent and organized chef service.
• Private camping areas whenever terrain and local rules allow.
• One comfortable 3-star hotel night in Aguas Calientes.
• Aguas Calientes rooms generally include a private bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi, subject to local service standards.

The itinerary descends deep into the Apurimac Canyon and later returns to higher Andean terrain. Pace yourself carefully and acclimatize before departure.

• Walk at a steady pace and do not rush.
• Hydrate consistently.
• Eat light, regular meals.
• Avoid alcohol before and during the trek.
• Tell your guide immediately about strong or persistent symptoms.

Challenging - Expedition Level. Expect long trekking days, usually 6 to 9 hours and occasionally longer, steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, warm canyon conditions, and significant daily elevation changes.

• Previous trekking experience is strongly recommended.
• Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength are important.
• Walking poles with rubber tips are highly recommended.
• The route is suitable for travelers seeking a remote expedition rather than a casual hike.
• Your guide manages pace and planned rest points throughout each day.

Peru occasionally experiences social protests or transport strikes that can disrupt roads or rail services. Safety and well-being always come first.

• IPA may adjust departure times, routes, transfer points, or daily schedules.
• The Operations Team communicates transparently with guests and authorities.
• Services operate only when conditions are safe and responsible.
• If rail or road closure makes the expedition impossible, equivalent alternatives or rescheduling options are discussed.

Travelers are responsible for personal belongings during the expedition.

• Double-check vehicles, camps, viewpoints, restaurants, and hotel rooms before departure.
• Do not leave valuables unattended.
• Report a missing item immediately so the guide and Operations Team can assist.
• Recovery cannot be guaranteed in remote terrain.

Tipping is customary on multi-day treks in Peru but is always voluntary. IPA pays fair wages, and tips remain a personal gesture of appreciation.

• Preferred currency: Horsemen and support teams generally prefer Peruvian soles. Guides accept soles or US dollars.
• Timing: Tips are usually shared during the final evening or farewell lunch.
• Pooling: Support-team tips can be pooled into envelopes for horsemen and the chef team.
• Lead guide: The lead guide normally distributes pooled support-team tips.
• Guide tip: The guide's tip is usually given personally.

Smaller private groups may consider the upper end of the range because the same crew supports fewer travelers. Tips are always at your discretion.

• Dry season: April to October generally offers clearer views and drier trails.
• Rainy season: December to February brings heavier rain, more insects, muddy trails, and a higher risk of disruption.
• Shoulder months: March and November can combine sunny periods with occasional rain.
• Changing microclimates: Expect cool Cusco mornings, intense sun, humid canyon heat, cloud forest moisture, and cold nights at camp.
• Layering: Use breathable quick-dry layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a lightweight waterproof outer layer.
• Sun protection: Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV sunglasses, hat, and long sleeves.
• Rain protection: Carry a compact poncho or waterproof jacket and protect electronics.
• Footwear: Use broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes with strong grip.
• Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water in reusable bottles or a hydration bladder.
• Snacks: Bring compact high-energy snacks for long trekking days.

• Certified guides: Guides are trained in first aid, high-altitude safety, evacuation protocols, and outdoor risk management.
• First-aid kit: A fully equipped kit is carried on every departure.
• Oxygen: Emergency oxygen is carried for altitude-related concerns.
• Monitoring: Guides actively observe guests for fatigue, dehydration, heat stress, injury, or altitude symptoms.
• Emergency transport access: Routes and transfers are coordinated with contingency plans for medical support.
• Communication: The team uses the best available communication method in remote areas.

Adventure travel always involves a degree of unpredictability. Comprehensive insurance is strongly recommended even though IPA prioritizes prevention and preparation.

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies.
• Trip cancellation or interruption.
• Weather-related delay or transport disruption.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Lost or delayed baggage.
• Coverage for trekking and adventure activities above 3,000 m.
• Remote-area medical treatment.

Before purchasing a policy, verify that high-altitude trekking is specifically covered.

• Leave No Trace: Waste is packed out and campsites are managed to reduce impact.
• Plastic reduction: Treated drinking water is supplied at meals to reduce single-use bottles.
• Respect for local culture: Sacred places, ancestral customs, and indigenous communities are treated respectfully.
• Local sourcing: IPA prioritizes local food, horsemen, drivers, guides, artisans, and cooperatives.
• Community empowerment: Tourism income supports families and community initiatives.
• IPA Sustainable Fund: A portion of each booking contributes to education, conservation, and local development.

• Valid passport: Required for train checks, hotel check-in, and Machu Picchu entry.
• Valid student card: Required when a student discount was applied.
• Immigration record: Keep the entry record or equivalent document issued upon arrival in Peru.
• Travel-insurance details: Carry the policy number and emergency contact information.
• Trip documents: Keep confirmations for train, buses, Machu Picchu entry, and hotels.
• Trekking poles: Required or strongly recommended with rubber tips. Bring your own or rent a pair for US$25.

• 2 to 3 moisture-wicking T-shirts.
• 2 to 3 hiking pants.
• 4 sets of undergarments.
• 4 pairs of hiking socks.
• Warm layers for cold nights at Marampata and Coca Masana.
• Waterproof jacket and rain pants or compact poncho.
• Sun hat and warm beanie.
• Lightweight waterproof gloves.
• Headlamp with spare batteries.
• Comfortable camp shoes or sandals.
• Quick-dry towel.
• Small bottle of biodegradable soap.
• Power bank because campsites do not have electrical outlets.
• Large dry bags for organizing clean and dirty clothing.
• Sleeping bag supplied by IPA. Do not bring another unless preferred.
• Remember that the Sleep-Warm Kit counts toward the 7 kg limit when packed inside the duffel.

• Hiking boots or trekking shoes with excellent grip and water resistance.
• Small daypack, maximum 25 L.
• Breathable base layers.
• Fleece or sweater.
• Light waterproof and windproof outer jacket.
• Sun hat or cap.
• Light scarf or buff.
• Long-sleeve shirts for sun and insect protection.
• Lightweight long pants.
• Quick-dry underwear.
• Extra thermal layers for cold nights.
• Merino or synthetic hiking socks and one spare pair.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+.
• UV-protection sunglasses.
• Lip balm and hydrating face cream.
• Hand sanitizer and biodegradable wet wipes.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Toilet paper in a waterproof bag.
• High-DEET insect repellent.
• After-bite or anti-itch cream.
• Personal medication, including prescriptions.
• Mini first-aid kit with plasters, blister care, and pain relief.

• Water. IPA provides boiled or filtered water at meals from Day 1 lunch through Day 5 lunch.
• Sun hat.
• Rain gear.
• Fleece or warm layer.
• Camera or smartphone.
• Phone and earphones.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Toilet paper and a small waste bag.
• Extra cash for tips, drinks, and local purchases.
• Earplugs.
• Passport required for Machu Picchu entry.
• Small snacks for long hiking sections.

• Water storage: Hydration bladder or reusable bottles with total capacity of at least 2 to 3 liters.
• High-energy snacks: Granola bars, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars.
• Camera and power bank: Campsites have no outlets.
• Cash in soles: Bring small denominations for tips, snacks, and local vendors.
• Reusable bottle: Helps reduce single-use plastic.
• Waterproof pouches: Protect passport, money, phone, and electronics.
• Original identification: Digital copies are useful backups but do not replace the original passport.

This is a true expedition-style trek through the Apurimac Canyon and high-Andean terrain. Inside Peru Adventures supplies the essential camping infrastructure so travelers can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

• High-quality expedition mountain tents, double occupancy.
• Dining tent with tables and seating.
• Kitchen tent and professional cooking setup.
• Organized camping areas at remote campsites.
• IPA expedition duffel issued at the pre-trek briefing.
• Horsemen transport group gear and traveler duffels between camps.
• Guests hike with a personal daypack, maximum 25 L.
• Trekking poles with rubber tips are required or strongly recommended.
• Electricity is not available at campsites, so carry a power bank.
• Specific comfort or gear preferences should be communicated in advance.

Cold nights are possible, especially in Marampata and Coca Masana. IPA includes a complete Sleep-Warm Kit at no extra cost.

• Warm sleeping bag.
• Inflatable insulated sleeping pad.
• Clean liner.
• Soft pillow.
• All items are cleaned and sanitized between departures.
• If the kit is placed inside the IPA duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb limit.
• A practical packing guideline is approximately 4 kg for clothing and personal items plus approximately 3 kg for the Sleep-Warm Kit.

Food on the Choquequirao Trek is an essential part of the expedition and is designed to support long trekking days in a demanding environment.

• Freshly prepared meals by a professional trekking chef from Day 1 through lunch on Day 5.
• Local Andean ingredients whenever practical.
• Hot breakfast each morning.
• Nourishing trail lunch.
• Hearty dinner in the dining tent.
• IPA happy hour with tea, coffee, and snacks after trekking.
• Family-style meal service so guests can eat according to appetite.
• Strict kitchen hygiene and food-safety procedures adapted to remote camps.
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-related requests available with advance notice.
• Dinner on Day 5 at a selected local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
• Breakfast at the hotel on Day 6.

Proper hydration is essential for performance, recovery, heat management, and altitude adaptation.

• Boiled, filtered, and cooled drinking water provided at every meal from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 5.
• Travelers must carry their own water for the first morning of Day 1.
• Begin each trekking day with approximately 2 to 3 liters.
• Use reusable bottles or a hydration bladder.
• Bottled water is readily available for purchase in Aguas Calientes.
• Refill systems help minimize single-use plastic and protect the Apurimac Canyon.
• Guides remind the group to drink steadily throughout the day.

From Day 1 until the return to Capuliyoc on Day 5, experienced local horsemen transport IPA duffels, camping equipment, kitchen gear, and food supplies between camps. Guests hike with a light daypack while the support team handles camp setup, meals, water systems, and safety checks.

Horsemen, cooks, assistants, and guides receive fair and above-market wages, are paid promptly, work under clear agreements, and use appropriate clothing, footwear, and rain protection. Staff receive first-aid, altitude-response, and emergency training.

IPA works with local horsemen associations in Cachora and nearby communities, sources locally when possible, and maintains long-term relationships. Broader community initiatives are supported through the IPA Sustainable Fund.

IPA follows Leave No Trace principles, minimizes single-use plastic, packs out waste, selects campsites to reduce erosion, respects wildlife, and supports trail-cleaning and native reforestation efforts when possible.

Horses carry logistics only, never riders, and operate with humane load limits, regular rest, water, shade, and veterinary oversight. Animals are not taken onto steep, narrow, or dangerous sections.

• Fair wages and ethical working conditions.
• Safer load policies and professional training.
• Quality equipment for staff and animals.
• Local sourcing that keeps income in the Apurimac region.
• Environmental stewardship and trail protection.
• Community initiatives through the IPA Sustainable Fund.

Pack thoughtfully, use reusable water bottles, follow Leave No Trace guidance, and respect local customs. Tipping is optional. A smile, a thank-you, or a few words in Quechua or Spanish go a long way.

IPA operates Choquequirao as a true expedition-style trek, not a rushed or budget version. Groups are small, local horsemen are experienced, guides are licensed and trained in altitude response, camps use expedition tents, and meals are chef-prepared. Operations are built on fair wages, ethical animal treatment, and real sustainability.

Challenging - Expedition Level. Expect 6 to 9 hour trekking days, steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, canyon heat, and elevation changes up to 3,050 m at Choquequirao. Good physical condition and previous trekking experience are strongly recommended.

The itinerary uses careful pacing rather than speed. Guides monitor guests daily, manage pace, carry oxygen and first-aid kits, and provide briefings. Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek.

You receive an IPA expedition duffel at the briefing. Horsemen carry up to 7 kg / 14 lb per traveler, including the Sleep-Warm Kit if packed inside. You hike with a small daypack, maximum 25 L. Main luggage remains securely stored in Cusco.

April to October offers drier conditions and clearer views. March and November can bring occasional rain and fewer travelers. December to February brings heavy rain, more insects, and greater trail instability, so departures may be limited or suspended.

Best suited to active adults and teens approximately 12 years and older with good fitness and trekking experience. It is not recommended for young children. Private departures may allow a slower pace.

IPA may adjust departure times, routes, or logistics, communicate transparently, and operate only when safe. Equivalent alternatives or rescheduling options are discussed if needed.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. IPA provides treated water at every meal from Day 1 lunch through Day 5 lunch.

Choquequirao is often sold cheaply at the cost of staff welfare, animal care, and guest experience. IPA focuses on expedition pacing, ethical operations, safety-first systems, small groups, sustainable impact, and a meaningful finish at Machu Picchu.