An Enigmatic Journey Through the Andean Landscapes and Peruvian Jungle: Walk Along Paths That Lead You to Deep Valleys, Snow-Covered Mountains, and the Peruvian Jungle.
Our 9-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek takes you to two of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites in South America. Machu Picchu, of course, is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world – a true wonder that everyone has heard of and the main attraction of any vacation package in Peru. This unique trek also leads us to Choquequirao, an awe-inspiring site three times larger than Machu Picchu but with far fewer visitors.
The Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is very similar to Machu Picchu in both its construction and geographical location. However, Choquequirao has only recently begun to open up to tourists, and we have trained and explored these impressive routes multiple times to ensure the best experience.
The Choquequirao trek is challenging, but the route takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Peru. With plans underway to build a cable car to Choquequirao, making it much more accessible and easier to reach, now is the perfect time to visit this stunning Inca archaeological site before it becomes one of Peru’s next major tourist destinations.
The Choquequirao Archaeological Park is described as a lost city of the Incas. Historians believe it was built during the same period as Machu Picchu, in the 15th century. Choquequirao sits at 10,000 feet above sea level and is three times larger than Machu Picchu. According to history and archaeology experts, it was constructed by Inca emperor Pachacuti and continued by his son Tupaq Inka Yupanki. The city spans approximately 2.3 square kilometers, but most of the site remains covered by jungle. Only about one-third is accessible to tourists.
The most visited and well-known areas of this ancient Inca city include the main square, the priests’ house, the ceremonial platform (or usnu), and numerous llama figures carved into the terraces. While the architecture and history are similar to Machu Picchu, upon arrival, you and your group may be the only ones exploring this ancient Inca city. You won’t be distracted by the sound of cameras or crowds along the trail to Choquequirao, nor at the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex itself. Away from the tourists, your group will be fortunate to witness the important highlights of this unforgettable excursion to Choquequirao.
The combination of these two incredible sites gives you the opportunity to see far more than you would on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or the 4-day Choquequirao Trek. This trek also offers a true trekking experience that will take you off the grid for days, exploring remote areas that span a wide range of geographical landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
It is certainly a physical challenge, but don’t worry – the entire Tunqui Expeditions team, including our guides, porters, cooks, and office staff, will be with you every step of the way. The Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is a true adventure you will never forget.
HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY SUMMARY
DAY 01: CUSCO | CACHORA – CAPULIYUC – CHIQUISCA
A day full of energy to kick off our trek, you will witness beautiful Andean landscapes as we make our way to the Apurímac Valley, enjoying the spectacular Colca Canyon before spending the night near the Apurímac River.
DAY 02: CHIQUISCA | PLAYA ROSALINAS – SANTA ROSA – MARAMPATA
We will hike to the deepest part of the valley, followed by a climb to the village of Marampata, where our campsite will be ready, thanks to the Tunqui Expeditions team. Enjoy the incredible landscapes of the area.
DAY 03: MARAMPATA | CHOQUEQUIRAO ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX – PINCHAUNUYOC
Enjoy the sunrise behind Choquequirao before further exploring the site. Later, we will hike into the mountains and spend the night at Pinchaunuyoc.
DAY 04: PINCHAUNUYOC | RIO BLANCO – MAIZAL – VICTORIA MINES
Wake up to the sounds of the Andes, and after a delicious breakfast, hike through the cloud forest, witnessing a variety of flora and fauna before reaching our Maizal campsite.
DAY 05: MAIZAL – VICTORIA MINES | SAN JUAN PASS – YANAMA
After breakfast, we will begin our trek to the depths of the Blanco River Valley, leading to the most challenging ascent of the day. We will climb to San Juan Pass before descending to our campsite in Yanama.
DAY 06: YANAMA | YANAMA PASS – TOTORA – COLLPAPAMPA
Today, we will trek to Yanama Pass, the highest point of our Choquequirao to Machu Picchu journey. Along the way, observe local farmers working in their fields and admire the stunning Salkantay glacier. Tonight, we will camp in Collpapampa.
DAY 07: COLLPAPAMPA | WIÑAY POCCO – LA PLAYA – LUCMABAMBA – LLACTAPATA
Today, you will hike through the jungle and witness incredible wildlife. Connect with the local community, visit an organic coffee farm, and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. At midday, take part in a cooking class organized by Tunqui Expeditions. We will spend the night at our private Tunqui Expeditions campsite in Llactapata, surrounded by mountains and nature, with a stunning view of Machu Picchu.
DAY 08: LLACTAPATA | HIDROELECTRICA – MANDOR – AGUAS CALIENTES
After breakfast in the mountains, visit the Llactapata archaeological site and observe Machu Picchu from afar. In the afternoon, hike to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time at the hot springs before dinner and a hotel stay.
DAY 09: AGUAS CALIENTES | MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
We will spend the morning exploring Machu Picchu with our expert guide. At midday, enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transportation will take you to your hotel in Cusco.
ITINERARY
Highlight of the Day: Witness the magnificent landscape that surrounds you.
Your epic journey will begin at 4:30 am when we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco and travel for 4 to 5 hours to Capuliyoc in our private Tunqui Expeditions transport. Along the way, enjoy and appreciate the spectacular views of the Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped peaks.
Upon arrival in Cachora, we will visit the small village and walk through its picturesque streets, filled with culture, tradition, and life. We will have a nutritious and delicious breakfast to fuel our journey. We will then continue to Capuliyoc (2,890 m / 9,482 ft), where we will meet the rest of the Tunqui Expeditions trekking team – cooks, porters, and muleteers – who will carefully carry our belongings, food, and camping equipment throughout the trek.
After reviewing final details, we will begin hiking through the Apurímac Canyon for approximately 2 hours, mostly downhill, until we reach our lunch spot at the Coca Manzana sector. After lunch and a brief rest, we will continue zigzagging downhill for approximately 2 more hours until we reach Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), a beautiful hamlet filled with fruit fields.
Along the trek, enjoy the impressive cloud forest landscape of the Apurímac Valley. Keep an eye out for the majestic flight of the Andean condor and the stunning views of the towering Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina snow-capped mountains. As we descend into the valley, the heat, lush vegetation, and rhythmic sounds of the Apurímac River will become more noticeable – a natural motivator to keep going.
Later, we will arrive at the tropical village of Chiquisca, a warm, green campsite in the middle of the arid mountains, where we will have dinner and spend the night.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 13 km / 8.08 miles
Highest Elevation: 2,890 m / 9,482 ft
Campsite Elevation: 1,970 m / 6,463 ft
Highlight of the Day: Be amazed by the most spectacular views of the Andes.
Witness the beautiful sunset over the Andean sky.
We will start the day with coca tea and enjoy a delicious breakfast to replenish energy and maintain a positive mindset. “Remember to believe in yourself every day to complete the journey.” We will continue with our goal to reach the next campsite, beginning with a zigzag ascent to Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where you can capture breathtaking photos of the canyon and surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The climb begins with a 1 hour and 15-minute descent to the deepest part of the valley, known as Playa Rosalinas (1,500 m / 4,921 ft). After crossing the pedestrian bridge, we will begin the most challenging part of our trek – an uphill ascent. We will stop briefly at the village of Santa Rosa (1,970 m / 6,463 ft), where you can enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our Tunqui Expeditions team.
Following lunch, we will continue the uphill trek for approximately three hours until we reach Marampata. In the afternoon, enjoy the incredible views and feel the positive energy near Choquequirao. As the day ends, we will admire the sunset, with the orange glow filling the valleys and mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.82 miles
Highest Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Highlight of the Day: Watch the morning sun rise and illuminate the site.
Enjoy the magical sunrise over the mysterious Choquequirao.
We will wake up early with coca tea to enjoy one of the most spectacular sunrises you can imagine. The first rays of sunlight will fill Choquequirao with color and life.
Take a moment to thank Mother Nature for the wonderful things she has given us. After breakfast, we will hike for 1.5 hours with views of the clouds below us, truly making you feel as if you are above the clouds. Once at Choquequirao, the effort of our challenging trek will be rewarded as we explore the archaeological complex.
Your guide will lead you through the site, showing the most important sections and explaining Choquequirao’s history. You will learn about the Inca Empire, its traditions, and the differences between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
Despite being discovered before Machu Picchu, Choquequirao has not been explored or studied as extensively. The first non-Inca visitor to Choquequirao was the explorer Juan Arias Díaz in 1710, nearly two centuries before Hiram Bingham rediscovered Machu Picchu. The site remained abandoned and forgotten until recent years when archaeologists and tourists began paying more attention to it. Even now, only about 30-40% of the site has been explored, and many secrets remain hidden.
We know that Choquequirao is divided into 12 sectors, with common Inca agricultural terraces throughout the complex. Most buildings appear to have been constructed for ceremonial purposes, as priests’ residences, or for food storage. You will have plenty of time to explore, both with your guide and on your own.
At midday, enjoy an outdoor lunch prepared by our chef. Afterward, we will hike to Usnu for a panoramic view of the area. If we are lucky, we may witness the majestic flight of the condor in the Andean sky. We will also visit the terraces and Pacchayoc waterfall.
After an unforgettable experience at this enigmatic site, we will ascend for 1 hour to Choquequirao Pass (3,270 m / 10,728 ft). From there, we will descend to the next archaeological site on our route, Pinchaunuyoc (2,420 m / 7,940 ft). The terraces seem to hang over the canyon of the Blanco River. After exploring the area, we will set up camp nearby.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging – Strenuous
Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Highest Elevation: 3,270 m / 10,728 ft
Campsite Elevation: 2,420 m / 7,940 ft
Highlight of the Day: Watch the sunrise over the wonders of Choquequirao.
Wake up before dawn to witness the stunning sunrise over the archaeological site and surrounding landscape. The rays of the sun, or Tayta Inti, will breathe life into the area, filling every corner with light. Connect with the sun’s warmth and give thanks to the sacred mountains and the mighty Apurímac River. This will be the perfect farewell to Choquequirao.
After breakfast, we will descend to the Blanco River (1,900 m / 6,234 ft) through the lush cloud forest. This unique area feels like a dream as you walk among the clouds.
Upon reaching the valley floor, you can spot a variety of bird species, orchids, and coca plantations – an essential plant since the Inca Empire. Some travelers take this opportunity to cool off in the river’s crystal-clear waters, a refreshing treat after three days of hiking.
After a break, we will continue on a zigzagging uphill path for about three hours, eventually arriving at Maizal (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), a small village offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and three beautiful valleys.
After lunch, we will rest and spend the night at this peaceful campsite.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging – Strenuous
Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Highest Elevation: 3,270 m / 10,728 ft
Campsite Elevation: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
Highlight of the Day: Enjoy once again being surrounded by the beautiful snow-capped mountains.
Ascend to the High Andes and Experience a Change in Scenery.
Today, you will wake up to the cheerful songs of birds welcoming the sun, helping you start the day energized and ready. After recharging with a delicious breakfast, we will begin an uphill trail covered in lush vegetation. Soon, the snow-capped mountains will surround us once again, reminding us of their power and natural beauty. If the sky is not clear, you will see how the clouds settle over the valley below. Regardless of the weather, the view will be impressive.
A five-hour ascent lies ahead. This section of the route holds great historical significance, with several archaeological sites scattered along the way. You will also pass by the ancient Inca silver mines, known as Victoria Mines, before ascending to San Juan Pass (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). The climb will be long, but the immense beauty of the route will make the effort worthwhile.
We will trek through the Amazonian cloud forest and gradually enter the Andean Puna, characterized by grasslands. Near the summit, stone paths built by the Incas will begin to appear. Lunch will be served with breathtaking views of the Choquetakarpo and Padreyoc glaciers.
If luck is on our side and the weather is favorable, you may witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, whose wings span up to 3 meters – the largest of any flying bird in the world.
Finally, we will descend to the Yanama campsite (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a small village nestled at the bottom of a large valley. As always, we will end the day with a tasty dinner and a restful night surrounded by nature.
Highlight of the Day: Admire the famous Apu Salkantay Mountain and walk among glaciers.
Enjoy the natural beauty and experience the changing climate to the fullest.
Today, we will wake up to the sounds of the forest and a nearby waterfall. The community of Yanama has preserved its ancient traditions and customs to this day, offering the perfect opportunity to learn about their culture. You can make new friends and share gifts with local children.
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin a 5-hour ascent to the highest point of the trek, Yanama Pass (4,650 m / 15,256 ft). Along the way, you will see farmers working their potato fields. The Saqsarayoc and Padreyoc Mountains will also stand before you in all their snowy splendor. Depending on the time of year, you may even walk on snow at this point.
For the first time, we will catch a distant view of the imposing Salkantay Mountain.
At midday, we will descend for three hours along a misty, mysterious trail until we reach the community of Totora, where we will have lunch to regain our energy.
After lunch, we will continue walking for another hour until we reach Collpapampa, where a spectacular dinner and peaceful night of rest await us at our nature-immersed campsite.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
Highest Elevation: 4,650 m / 15,256 ft
Campsite Elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Highlight of the Day: Explore the Cusco jungle, connect with the local community, visit an organic coffee plantation, and participate in a cooking class.
Learn and Connect with Local Culture.
After a delicious breakfast prepared by our expert Andean chef at Tunqui Expeditions, we will continue on the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu – one of the most exciting parts of the journey.
We will explore the tropical forest as a group, taking photos and videos along the way. During the hike, we will visit organic coffee plantations and fruit orchards. At the coffee farm, you will receive a brief introduction to the region’s coffee history and its importance to the area.
With Tunqui Expeditions, you will participate in harvesting coffee, learning step by step how it is processed and eventually exported. You will also have the unique opportunity to roast, grind, and taste the freshest coffee. At midday, our chef will guide you through a special cooking class before we enjoy an incredible lunch.
After lunch, we will continue hiking along the Inca trail for approximately 2.5 hours until we reach the ancient ruins of Llactapata. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Santa Teresa Valley. From Llactapata, you will have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the sacred mountains, Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.
After exploring the site, we will descend for 15 minutes to our exclusive campsite, owned by a local family and available only to Tunqui Expeditions groups.
In the afternoon, enjoy the peaceful setting with views of Machu Picchu in the distance.
Before dinner, we will have tea time with hot drinks, popcorn, cookies, and more. Afterward, prepare for another unforgettable night under the stars, observing the Milky Way and constellations used by the Incas to predict weather patterns.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
Highest Elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Campsite Elevation: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
Highlight of the Day: As you open your tent, you’ll see that Machu Picchu is near – give thanks to Mother Nature.
Wake up in front of Machu Picchu with a spectacular view.
As you open your tent, the first thing you will see is Machu Picchu from across the mountain, while the Tunqui Expeditions trekking team offers you a cup of coffee or coca tea to boost your energy for the day.
After a nutritious breakfast, we will enjoy an easy 2-hour descent to the hydroelectric station, which was built to harness the natural 300-meter waterfall that generates electricity for the Cusco region. At this location, we will have our final lunch with the Tunqui Expeditions trekking chef and team. Take a moment to express heartfelt gratitude – without them, this unforgettable Choquequirao to Machu Picchu adventure wouldn’t be possible.
Following lunch, a final 3-hour walk awaits along the railway, following the Urubamba River as it flows from the Sacred Valley, originating at Ausangate. This part of the trek is rich in history. We will stop at the Mandor Botanical Gardens, famously visited by Hiram Bingham, who met a local farmer named Arteaga living in the area. Arteaga was the first to guide Americans to Machu Picchu in 1911.
You will visit Arteaga’s farm, home to various endemic birds such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus, locally known as “Tunqui” in Quechua), parrots, toucans, hummingbirds, and orchids.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will check into your hotel and have the rest of the afternoon free to relax, explore the town, or visit the hot springs to unwind after the trek.
In the evening, we will meet for dinner at a nice restaurant and go over the final details for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu. Afterward, it’s time to rest as we will need to rise early to reach the Lost City of the Incas.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Highest Elevation: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Hotel Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Highlight of the Day: Walk through the stone streets of Machu Picchu and imagine life centuries ago.
Marvel at the energy of Machu Picchu and uncover the Secrets of the Incas.
Your epic journey concludes today with a visit to the New Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Heritage site – Machu Picchu. In the morning, enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes before departing early. We will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site, arriving before the crowds. This allows you to take advantage of the morning light and witness the first rays of sun shining on the ancient stones.
You can store your belongings at the hotel and bring only a small backpack with essential items for the visit. The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to the best spot to watch the sunrise (weather permitting) and take stunning photographs.
Afterward, your expert local guide will provide a 2.5-hour tour, explaining the main sectors of the citadel. During the guided visit, you will learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
For those seeking an extra adventure, you can hike Huayna Picchu Mountain (advance reservation required, as tickets sell out quickly – $75 per person). Your guide will show you where to begin this hike, which takes about 2 hours round trip.
Alternatively, you can hike Machu Picchu Mountain, a more strenuous and challenging route that takes at least 3 hours round trip (also $75 per person).
After fully exploring the site, around midday, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a restaurant of your choice. In the afternoon (around 2 pm), we will head to the train station for our return to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, Tunqui Expeditions’ private transportation will take you back to Cusco, dropping you off at your hotel.
Now it’s time to rest your legs after this epic 9-day adventure through the mountains and jungle. We are confident this life-changing trek will stay with you forever.
Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Machu Picchu Site Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Machu Picchu Mountain Elevation: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
Huayna Picchu Mountain Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Optional Activities (Difficulty – Duration): Moderate (2-4 hours)
