Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

Wake up to the soothing sound of the Apurímac River before enjoying a hearty breakfast to prepare for one of the most rewarding days of the trek. The morning begins by crossing the bridge over the Apurímac River, which marks the border between the Cusco and Apurímac regions. From there, the trail climbs steadily for approximately five hours along a winding mountain path, with short breaks in the small villages of Santa Rosa Baja and Santa Rosa Alta. After reaching Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch while taking in your first breathtaking views of the magnificent Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.

In the afternoon, continue hiking for about two more hours until you arrive at the campsite near Choquequirao (3,100 m / 10,171 ft). As the sun begins to set, you’ll have the opportunity to admire spectacular views of the ancient Inca citadel and, if you’re lucky, spot majestic Andean condors soaring above the canyon. Today’s trek covers approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) with around 7 hours of hiking, making it one of the most memorable days of the journey.

Start the day with the crisp mountain air and a warm breakfast before exploring the impressive Choquequirao Archaeological Complex on a guided tour. Throughout the morning, you’ll discover some of the site’s most remarkable sectors, including Paqchayoc, the Priest’s House, and the impressive agricultural terraces that once sustained this hidden Inca city. Around midday, your chef will prepare and serve lunch within the archaeological complex, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings before continuing your exploration.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Llama Terraces, the Inca House, and the ceremonial temples before ascending to Choquequirao Pass (3,150 m / 10,335 ft), where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. From the pass, descend for approximately two hours to Pinchinuyoc (2,487 m / 8,159 ft), a peaceful campsite nestled among ancient agricultural terraces. Surrounded by nature and far from city lights, you’ll spend the evening beneath a breathtaking sky filled with stars after covering approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) during today’s journey.

After a delicious and energizing breakfast, continue descending through the scenic valley toward Río Blanco (1,990 m / 6,529 ft). Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax by the river and, if you wish, enjoy a refreshing swim in its cool waters—a perfect way to soothe your muscles after several days of trekking. Surrounded by lush vegetation and dramatic canyon scenery, this peaceful stop offers a welcome opportunity to recharge before the afternoon climb.

Following lunch, cross to the opposite side of the valley and begin a steady ascent toward Maizal (2,891 m / 9,485 ft), today’s campsite. The trail gradually gains elevation through diverse landscapes, rewarding you with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. After approximately 16 km (10 miles) of hiking, you’ll arrive at camp, where a hearty dinner and a well-deserved rest await beneath the stars.

After breakfast, begin the day’s hike with a steady ascent through the lush cloud forest, passing the historic Victoria Mines before climbing for about another hour to Victoria Pass. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, home to impressive glaciers rising above 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). The trail then descends to the charming village of Yanama, where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch and say goodbye to the muleteers and pack horses who have accompanied you throughout the trek.

From Yanama, continue the journey by local transportation, climbing to Mariano Llamocca Pass (4,643 m / 15,233 ft), where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Salkantay, the second-highest glacier in the Cusco region. The scenic three-hour drive then descends to Lucmabamba (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), passing through dramatic mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. After an unforgettable day covering approximately 20 km (12.4 miles) on foot, settle into camp and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.

Today marks the final day of trekking before reaching Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, follow a lesser-known section of the original Inca Trail to the fascinating archaeological site of Llactapata (2,700 m / 8,858 ft). Enjoy a guided visit as you explore this hidden Inca settlement and take in one of the trek’s most rewarding viewpoints, offering spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu from across the valley. Afterward, descend for approximately two hours to Hidroelectrica, where you’ll stop for lunch.

From Hidroelectrica, you can choose the option that best suits your energy level. If you’d prefer to rest, you may take the train to Aguas Calientes (train ticket not included, approximately US$31). Alternatively, you can continue on foot with a scenic 3-hour walk alongside the railway tracks—the same route once followed by Hiram Bingham during his expedition to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hotel and have time to relax before dinner at a local restaurant, where your guide will provide a detailed briefing for the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.

In the morning, you’ll meet your guide in Aguas Calientes and take the shuttle bus up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. As you ascend through the lush cloud forest, anticipation builds for your visit to this extraordinary Inca site. Once inside, your guide will lead you through the citadel’s most remarkable features—temples, ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, and expertly engineered staircases—while offering insights into its history, construction, and rediscovery. Framed by dramatic Andean peaks, the site’s natural and architectural beauty is truly unforgettable.

After the guided tour, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some free time for lunch, souvenir shopping, or a visit to the local hot springs. Later in the afternoon, you’ll board your return train. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the station and take you to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the unforgettable experience of Machu Picchu.