4-Day Choquequirao Trek by Lodge
The 4-day Choquequirao Trek by Lodge is one of the most breathtaking hikes in Peru, immersing you in a landscape of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and lush jungle vegetation. The name Choquequirao means "Golden Cradle" in the Quechua language. After its discovery, it remained largely unexplored for years. However, later studies confirmed that Choquequirao was the last stronghold of the Incas, serving as a strategic expansion center toward the Peruvian coast.
This spectacular trek takes you to the mystical and remote Inca city of Choquequirao (3,033 m / 9,950 ft), considered the "sister city" of Machu Picchu due to its similar structure and historical significance. Nestled near the sacred Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,569 ft) and overlooking the stunning Apurímac River Canyon, Choquequirao offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. As it remains largely untouched by mass tourism, this trek provides an authentic and unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the hidden gems of the Andes.
Your Are Our Priority: you invest your valuable time, your hard-hearned money, and much more. in return, Machupicchu Trekking rewards you with precious memories, cross-cultural sharing, an expanded Inca world vision and much more.
Enjoy Peace Of Mind With The Experts: we bring 8 years of expertise to the fore, and when you choose Machupicchu Trekking, you can rest assured knowing that you are traveling with the leader in treks to Machu Picchu.
Experienced Guides: All of our guides have a minimum of 3 years of guiding experience. They are professional, each is well-versed in local history and culture, and all have a deep love and respect for mother nature and her mountains. Most importantly they are caring people who put your safety, comfort and needs above all.
Personal Safety: All of our guides are certified in high mountain first aid training. They always carry a first aid kit on our treks (including pills for altitude sickness, diarrhea, vomiting, cuts, and cream for muscle aches). They also carry extra oxygen in cases of emergency.
We Provide: an oxygen tank & a first aid kit.
Satellite Phones: Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe.
Food During The Walk: Our chefs are trained and use fresh products to provide the best Peruvian food. We have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Door to Door Service: We pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or Airbnb, ensuring you are never stranded before or after your hike.
Punctual payment: our staff such as guides, porters, muleteers, drivers and cooks receive their salary as soon as they finish their work, our staff are obviously well cared for with Machupicchu Trekking.
Direct Operators: We are a 100% locally owned tour company and a licensed direct operator of the Inca Trail. Our office is two blocks from Cusco's Central Plaza.
Our adventure begins with an early hotel pickup in Cusco at 5:00 AM. We embark on a scenic 5-hour drive to Cachora, the starting point of our trek. Along the way, we cross the Cunyac Bridge, marking the border between the Cusco and Apurímac regions, and pass through the charming district of Curahuasi and the Saywite Andean Community, where we’ll enjoy breakfast with a local family.
Upon arrival in Cachora (2,800 m / 9,186 ft) around 10:00 AM, we meet our horsemen and trek crew. Our journey begins with a 2-hour descent to Capuliyoc, where we take a break to admire the breathtaking Apurímac Valley and the towering Padreyoc and Wayna Cachora peaks. From here, we catch our first glimpse of Choquequirao in the distance.
Continuing our descent, the landscape shifts as we reach Coca Masana, where the climate becomes warmer and the vegetation denser. Finally, we arrive at our first campsite in Chikiska (1,900 m / 6,233 ft), nestled near the Apurímac River.
🔹 Meals: Lunch, Dinner
🔹 Max altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
🔹 Min altitude: 2,100 m / 6,889 ft
🔹 Distance: 8 km (4-5 hours hiking)
We rise early to enjoy breakfast before tackling today’s challenging ascent. After a 3-hour trek, we cross the Apurímac River and arrive at Santa Rosa, where we take a well-deserved break. The trail then leads us on a 2-hour uphill climb to Marampata, where our hosts at the Marampata Guesthouse welcome us with a delicious lunch.
In the afternoon, we explore the Marampata region, gaining insight into local agriculture and daily life in the Andean highlands. We spend the night in this tranquil mountain village.
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔹 Max altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
🔹 Min altitude: 2,100 m / 6,889 ft
🔹 Distance: 10 km (5-6 hours hiking)
After an energizing breakfast, we begin our 1.5-hour trek to the majestic Inca city of Choquequirao (3,033 m / 9,950 ft). We spend the entire day exploring this fascinating archaeological site, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas." Highlights include:
✔ The Main Plaza
✔ Agricultural Terraces
✔ The Iconic Llama Carvings on the Terraces
In the afternoon, we return to Marampata, where we settle in for another night at the guesthouse.
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔹 Max altitude: 3,080 m / 10,105 ft
🔹 Min altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft
🔹 Distance: 10 km (7-8 hours hiking)
Our final day is the most challenging and rewarding. After breakfast, we retrace our steps, descending to Santa Rosa and then to Playa Rosalina, where we take a short break. From here, we climb back up to Chikiska for lunch.
The last stretch of the hike takes us uphill to Capuliyoc, where our private transport awaits. We then return to Cusco, arriving in the evening, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
🔹 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
🔹 Max altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
🔹 Min altitude: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft
🔹 Distance: 17 km (8-9 hours hiking)
Acclimatize min. 2 days to the altitude of Cusco city before doing the walk. Thus, the symptoms of altitude sickness will be avoided.
Packing List.
Please read carefully the following information as it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Classic Inca Trail
You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our team and taken to your hotel (private services). Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your arrival. Look for our representative holding an dark blue board Machupicchu Trekking Peru at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal, in order, to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).
Of course! During the Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please only pack what you will need for the trek!
FIRST, To book your Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu, you need to complete the tour date and then our reservation form by clicking on BOOK THIS TOUR on our home page, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND, we require a deposit of 50% per person in order to purchase a permit for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu. the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
50% balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your entrance ticket to Ausangate Trail. Your passport will be checked when you enter to Rainbow Mountain. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
Everyone can do it from the age of 10, under the responsibility and supervision of their parents in the same way as adults but we recommend the minimum age of 16. For this type of tours a good physical condition is required.
The best time to hike in this part of Peru is from May to December, during the dry season. Try to prioritize the months of June and August. Try to avoid traveling during the period January to March because it is quite rainy. Not only is it unpleasant to walk on a path that becomes slippery , it also increases the danger of landslides or falling stones.
Climate: The Ausangate trek is quite a hard route, it is not signposted and it goes to high altitudes, including a pass at 5200 meters above sea level. As with any high mountain route, weather conditions can change suddenly.
In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually take between 24 hours to 2 days.
The recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED. Our guides are trained to treat you for Altitude Sickness. See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.
The maximum group service size is 16 persons. Our private groups are usually between 2-8 persons. Machupicchu Trekking Peru specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service.
The 5 Days Ausangate Trek is a 75km (46.6 miles) hike through the Andes within the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is at (4,217m/13,907ft). On the second day of the trek, we will climb two mountains. The trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and take regular exercise. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles in a day or working out in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.
In the scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to health reasons, Machupicchu Trekking Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on our treks for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance is required and recommended). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
Generally.
Absolutely!! Hotel pick ups and drop offs are included with all of our packages! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there and vice versa.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Machupicchu Trekking Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you want, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.
The 4 days Choquequirao Trek is available on any date that is best suited to you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers.
Groups of more than 5 members have a discount of $20 USD
Personal Porter (half) to carry 5kg of personal items is included in the price!
door to door sevices
There are several extensions you can include to your Choquequirao Trek. (group services)
It is important to acclimatize for at least 2 days and for this we recommend the following tours:
There are many hiking options.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
Machupicchu Trekking Peru E.I.R.L. Tour operator travel agency, friendly with our customers. From the moment you contact us, during your stay and during the walk or tour, you will receive personalized advice and an unforgettable trip.
1.- Machupicchu Trekking Peru rates do not include:
In some locations, the services of a representative are not included, and, particularly if you have so requested, you may have only a driver who speaks a little English.
CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
The 50% down payment
Important: services, tours, treks and packages booked with Machupicchu Trekking Perú is non-refundable, but could be changed of date without any administration charge.
DEADLINE TO CHANGE TOUR DATE
Tour date changes will be subject to availability of income to the Inca Trail, Machupicchu and hotels, without any administration charge, in the following time frame:
Inca Trail – at the latest 20 days prior to the departure date.
Tour with hotel – at the latest 15 days prior to the departure date.
Tours without hotel – at the latest 10 days prior to the departure date.
Important: Third party administration fees have to be paid at the moment of the date change (airline fees, transport companies, hotels, partner agency charges & entrance fee)
• If the client wants to change the date tour within the days timeframe prior to departure, the client will be charged an Administration Fee.
DEADLINE OF CANCELLATION
** In case of cancellation due to a serious illness or another serious situation, the following procedures are applicable (situations will be judged at the discretion of the Machupicchu Trekking Perú reservations department):
In case of cancellation due to a serious illness or another serious situation (measured by the Machupicchu Trekking Perú reservations department), the following procedures are applicable:
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Travel Agency will refund the respective amount at the latest 30 days after the date it received the written cancellation statement, in most cases by wire transfer.
BOOKING AND PAYMENTS
FIRST.- To book your Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu, you need to complete the tour date and then our reservation form by clicking on BOOK THIS TOUR on our home page, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND.- we require a deposit of 50% per person in order to purchase a permit for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu. the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
50% balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
ADMINISTRATIVE PENALTY FOR CHANGES
• There will be no cost of the Administrative Penalty in the date changes of a tour, walk or package in the indicated periods.
• Administrative fees charged by third parties such as (airlines, transport companies or associated providers, entrance fee) will be paid by the passenger, at the moment of the date chage.
The client will be charged an Administration Fee of US $20.00 Fee for all changes in bookings before the days frame time.
INSURANCE
We recommend that all customers obtain a travel or medical insurance policy in their home countries.
VISAS
PRIVACY POLICY
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Tour Operator is committed to maintaining your confidence and trust concerning the privacy of the personal information you give us and/or we collect from you. Your email address nor any other data will never be given to a third party.
COPYRIGHT
Machupicchu Trekking Perú Tour Operator reserves the right to use all possible photos taken during the passenger’s program unless the passenger refuses permission.
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