choquequirao trek to machu picchu

Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Slow Pace – Ultimate Peru Hiking Adventure

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Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Slow Pace – Ultimate Peru Hiking Adventure
Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Slow Pace – Ultimate Peru Hiking Adventure

5 Days Choquequirao Trek Slow Version (Top-Selling)

The 5-Day Choquequirao Trek is an extraordinary and physically demanding adventure, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience in the Peruvian Andes. Join us to discover Choquequirao, the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, an impressive Inca citadel dramatically perched above the breathtaking Apurímac Canyon — known in Quechua as the “Talking God” due to the powerful sound of its river below.

This unforgettable journey offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most remote and remarkable archaeological sites while trekking through spectacular mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and ancient Andean trails. The expedition begins and ends in the traditional village of Cachora and covers approximately 40 miles (64 km) round trip.

Due to its steep ascents, descents, and remote terrain, this trek is recommended for adventurous travelers with good physical condition and a passion for challenging high-altitude hiking experiences.

Cusco I Cachora I Chiquisca I Playa Rosalinda I Marampata I Choquequirao I Cusco I Machu Picchu
Duration of the trip:

5 Days 4 Nights

Total Distance

60.5 km / 37.5 miles.

Physical Level:

Advanced

Altitude:

3400 m.a.s.l

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 ppl Min - 08ppl Max

5 Days Choquequirao Trek Slow Version Overview

  • TOUR NAME: Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Slow Version
  • 100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Choquequirao Trek Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
  • GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 08 People Maximum
  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:00 am to 4:30 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 5 Days Time
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 4. we Also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days befor we begin the trek
  • MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 3200 m.a.s.l
  • MEALS: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
  • CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK: Choquequirao entrance fee Included.

Itinerary

DAY 1
Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa+

DAY 2
Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao Base Camp+

DAY 3
Choquequirao Base Camp – Choquequirao Citadel – Marampata+

DAY 4
Base Camp – Marampata – Playa Rosalinas – Cocamasana+

DAY 5
Cocamasana – Capuliyoc – Cusco+

5 Days Choquequirao Trek Slow Version Highlights

  • Explore the legendary “Lost City of the Incas” on an immersive 5-day adventure to Choquequirao
  • Slow-paced itinerary designed for better acclimatization, comfort, and deeper connection with the Andes
  • Trek through breathtaking landscapes including cloud forests, deep canyons, snow-capped mountains, and remote Andean villages
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the spectacular Apurímac Canyon — one of the deepest canyons in the world
  • Spend extra time exploring the vast archaeological complex of Choquequirao away from the crowds
  • Camp under star-filled skies in peaceful and scenic mountain campsites surrounded by nature
  • Experience authentic local culture and traditional Andean hospitality along the route
  • Professionally guided trek with experienced local guides, porters, and freshly prepared meals throughout the journey
  • Ideal alternative to the crowded Machu Picchu trek for travelers seeking adventure, solitude, and history
  • Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers looking for a more relaxed and rewarding trekking experience

Choquequirao Trek Includes:

  • Private Transportation To Cachora or Capuliyoq (Trailhead)
  • English – Spanish speaking guide for 5 days of the Choquequirao
  • Guided assistance
  • Thermarest air-inflate Confortable sleeping pad
  • Cook and assistance of the Cook.
  • Cooking equipment
  • Snacks
  • Daily tea service
  • Dining equipment including chairs and tables
  • Portable environmental Biodegradable toilet (The Pett)
  • Food service in the campsites (4 breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, 3 snacks) – nutritionally balanced menu
  • Vegetarian menu at no extra cost
  • Personal trekking food – nutritionally balanced menu(Buffet)
  • Two person tents (3-people capacity tent used as doubles – Kayla Doite)
  • Horseman and Horses.(To carry our camping equipment, food and 14 kilos of your personal stuff like: sleeping bag and mat as well as cothes) We Never overload our Horses(well Animal Welfare). During Choquequirao and Salkantay Sector.
  • Porters to carry all our camping equipment as well as food.
  • Choquequirao entrance fees
  • Camping equipment and basic field equipment for our Cook and horseman
  • Return Expeditions train ticket to Ollantaytambo / according to the availability we will use the same category of train to Ollantaytambo
  • Private Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco
  • First-aid kit
  • Emergency oxygen bottle
  • Rain waterproof cover for your day backpacks
  • Pre trek Orientation – briefing (Hotel or Office)
  • Insurance policy for our porters and Cooks.

Choquequirao Trek Doesnt Include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

  • Breakfast – Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner – Day 5
  • Tips (optional)
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

DISCOUNTS (to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com)

  • UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$20. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
  • Under 17 years old: US$20 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 12 years old: US$20  Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 or more: US$20 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

UPGRADES:

  • Huaynapicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • MachuPicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
  • Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
  • A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)

RENTALS

  • Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$60 for the entire trip
  • (Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$40 for the entire trip
  • Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$30 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

  • BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
  • STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the MachuPicchu Permits. Send us the filled out booking form

5 Days Choquequirao Trek Highlights (Prices for 2026)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of USD 400.00 and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$730

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): (Group Size: 04 Minimum – 12ppl Average – 16ppl Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: US$930

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)

If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.

What you need to bring on Choquequirao trek  5 days:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

  • Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
  • Travel insurance  is essential (and some copies)
  • Airline tickets (and some copies)
  • US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
  • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
  • Camera and Memory cards
  • Rechargeable batteries and adapters
  • Reading/writing material
  • Binoculars
  • Cover for backpacks
  • Pocketknife.
  • Fleece top
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and swim wear
  • Shirts/t-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
  • 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
  • Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
  • Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
  • Sport hiking sandals
  • Sun block
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Watch or alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
  • Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
  • Flashlight (head light recommended)
  • Money belt
  • Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
  • Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
  • Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
  • Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sara D profile picture
Sara D
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Matthew W profile picture
Matthew W
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
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Arianna O profile picture
Arianna O
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
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naomiammar
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
cade c profile picture
cade c
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
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Lola U
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
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Julia C. profile picture
Julia C.
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
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Emelie A profile picture
Emelie A
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Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

What about my luggage which I don’t need on the trek?

We suggest you to leave your entire luggage, which you don’t need during the trekking, behind in your hotel. Almost every hotel in Cusco has a safety deposit where you can store your luggage and do not charge for this service when you’ll return to the same hotel after your trek. But if they dont have a place we also have a place where you can leave with us. Let us know Please.

How much does the sleeping mat and sleeping bag weigh?

  • Sleep mat weight = 1 kg
  • Sleeping bag weight = 2 kg

What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the trail?

Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/ scrapes, etc.). They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 300 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike. In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/ she has been escorted back to Cusco and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later. Cusco has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.

What equipment is supplied by Quechuas Expeditions?

We supply the sleeping tents (4 season Aluminum poles tents, 2 people in each 3-people-capacity ten), dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, air Thermarest mattresses, and other camping equipment. Our outfitter purchases the highest quality equipment in Peru and older equipment is evaluated and replaced on a regular basis.

What do I need to carry?

We recommend that travelers carry the items that they will need each day while hiking such as water, snacks, camera, and film. Porters will carry all of your other supplies including camping equipment, clothes, sleeping bags, etc. We generally ask travelers to bring only the belongings that they will need for the trail and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. To prevent porters from becoming overloaded, we ask all travelers to limit their personal belongings to 12 lbs for the hike.

and if you have an extra porter he will carry all your personal stuff and depends on the pottering service you have requested
Full Porter(12kg) Half Porter(6kg) and Porter to carry Sleeping bag and Pad(4 kg)

What are the guides like?

Our Quechuas Expeditions Tours guides are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere. They are from the surrounding Cusco/ Sacred Valley area and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the native language of Quechua. Most have 5-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area. We receive rave reviews on our guides. For more information, check out our Testimonials at Our Testimonials Most of them are highly recommended by Lonely Planet, Trip Advisor.

What is the food like on the Inca trail?

A cook accompanies every group on the Inca trail. Almost invariably, travelers comment on the delicious menu. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hearty snacks are provided for your hike. Meals are a mix of local specialties and international favorites. Check out our Inca Trail menu. Vegetarian meals are also available upon request. Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice. (You will never be hungry with us. there will be plenty of food)

How is drinking water supplied?

Although there are places to purchase bottled water occasionally along the trail, we recommend that travelers bring their own refillable bottles to limit plastic waste. Water is boiled, treated with iodine, and then filtered with one of our portable filters (Katadyn and PUR commonly used). It is available in the morning to fill your bottles and at every meal.

What about late cancellations?

Current regulations do not allow us to replace cancelled passengers with new passengers. Trek permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

If I give you my deposit now, do you buy my permit immediately?

Not necessarily immediately, but we customarily purchase the permits within a few days of receiving your deposit.

and if you want us to act Asap (Send us Your deposit by Western Union which is the fastest and safest way in Cusco, Peru and we can get the money in Minutes and Confirm the Trip in Minutes as well.)

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