Machu Picchu stands as a powerful testament to human ingenuity and ancient civilization. This incredible stone city, hidden high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, reveals a deep connection between nature and architecture. Built by the Inca people centuries ago without modern tools, its precision and harmony with the surrounding landscape are truly astonishing. Every wall and terrace speaks of advanced knowledge and meticulous planning. Visiting Machu Picchu offers a unique glimpse into a vanished world, inviting reflection on the builders’ lives and beliefs. It reminds us of humanity’s capacity for grand creations and the enduring legacy of a remarkable culture that understood how to live powerfully within its environment.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, nestled between the towns of Pisac and Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes, offers a profound journey into a vibrant past. These tours reveal a landscape where ancient traditions still thrive amidst stunning natural beauty. Visitors explore remarkable Inca ruins, like the agricultural terraces of Pisac and the formidable fortress of Ollantaytambo, witnessing the incredible engineering skills of a bygone era. Beyond the stones, the valley is home to thriving local communities, preserving age-old customs and crafts. Engaging with the people and experiencing the vibrant markets provides a tangible link to a continuous cultural heritage. A Sacred Valley tour is more than sightseeing; it’s an immersion into a living history, showing how a powerful civilization shaped its environment and left an enduring mark.
The Inca Trail is an ancient pilgrimage route located in the Peruvian Andes, leading to the remarkable site of Machu Picchu. This historic pathway, part of a vast Inca road system, traverses challenging mountainous terrain and lush cloud forests. Along the journey, hikers discover impressive archaeological ruins, revealing the Inca’s architectural and engineering mastery. The trek culminates with an awe-inspiring entry into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, offering a unique perspective of this iconic citadel nestled amidst dramatic peaks. It’s a profound experience, connecting modern travelers with a rich, ancient civilization.
Choquequirao trek offers a profound adventure into the heart of the Andes, revealing an ancient city that echoes the grandeur of Machu Picchu but remains less explored. This challenging journey takes you through dramatic mountain passes and deep canyons to reach Choquequirao, often called the “last Inca stronghold.” Here, vast terraces, temples, and residential areas cling to steep hillsides, showcasing the incredible skill of the Inca builders. Unlike its famous counterpart, Choquequirao provides a serene and personal encounter with history, where fewer visitors allow for deeper contemplation of its silent stones. These treks are not just about reaching a destination; they are about connecting with a powerful past and experiencing the raw beauty of Peru’s untouched landscapes, a true expedition into a hidden world.
An Amazon jungle tour offers an unforgettable dive into one of the planet’s most vital and diverse ecosystems. These expeditions take you deep into a world teeming with life, from towering trees forming a thick canopy to countless species of animals found nowhere else. You’ll navigate winding rivers, listen to the symphony of the rainforest, and witness wildlife in its natural home, often up close. Guides share their knowledge of the jungle’s secrets, revealing medicinal plants and hidden creatures. More than just a trip, an Amazon tour is a powerful reminder of nature’s raw beauty and immense power. It connects you directly with the pulse of the Earth, highlighting the importance of protecting such precious, wild places for future generations to experience.
Inca Jungle Treks offer a thrilling and diverse path to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, combining outdoor adventure with a deep dive into Peruvian culture and history. Unlike traditional treks, these journeys blend activities like mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and zip-lining with classic hiking through stunning landscapes. You’ll pass through cloud forests, coffee plantations, and small local villages, gaining a unique perspective on the region’s rich tapestry. This route provides a dynamic way to experience the Andes, moving beyond just walking to engage all your senses. It’s an active and engaging alternative for travelers seeking a more adventurous approach to reaching one of the world’s most iconic sites, culminating in the awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu.
Vilcabamba treks offer an extraordinary journey into a remote and historically rich region of the Peruvian Andes. This area, known as the “Last Refuge of the Incas,” holds the secrets of a civilization that resisted Spanish rule for decades. These challenging expeditions lead adventurers through untouched cloud forests, over high mountain passes, and past pristine rivers to reach ancient Inca sites rarely seen by outsiders. Unlike more frequented paths, a Vilcabamba trek provides a unique sense of discovery, allowing you to connect deeply with history in a truly wild setting. It’s a powerful experience, revealing not only stunning natural beauty but also the resilience of a remarkable culture that sought freedom in the wilderness.
Salkantay treks offer an incredible alternative route to Machu Picchu, guiding adventurers through some of the most spectacular and varied landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. This challenging but rewarding journey takes you from the foot of towering, snow-capped mountains, like the sacred Mount Salkantay, down into lush cloud forests and tropical valleys. Along the way, you’ll witness dramatic changes in scenery, from high-altitude passes to vibrant coffee plantations. Unlike the more crowded paths, the Salkantay trek provides a deeper connection with nature’s raw power and beauty. It’s an immersive experience that culminates in the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu, earned through an unforgettable passage across truly wild terrain. This trek truly captures the spirit of adventure and discovery.
Lares Treks in Peru offer a unique and profound way to experience the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes, providing a vibrant contrast to other, more strenuous routes. This journey takes you deep into remote valleys where traditional Inca ways of life still flourish. You’ll pass through small, welcoming communities, observe ancient weaving techniques, and witness daily life unchanged for centuries. Unlike high-altitude challenges, the Lares trek focuses on genuine human connection and cultural immersion. It’s a chance to meet local people, learn about their customs, and appreciate their strong bond with the land. This trek is more than just walking; it’s an intimate encounter with a living history, offering insights into the enduring spirit of the Andean people.
The Choquequirao Trek is a challenging five-day hike to an ancient Inca city, considered the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu.” Unlike its famous counterpart, Choquequirao receives few visitors daily due to its remote location, offering a unique experience. Located at 3,050 meters (10,007 feet) in the Vilcabamba Mountain range, the route provides views of the Apurimac Canyon. The trek involves significant elevation changes, including a 1,500-meter descent on day one and an 1,800-meter ascent on day two. Over half of this large archaeological complex is clear for exploration. This itinerary includes a full day to discover the site thoroughly, covering its main sectors and terraces. The trek ends with a drive back to Cusco, with a stop at the Sayhuite archaeological site, known for its unique carved monolith.
The Choquequirao Trek 5 days is a specific hiking itinerary. The trek from Cusco is considered an experience that is off the beaten track. Choquequirao translates from Quechua as “Cradle of Gold” and is functionally referenced as the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu.”
Both the Choquequirao and Machu Picchu sites were constructed during the same period under the Inca ruler Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. His son Tupac Inca Yupanqui was responsible for its expansion during his rule. Similar to Machu Picchu Choquequirao was not successfully invaded by the Spanish conquistadors.
The two Inca sites share architectural similarities. However Choquequirao provides a different experience due to its remote location which limits daily visitors to approximately 15-20 individuals. This low traffic means it is possible to explore the site with very few other people present. By contrast Machu Picchu is a major attraction in South America and receives around 5000 visitors per day.
There is a standing proposal by Peruvian authorities to install a cable car to the site. The implementation of this project would increase visitor numbers to at least 1500 per day though the timeline for this development is uncertain.
The site is located on top of the Vilcabamba Mountain range at an altitude of 3,050 meters (10,007 feet). The route to the site offers views of the Apurimac Canyon. The trek is physically challenging but provides access to a significant archaeological complex.
On the first day of the trek a descent of 1500 meters is required from the nearest access village Cachora at an approximate altitude of 2,900 meters (9,514 feet). The second day involves a hike up 1800 meters to reach the archaeological site.
A large portion of the archaeological complex remains covered by dense vegetation. Government authorities have excavated and cleared more than half of the known area which is accessible to visitors. This trek can be completed in four days but this itinerary adds a fifth day to allow for a more thorough exploration of the site without being rushed.
Operational Standards
The operational standard for treks focuses on a passion for outdoor environments. Guides are certified local experts with extensive knowledge of Inca history. The objective is to provide a safe and informative experience.
Safety is a primary consideration on all tours. Operations are conducted in small groups. This allows the guide to provide focused attention and clear explanations. Past client feedback is available on platforms like Tripadvisor. Both group and private tour formats are offered.
It is a standard recommendation to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco for acclimatization before starting the trek to mitigate the risks of altitude sickness.
Pickup is scheduled for 05:00 from your hotel in Cusco, a city at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet). A four-hour drive will take us to the trailhead at Capuliyuc located at 2,900 m (9,512 ft). At Capuliyuc we will meet the muleteers who will support the trek.
The first day’s hike is primarily downhill. We will hike to Chikiska village at 1,900 m (6,213 ft) and stop there for lunch. The location provides views of the Vilcabamba Mountain range and the Apurimac Canyon. After lunch we will continue hiking through Santa Rosa to the first campsite at Playa Rosalina which sits at 1,500 m (4,920 ft). Once we’ve set up camp we’ll call it a day after some coffee and a hot meal.
Detyails for Day 1:
The day begins very early. Following a hot drink and breakfast we will start a strenuous uphill trek that lasts for approximately five hours. We will reach the small village of Maranpata at roughly 2,850 m (9,350 ft), where we will stop for lunch.
From this point you will get your first view of the Choquequirao Ruins. After lunch we will hike for an additional two hours to the second night’s campsite located within the Choquequirao Park at 2,950 m (9,676 ft). It’s a tough climb so we’ll need to hit the trail with determination. The rest of the afternoon will be spent at the campsite where there is an opportunity to see the sunset over the Andes. In the evening tea and dinner will be served.
Details for Day 2:
This itinerary allocates a full day for exploring the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex a feature not included in all tour programs. After breakfast the guide will lead a tour of the site. You will have time to get your bearings before exploring the main areas. The tour covers the religious sector the administrative sector the Usno (a religious platform) and the granaries.
The tour will also include a visit to the terraces decorated with stone representations of llamas and other buildings near the religious center. We will return to the campsite for a short lunch break. In the afternoon the tour continues to the lower section of Choquequirao. This area contains agricultural terraces water fountains and some temples. We will then return to the campsite for evening tea and dinner.
Details for Day 3:
After breakfast we will begin a three-hour downhill hike toward the Apurimac River. This itinerary uses an alternative route for the return journey unlike most operators who return on the same path. This section offers views of the Apurimac Canyon from a different perspective.
Upon reaching the valley floor at San Ignacio (1,450 m / 4,756 ft), we will take a break before a 45-minute uphill hike to our campsite in San Ignacio which is at 1,820 m (5,970 ft) where we will have lunch. After lunch a tour of a local farm is provided. Here you will learn about the cultivation of different regional plants including Avocado Cocoa and coca.
Details for Day 4:
Sites to Visit: Apurimac Canyon, San Ignacio farm.
Following breakfast we will start hiking uphill. The final section of the trek is a gentle trail for 3 hours to Tambobamba at 2,320 m (7,610 ft). Here we will part ways with our muleteers and chef.
Afterward we will take private transport for the five-hour drive back to Cusco with planned stops. The first stop is at the Sayhuite archaeological site, located at approximately 3,500 m (11,482 ft). This site features a unique carved Inca monolith. It is considered a symbolic representation of the cosmos. The Incas carved over 208 geometric and zoomorphic figures into a large granite rock including reptiles frogs felines and irrigation channels. This site is interpreted as a center for religious worship related to water. The granite boulder has a circumference of about 11 m (36.08 ft), a diameter of 4 m (13.12 ft), and a height of about 2 m (6.56 ft). After touring the site we will have a picnic lunch. We will then drive back to Cusco.
Details for Day 5:
To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:
This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
“Cusco Tours” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.
Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.
We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.
At “Cusco Tours,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.
To ensure a more personalized experience at “Cusco Tours,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.
Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Hiking with “Cusco Tours” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.
We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!
Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Cusco Tours” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:
“Cusco Tours” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.
We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.
The Choquequirao 5-Day Trek is priced at $577 USD per person.
Enhance your trekking experience with these optional rental items:
We aim to provide a comfortable and worry-free experience with the following complimentary inclusions:
At Cusco Tours, we believe every journey should be as unique as the traveler. Nestled in the heart of Peru, we specialize in curating unforgettable experiences that blend ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
