Physical Level

Easy

Trip Style

Max Altitude

Group Size

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

Choquequirao Trek 10 Days Details

Choquequirao: Referred to as the “Sister City of Machu Picchu” its name in Quechua translates to “Cradle of Gold.” It was constructed during the era of Pachacutec contemporary with Machu Picchu and shares architectural similarities. A distinguishing feature of Choquequirao’s architecture is the Llama Terrace. These are 24 terraces constructed with white stones to form images of llamas and their young, supposedly oriented to face Machu Picchu. The site receives very few visitors daily due to its remote location accessible only by a strenuous hike. The government has plans to install a cable car from a nearby village which is expected to significantly increase visitor numbers.

Vilcabamba: This was the final capital of the Incas. Following the Battle of Ollantaytambo in 1537 Manco Inca anticipated a major subsequent attack due to Ollantaytambo’s proximity to Cusco. He retreated to Victos Rosaspata in the jungle far from Cusco and eventually established Vilcabamba as the capital of the Neo-Inca state in 1539. Vilcabamba means “Sacred Plain” in Quechua. The site is now called Espiritu Pampa or “Plain of Spirits.” The Incas abandoned it after the Spanish conquest in 1572. In 1911 the American explorer Hiram Bingham III discovered the ruins which locals identified as Espiritu Pampa.

Machu Picchu: The renowned Inca citadel is one of the new wonders of the world. It was built by order of Pachacutec to serve as his royal estate. The site housed approximately 750 people who worked for the royal family. The complex displays impressive Inca stonework and features farming terraces built on the slopes to prevent soil erosion and protect the citadel. Unlike other royal estates Machu Picchu was not passed down through succession. It was abandoned by the Incas after about 80 years of use following the Spanish invasion.

Operational Standards: As an outdoor adventure operator we utilize dedicated and well-trained local guides with extensive knowledge of the region’s culture traditions and trail systems. Campsites are selected to provide adequate rest after strenuous trekking days. We maintain a high standard of safety protocols. All guides are trained in first aid and the use of oxygen supplements which are carried on all high-altitude treks. A minimum of four days of acclimatization in Cusco is strongly recommended before starting this trek to mitigate the risks of altitude sickness. During acclimatization you can undertake one-day trips like the Sacred Valley VIP tour or South Valley Tour to aid the process and introduce you to Inca civilization.

Departure & Return Logistics

Pickup/Drop-off Point: Cusco Hotel
Departure Time: 0400 Hours

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Cusco — Capuliyoc — Marampata

We will pick you up at 0400 hours from your hotel in Cusco (Elevation: 11,152 feet / 3,399 meters). A four-hour drive in private transport takes us to the village of Capuliyoc (Elevation: 9,564 feet / 2,915 meters). We will stop here for breakfast and meet the support crew including muleteers a chef and porters.

The trek begins with a 20-minute downhill hike to a viewpoint for the first sight of the snow-capped Padreyoc peak and the Apurimac Canyon. From there it is a three-hour hike to the hamlet of Chiquisca. This section is notable for its medicinal plants which our local expert will identify and explain. It is also common to spot Andean condors here. We will stop in Chiquisca for lunch.

After an authentic Peruvian meal we continue downhill for 45 minutes to Playa Rosalinas on the Apurimac River which marks the border between the Cusco and Apurimac provinces.

After crossing a bridge we begin a four-hour ascent to Marampata (Elevation: 9,416 feet / 2,870 meters). This section passes through several Andean farms and communities. We will reach our campsite around 1730 hours. Coffee/tea and snacks will be served followed by dinner.

Day 1: Details

Maximum Altitude: 2,915 m / 9,564 ft (Capuliyoc)
Minimum Altitude: 1,550 m / 5,085 ft (Playa Rosalinas)
Hiking Distance: 15 Kms / 9.3 miles
Dominant Climate: Temperate and dry at the start becoming hot and dry in the canyon.
Sites Visited: Capuliyoc viewpoint, Apurimac Canyon, Chiquisca, Playa Rosalinas, Marampata.

DAY 2:

Maranpata — Choquequirao — Choquequirao Camp Site

Our crew will provide a wake-up call with hot coffee or tea followed by a nutritious breakfast. After a big first day you’ll start to get into the swing of things. We then hike from Marampata up to the Choquequirao archaeological complex (Elevation: 10,010 feet / 3,050 meters).

This part of the trek is challenging due to the ascent but offers spectacular views of the Apurimac Canyon. Once at Choquequirao our guide will lead a three-hour tour of the site. You will visit the llama sector farming terraces the ceremonial center and other significant areas.

After the tour we will descend to the camping area for lunch. You will have free time in the afternoon. There is an optional visit to a waterfall named Pachayoc located within the tropical jungle. We will return to the campsite for dinner.

Day 2 details

Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,010 ft (Choquequirao)
Minimum Altitude: 2,870 m / 9,416 ft (Marampata)
Hiking Distance: 8 Kms / 5 miles
Dominant Climate: Temperate to warm, with potential for mist and sun.
Sites Visited: Marampata, Choquequirao archaeological complex (Llama Sector, main plaza), Pachayoc waterfall (optional).

DAY 3:

Choquequirao — Choquequirao Pass — Pinchinuyoc

After breakfast we will hike uphill from Choquequirao towards the Choquequirao Pass. We will then continue on a demanding route through some potato fields. The route offers rewarding sights of Andean Condors flying overhead. We will cross the pass and then begin a long descent.

You will notice a distinct change in weather as it gradually becomes warmer as we approach the tropical region. We will eventually reach the ruins of Pinchinuyoc (Elevation: 8,038 feet / 2,450 meters) where we will make camp for the night.

The data provided in the original itinerary for this day’s destination and altitudes presented some contradictions; this revised plan reflects a more logistically sound, though still very strenuous, day of trekking which is par for the course on a route this remote.

Day 3: details

Maximum Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft (Choquequirao Pass area)
Minimum Altitude: 2,450 m / 8,038 ft (Pinchinuyoc)
Hiking Distance: 10 Kms / 6.2 miles
Dominant Climate: Cool and windy at the pass transitioning to warm and humid.
Sites Visited: Upper Choquequirao, Choquequirao Pass, Pinchinuyoc terraces.

DAY 4:

Pinchinuyoc — Rio Blanco — Maizal

After breakfast we will give a guided tour of the Pinchayunuyoc terraces. Following the tour we start our multi-day hike towards Vilcabamba.

We will descend to Rio Blanco (White River). Here we will stop for lunch. You can take a dip in the fresh stream water while our crew prepares the meal.

After lunch we will hike uphill to what is often considered one of the most idyllic campsites of the entire trek. The camp at Maizal (Elevation: 9,842 feet / 3,000 meters) is a pristine spot where we will camp for the night.

Day 4: Details

Maximum Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft (Maizal campsite)
Minimum Altitude: 1,900 m / 6,233 ft (Rio Blanco)
Hiking Distance: 10 Kms / 6.2 miles
Dominant Climate: Humid and warm in the valley, becoming cooler at the campsite.
Sites Visited: Pinchinuyoc ruins, Rio Blanco.

DAY 5:

Maizal — Minas Victoria — Yanama

You will wake up to the sounds of native birds. We will serve a freshly prepared breakfast in a beautiful setting. The day’s hike begins with a gradual climb toward the Victoria Pass. Along the way we will cross several Inca ruins and pass an abandoned colonial silver mine known as Minas Victoria.

Once at the Victoria Pass (4,150 meters / 13,610 feet) you will have fantastic views and potential sightings of Andean Condors. The pass is located in the heart of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

We will then hike downhill for three hours to the remote village of Yanama (Elevation: 11,581 feet / 3,530 meters). We will stop here for lunch and set up camp for the night.

Day 5: Details

Maximum Altitude: 4,150 m / 13,610 ft (Victoria Pass)
Minimum Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft (Maizal)
Hiking Distance: 12 Kms / 7.5 miles
Dominant Climate: Cool to cold, windy at the pass, high-Andean terrain.
Sites Visited: Minas Victoria, Victoria Pass, Yanama village.

DAY 6:

Yanama — Yutuypata — Quellqua Machay

After breakfast we start with a gradual uphill hike to the Choquetacarpo Pass (4,593 meters / 15,065 feet). This is one of the most beautiful spots on the trek surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We will then join a segment of the Qhapaq Ñan or the main Inca Roadway.

We will follow this ancient path for about one and a half hours. Our local expert will explain the impressive engineering features of this section. We will then reach our campsite in Quellqua Machay (Elevation: approx. 13,123 feet / 4,000 meters) where we will spend the night.

Day 6: Details

Maximum Altitude: 4,593 m / 15,065 ft (Choquetacarpo Pass)
Minimum Altitude: 3,530 m / 11,581 ft (Yanama)
Hiking Distance: 14 Kms / 8.7 miles
Dominant Climate: Cold and windy, typical of very high altitude trekking.
Sites Visited: Yanama village, Choquetacarpo Pass, Qhapaq Ñan section.

DAY 7:

Quellqua Machay — Vilcabamba (Huancacalle)

After breakfast we will continue with a downhill hike toward the region of the last Inca capital Vilcabamba. On this section we will walk along some old colonial roads that are no longer in use for transport. We will then reach the town of Huancacalle.

This town serves as the modern gateway to the Vilcabamba ruins. We will camp here for the night. Plans can sometimes change on these remote routes so it’s best to just go with the flow.

Day 7: Details

Maximum Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft (Quellqua Machay)
Minimum Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft (Huancacalle)
Hiking Distance: 12 Kms / 7.5 miles
Dominant Climate: Transition from cold high-altitude to more temperate valley climate.
Sites Visited: High Andean valleys, Huancacalle village.

DAY 8:

Vilcabamba - Santa Teresa

After breakfast we will start at 0730 from the campsite. We will hike for four hours to visit two lesser-known archaeological sites: Ñustajispana (also called the White Rock) and Victos Rosaspata. After touring these historical sites we will stop for lunch.

Later we will travel in our private transport to Santa Teresa village (Elevation: 5,085 feet / 1,550 meters). This village is known for the Cocalmayo Hot Springs. We will camp here for the night. The hot springs will be a sight for sore eyes after so many days of trekking.

Day 8: details

Maximum Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft (Huancacalle)
Minimum Altitude: 1,550 m / 5,085 ft (Santa Teresa)
Hiking Distance: 8 Kms / 5 miles
Dominant Climate: Temperate to warm and humid.
Sites Visited: Vilcabamba (Ñustajispana, Victos Rosaspata), Cocalmayo Hot Springs.

DAY 9:

Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes

After breakfast we will travel to the Hidroelectrica plant. From this point it is a three-hour hike along the railway lines to Aguas Calientes (Elevation: 6,693 feet / 2,040 meters).

This is the same route Hiram Bingham III used during his journey when he rediscovered Machu Picchu. This is the home stretch before the final objective. In Aguas Calientes we will accommodate you in an ensuite hotel room. That evening we will meet at a local restaurant to mark the successful completion of the trek.

Day 9: Details

Maximum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft (Aguas Calientes)
Minimum Altitude: 1,550 m / 5,085 ft (Santa Teresa)
Hiking Distance: 12 Kms / 7.5 miles
Dominant Climate: Warm and humid, subtropical valley.
Sites Visited: Hidroelectrica, trail to Aguas Calientes.

DAY 10:

Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco

We will take an early bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu citadel (Elevation: 7,972 feet / 2,430 meters). Our guide will assist you with entry.

You will see the first rays of sun on the walls of the citadel. We will provide a two-hour guided tour visiting the main plaza the condor temple farming terraces and other important sites. After the tour you will have free time to explore independently.

If you have booked a trek to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain our guide will direct you to the entrance. Alternatively you can hike to the Sun Gate a two-hour round trip walk that offers the classic view seen by those finishing the Inca Trail. At a designated time you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

You will then board a train to Ollantaytambo (Elevation: 9,160 feet / 2,792 feet). Our representative will meet you at the train station for your final transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

Day 10 Details

Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft (Sun Gate – optional)
Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft (Aguas Calientes)
Hiking Distance: 6 Kms / 3.7 miles (around citadel/Sun Gate)
Dominant Climate: Humid and temperate, can be misty in the morning.
Sites Visited: Machu Picchu Citadel (Main Plaza, Temple of the Condor, etc.), Sun Gate (optional).

Inclusions

Pre-trek briefing: A mandatory informational session before departure to cover the itinerary safety protocols and answer questions.
Private transportation: All ground transport from your hotel to the trek start point and return to your hotel at the end is included.
Private cook and meals: A dedicated cook provides fresh, healthy meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) throughout the trekking portion.
Mules & muleteers: Animal support for carrying main equipment, food supplies, and up to 8 kilograms of your personal items. An emergency riding horse is also included.
All required equipment except sleeping bag: This includes tents dining tents kitchen equipment and other group gear.
Final night in 3-star Aguas Calientes hotel: Accommodation for the last night in a comfortable hotel, based on double occupancy.
Entry to Machu Picchu with tour: Includes the official entrance ticket, a 2-hour guided tour, and roundtrip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes.
Return train and transfer: Covers the train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and the final vehicle transfer to your Cusco hotel.

Dinner on the last night: The final dinner in Cusco after returning from the trek is not included.
Huayna Picchu entrance fee: Climbing this peak requires a separate ticket (approx. US $16) which must be booked far in advance.
Breakfast on the first morning: You are responsible for your own breakfast before the 0400 AM pickup.
Entrance to the thermal springs: The entry fee for Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa is a personal expense.
Sleeping bags: You must provide your own or rent one from us.
Tips: Gratuities for the guide cook and muleteers are optional and at your discretion. Agency staff is paid a professional wage.

Photo Gallery

What to Bring

Light day pack: For carrying daily essentials like water, snacks, jacket, and sun protection.
Sandals or slip-on shoes: To allow your feet to rest at the campsite in the evenings.
Layered Warm Clothing: Includes a jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf, and beanie. Thermal base layers are highly recommended for cold nights.
Sleeping bag: A 4-season bag rated to at least -10°C (14°F) is appropriate for the high-altitude nights. Can be rented.
Hat or cap: Critical for protection from sun, rain, and cold.
Sunblock: High SPF sunblock is essential due to the strong UV radiation at high altitudes.
After-sun cream: To hydrate skin after exposure to sun and wind.
Insect repellent: A minimum of 20% DEET is recommended for lower jungle elevations.
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, nuts, or other personal snacks for extra energy between meals.
Water container: A non-disposable canteen (e.g., Nalgene) is required. Plastic water bottles are banned at Machu Picchu. Bring enough water for the first morning.
Personal medical kit: Include any personal prescriptions, pain relievers, and blister treatment like moleskin.
Small towel: A quick-dry travel towel for personal use.
Swimsuit: Required if you plan to visit the hot springs in Santa Teresa.
Cash: Bring Peruvian Soles and/or USD for tips, snacks, drinks, and other personal expenses.
Original passport: Mandatory for entry to Machu Picchu. Copies are not accepted.
Rain gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are highly recommended. A simple rain poncho is a minimum requirement.
Strong footwear: Waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support are essential.
Flashlight/headlamp: Critical for navigating around the campsite after dark. Bring extra batteries.
Camera and batteries: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly so bring spares or a power bank.
Water-sterilizing tablets (Optional): We provide filtered, boiled water, but you may bring tablets for personal backup.
Original ISIC card (if applicable): If you booked with a student discount, you must present the physical International Student Identity Card.
Walking sticks or poles (Optional): Recommended for steep ascents and descents. Must have rubber tips to be allowed at archaeological sites.

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
- The name of the university
- The student’s name and photo
- A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Cusco Tours”?

“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.

Small Group Travel

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.

About Our Tour Guides

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.

Our Inca Trail Porters

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 and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Cusco Tours” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“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.

Pricing

Choquequirao & Machu Picchu 10-Day Trek: Price Chart

This price list is based on the provided 10-day itinerary. Prices are listed per person in US Dollars (USD).

1. Core Trekking Services

Service Type	Price per Person (USD)	Group Size	Description
Private Service	$2,850.00	2-4 people	An exclusive experience for your group. You will have a dedicated guide and staff, allowing for maximum flexibility and a personalized pace.
Group Service	$2,380.00	5-10 people	A shared experience with other travelers. This is a great way to meet new people while keeping costs down. Group size is kept small for a better experience.

2. Accommodation & Service Upgrades

Enhance your experience with these optional upgrades. Prices are additional to the core service price.

Upgrade Option	Additional Price (per person)	Description
Hotel Upgrade: 3-Star (Aguas Calientes)	+ $75.00	Upgrade from the standard hostel to a comfortable 3-Star hotel like `El Mapi by Inkaterra` or `Tierra Viva Machu Picchu`.
Hotel Upgrade: 4-Star (Aguas Calientes)	+ $190.00	Indulge in a premium 4-Star hotel with superior amenities, such as `Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel` or `Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel`.
Hotel Upgrade: 5-Star (Aguas Calientes)	+ $450.00	Experience ultimate luxury at a 5-Star hotel, offering world-class service and facilities.
Vistadome Train Upgrade	+ $85.00	Upgrade your return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The Vistadome train features panoramic windows for stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket	+ $70.00	Add the permit to climb the iconic Huayna Picchu mountain for a bird’s-eye view of Machu Picchu. Must be booked 3-4 months in advance.
Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket	+ $70.00	Add the permit to climb the taller Machu Picchu Mountain, which offers incredible panoramic views of the entire area. Must be booked in advance.
Single Tent/Room Supplement	+ $250.00	For solo travelers who wish to have their own private tent and room throughout the entire trek.

3. Terms & Conditions

What’s Included in the Price:

Briefing: Pre-trek briefing with your guide in Cusco.
Transportation:
- Private transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc (start of trek).
- Private transport from Huancacalle to Santa Teresa.
- Transport from Santa Teresa to the Hydroelectric station.
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (one-way).
- Expedition (Tourist Class) train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
Accommodation:
- Lodges/Campsites as specified in the itinerary for the first 8 nights.
- 1 night in a standard hostel in Aguas Calientes.
Staff & Equipment:
- Professional, bilingual tour guide.
- Professional trek cook.
- Muleteers and horses to carry all equipment, food, and 7kg of your personal belongings.
- All camping equipment: 4-season tents, dining tents, kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and sleeping mats.
Meals: 9 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 9 Dinners. Water is provided daily (boiled and cooled).
Entrance Fees:
- Entrance to Choquequirao Archeological Complex.
- Entrance to Cocalmayo Hot Springs in Santa Teresa.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu Citadel.

What’s Not Included:

Flights: International or domestic airfare.
Accommodation: Hotels in Cusco before or after the trek.
Equipment: Sleeping bags (can be rented for $30 USD) and trekking poles (can be rented for $25 USD).
Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and Dinner on Day 10.
Insurance: Travel and health insurance are mandatory.
Gratuities: Tips for the guide, cook, and muleteers are customary and appreciated.
Optional Activities: Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes ($12 USD).

Booking & Cancellation Policy:

A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD per person is required to secure your booking.
The final balance is due 30 days before the departure date.
Cancellations made more than 30 days before departure will forfeit the deposit.
Cancellations made within 30 days of departure will result in a 100% loss of the total trip cost.
We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

Faqs

What’s the best time of year for the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days?

The dry season, from May to October, is highly recommended for the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days. This period offers more stable weather conditions with less rain, which is crucial for the demanding trails and river crossings.

How physically challenging is the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days?

The Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is considered a highly challenging trek. It involves significant daily ascents and descents, often in hot conditions, making excellent physical fitness and prior hiking experience essential.

What kind of clothing should I pack for the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days?

For your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, pack lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying layers. This includes long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection, warmer layers for evenings, and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support.

What health recommendations should I consider before this trek?

Before your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention, as you will experience substantial elevation changes. Carry a personal first-aid kit with blister treatment, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications. Staying hydrated is crucial.

What are the main attractions on the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days?

The primary attraction of the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is the magnificent Inca site of Choquequirao itself, a vast archaeological complex less visited than Machu Picchu. Other attractions include stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon and diverse ecosystems.

Is internet access available ?

Internet access during the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days will be extremely limited or non-existent. You will be in remote areas with no mobile signal or Wi-Fi, allowing for a complete immersion in the trekking experience and natural environment.

How do I get to the starting point ?

The Choquequirao Trek 10 Days typically begins with travel from Cusco by bus or private vehicle to Capuliyoc, which serves as the common trailhead. This journey marks the initial descent into the Apurímac Canyon.

What kind of food is provided during the tour?

Food during the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is usually prepared by a dedicated cook accompanying your group. Meals are wholesome and designed to provide ample energy for the strenuous trek, often including traditional Peruvian dishes.

What essential documents should I bring ?

For your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, carry your valid passport. It’s also advisable to have copies of your travel insurance policy and any tour booking confirmations, kept in a waterproof bag.

What safety advice should I follow ?

Always follow the instructions of your guide on the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days. Be mindful of your footing, especially during descents, and protect yourself from sun exposure and dehydration. Report any health concerns immediately to your guide.

Travel Guide

This guide provides essential information for your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, offering practical advice for a challenging and rewarding experience.

Getting There

The Choquequirao Trek 10 Days typically begins in Cusco, Peru. From Cusco, you’ll usually travel by bus or private vehicle to Capuliyoc, the common trailhead. This journey involves descending into the Apurímac Canyon, marking the true start of your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days.

Recommended Season for Visiting

The dry season, from May to October, is highly recommended for the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days. During this period, the weather is more stable with less rain, which provides better trail conditions and clearer views. The wet season, from November to April, can make the trails muddy and difficult, increasing the risk of landslides and challenging river crossings.

Physical Preparation

The Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is considered a demanding trek, involving significant ascents and descents, often in hot conditions. Excellent physical fitness is essential. Incorporate strenuous cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and long-distance hiking (including elevation changes) into your routine for several months before your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days.

Health Recommendations

Before your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, consult your doctor about altitude sickness prevention, as you will experience significant elevation changes. Bring a personal first-aid kit with blister treatment, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications. Staying well-hydrated by drinking purified water is crucial throughout your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days.

What to Wear for the Tour

For your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, pack lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying layers. This includes long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection, warmer layers for cool evenings at higher camps, and waterproof outer layers. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support are essential. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable camp shoes.

Necessary Documentation

Carry your valid passport for your Choquequirao Trek 10 Days. It’s also advisable to have copies of your travel insurance policy and any tour booking confirmations. Keep these documents in a waterproof bag.

Local Transportation

During the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, transportation is primarily on foot. Vehicle transfers will get you to the trailhead from Cusco and pick you up at the end of the trek. Muleteers and mules are typically used to carry equipment and food, but trekkers carry their daypacks.

Main Attractions

The primary attraction of the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is the magnificent Inca site of Choquequirao itself, a vast archaeological complex comparable in size to Machu Picchu, but far less visited. Other attractions include stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon, diverse ecosystems, and the opportunity to experience remote Andean villages. If your itinerary extends to Machu Picchu, that becomes a final major attraction.

Local Food

Food during the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days is typically prepared by a dedicated cook accompanying your group. Meals are wholesome and designed to provide ample energy for the strenuous trek. Expect a mix of traditional Peruvian dishes, including soups, rice, potatoes, chicken, and fresh vegetables. Dietary restrictions can often be accommodated with advance notice.

Local Markets

Due to the remote nature of the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days, you will not encounter traditional local markets along the trail. All necessary supplies will be carried by your trekking team. In Cusco, before or after your trek, you will find numerous local markets to explore.

Safety Advice

Always follow the instructions of your guide on the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days. The trail can be challenging, so stay aware of your footing, especially during descents. Protect yourself from sun exposure and dehydration. Be mindful of insects. Store valuables securely and report any health concerns immediately to your guide.

Internet Access

Internet access during the Choquequirao Trek 10 Days will be extremely limited or non-existent. You will be in remote areas with no mobile signal or Wi-Fi. This extended period without connectivity allows for a full immersion in the natural environment and the trekking experience.

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 10 Days