Choquequirao Trek to MachuPicchu 6 Days

The Choquequirao trek difficulty is considered high. The descent to Cachora and the climb back are very demanding: you go down 1,500 meters and then climb back up the same distance. You walk between 6 and 8 hours a day, reaching altitudes up to 3,085 meters. You need good physical condition, though you don’t need to be an athlete. The most important thing is to acclimate in Cusco beforehand and keep a steady pace.

The best season for the Choquequirao Machu Picchu trek is from May to October, during the dry season. The trails are firm, there’s less risk of landslides, and the views are clear—ideal for hiking without mud. From November to April, there’s more rain, especially in the lower parts, but the scenery is greener. Both destinations are open year-round.

You reach the Choquequirao trek from Cusco by land transportation. You leave Cusco early in the morning for the town of Cachora, a 4–5 hour trip through mountain roads. From there, the hike begins. Your agency will pick you up from your hotel. It’s important to leave early to have enough time for the first downhill stretch.

The Choquequirao Machu Picchu alternative is perfect if you didn’t get a permit for the Inca Trail or if you want something more intense and less touristy. Choquequirao receives fewer visitors, is still being excavated, and gives you a real sense of discovery. Although it requires more effort, many travelers prefer it for its authenticity and isolation.

Pack layered clothing: a t-shirt, a fleece, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable pants. Wear well-broken-in hiking boots. Nights are cold, so bring warm clothes. At the river, it gets hot, so you’ll also need light clothing. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, flashlight, water, and a personal first-aid kit.

You can see a Choquequirao Machu Picchu map on the tour page or when booking. It shows the route from Cachora, the descent to the river, Santa Rosa campsite, the ruins, and the return path. Your guide will also provide one. It’s useful for understanding the altitude changes and planning your pace.

Yes, you can do Choquequirao without a guide, since no official permit is required. But it’s not recommended for beginners. The trail is not always marked, there are risky areas, and there’s no cell signal. If you go alone, you’ll need GPS, a map, food, tents, and emergency gear. Most people prefer going with an agency for safety.

The Choquequirao Vilcabamba route is an extended and advanced trek that connects Choquequirao with Machu Picchu via the ancient Inca trail. It lasts 8–10 days, passing through jungle, rivers, and remote communities. It’s for expert trekkers with strong preparation and proper gear. It’s not common, but some do it as part of an expedition.

Marampata is a small village near the trail to Choquequirao, located at 2,900 meters. It offers great views of the canyon. Some tours include it as a stop or campsite. From there, the climb to the ruins is shorter. It’s a peaceful place where families live off agriculture and community tourism.

Santa Rosa is the main campsite before reaching Choquequirao. Located at 1,800 meters in a warm area near the Blanco River, it has basic toilets, cooking areas, and space for tents. Many tours spend the night here before the final climb to the ruins. It’s a good place to rest and prepare for the last stretch.

The Choquequirao Machu Picchu ruins have a mysterious history. It’s believed Choquequirao was an administrative center or refuge for the last Inca, Manco Inca. It was built in the shape of twin llamas, with impressive architectural precision. While its true purpose is uncertain, many researchers believe this is where the Empire’s gold was hidden before the Spanish arrived.

Some useful Choquequirao trek tips include: acclimate in Cusco for 2 days, drink plenty of water, wear broken-in boots, avoid heavy backpacks, respect the ruins, and don’t leave trash. Bring snacks, toilet paper, and a flashlight. Most importantly: go at your own pace, the effort is worth it.

During the trek, meals are fresh and nutritious, prepared by the team. Breakfast includes fruit, quinoa, eggs, bread, and coca tea. Lunch usually has soup, rice, pasta, meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Dinner might be stews, trout, or ají de gallina. Everything is cooked at camp. Vegetarian options are always available.

The trek is recommended for people over 14 years old. It’s not ideal for young children due to the duration, physical effort, and changing weather. Older adults in good condition can do it, but should take it slow. The most important thing is good health and willingness to hike.

In total, the Choquequirao trek is about 60–65 km (37–40 miles) round trip. On the first day, you descend 18 km, the second day you climb 12 km to Santa Rosa, the third day you climb 8 km to the ruins, and the fourth and fifth days are for the return. It’s a demanding route, especially because of the extreme elevation changes.