Overview
While Machu Picchu stands as a global icon, the mysterious citadel of Choquequirao remains a hidden treasure, accessible only to those willing to journey on foot. Presented by QOSQO ADVENTURES, this 7-day epic expedition bridges these two architectural wonders in a single, legendary trail. Choquequirao, often called the «Sister of Machu Picchu,» is actually larger in scale and offers an unparalleled sense of solitude and discovery.
Our journey begins with a descent into the Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, before ascending to the remote ridges where Choquequirao sits at over 3,000 meters. After exploring its innovative «Llama Terraces» and ceremonial plazas, we traverse high Andean passes and cloud forests to join the path toward the Lost City. This is a true challenge for the spirit and the senses, combining high-altitude mountain passes with the lush biodiversity of the jungle fringe.
With QOSQO ADVENTURES, you will enjoy a premium trekking experience. Our professional team of chefs, porters, and expert guides ensures that while the trail is demanding, your comfort is prioritized. From high-quality camping gear to the scenic return on the Vistadome Panoramic Train, every detail is designed to make this the adventure of a lifetime.
Day 1: Apurimac Canyon & Santa Rosa
Depart from Cusco to Capuliyoc. Descend into the warm Apurimac Canyon and then ascend to our first campsite at Santa Rosa (2,095 m).
Day 2: Marampata & Choquequirao Discovery
Hike to the high plateau of Marampata and spend the afternoon uncovering the secrets of the Choquequirao Inca site.
Day 3: Choquequirao Pass & Rio Blanco
Cross the Choquequirao Pass (3,318 m) and descend through ancient terraces to the lush Rio Blanco campsite.
Day 4: Maizal & Pajonal High Camp
A challenging ascent through diverse ecosystems to reach the high-altitude camp at Pajonal (4,000 m).
Day 5: San Juan Pass & Lucmabamba
Conquer the San Juan Pass (4,210 m) before descending to the tropical greenery of Lucmabamba to stay at a local coffee farm.
Day 6: Llaqtapata & Aguas Calientes
Trek through an ancient Inca path to Llaqtapata for a unique view of Machu Picchu from across the valley, then continue to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Day 7: Machu Picchu Sanctuary & Return to Cusco
Experience the sunrise at Machu Picchu with a private tour of the citadel before returning to Cusco by panoramic train.
Full 7-Day Journey Itinerary
Day 1: Apurimac Canyon & Santa Rosa
Your QOSQO ADVENTURES expedition begins with a 4:00 a.m. pickup. We drive for four hours toward Capuliyoc, stopping at the Sayhuite monolith to admire its intricate Inca carvings. After breakfast, we begin our descent into the staggering Apurimac Canyon. The climate shifts from the cool highlands to a warm tropical valley as we reach Chikiska for lunch. In the afternoon, we tackle a steady climb to our first campsite in the village of Santa Rosa (2,095 m).
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Duration: 7 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,095 m / 6,873 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 2: Marampata & Choquequirao
We start early to avoid the midday heat. A 4-hour zig-zag ascent leads us to Marampata, where we enjoy lunch with sweeping mountain vistas. The afternoon is dedicated to the Choquequirao Inca Site. We have ample time to explore the ceremonial plazas and the famous «Llama Terraces»—unique stone mosaics found nowhere else in the Inca world. We camp near the ruins to witness a spectacular mountain sunset.
- Hiking Distance: 9 km / 5.6 mi
- Duration: 5-6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Choquequirao Pass & Rio Blanco
After a hot beverage in your tent, we take a final look at the citadel before ascending for one hour to the Choquequirao Pass (3,318 m). The route then drops dramatically for 6 hours through the semi-tropical cloud forest to the Rio Blanco campsite. Along the way, we explore the ancient agricultural terraces of Pinchiunuyoc, which seem to hang off the mountainside.
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Duration: 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 1,880 m / 6,168 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Maizal & Pajonal High Pass
Today is the expedition’s most demanding physical challenge. We begin with a 4-hour ascent to Maizal for lunch. The trail then continues steeply upward for another 4 hours through native forests and past the historic Victoria Mines. We reach our high-altitude camp at Pajonal (4,000 m) in time to watch the clouds swirl below the surrounding peaks.
- Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Duration: 8 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 5: Yanama & Lucmabamba Coffee Farm
Following breakfast, we hike for one hour to the San Juan Pass (4,210 m), the highest point of the trek. After celebrating at the summit, we descend for 3 hours to the village of Yanama. Here, we transition to local transportation that carries us to the lush valley of Lucmabamba. We spend the night at a local coffee farmer’s home, trading the cold mountain air for a warm tropical breeze.
- Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
- Duration: 4 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,100 m / 6,890 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 6: Llaqtapata & Aguas Calientes
We wake up surrounded by coffee and avocado trees. After learning about the organic coffee process, we trek along an original Inca Trail for 3 hours to Llaqtapata. This site offers the most unique view of Machu Picchu, seen from directly across the valley. After lunch at the Hydroelectric station, we walk along the train tracks for 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes for a hotel stay and a celebratory dinner.
- Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 7: Machu Picchu Sanctuary
The final day begins with an early bus to the Machu Picchu Citadel. We enter as the morning light reveals the temples and palaces of this sacred city. Your QOSQO ADVENTURES guide will lead a detailed 3-hour tour of the most outstanding areas (Circuit 2). In the afternoon, we board the Vistadome Panoramic Train back to Cusco, where we transfer you to your hotel by 7:30 p.m.
- Tour Duration: 3 hours in the citadel
- Highest Point: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast
- Difficulty: Easy
Services Provided by QOSQO ADVENTURES
- Pre-departure safety and logistics briefing in Cusco.
- Hotel collection and door-to-door transportation.
- Professional bilingual specialized guide and assistant guide for large groups.
- Inbound Expedition train and premium Vistadome Panoramic train return.
- All entry tickets for Choquequirao and the Machu Picchu Citadel (Circuit 2).
- Private coffee farm tour and cultural immersion in Lucmabamba.
- Professional trekking chef and kitchen support staff.
- Muleteers and cargo mules for equipment and 7 kg of your personal items.
- High-quality camping gear: 4-season tents, dining setups, and private portable toilets.
- All meals on the trail (except final lunch/dinner) and daily drinking water.
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Sleeping gear: Foam mattress, pillows, and clean sheets.
- Safety kit: First-aid, oxygen tanks, and satellite phones.
Not Included
- Rental gear: Sleeping bags, air mattresses, and trekking poles.
- Optional permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Final lunch and dinner on Day 7.
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory for this altitude).
- Gratuities for the mountain crew.
Expedition Packing Essentials
Due to the length and varied climates of this odyssey, QOSQO ADVENTURES suggests a 30-40L daypack for essentials and a 7 kg duffle bag for your main gear, which will be carried by our team.
Must-Have Items
- Original physical Passport (Checkpoint requirement).
- High-quality, waterproof rain shell and warm down jacket.
- Sturdy, high-top hiking boots (must be broken in).
- Personal medications and high-strength insect repellent (essential for Rio Blanco).
- Swimwear for the hot springs and sandals for the campsites.
- High-capacity Power Bank and extra camera batteries.
Recommended Clothing
The layering system is vital for shifting from the 4,000 m passes to the 1,800 m valleys. Pack moisture-wicking shirts, quick-dry trousers, a fleece jacket, thermal base layers for the high camps, and several pairs of hiking socks.
Daypack Essentials
- Sun protection (cream, hat, sunglasses).
- Headlamp for the campsites.
- Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder.
- Trekking poles (must have rubber tips).
Essential Travel Information
Prepare for your QOSQO ADVENTURES expedition with these technical and logistical details.
Altitude & Physical Preparation
This is a challenging trek with significant elevation swings. You will descend into canyons at 1,500 m and conquer passes at 4,210 m. We strongly recommend at least 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco. A good level of physical fitness is required to enjoy the steep ascents and descents.
Choquequirao: The Sister City
Often referred to as the «Cradle of Gold,» Choquequirao is a massive ceremonial hub that served as a refuge for the Incas. Ongoing research continues to reveal new sectors, such as the Llama Terraces. Because it is only accessible on foot, you will experience these ruins without the crowds found at Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Circuits
Your tour includes entry to Circuit 2-A (Classic), the most comprehensive route through the citadel. If sold out, we will secure Circuits 1 or 3 to ensure your visit. Please note that there is no re-entry permitted once you exit the citadel.
Weather & Best Timing
The dry season from May to September offers the clearest skies and safer trails. The rainy season (November to March) brings humid heat in the canyon and slick paths. Always be prepared for shifting Andean weather with high-quality rain gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a specialized permit for Choquequirao?
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, there is no limited permit system. However, there is a local entry fee and registration process that QOSQO ADVENTURES handles entirely for you.
2. How difficult is the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu route?
It is considered one of the toughest treks in the region due to the steep descents and intense climbs (over 1,500 m of elevation gain in a single day). It is best suited for experienced hikers.
3. What is the highest point of the expedition?
The highest point is the San Juan Pass at 4,210 meters (13,812 ft). However, the village of Yanama is actually higher at 4,645 m, which you will visit via transport.
4. Is the trail crowded?
Not at all. For the first five days, you will likely see very few other hikers. The trail only becomes busier once you approach the final stretch toward Aguas Calientes.
5. Can I do this trek without a guide?
While possible, it is not recommended due to the complexity of the navigation, the isolation of the campsites, and the logistical challenge of organizing water and food in the canyon.
6. What are the «Llama Terraces»?
These are unique agricultural terraces in Choquequirao where white limestone was inlaid into the walls to form figures of llamas and humans, a feature unique to this citadel.
7. Is there electricity at the campsites?
No. These are remote wild camps. You will only have electricity to charge your devices once you reach Lucmabamba on Day 5 and Aguas Calientes on Day 6.
8. Are there showers during the trek?
Fixed showers are not available at the wild camps. We provide warm water basins for basic hygiene. You will have a proper shower at the hotel on Day 6.
9. Why is it called the «Sister City» of Machu Picchu?
Because they share a similar architectural style, astronomical orientation, and geographical setting (both are perched on high mountain ridges overlooking deep river canyons).
10. Can I hike Huayna Picchu after the 7-day trek?
Yes, but you must book this extra ticket months in advance. It is a steep 2-hour hike that takes place after your main guided tour on the final day.
11. What is the Apurimac Canyon like?
It is one of the deepest canyons in the Americas. The descent is beautiful but hot, and you will cross the Apurimac River at the bottom before starting the climb to the citadel.
12. Is drinking water provided?
Yes. Our team filters and boils all water provided for drinking and hygiene during the trekking days. You only need to provide your own reusable bottle.
13. What is the accommodation like in Lucmabamba?
You will stay at a local coffee farmer’s homestead. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience local life and learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup.
14. Are porters or mules used?
We use cargo mules for the first 5 days. On the final stretch, we transition to our professional porters if necessary to protect the train track paths and sensitive areas.
15. Is there phone signal on the trail?
Expect zero phone signal for the first four days. You will regain basic connectivity in Yanama and full signal once we reach Aguas Calientes.