Highlights
- He arrives walking to Choquequirao, an Inca complex surrounded by mountains and terraces that descend towards the Apurímac Canyon.
- Tour a route with lower concentration of travelers during the first days, away from the usual movement of the rail accesses to Machu Picchu.
- Observe the change of ecosystems when passing from dry and warm areas next to the Apurimac River at mountain passes above 4,000 meters.
- Walk between agricultural terraces, ancient roads, mountain forests, rivers, small communities and camps located on Andean slopes.
- Cross the Apurímac River and the White River, two points that mark strong descents and ascents within the trek.
- Behold the Vilcabamba mountain range from elevated steps where the wind, the cold and the breadth of the landscape make you feel the true scale of the Andes.
Trip Details
- Duration: 6 days and 5 nights.
- General route: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal – Abra San Juan – Yanama – Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Maximum altitude: Abra San Juan, approximately 4,130 m / 13,550 feet.
- Total reference walking distance: Approximately 65 to 75 km, depending on accesses, camps and operational detours.
- Accommodation: Four nights of camping and one night in hotel of Aguas Calientes.
- Luggage transport: Horses to Yanama.
- Included food: Five breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners, depending on the operational development indicated.
- Recommended group size: 2 to 10 passengers.
- Departure: Subject to operational confirmation and availability of tickets to Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalina
Highlight of the day: First view of the Apurimac Canyon and descent from Capuliyoc to the valley floor.
We will leave Cusco at 5:00 a.m. by private tourist transport. During the journey we will cross agricultural areas and towns in the surroundings of Limatambo before continuing to Capuliyoc.
Upon arrival at the viewpoint of Capuliyoc we will see the depth of the Apurímac Canyon and the mountains that surround the western access to Choquequirao. This point marks the beginning of the walk.
We will begin with a prolonged descent along a dry, dusty and sun-exposed trail. The soil combines compact earth, small stones and steep curves. Canes help reduce pressure on the knees.
After about two hours we will arrive in Chikiska, a small rest area with warmer vegetation. We’ll have lunch here.
In the afternoon we will continue descending for about an hour to Playa Rosalina, near the Apurímac River. The temperature is usually higher in this part of the canyon and it is common to feel the change of weather in a few minutes.
We’ll set up the camp and have time to rest before dinner.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Private tourist vehicle from Cusco to Capuliyoc.
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles.
- Initial altitude: Capuliyoc, approximately 2,945 m / 9,662 feet.
- Final altitude: Playa Rosalina, approximately 1,500 m / 4,921 feet.
- Difficulty: Moderate, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Accommodation: Camp, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
Highlight of the day: Full rise from the Apurimac River and first view of Choquequirao from Marampata.
After breakfast we will cross the bridge over the Apurímac River. From this point begins one of the most constant ascents of the route.
The trail climbs through narrow curves and irregular steps. During the first hours the environment is usually warm, so it will be necessary to move calmly, drink water and protect yourself from the sun.
We will pass by Santa Rosa Baja and Santa Rosa Alta. These small rural areas offer spaces for short breaks before continuing to Marampata.
The ascent can feel long. this day demands patience: it’s not about walking fast, it’s about keeping a steady pace. As we gain altitude, the temperature decreases and new views of the canyon appear.
When we arrive in Marampata we will have lunch and we will see for the first time part of the archaeological complex of Choquequirao on the other side of the mountain.
In the afternoon we will walk approximately two more hours to the camping sector next to Choquequirao. At the end of the day, the clouds can move between the slopes and, hopefully, it will be possible to observe condors over the canyon.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Motorized transport is not used.
- Distance: Approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles.
- Initial Altitude: Playa Rosalina, approximately 1,500 m / 4,921 feet.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Earth, steps, stone and sectors exposed to the sun.
- Accommodation: Camp near Choquequirao.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Choquequirao – Paso Choquequirao – Pincha Unuyoc – Río Blanco – Maizal
Highlight of the day: Guided tour of Choquequirao, descent towards Río Blanco and strong ascent to Maizal.
After breakfast we will enter the main sectors of Choquequirao. Our guide will explain the organization of its squares, enclosures, terraces, canals and ceremonial areas.
Choquequirao is divided into several sectors distributed on slopes and platforms. Due to its extension, walking it involves climbing and lowering steps. The complex is known for its platforms and for the representations of flames built with clear stones on its walls.
After the visit we will start the road to Machu Picchu. We will cross the Choquequirao pass and descend towards Pincha Unuyoc, a set of terraces and canals located on a warmer climate slope.
We will continue down to Río Blanco. Depending on the safety conditions and the water level, we can refresh ourselves in an authorized area. You should not enter the river without the approval of the guide.
From Río Blanco will begin a steep ascent of approximately 1,200 meters to Maizal. This stretch has steep curves, little shade in some sectors and a slope that requires managing energy well.
Maizal is a basic camp located on a hillside. The facilities are simple, but their position allows you to contemplate the valley and rest away from large towns.
This is usually the hardest day of the route.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Motorized transport is not used.
- Distance: Approximately 18 km / 11.2 miles.
- Initial altitude: Choquequirao, approximately 3,050 m / 10.07 ft.
- Final Altitude: Maizal, approximately 3,000 m / 9,843 feet.
- Difficulty: Very high, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Stone, land, steep slopes and possible wet sectors.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Maizal – Mines of La Victoria – Abra San Juan – Yanama – Santa Teresa
Highlight of the day: Arrival at the Abra San Juan, highest point of the program, and transition to the jungle eyebrow.
After breakfast we will begin the last great ascent of the route. We will pass near the old mines of La Victoria, where traces of the mining activity of the area can still be observed.
The road continues to the Abra San Juan. As we gain altitude, the air will be cooler and the passage will become slower. Some sections have loose stone, uneven soil and sectors exposed to the wind.
We will reach approximately 4,130 meters above sea level, the highest point of this hike. From here you can open views towards the mountains of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
After a pause we will begin the descent towards Yanama. The trail can present mud and moisture, especially after rain.
In Yanama we will say goodbye to the arrieros and the horse team. Then we will board a vehicle to continue on the road to Santa Teresa, passing through mountain sectors and humid forest areas.
When we arrive at Santa Teresa we can rest. The entry into the hot springs of Cocalmayo and its transport are not part of the base price, but can be coordinated according to operating conditions.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Hike to Yanama and tourist vehicle from Yanama to Santa Teresa.
- Total reference distance: The original data of 27 km combines walking sections and routes by vehicle.
- Initial altitude: Maizal, approximately 3,000 m / 9,843 feet.
- Final Altitude: Saint Teresa, approximately 1,550 to 1,600 m / 5,085 to 5,249 feet.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Mountain trail, stone, earth and possible sectors with mud.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Walk by the river and railways to Aguas Calientes.
After breakfast we will board a vehicle to Hydroelectric. The route takes approximately 40 minutes, although it can vary due to the road conditions.
In Hydroelectric we will have lunch and we will organize the luggage before starting the trek to Aguas Calientes.
The trail advances along the railway tracks and the river. The terrain is mostly flat, but there are stones, sleepers, bridges and irregular areas that require attention.
The vegetation changes clearly: we will find trees, ferns, wet climate plants and sectors covered by shade. Birds and butterflies can also be observed.
After about three hours we will arrive in Aguas Calientes. We will settle in a three star category hotel with private room and bathroom.
Those who wish to zip line in Santa Teresa must apply in advance. This activity can change the schedule of the day and is subject to availability, weather and safety conditions.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Santa Teresa to Hydroelectric Vehicle.
- Distance: Approximately 10 to 11 km / 6.2 to 6.8 miles.
- Initial altitude: Saint Teresa, approximately 1,550 m / 5,085 feet.
- Final Altitude: Aguas Calientes, approximately 2,040 m / 6,693 feet.
- Difficulty: Moderate, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Flat road, stone, gravel and sections next to the railway.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Highlight of the day: Guided tour of Machu Picchu and return by train to the Sacred Valley.
After breakfast we will go to the access of Machu Picchu. The promotion can be made by bus or walking, depending on the service contracted.
The entry will be made in the schedule and circuit indicated on the ticket. Machu Picchu currently uses three general circuits, divided into different routes. Each ticket allows you to travel only the printed route and does not authorize the free change to other circuits.
Our guide will accompany the group for approximately two hours and explain the sectors included in the assigned circuit. The places traveled may vary because not all routes pass through the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Condor, the Casa del Inca or the terrace of classical photography.
Routes to Machu Picchu Mountain, Huayna Picchu, Intipunku or Inca Bridge require specific tickets. Intipunku and Puente Inca operate only on authorized high season dates and should not be considered free access.
After the visit we will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a transport will take us back to Cusco.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Optional Bus Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu, train to Ollantaytambo and tourist transport to Cusco.
- Guided tour: Approximately 2 hours, depending on the circuit.
- Hot Water Altitude: Approximately 2,040 m / 6,693 feet.
- Difficulty: Moderate, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Climate: Tempered, humid and variable.
- Meals: Breakfast, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- End of service: Cusco.
ick-up and Return
The pickup is made from hotels located within the operating area of Cusco. When the vehicle cannot enter, a close meeting point will be established. The exact schedule is confirmed during the information talk.
Pick-up and Return
Transportation from Ollantaytambo usually ends at a central point in Cusco or in hotels with vehicle access, depending on the contracted service and the distribution of passengers.
Luggage
We recommend leaving the big bags in the hotel in Cusco. The passenger must only carry the necessary baggage for six days. Documents, money, medications, cameras and delicate objects must remain in the personal backpack.
Payments and Changes
A down payment is required to purchase tickets, train tickets, accommodation and other services with limited quotas. A portion of the payment may be non-refundable because tickets and tickets issued are subject to third-party policies. The balance must be paid before the start of the tour, on the date indicated on the confirmation.
Pick-up and Return
After the visit, the passenger must return to Aguas Calientes and show up at the railway station as in advance on their ticket. A last minute reservation may be possible, but we cannot guarantee the requested circuit, schedule, train or hotel. When the booking is made on short notice, the passenger agrees that less convenient schedules, different circuits or additional nights may apply.
Information about the accommodation
Camps
The camps are installed in authorized areas or spaces managed by residents.
They are included:
- Shop for two passengers.
- Basic mat, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Dining tent, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Tables and chairs, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Campaign cooking, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Basic restrooms depending on location.
The camps of Playa Rosalina, Choquequirao and Maizal have limited facilities. There may be insects, humidity, animal noise and strong temperature changes.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
The last night takes place in a three-star hotel.
The standard service considers:
- Double or double room.
- The confirmed room includes a private bathroom, subject to the selected accommodation category.
- Hot water is generally available according to the standards and operating conditions of the confirmed accommodation.
- Bed linen, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Breakfast according to the hotel schedule.
- Single rooms and superior categories require additional payment.
Transport information
The program combines several types of transport:
- Tourist vehicle from Cusco to Capuliyoc.
- Cargo horses between Capuliyoc and Yanama.
- Vehicle from Yanama to Santa Teresa.
- Transportation from Santa Teresa to Hydroelectric.
- Hydroelectric Hike to Aguas Calientes.
- Optional bus to Machu Picchu.
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Tourist vehicle from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
The roads between Yanama, Santa Teresa and Hidroelectrica are mountain routes. Times can change due to rain, maintenance, traffic or landslides.
Travel restrictions
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt roads and rail services in Peru.
Where there is prior information, Peceros Agency Travel may advance transfers, modify departure points, change schedules or apply an alternative route.
In circumstances that prevent safe operation, the service may be suspended. Any decision will be coordinated by our operations team.
External expenses arising from road closures, strikes, railway cancellations or additional nights are not included, unless expressly indicated.
Lost objects
Each passenger is responsible for their belongings.
Before you retire from vehicles, shops, restaurants, hotels and rest areas, check that you are taking with you:
- Carry the original passport used for the reservation, as it may be required for identity and ticket verification.
- Keep a charged phone available for operational messages, tickets and emergency contact.
- Carry a reasonable amount of cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases and services that do not accept cards.
- Cameras, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Carry any prescribed personal medication in an accessible part of your daypack.
- Use a small, comfortable backpack for documents, water, clothing layers and personal essentials.
- Bring the necessary chargers for your phone, camera and other electronic devices.
- Clothing, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
The company cannot guarantee the recovery of forgotten items.
Physical condition
This hike has a high level of demand.
It is not recommended for people without preparation, with recent injuries or with limitations that prevent prolonged ascents and descents.
Older adults should have their doctor’s approval.
People with heart, respiratory, circulatory, neurological, or joint diseases should get a medical evaluation before booking.
Bad height
The route exceeds 4,000 meters.
Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, lack of appetite, and tiredness.
The passenger must immediately inform the guide when inconvenience. Hiding symptoms can increase the risk.
Pregnancy
We do not recommend this walk during pregnancy due to altitude, duration, terrain and distance from medical centers.
Climate
Rains can produce mud, river floods, detachments and temporary closures.
The guide can modify the itinerary when a section represents risk.
Adventure activities
Tyrolean and other external activities are operated by independent suppliers.
The passenger must accept their conditions, use the equipment provided and verify that their insurance covers the activity.
Archaeological restrictions
It is prohibited:
- Get off the authorized trails.
- Touch or climb on walls.
- Remove stones or plants.
- Using drones without authorization.
- Enter with prohibited items.
- Use rubber protector-free canes in archaeological areas.
- Disobey the indications of control staff.
Important information
This program concentrates a route that some operations perform in seven or eight days. Therefore, several stages are long and demanding.
Before booking, realistically consider your preparation, previous experience, and walking ability for several consecutive days.
The fatigue, the heat of the canyon, the cold in the steps, the basic camps and the changes of climate are part of the crossing.
Who arrives prepared finds a route with very few parallels in Cusco: two large Inca centers, mountain passes, deep valleys and six days of continuous progress to Machu Picchu.
Inclusions
- A pre-tour briefing with the main route, schedule, equipment and safety information.
- Review of the route, luggage and operating conditions. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Pick-up from the stated hotel area or a nearby coordinated point when vehicle access is restricted.
- Tourist transportation in a vehicle selected according to the group size and route conditions.
- Professional guide for route coordination, assistance and interpretation of the main sites.
- Entrance ticket for the attraction specified in the booking confirmation.
- Breakfast at a selected local establishment, according to the itinerary.
- Lunch at a selected local restaurant; dietary requests must be reported in advance.
- Dinner according to the program and the service available at the overnight location.
- Cook and kitchen equipment. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Rariers and cargo horses to Yanama. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Camping accommodation and equipment according to the confirmed trek program.
- Basic mat. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Tables and chairs. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Accommodation in the category and location confirmed for the tour.
- Double or double private room in Aguas Calientes. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Train service according to the schedule and category confirmed in the reservation.
- A basic first-aid kit carried by the guide for initial assistance during the route.
- Emergency oxygen for initial assistance at altitude; it does not replace professional medical care.
- Operational assistance before and during the tour for the services included in the booking.
- Meals not specifically indicated in the itinerary, including personal orders and upgrades.
- Sleeping bag rental unless it appears as included in the reservation.
- Hiking poles.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Inflatable mattress.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Entrance and personal expenses at the hot springs when the visit is optional.
- Optional adventure activities that must be booked and paid separately.
- Adventure activities not indicated.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Entry to Huayna Picchu.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Entrance fees not expressly listed as included; these must be paid separately when required.
- Train Vistadome.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Single room.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Bottled water, snacks and additional drinks purchased during the route.
- Personal refrigerations.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Tips for guides, drivers, cooks or support staff; gratuities are voluntary.
- Personal travel insurance, including medical care, evacuation and trip interruption coverage.
- Safe for adventure activities.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Expenses caused by delays, strikes, collapses or changes outside the company.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Personal photography or recording equipment.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Horse service, which is hired and paid directly to the local provider when available.
Upgrades
- Sleeping bag; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Pair of hiking poles; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Inflatable mattress; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Emergency horse during permitted sections; Reference Price: Consult
- Extra baggage carried by horse; Reference Price: Consult
- Bus Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu, round trip; Reference Price: Check current rate
- Entry to Cocalmay; Reference Price: Direct payment at destination
- Local transportation to Cocalmayo; Reference Price: Additional payment
- Zipline in Santa Teresa; Reference Price: Consult
- Train Vistadome; Reference Price: From US$ 50 additional
- Single room in Aguas Calientes; Reference Price: Consult
- Optional additional mountain guide; Reference Price: Consult
- Personalized Private Diet; Reference Price: Consult
- Individual portable oxygen; Reference Price: Consult
Prices for trains, buses, tickets and external activities can change without notice.
Discounts
- Students from 18 to 25 years old: discount of US$ 30. The college card must be physical and contain photography, full student name, university name and printed expiration date. A copy will be requested before the booking is confirmed. Acceptance depends on validation of the appropriate authority.
- Children under 18: discount of US$ 30. A legible copy of the passport must be sent when booking.
- Under 11 years old: discount of US$ 40. A legible copy of the passport must be sent when booking.
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PeruRail Trains Comparison
| Feature | Expedition | Vistadome | Observatory | Hiram Bingham |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | Standard Panoramic | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Full Panoramic (Roof & Walls) | Large Classic Windows |
| Seating Layout | Seats facing each other with table | Leather seats, facing each other | Leather seats, spacious | Plush armchairs, elegant dining tables |
| Food & Drinks | Available for purchase | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Light snack & non-alcoholic drinks | Gourmet Lunch/Dinner & Open Bar |
| Entertainment | Ambient Andean Music | Cultural Dance & Fashion Show (Return) | Live Music & Cultural Show | Live Band in Bar Car |
| Special Features | - | - | Access to open-air balcony car | Includes bus, citadel ticket & guide |
| Estimated Price (One-way) | Desde $65 USD | Desde $85 USD | Desde $110 USD | Desde $490 USD |
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