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8D - 7N
4130
8
Group
Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold” and is located above the bustling Apurimac River which is fueled from the glaciers. It is surrounded by towering snowcapped peaks and sits on a high ridge. Choquequirao is a secluded and seldomly visited ¨Lost City of the Incas¨. The Inca archaeological site is considered, the sister of Machu Picchu, it is not well known and 3 times larger than Machu Picchu. It was one of the last safe havens for those Incas who continued to resist the Spanish after the conquest. The site was eventually abandoned and became covered by dense vegetation. On this unique trek, we will walk on Inca highways, hike through high Andean landscapes with breathtaking glaciers, descend into deep canyons where the condors fly and pass through diverse cloud forest ecosystems.
You will also catch glimpses of native wildlife such as Andean Condors, various birds, native flora and fauna, orchids and much more. We are specialists in this incredible area and offer the most frequent departures with experienced guides. We are the only company who takes you to the hot springs of CONOC after the Choquequirao Trek, and explores the unique Inca ruins of Saywite. This incredible trek also takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage site and 7 New Wonder of the World: Machu Picchu!
Pickup will be at 4am from there we will drive for around 4 hours to Capuliyoc, here there are impressive views of the Apurimac Canyon and snow capped mountain peaks. Later walk Playa Rosalinas for lunch. In the afternoon hike for 2 hours to our campsite at Santa Rosa.
After breakfast we ascend for 2 hours to Maranpata and have the first view of Choquequirao! Walk for 2 hours to reach the Choquequirao Archeological site (3,110 meters/10,120 feet). Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our chef. Explore the Inca site featuring the religious area, the observatory area, and llama terraced sections. See a breathtaking sunset over the valley and mountains. Finally, we return to our campsite for dinner.
Today’s adventure starts around 6:30 a.m. with a 40-minute hike to reach the first pass of Choquekiraw at 3,500m/11,400ft. Take in all the varieties of orchids and flowers, which famously always bloom here. Travel on a zigzag path for about an hour and a half before arriving at the Inca site of Pinchauniyoc. Thought to be an Inca agricultural site, and also a place to rest when travelling to Machu Picchu. After explanation by the guide, continue for another hour and a half until we reach the River, Calle Rio Blanco (1,750m/5,741ft). Bring mosquito repellent for this segment. Walk 4-hours until we reach the campsite at Maizal. The site has incredible views of the Andean mountains.
This morning start at 7.00am and walk for 3 hours through sub-tropical vegetation on parts of the original Inca Trail. Visit ancient silver mines before reaching Victoria pass (4,170m/13,700ft). See the great canyons, the spectacular snowcapped mountains of Sacsara, Qoriwanachina, and Pumasillo. Descend to Yanama (3,650m/12,037ft), where we rest and sleep for the night.
An early start as we have 9 hours of walking today. Hike to the highest point of the trek: Yanama pass (4,670m/15,407ft). The views will take your breath away with snowcapped mountains and impressive valleys. Next, we walk for 2 hours to the campsite at Colpapampa (2,870m/9,470ft).
This morning 3-hour hike through the lush tropical rainforest with tropical fruit bearing trees, coffee and cacao trees, and fruit plantations with blooming orchids and plenty of different birds to observe. We arrive at fabulous Lucmabamaba for lunch with free time to rest.
In the afternoon, tour a coffee plantation, located near the camp. Learn about different types of coffee beans. There are also fields of tomatoes and avocados ready to pick which will be used by our chef to prepare dinner in the evening.
Later, take the local transport for 30mins to the natural hot springs at Cocalmayo, bathe and soak your tired muscles in the natural hot springs. When we return to camp, the chef will have cooked his specialty with our fresh produce from the day.
After a lovely breakfast, continue for 3 hours along the ancient Inca Trail to the Puncuyoc Pass (2,700m/8,858ft). Along the way, see amazing views of unique valleys and fruit plantations. Arrive to Llactapata Inca Ruins, located in front of Machu Picchu, with views of Huyana Picchu, Machu Picchu and the Aobamba Canyon.
Descend for 2 hours to the hydroelectric plant, and have lunch. The last part of our trek is walking to Aguas Calientes through Machu Picchu National Park. Feel the energy of Machu Picchu as we get closer. Then, we sleep in a bed in a comfortable hotel.
This morning get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical sight and not something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a tour of Machu Picchu, which takes around two hours. See many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel on the tour.
When you have had your fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes. At Aguas Calientes have lunch in one of the restaurants. (lunch not included). Depending on your train departure time, there may be some time for shopping, or sightseeing.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 7:00pm.
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 2 to 8 people | $ 977 USD per person |
***This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs. We will provide you a duffel bag you can put your things in.
***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.
Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Choquequirao 7 day trek to Machu Picchu.
We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments).
The Briefing will be the night before the trek at 6pm in our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210, Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
Absolutely! During the Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.
FIRST, to book your Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, train tickets without the following information:
It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address samtravelperu@gmail.com.
Yes, but with some restrictions and fees. Once the tickets for Machu Picchu have been bought the government does not allow any changes so we can’t change any departure dates. Tickets are not transferable nor refundable. Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date. If you cancel your Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, the deposit is not refundable at all!
DEFINITELY! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number you sent to us to book your Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, other entrances and reservations. They will check your passport when you enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and to board the train.
In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us a COPY of your old passport to secure your permit, and we can change it when we have a COPY of your new passport number or updated your name for a fee of $25 USD per person. We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.
If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you. You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to be to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or the train. If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter, Machu Picchu or get on the train.
Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.
The weather on the Choquequirao trek exhibits the largest diversity among the trek. Temperature is proportional to altitude, really hot temperatures in the low-lying valleys varying from 25°C to 40°C, depending on the seasons and in the high elevations could temperatures varying from 0 °C up to 19°C.
In Cusco area the rainy season starts in September but increase between January and March, while the May–August part of the year is characterized by strong insolation, dry weather conditions cold nights and mornings, which is almost the exact reverse, in terms of insolation, to the coast climate.
This Trek goes through the Andes and the weather conditions in the Andes is very changeable, because of that we highly recommend be prepared for hot temperatures and could temperatures.
For some visitors, the first hours in Cusco can be summarized as: shortness of breath, a discomfort in the body, dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, even vomiting. As great connoisseurs of natural medicine, the Incas used coca leaves to counteract soroche, quechua for high-altitude sickness.
If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. It is advisable to take it really easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.
How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.
No one knew better the effects of high altitude than indigenous peoples. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2 and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. Try drinking coca tea, which is found in the lobbies of most hotels in Cusco.
The maximum group size is 10 people. Our groups are usually between 2-6 people. Orange Nation specializes in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provides a personalized service.
We will give you a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next 8 days at your. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/14p. Your team of pack horses will carry your duffel bag, food and camping gear. PLEASE NOTE: You will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day as the horses will always be ahead of the group. During the Choquequirao trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient.
The trail is not easy but you do not need to be an athlete to do it. It helps to be relatively fit for the trek, and obviously the better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy the trek. If you do not exercise regularly, it is advisable to do extra walking, hiking or some kind of aerobic activity in the months leading up to your trip. This trek is from moderate to difficult level.
Orange Nation Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent with a toilet and seat. Check out the picture, which illustrates how we set up our camping toilet on the trek by using this link: picture of toilet tent. Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite. At night if you need to use the toilet it is accessible and clean.
In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, Orange Nation Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required).
OF COURSE! We will drop you at your hotel! If you booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you there as well. If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, we wil pick you up there!
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the staff (and their families) who will take care of you during the tour. It inspires them to give better service and is a major part of the tourism industry. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you feel appropriate, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip.
Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator for that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.
As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra pack horse which will carry up to 7 kgs or 14lbs including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
4130
8D - 7N
8
Hike, Bus, Train
We're a family-owned Travel Company and Tour Operator located in the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco, Peru. We create individually customized tours and treks to Peru's most iconic attractions, as well as untouched, off the beaten track locations high in the Andes Mountains.
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Excellent quality at the best price
Quiet Andean night
Unique and little explored routes
Experience the culture up close
Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.
The Short Inca Trail with José was a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience. In the days leading up to our trek, he was highly communicative and provided all the details we needed (packing lists, expectations, timing) so everything…
Hace 3 meses
After researching extensively, I chose a Peruvian travel company to guide our Sacred Valley adventure for my husband and I. We booked a full day beginning with Maras and Moray, Ollantaytambo, lunch and Pisac.…
Hace 2 meses
We did the Lares Trek with Orange Nation/ Sam's travel and would highly recommend it. Lares has far less tourists than the inca trail (we saw about 4 groups over the two days initial hike up to the 4800m high point). The views are…
Hace 3 semanas
I had extremely high expectations and they were blown away! Our guide Rolando was an absolute legend. You can tell he is looked up to by all the other guides in the industry. He speaks multiple languages, connects deeply with each hiker,…
Hace 5 meses
Two of us did the 2 days Lares trek + 1 day Inca Trail, with a tour of Machu Picchu. We were blown away by the friendliness, knowledge, and kindness showed by both of our guides - Jorge and Carlos. We booked a group tour, but this ended up…
Hace 3 meses
Me and my friend did the 4 day Inca trail with Sam travel Peru, our tour guide was Juan Carlos, he has been doing tours to matchu pichu for over 20 years and his knowledge and expertise was amazing. I would recommend to anyone to as for him…
Hace 5 meses
We did the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Our guide was Ray and Michael. It was really great - Ray was amazing and was really passionate about the place and told us loads of amazing stories. We had the perfect weather and even the packed…
Hace 3 meses
Amazing trip across 3 days with Jose! A massive thanks and shout out to our guide, he enriched the entire experience with his massive background of history of the culture and the land…
Hace 5 meses
Me and my Wife did the 5 day Inca trail with Sam Travel in April 2026. Our guide Henry and the incredible team of Porters and our Chef made the trip one of a lifetime. I cannot say enough good things about this group as they went over and…
Hace 3 meses
We were short on time during our trip to Peru, so we decided to do the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Everything was very well organised. We were collected from our hotel and taken to the train, where our journey to the trail began. The first part of the hike was a bit challenging, but it was absolutely worth it. The views of the mountains and the surrounding nature were breathtaking. Reaching the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time was incredible. After the tour, we were taken back by train and dropped off at our hotel. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone visiting Peru, especially if you're short on time but still want to experience the Inca Trail. I also highly recommend our guide, Antonio. He was brilliant, incredibly knowledgeable, and shared so much interesting information about Machu Picchu, its history, and the local flora throughout the trek. He also allowed us to take breaks whenever we needed them.
Written August 6, 2026
I did the Rainbow Mountain tour, and I was the only one in the group who walked up the mountain. My guide Henry stayed with me the whole way, encouraging me and taking lots of photos along the trail. A truly great experience.
Written July 31, 2026
We had an amazing time with Henry our guide on our trek to Rainbow Mountian. With an early pick we left Cusco for the long car ride to Rainbow mountain with a quick stop for breakfast. When we got there Henry helped us reserve horses (highly recommend) and we started towards the mountain. The terrain, snow capped mountains and sediment settlement are a treat to see but it is worth the 10 extra minutes to the top. Because we had the horses we were able to take a long time at the top to take in all of the beautiful wonders. Henry allowed us time to explore and gave us wonderful information about how this beautiful wonder was formed. We definitely got more than our money's worth out of this gem!
Written July 29, 2026
Carlos Estrada was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable and organized! Made our trip easy.
Written July 19, 2026
I had an amazing experience touring Sacred Valley and Machu Pichu with our tour guide, Carlos Estrada. He was quite helpful and knew a lot about everything. I recommend him and this tour!
Written July 19, 2026
Had an awesome day out to Rainbow Mountain with our guide Cesar Siccos! He was full of encouragement and positive energy and we made it to the top! Thank you, Cesar!
Written July 16, 2026
Following a great 2-day Inca Trail experience with SAM Travel, I signed up for the one-day Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley trek. Once again our group was small, just 4 people. Junior was our guide - he was friendly and knowledgeable. He seamlessly adjusted to our request for an earlier start time to beat the crowds, and also managed varying group member speeds / fitness levels well. Another positive experience with SAM Travel - highly recommend booking with them, especially if you are a solo traveler.
Written July 16, 2026
Rainbow mountain hike provided for gorgeous views, bunch of alpaca. At up to 5000 meters it provided for a healthy challenge even if the profile does not look that impressive…. Our guide - Cesar Siccos - was with us the whole way and provided the necessary support to get over the challenge. Great day out.
Written July 15, 2026
My trip to the rainbow mountain with my tour guide Siccos was incredible. Siccos was very energetic and kept our spirits high. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone.
Written July 15, 2026
