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Panoramic view of the 'lost' Inca ruins of Choquequirao - Inca Rivers Trek - Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Peru
Panoramic view of the 'lost' Inca ruins of Choquequirao  | Yuri Zvezdny
Explore remote mountain scenery along the Inca Rivers trek to Machu Picchu - Inca Rivers Trek - Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Peru
Explore remote mountain scenery along the Inca Rivers trek to Machu Picchu  | Lauren Boler
A trip to the Sacred Valley is not complete without a visit to the Maras salt mines - Inca Rivers Trek - Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Peru
A trip to the Sacred Valley is not complete without a visit to the Maras salt mines  | Mark Tipple
Local woman, Cusco - Inca Rivers Trek - Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Peru
Local woman, Cusco  | Richard I'Anson

Inca Rivers Trek - Choquequirao to Machu Picchu

A remote trek to the the lost ruins of Choquequirao with rare views of Machu Picchu

Peru
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 4 reviews

14 Days from

$4190 USD

Trip Code: ICT
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain - additional permit cost
$90 USD
Hotel only Single Supplement
$520 USD
Single Supplement
$630 USD
Duration
  • 14 Days
Activities
  • 6 day trek
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 8 nights hotel
  • 5 nights camping
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 9 Lunches
  • 13 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

31kg of CO2-e PP per day

(428kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Explore the remote Inca citadel of Choquequirao, one of the Andes’ most impressive and least visited archaeological sites
  • Trek between the Apurimac and Urubamba rivers across the wild Vilcabamba Range on a rarely travelled mountain route
  • Experience a rare and dramatic view of Machu Picchu from the Inca site of Llaqtapata
  • Discover Machu Picchu with a guided visit after completing the trek
  • Acclimatise while exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley, including ancient salt pans and Inca terraces

Overview

This remote Inca River trek traverses the rugged Vilcabamba Range between the Apurimac and Urubamba rivers, linking two of Peru’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. Beginning with acclimatisation in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, the journey leads into dramatic canyons, cloud forest, and high mountain passes on a rarely travelled route. Time is set aside to explore the remarkable ruins of 15th Century Choquequirao before continuing toward Llaqtapata for a seldom-seen perspective over Machu Picchu. Fully supported camping, expert local guides, and a carefully paced itinerary make this a challenging yet deeply rewarding trek through the final stronghold of the Inca Empire.

Itinerary

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Arriving in Cusco, you are transferred to your hotel in the historic centre, where the altitude and mountain setting immediately define the experience. The city’s narrow streets and stonework reflect its Inca foundations, layered with colonial history. The afternoon is free to rest or explore at your own pace, allowing time to adjust before meeting your guide in the evening to prepare for the journey ahead. In the early evening, meet your guide at the hotel at 6pm for a comprehensive trip briefing outlining the journey ahead. Accommodation: Abittare Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

Today is spent exploring Cusco and its surrounding archaeological sites with a guided city tour. Walk through the historic centre to admire finely constructed Inca stonework alongside grand colonial churches, including a visit to Koricancha, once the Golden Temple of the Sun. A short drive takes us to the impressive hilltop ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay, dramatically set above the city. The afternoon allows time to explore independently, taking in the rhythm of the city. Accommodation: Abittare Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Leaving Cusco, we travel to the Chinchero Plateau to explore this important Inca settlement, known for its massive stone walls and sweeping valley views. We continue to the circular agricultural terraces of Moray before visiting the Maras salt pans from a designated viewpoint overlooking thousands of salt pools. A scenic downhill walk follows a rarely used path into the Sacred Valley before driving to Ollantaytambo. The afternoon is free to enjoy this atmospheric town. Accommodation: Sol Ollantaytambo Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Today’s walk moves through rural Andean landscapes, where farmland, lakes and open pastures stretch across the valley. Snow-capped peaks, including Pitusiray and Sahuasiray, remain in view throughout the day. Passing through small communities, the connection between people and landscape is clear, with farming and herding continuing as part of daily life. The walk offers a quieter perspective of the Sacred Valley. Accommodation: Sol Naturaa Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

A gentle walk through agricultural terraces near Urco highlights the Inca understanding of farming and seasonal cycles. At the Inkariy Museum, the broader story of Peru’s ancient civilisations unfolds through detailed displays and artefacts. Later, a visit to Lamay provides a closer look at local life, from food preparation to small-scale industries that support the community. The experience offers a meaningful cultural context before the trekking phase begins. This community visit supports ongoing sustainable tourism initiatives in the region. Accommodation: Sol Naturaa Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

Travelling north from the Sacred Valley, the landscape becomes more dramatic as you approach the Apurimac Canyon. Stops at Tarawasi and Sayhuite reveal lesser-visited archaeological sites, each reflecting different aspects of Inca engineering. From Capuliyoc, the trek begins with expansive views across the canyon, descending toward the Apurimac River. Camp at Chikisca sits close to the river, marking the transition into a more remote and rugged environment. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

An early start sees us cross the river before beginning a long ascent through changing vegetation zones. After a picnic lunch, the trail continues through cloud forest with ever-expanding canyon views. We arrive at the vast archaeological complex of Choquequirao, exploring terraces and ceremonial spaces including the famed Llamas of the Sun. Camp is set near the site at Marampata. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The morning is spent exploring Choquequirao in more detail, where restored terraces, ceremonial areas and living spaces reflect its importance within the Inca network. In the afternoon, the trail climbs to Choquequirao Pass before descending through cloud forest rich in plant life. The route leads to Pinchiunuyoc, another terraced site set above the valley. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We descend steeply to the Yuracmayo River before beginning a sustained climb to the panoramic campsite at Maizal. From here, sweeping views extend across the Yanama and Yurahmayo gorges towards the Vilcabamba Range. This dramatic viewpoint marks one of the most scenic camps of the trek. Sunset views from camp are particularly striking. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The day begins with visits to historic mining sites, reflecting both pre-Columbian and colonial activity in the region. The trail then climbs to a high pass before descending toward Yanama. This remote village sits beneath Mt Pumasillo, offering a glimpse into life in a less-visited part of the Andes, far from established trekking routes. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Leaving Yanama, you travel by road toward Machu Picchu Hydroelectric, following a route that connects remote mountain regions to the Sacred Valley corridor. From here, a train journey brings you to Machu Picchu Village, where the landscape shifts from rugged highlands to the edge of the cloud forest. If you prefer to hike, you can also choose to go on a soft hike through the railways that lead you to Machu Picchu Village. Overnight: El Mapi by Inkaterra or similar

Meals: B,L,D

An early start allows time to explore Machu Picchu with a guided visit through the citadel’s key sectors. After the tour, there is time to absorb the atmosphere of this remarkable site before returning by train to Ollantaytambo. We then drive back to Cusco, arriving late evening depending on train schedules. Accommodation: Abittare Hotel or similar NB: Depending on train schedules, we may arrive into Cusco very late at night. Overnight: Hotel Abittare or similar *Important: To ensure the protection and conservation of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and enhance the visitor experience, several restrictions and regulations are in place. The site features three main circuits divided into ten predetermined routes. Visitors are limited to a maximum of four hours within the site to reduce congestion and preserve the ruins, and admission is not permitted after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must be accompanied by a guide. Despite these restrictions, World Expeditions endeavours to ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling Machu Picchu experience. OPTIONAL HUAYNA PICCHU CLIMB OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN CLIMB - For the adventurous, you can purchase a permit for either the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (please enquire for costs). Choosing this option means forgoing the guided tour of Machu Picchu, which is non-refundable and non-transferable. Huayna Picchu, with its narrow trails, reaches an elevation of 2,963m, while Machu Picchu Mountain, with a wider path, peaks at 3,082m. Both climbs are steep, slippery, exposed, and involve vertiginous drops, requiring a minimum of 3 hours return. Note that these climbs are not guided. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, and a waiver form must be signed before purchase. Both permits are limited and sell out quickly, so please contact us if interested.

Meals: B,L

A free day in Cusco provides time to rest or explore further, whether visiting markets, museums or simply taking in the atmosphere of the city. The slower pace offers a chance to reflect on the journey through the Andes. Accommodation: Abittare Hotel or similar

Meals: B

After breakfast, you are transferred to Cusco airport for your onward flight.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

2 scheduled departures between 21 Jul 2027 and 25 Aug 2027.

  • Departs 21 Jul 2027 – ends 3 Aug 2027 (14 days)
  • Departs 25 Aug 2027 – ends 7 Sep 2027 (14 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 6 dinners
  • Machu Picchu entrance fee
  • Sightseeing and site entrance fees as listed
  • Accommodation in comfortable hotels
  • Group camping equipment
  • Private internal transportation
  • Airport transfers (Day 1 and Day 14)
  • Expert bilingual guides
  • Porters to carry personal gear on the trek
  • The use of a gear pack including sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket, thermarest
  • Filtered drinking water
  • Group medical kit

Not included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as beverages, laundry costs or phone calls
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any items not listed as included

About your guide

Our guides are bilingual and our treks are conducted in English.

Reviews (4)

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Given the hike was a wilderness adventure, the service, food and support was 5 stars.

David|QLD, Australia
24 Sep 2025
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A challenging hike but it was worth the effort. Itinerary was good and trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu was intense. Very steep going up AND down - at times the up and up felt like it was never going to end! Loved the descents though, dust and all! The scenery along the way, especially through the cloud forests was beautiful and isolated. I am not a keen camper but the camping on this trip was amazing! The campgrounds throughout the trip were phenomenal and the most surreal was camping under the stars, on the Inca terraces of Choquequirao, with dominating mountains in front of you and river deep down below. Having stayed at some pretty luxurious hotels, this campsite beats them all! It was simply too stunning for words.

F. Kwok|Earlwood, NSW Australia
13 Aug 2017
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Very professionally run trip. Food was amazing which really added to the enjoyment of the trip. The crew was helpful and friendly, scenery spectacular!

K. Johnson|Helensburgh, NSW
5 Aug 2017
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John|QLD, Australia
16 Sep 2025

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us
Our camps along the Inca trail are in gorgeous locations

Camping in Peru - Equipment

Our camping equipment is of proven quality and designed for the conditions you will experience in Peru. We provide tents on a twin share basis with plenty of personal space and storage for your luggage. A number of these tents are available as single tents at a supplementary charge. A private toilet tent will be erected at each campsite, however if campsites have ablution blocks, we use them instead. We also provide a kit bag including a sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping mat, fibre filled jacket and a head torch.

Our friendly chefs are keen to show off the best of the Andean region of Peru

Camping in Peru - Meals

Breakfast and dinner are served in our communal mess tent with folding chairs, tables and a solar light. Lunch is usually picnic style and is prepared by one of the cooks who accompany us. We provide three hearty meals on all our treks in Peru. The mess tent is also available for communal use in the afternoon and evening.

Sleep like a baby after your adventures in Cusco

Hotels

While in Lima or Cusco, you will typically stay at a traditional hotel. These properties specialise in integrating the characteristics of each destination such as architecture, decoration, gastronomy and music to create an authentic experience for our travellers. They are centrally located and come with good service and comfort.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings. 

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run. 

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route. 

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This is a fully guided trek led by experienced local guides, supported by a full trekking crew.

This is a challenging trek with long days, steep ascents and descents, and remote terrain, best suited to fit and experienced hikers.

The highest point reached is approximately 3,900m during the crossing between Maizal and Yanama.

Yes. Prior multi-day trekking experience and good fitness are strongly recommended due to the length, elevation changes, and remoteness of the route.

Accommodation includes hotels in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, camping during the trek, and a hotel stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo.

Yes. All required permits and Machu Picchu entry tickets are arranged in advance and included as part of the guided itinerary.

  • Fully supported camping trek with experienced local guides, cooks and porters throughout
  • Included trek pack with sleeping bag, fibre-filled jacket and Thermarest to reduce what you need to bring
  • Comprehensive safety systems including satellite communications, altitude chamber and group medical kit
  • Extra acclimatisation days built in while exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
  • Sustainability matters with low-impact travel that treads lightly and connects meaningfully

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