Our innovative Trekkers Wanted system matches people up who are interested in hiking the same trek in a trekking group, bringing costs down and multiplying the fun for everyone!

Trekkers Wanted is especially great for solo travelers and small groups looking to meet great new people and do a bit of trekking as part of a group. Joining an existing trekking group means you can leave that selfie stick at home (there will always be someone to take the picture for you!) and makes trekking more affordable – for everyone!

If you’re interested in hiking the Choquequirao trek as part of a group, simply browse the departure list above. When you find a group that sounds like a good fit for you, simply click the JOIN THIS TREK button to reserve your spot!

These are all confirmed departures meaning that these groups will depart no matter what, but they would love it for others to join them. 

We also have other upcoming departures besides the Choquequirao trek. Click here to check out our TREKKERS WANTED page.

The Choquequirao trek is a challenging multi-day hike in southern Peru that leads to the remote Inca ruins of Choquequirao – often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. Perched high above the Apurimac Valley, this little-known site offers a stunning setting, fewer crowds, and the chance to explore impressive Inca architecture in near solitude.

The name Choquequirao comes from the words chuqi (metal) and k’iraw (crib), usually translated as “cradle of gold.” The site is surrounded by dramatic Andean landscapes, and spotting condors soaring overhead is not uncommon. Although the ruins sit at a lower elevation than Cusco (around 3000 meters), the trek is physically demanding, with steep descents to the Apurimac River and long climbs back up.

We offer several versions of the trek, from shorter 4-day options to extended routes that connect Choquequirao with Machu Picchu in 7 or 9 days. This is one of the most rewarding hikes in Peru for those who enjoy remote trails, Inca history, and spectacular mountain scenery.

The Choquequirao treks are some of the most physically demanding routes in Peru. The terrain is steep and rugged, with long descents to the Apurimac River followed by equally long, often strenuous ascents. Elevation changes are significant (over 1000m in a single day), and there are very few flat sections.

Despite the challenges, the Choquequirao trek is not a technical hike – meaning you do not need climbing skills or special equipment – but you do need to be fit, well-acclimatized, and comfortable hiking for several hours a day on uneven mountain trails.

Shorter options like the 4-day Choquequirao trek are intense due to the quick pace and steep elevation gains/losses. Longer versions, such as the 7- or 9-day treks that continue to Machu Picchu extend the adventure through additional remote and challenging terrain.

Another challenge on the Choquequirao trek that you don’t find on other routes are heat and biting insects. As you descend all the way to the bottom of the Apurimac canyon, temperatures can reach up to 30-40ºC (86-100ºF), and you are exposed to the sun almost continuously.

In short:

• Physical fitness is essential

• Prior hiking experience is highly recommended

• Acclimatization in Cusco (or a similar altitude) for at least 3 days beforehand is important

We rate Choquequirao as one of the most challenging treks we offer—but also one of the most rewarding.

Learn more in our blog post: How Difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?

The Choquequirao trek is ideal if you enjoy remote, less-traveled trails, are physically fit, and are looking for a real challenge. It is a great option for those who want to experience impressive Inca ruins without the crowds, and who are drawn to history, archaeology, and stunning Andean scenery. You should also be comfortable with basic camping and being offline for several days.

This trek may not be the best fit if you have limited trekking experience, are unsure about hiking steep trails for multiple days, have knee issues, or if you are not well-acclimatized to high altitude. It is also not recommended if you prefer comfort-focused travel or want easier access to amenities.

If you are looking for a quieter, more adventurous alternative to the Inca Trail or other Machu Picchu tours, Choquequirao could be exactly what you are looking for. We offer several versions of this trek, from 4 to 9 days, so you can choose the one that best suits your pace and interests.

All of our Choquequirao treks are led by experienced professional guides, include an emergency horse for added safety, and are supported by a well-trained, responsible team. You will be in safe hands throughout your journey.

Not sure which Choquequirao trek is best for you? Contact our expert team and we will help you choose the right route and departure based on your fitness level, experience, and travel plans.

Not all Choquequirao treks include Machu Picchu — but some do!

Treks WITHOUT Machu Picchu

Our shorter treks, like the 4-day or 5-day Choquequirao routes, focus only on visiting the Choquequirao ruins and returning the same way. These are ideal if you want a challenging hike and a deep dive into this impressive, lesser-known Inca site.

Treks WITH Machu Picchu

If you want to visit both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu in one trip, we offer longer trek options like the 7-day or 9-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu routes, which continue through remote mountain scenery and Inca sites before arriving at Machu Picchu.

The 7-day itinerary also includes an overnight in a high Andean jungle village where you can learn about traditional fruit growing and coffee production methods, and even stay with a local family, for a real culturally immersive experience. 

All Choquequirao treks include hearty meals prepared by our trekking chef, filtered water (just bring your refillable bottle!), herbal teas, and fresh fruit snacks during the drive in our private vehicle. While trekking, all main meals are included — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — and we can cater to dietary preferences on request. Read more about food on the trail.

Accommodation includes a combination of camping and hotel stays, depending on the trek. During the trek, you will sleep in comfortable tents (2 people per 4-person tent) for added space and comfort, with foam mattresses and camping pillows provided. Read more about our camping equipment.

All necessary permits and entry tickets are covered, including entrance to Choquequirao and, if your trek includes it, entrance to Machu Picchu.

Transportation is by private vehicle, and for treks that end in Machu Picchu, your train and bus tickets are also included, as well as a hotel night and meals in Aguas Calientes.

You will be accompanied by a professional, experienced, and trilingual guide (English/Quechua/Spanish), and we always travel with an emergency horse for safety. You can count on our team for a well-organized, safe, and supportive trekking experience.

If you are looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru, 2025 is the time to go to Choquequirao. This remote Inca site has long been a hidden gem, offering stunning mountain scenery, rich history, and very few visitors.

But that is about to change!

In 2025, the long-awaited project to build a cable car to Choquequirao was officially launched. Once completed, the cable car will make the ruins much more accessible, and the goal is to bring visitor numbers up to the level of Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain.

That means the remote, untouched nature of the site — one of its biggest draws — is likely to change in the coming years.

So if you want to experience Choquequirao while it is still pristine, peaceful, and a true trekking adventure, now is the time! Trekking to Choquequirao in 2025 means you will still get to enjoy the solitude and challenge that make this such a special journey — before the crowds arrive.

Read more: Why trek Choquequirao now?