Short Itinerary
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- Day 1 – CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISCA: This incredible adventure begins at 5.00am, when the guide will pick you up at the hotel and drive for the next 4 hours in our private van to Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,407ft). Along the way, there are picturesque views of villages, spectacular valleys and snow-capped mountains
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- Day 2 – CHIKISKA CAMP- PLAYA – MARANPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO: After an early breakfast we will walk for approximately 1 hour to arrive at Playa Rosalina near the Apurimac River (1500m/4,921ft), where we will cross a typical local bridge and hike through a forest of cactus, agaves, and exotic local fruit trees.
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- Day 3 – CHOQUEQUIRAO ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX: Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible Inca ruins of Choquequirao. Your guide will explain the history and importance of the site. After the tour you will have free time to visit the many sectors of the complex like temples, terraces, palaces, the llamas’ section, and much more
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- Day 4 – MARAMPATA– COCA MASANA: After breakfast we continue our return trek with a steep descent towards the Apurimac River where Your guide will point out the beautiful flora and fauna you might have missed on your way into the Inca site, and them we will stop in chikiska for our lunch
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- Day 5 – COCA MASANA – CAPULIYOC– CUSCO: After an early breakfast you’ll get ready to return to Cusco. It’ll be a 3 hours uphill hike until you arrive at the end of the trek where we will take our private transport back towards Cusco.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISCA
This incredible adventure begins at 5.00am, when the guide will pick you up at the hotel and drive for the next 4 hours in our private van to Capuliyoc (2,850m/9,407ft). Along the way, there are picturesque views of villages, spectacular valleys and snow-capped mountains. Once at Capuliyoc, meet our horsemen and pack all of our equipment onto the horses. Carry a small daypack with the essentials you will need on the trail.
From here, we can enjoy the spectacular view of Choquequirao Inca ruins, the Apurimac canyon and the stunning snow-capped mountains like Padreyoc (5,571m/18,387ft). Then we hike down for 3:30 hours to Chikisca for lunch and our camping site.
Hot drinks and appetizers will be waiting for you and you’ll have time to settle into your tents.
.Meals included: Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner.
.Accommodation: Camping facilities
.Minimum altitude: 2061m/6762ft
.Maximum altitude: 3100m/9300ft
.Distance: 9kms/5.6 miles
.Time: 3:30 hrs approximately
.Difficulty: Difficult
DAY 2: CHIKISKA CAMP- PLAYA – MARANPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
After an early breakfast we will walk for approximately 1 hour to arrive at Playa Rosalina near the Apurimac River (1500m/4,921ft), where we will cross a typical local bridge and hike through a forest of cactus, agaves, and exotic local fruit trees. Here we start a gentle, gradual 3-4 hour climb (1,400m/4,593ft gain) from the shores of the Apurimac river to Marampata (2900m/9,514ft) where we have lunch. At the end of this path we will see the archaeological complex of Choquequirao for the first time. It is an easy 2 hour hike to the Choquequirao ruins (3035m/9,957ft), and on the way we will see a variety of plants and flowers. As soon as we arrive to this Inca complex we will visit the farming terraces of Paqchayoc and the house of the waterfall, after which we return to our camping site near Choquequirao.
.Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner.
.Accommodation: Camping facilities
.Minimum altitude: 2061m/6762ft
.Maximum altitude: 3100m/10170ft
.Distance: 13kms/8 miles
.Time: 6hrs approximately
.Difficulty: Difficult
DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX
Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible Inca ruins of Choquequirao. Your guide will explain the history and importance of the site. After the tour you will have free time to visit the many sectors of the complex like temples, terraces, palaces, the llamas’ section, and much more.
The name «Choquequirao» comes from the Quechua language, which was spoken by the Inca civilization and is still used in some regions of Peru today. In Quechua, «Choquequirao» is often translated as «Cradle of Gold» or «Golden Cradle.»
«Choque» means «gold.»
«K’ira» means «cradle» or «nest.»
So, the term «Choquequirao» can be interpreted as «the cradle or nest of gold,» reflecting the site’s historical and cultural significance as a place of great value and importance. The name highlights the site’s association with wealth and significance in the Inca Empire.
And after haveing almost completely explored the entire archaeological complex of Choquequirao, we will return to our camp to enjoy our dinner.
.Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
.Accommodation: Camping facilities
.Altitude: 3100m/10170ft
.Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 4: MARAMPATA– COCA MASANA
After breakfast we continue our return trek with a steep descent towards the Apurimac River where Your guide will point out the beautiful flora and fauna you might have missed on your way into the Inca site, and them we will stop in chikiska for our lunch. In the afternoon we will climb for approximately 3:30 hours to our final campsite at Coca Masana.
.Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner.
.Accommodation: Camping facilities
.Distance: 18kms/11 miles
.Difficulty: Difficult
DAY 5: COCA MASANA – CAPULIYOC– CUSCO
After an early breakfast you’ll get ready to return to Cusco. It’ll be a 3 hours uphill hike until you arrive at the end of the trek where we will take our private transport back towards Cusco. Along the way we will stop at the archaeological site at Saihuite to explore and have lunch. A further 4 hours by private transport brings us back to your hotel in Cusco. with your tour guide and cook
.Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch
.Distance: 6km / 3.7 miles
- Included
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Pick up at your hotel in the morning of the trek departure
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Private transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc (starting point of the trek)
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Entry fee to Choquequirao
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English speaking professional guide
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Private Guided tour in each archeological complex
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Comfortable tents for two people in a four-person tent
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Duffle bag in which to put your overnight gear so it won’t get wet or dusty on the trail
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One-inch-thick foam mattress
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Full meals on the trek (3 meals per day, tea time every afternoon, snacks on the trail) (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
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Dietary needs: able to cater to any dietary preference/need
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1 emergency horse which can be ridden if you’re feeling exhausted or unwell
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All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent
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Tent for our staff to sleep in
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First Aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle
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Horses (for equipment and personal items) and horsemen to care for them
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7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes and sleeping bag will be carried by our mules
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Hot water every morning/evening for hand washing purposes
- Not Included
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Sleeping bag adequate for temperature of minus 10°c – $20
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Air mattresses – $20
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Trekking poles – $15
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Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal item allowance
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Travel interruption & travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)
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Tips for the crew, guide, cook of NOMAD IN PERU are optional but highly encouraged if you enjoy your trek
Price
This unique Choquequirao trek 5 days can be done on any date that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 participants. Max group size: 8. This small group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests. Private/single/custom departures available on request.
| Option | Price (USD per person) |
|---|---|
| Group Service | 580.00 |
Required Pre-payment (deposit): USD $250 per person (non-refundable)
Balance (Cusco): USD $330.00 (typically paid in Cusco two days before the start of your expedition)
*Private treks, single trekker, custom treks and packages, large groups, and packages welcome! Please email us to customize.
Important Info
Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Salkantay trek.
Arrival to Cusco
You will be welcomed upon arrival at the Cusco airport and transferred to your hotel. Please send your flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek or tour. Look for our representative holding a Nomad In Peru sign at the arrivals terminal. This service can be arranged for any date that best suits your plans.
The Briefing
We usually visit your hotel at 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. for your pre-trek briefing. If you prefer another time, email us your preferred schedule and we’ll accommodate it.
Can I Store My Luggage?
Yes. During the Salkantay Trek, your main luggage can be safely stored at our office or at your hotel whichever is more convenient for you.
How to Book the Choquequirao trek 5 days
STEP ONE: Complete our booking form via the “BOOK NOW” button. Provide: Full name, Gender, Passport number, Date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY), Nationality. Important: A copy of each participant’s passport is required at booking.
STEP TWO: Pay a non-refundable deposit of US$250 per person (VISA/PayPal available).
What About the Balance?
The customer agrees to make an initial payment equivalent to the indicated percentage of the total agreed amount to secure the service date. The remaining balance must be paid one or two days prior to the start of the service in Cusco.
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may choose to pay the balance in cash, either in U.S. dollars or Peruvian soles. There are many ATMs available in Cusco, or you may also complete the payment using the same method as the initial deposit.
Note: If you cancel your Cusco Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is not refundable at all!
Student Discount
Ages 11–17: US$20 discount. Ages 18–25: US$25 discount with a valid university student ID (showing full name, university name, photo, and expiration date). ISIC is not accepted. Send copies of passport and, if applicable, student ID at booking for approval (info@nomadinperu.com).
Can I Change the Date After Permits Are Bought?
Unfortunately, it is not possible. The Peruvian government doesn’t allow us to change once the Choquequirao trek 5 days permits have been bought. Choquequirao trek permits are not transferable nor refundable. The only information that the government allows us to change is passport numbers. If you cancel your Choquequirao tre, the deposit is not refundable at all!
Note: If you cancel your Cusco Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is not refundable at all!
Do I Need My Original Passport?
Yes, you have to get your original passport and it is very important and it have to be the same passport number that you sent to us at book time, and also train ticket, other entrances and reservations Will have the same document. The rangers will check when you enter Machu Picchu. The train company will also check your passport before to board you’re the train.
Weather in Cusco
Weather is unpredictable and you can experience sun, rain, and cold winds in a single day. Always bring both rain gear and sun protection year-round.
Group Size & Difficulty
Max group size: 8 (typical 2–8). The Salkantay Trek is moderately to challenging; good health and prior conditioning are recommended.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK?
If you are unable to complete the trek due to health reasons, Nomad In Peru will assist you to the nearest town for transportation. We always carry oxygen for respiratory issues. Travel insurance is required and highly recommended. Please note that no refunds are given in such cases.
In most situations, trekkers are taken to Ollantaytambo. If recovery is quick, they may continue to Aguas Calientes (at their own expense) and visit Machu Picchu as originally planned.
Wildlife & Flora
Expect diverse ecosystems with possible sightings of Andean condors, llamas, and—on rare occasions—the spectacled bear. Flora includes orchids, bromeliads, and ancient Polylepis trees.
Tipping
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 people who will take care of you during the tour.
Packing List
What You Have to Take With
- Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: 2-3 liter reusable, not disposable bottles
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from SAM Travel)
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet Paper
What to Put in Your Duffel Bag
Nomad In Peru will provide a duffel bag at the briefing (usually the day before). Limit: 7 kg / 15 lb including your sleeping bag and personal items. Carried by horses; returned to you at each campsite.
- 2 t-shirts
- 2 hiking pants (at least)
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 3 sets of hiking socks
- Bathing suit (for hot springs)
- Couple fleece/thermals
- Warm clothes, down jacket
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quick-dry towel (small one provided)
- Battery charger (no electricity on trek)
- Sleeping bag rated to at least −15ºC (rental available)
What to Put in Your Day Backpack
- Water bottle or camelbak
- Sun hat & sunscreen
- Headlamp
- Wool hat for cold
- Rain jacket/poncho
- Fleece/warm layer
- Snacks
- Gloves
- Camera
- Toilet paper
- Cash for extras & tips

