Choquequirao to Machu Picchu 9 days: the ultimate trek
For trekkers who want the deepest possible immersion in the Andes, the nine-day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu is the ultimate expedition — every pass, every valley and every ruin between the two great cities, at a pace that lets you take it all in.
The most complete Andean trek
The nine-day route adds extra days in the remote stretches — more time among the ruins of Choquequirao, through the Rio Blanco valley, past Maizal and Yanama — before joining the Salkantay country and arriving at Machu Picchu. It is as far from the crowds as Peru trekking gets.
What makes it special
You cross the trek’s high point around 4,840 m, with views toward the Salkantay massif, and visit lesser-known sites like Pinchaunuyoc and Qorihuayrachina that even Choquequirao trekkers often miss.
See the full itinerary
Read the complete day-by-day plan, inclusions and dates.
Who it is for
This is for seasoned trekkers seeking a true expedition. Strong fitness, full acclimatization and a taste for wilderness are essential. Go in the dry season for safe high passes.
The ultimate Inca traverse, at a sustainable pace
The nine-day Choquequirao-to-Machu Picchu trek is the most complete way to walk between Peru's two great citadels. It follows the same wild, road-free corridor as the eight-day version but spreads the effort over an extra day, giving more time at Choquequirao and shorter, more sustainable daily distances across the high traverse.
| Phase | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Apurímac Canyon | The deep descent and climb to the ruins |
| Choquequirao | Unhurried exploration of the half-excavated city |
| High traverse | Remote passes, cloud forest, Andean hamlets |
| Llactapata | The classic distant view of Machu Picchu |
| Machu Picchu | Arrival on foot after nine days |
Why choose nine days over eight
The extra day matters in two ways. First, it lets you genuinely explore Choquequirao rather than pass through it. Second, it shortens the hardest trekking days, which is significant on a route with this much cumulative ascent and descent at altitude. For travelers who want the achievement without flirting with exhaustion, nine days is the more enjoyable choice — you finish the trip tired but elated, not wrecked.
Fitness, season and acclimatization
This remains an expedition-grade trek for fit, prepared hikers comfortable with multi-day wilderness camping. Acclimatize in Cusco for several days, build leg strength for long descents, and travel in the dry season (May–September) when the exposed trails are safe. Pack for cold high-altitude nights and warm canyon days alike. See our altitude guide and our Andean trek packing list.
Frequently asked questions
The nine-day version adds extra days in the remote sections, with more time at the ruins and a more comfortable pace through the wildest country.
The high point is around 4,840 m, with views toward the Salkantay massif. Thorough acclimatization beforehand is essential.
