Evening briefing at the IPA office the day before departure, including itinerary review, safety protocols, and final gear check. You’ll receive your Inside Peru Adventures duffel bag at this time. Duffel weight limit: max 7 kg / 14 lb.

Travel comfortably and confidently with Inside Peru Adventures. Our modern, fully insured vehicles are operated by professional local drivers who value punctuality and safety. Smooth transfers and scenic routes make the journey part of the experience—not just the way to get there.

Mountain tents along the route (double occupancy) at remote campsites, with high-quality expedition tents, inflatable sleeping pad (insulated), and full camp infrastructure. 

• • Sleep-Warm Kit Provided by IPA (Return Required): For extra comfort at altitude, IPA provides a warm sleeping bag +inflatable sleeping pad (insulated) + clean liner + soft pillow (no need to bring or rent). If packed inside your IPA duffel, the kit counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb limit. Both the IPA duffel and the complete Sleep-Warm Kit must be returned together at the end of the trip.

  • Hotel: One night of accommodation in a carefully selected 3★ hotel in Aguas Calientes is included. The hotel is clean, centrally located, and includes breakfast. Rooms are based on double occupancy.

    If you prefer a private single room, an additional US$60 USD applies and must be requested in advance.

• Horsemen for Your Duffel: Your IPA duffel is transported between camps by our horsemen (max 7 kg / 14 lb).

• Duffel & Sleep-Warm Kit – Return Required: Each traveler receives one IPA duffel and full Sleep-Warm Kit (sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping pad (insulated), liner, pillow). Items are loaned and must be returned together at the trip end.

• Field Dining on Trekking Days: Comfortable field dining set-ups (dining tent, tables, seating) with chef service during trekking days.

• All meals included during the trek in Choquequirao: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks / happy hour, and dinner.

• Chef-prepared meals: Freshly prepared by a professional trekking chef.

• Safe drinking water: Boiled/filtered water provided at every meal, up to Day 5 lunch.

• Vegetarian and special diets available upon request.

Scenic train journey aboard PeruRail Expedition Train, included as part of your experience.

• • Upgrade Option – Vistadome Train: If you’re looking for enhanced comfort and panoramic windows for better sightseeing, you can upgrade to the Vistadome service:

    • One-way Vistadome (one way): US$75 USD per person

    • Round-trip Vistadome: $125 USD per person

​This optional upgrade is not included in the base package price and must be requested at the time of booking.

Comfortable round-trip bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu and back is fully included — allowing you to relax and focus on the magic of the citadel.

Forget the hassle of separate payments, all necessary entrance tickets are included in your package:

• Choquequirao Archaeological Site Entrance
• Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket (best available circuit at time of booking)

Unlike mass-market operators, Inside Peru Adventures focuses on small-group expedition trekking, with careful pacing, personalized attention, and deep respect for the landscapes and communities of the Apurímac region. Our Choquequirao expedition is supported by fair wages, ethical working conditions, and responsible operations through the IPA Sustainable Fund—ensuring a positive impact for the people who make this journey possible.

Trekking Poles (required): Bring your own poles with rubber tips, or rent a pair for US$25 USD.

This optional hike to the iconic peak next to Machu Picchu is not included. It requires a separate permit and sells out quickly. If you’d like to add it, please request it at least one month in advance. The cost is US$75 USD per person.

Please bring a small daypack (max 25L) for daily essentials (water, sunscreen, bug spray, layers, hat).

Domestic and international flights are not included in the tour price. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days prior to the start of your itinerary to allow time for altitude acclimatization and to avoid potential disruptions. Weather-related delays and cancellations are common on routes to Cusco, so choosing a reliable airline is important—LATAM is considered the most dependable, while Avianca and Sky Airline are also suitable options. Since your return to Cusco is scheduled for the evening of the final day of the tour, it is strongly advised to schedule your outbound flight for the following day to avoid any risk of missing your departure.

While not mandatory, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, especially for altitude-related concerns, weather disruptions, or unexpected delays.

When planning your trip to Cusco, keep in mind that the Cusco International Airport (CUZ) currently only handles domestic flights. All international travelers arriving by plane must first land in Lima (Jorge Chávez International Airport), clear customs and immigration, and then check in again for their domestic flight to Cusco—even if it’s the same airline and the same day.

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Cusco is by air. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights from Lima to Cusco, including LATAM, Avianca and SKY Airlines, and more. LATAM offers the most frequency and punctuality, but usually at a higher price point. Keep in mind that flight delays or cancellations are common due to weather conditions and high-altitude landing restrictions at Cusco airport.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly or scenic option, you can also travel to Cusco by bus. While the bus ride from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 20–22 hours, buses are modern, clean, and very comfortable, especially with VIP seats. This is a great alternative for travelers coming from Puno, Arequipa, or other cities near Cusco.

• Pre-Trek Briefing (Cusco, evening before): Meet your Inside Peru Adventures guide for a full route briefing, safety orientation, and final gear check. You will receive your IPA expedition duffel bag at this time.

• Duffel Limit (carried by horsemen). Your IPA duffel is limited to 7 kg / 14 lb, transported between overnights by our porters/horsemen. Pack clothing and personal items; fragile or valuables should stay with you in your daypack.

• Daypack on the trail. Carry a small daypack (max 25 L) with water, snacks, rain gear, sun protection, camera/phone, and your passport.

• Main luggage. We store your extra bags securely in Cusco during the trek and return them to you after you arrive back from Machu Picchu—sealed, labeled, and ready for your onward plans.

• Warm sleeping bag
• Inflatable sleeping pad (insulated)
• Clean liner
• Soft pillow

This expedition-style journey descends deep into the Apurímac Canyon and climbs back into high-Andean terrain before reaching Machu Picchu. Use this guide to pace yourself and acclimatize properly.

Tips:

• Walk at a steady pace

• Hydrate constantly

• Eat light meals

• Avoid alcohol before and during the trek

Peru occasionally experiences social protests/transport strikes that can disrupt roads or rail service. Your safety and well-being always come first. If disruptions are announced, our Operations team will:

• Adjust logistics proactively (earlier departures, alternative routes, revised timings),

• Coordinate transparently with your group and authorities, and

• Operate only when it is safe and responsible.

  If rail/road closures make operation impossible, we’ll discuss equivalent alternatives or rescheduling options in line with the situation on the ground.

Tipping is customary on multi-day treks in Peru, but it is always voluntary. At IPA we pay fair wages; tips are a personal way to recognize exceptional service. Amounts below are guidelines per traveler. For the support team (porters/horsemen and cook team), tips are pooled and divided by your lead guide at the end of the trek. The guide’s tip is personal, not pooled.

• Currency: Support team prefers Peruvian soles (PEN). Guides are happy with USD or PEN.

• When: Usually after the last dinner/briefing of your trek.

• 
  

Suggested Amounts (per traveler)

How to Pool (example)

• Each traveler contributes the suggested amounts (in soles) into two envelopes: Support Team (porters/horsemen) and Chef/Cook Team.

• The Lead Guide handles the fair split and delivers on your behalf during the farewell.

• The Lead Guide’s tip is given personally (in USD or PEN) based on your satisfaction.

  
  

Small & Private Groups

Smaller groups mean the same crew supports fewer travelers. If you are 1–3 trekkers, consider the upper end of the ranges (or +10–20%) if service is outstanding.

Tips are shared at your discretion and always appreciated.

Peru’s Andes region features varied microclimates. Here’s what to expect:

• Dry Season (Best Travel Time): April to October

  Sunny days, chilly mornings. Ideal for Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and mountain hikes.

• Rainy Season: December to February

  More rain, especially in Machu Picchu and Cusco. Landscapes are lush and green. Tours still operate.

• Shoulder Months (Transitional Weather): March and November

  These months often bring a mix of sunny days and occasional rain. Packing for both dry and wet conditions is highly recommended.

Smart Packing Essentials for Choquequirao Trek + Machu Picchu -  6 Days / 5 Nights

• Layered Clothing for Changing Climates: From the crisp mornings of Cusco to the humid cloud forest of Aguas Calientes, this journey crosses diverse microclimates. Dress in breathable, quick-dry layers—begin with a thermal base, add a warm fleece, and top with a lightweight waterproof jacket. 

• Reliable Sun Protection: UV exposure is strong across all sites, even on cloudy days. Protect yourself with broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat—especially when walking through exposed areas like the Andes and Machu Picchu.

• Compact Rain Gear: Weather in the Andes can shift suddenly. A foldable rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential—particularly for visits to Aguas Calientes and the citadel of Machu Picchu where humidity and short showers are common even in the dry season.

• Comfortable Footwear for Walking: Expect cobbled streets, uneven stone paths, and agricultural terraces. Well-worn walking or light hiking shoes with good grip are highly recommended. Avoid new shoes to prevent blisters during site visits.

• Accessories for Early Starts: Early mornings in the Cusco region can be chilly. Pack a thermal hat, lightweight gloves, and a scarf—ideal for morning city tours or waiting at the train station.

• Hydration on the Go: Bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack to stay energized throughout the day. High-altitude regions can dehydrate you faster. Please help reduce plastic waste by choosing eco-friendly gear. Check your Inclusions section to confirm availability of refill stations.

• Snacks to Keep You Energized: Pack a few high-energy snacks like protein bars, dried fruit, or trail mix. These will come in handy during your excursions, especially with early departures.

• Daypack & Entry Requirements: A small daypack (25L max – needed for Machu Picchu) is perfect for your daily essentials: jacket, hat, snacks, water, sunscreen, and your original passport. Note that Machu Picchu only allows small backpacks and requires your original passport (no copies or digital versions accepted) for entry.

• At Inside Peru Adventures, your well-being comes first. Whether you're exploring the Andes, or visiting remote destinations in the highlands, we ensure your journey is not only unforgettable—but also safe, supported, and professionally managed.
• Trained & Certified Guides: All of our professional tour guides are certified in first aid and emergency response, with regular training in high-altitude safety, evacuation protocols, and outdoor risk management. This ensures they're fully prepared to handle any situation—from minor injuries to altitude-related discomfort.
• First-Aid Kits on Every Tour: We carry a fully equipped first-aid kit on every excursion, including supplies for common travel issues such as scrapes, blisters, motion sickness, insect bites, and altitude symptoms.
• Oxygen & Altitude Support: On all tours that venture above 3,000 m.a.s.l. (9,840 ft)—including popular routes like Choquequirao Trek, the Inca Trail, Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek, Humantay Lagoon Hike, Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Hike, Lares Trek and Ausangate Trek—our guides are equipped with portable oxygen tanks. They’re trained to monitor and respond to altitude-related symptoms, providing immediate relief when needed.
• Emergency Transport Access: All our routes are carefully selected not only for beauty and cultural value, but also for emergency accessibility. In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, we have established response plans with local authorities and transport services for rapid evacuation.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for Adventure Travel

While Inside Peru Adventures prioritizes safety and preparation on every journey, the nature of adventure travel always carries a degree of unpredictability. For your peace of mind, we highly recommend securing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip.

What Should Your Policy Cover?

When exploring high-altitude regions or remote natural landscapes, make sure your insurance plan includes:

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies

• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions

• Weather-related delays or disruptions

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation

• Lost or delayed luggage

• Coverage for adventure travel activities like trekking, hiking, and off-the-beaten-path exploration

Adventure destinations often involve rugged terrain, high elevation, and changing weather. A proper adventure travel insurance policy ensures you're covered in case of unexpected incidents. We recommend choosing a provider experienced in insuring active travelers and reviewing all terms carefully.

Pro Tip for Trekking Travelers: Not all travel insurance policies automatically cover high-altitude adventures. When choosing a plan, verify that your provider includes coverage for activities above 3,000 m.a.s.l. and for adventure sports or trekking. This ensures you're protected during iconic hikes like the Inca Trail, Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek, or Ausangate Trek.

At Inside Peru Adventures, sustainability isn’t just a value — it’s a way of life. Our tours are designed with deep respect for nature, culture, and people. We proudly follow the principles of responsible travel in Peru to protect the destinations we love and empower the communities we partner with.

• Eco-Friendly Adventure Travel: We follow Leave No Trace guidelines and minimize our environmental footprint across every tour. From trekking to cultural immersion, we prioritize low-impact experiences that help preserve Peru’s diverse ecosystems, from high-Andean trails to tropical forests and coastal deserts.
• Plastic-Free Philosophy: We actively promote a plastic-free travel experience. Bring your reusable water bottle—please check if water refills are included in this tour under the Inclusions section. On treks and hikes where this service is provided, we’ll help you keep it full along the way. Reducing single-use plastic is one of the simplest and most powerful steps we take toward a greener Peru. 
• Respect for Local Culture & Traditions: Every destination we visit is treated with reverence. We engage with indigenous communities, sacred sites, and ancestral customs in a way that is ethical and culturally sensitive. Our team educates travelers on cultural respect to ensure tourism strengthens—not disrupts—local heritage.

• Valid Passport or Student ID

  Always carry official identification—needed for Machu Picchu entry, train checks, and hotel check-ins.

• Valid Student ID (if booked as a student)

• Immigration Card (if applicable)

  Given on the plane upon entry to Peru; keep it safe.

• Travel Insurance Details

  Policy number + proof of coverage for trekking above 3,000 m.

• (FYI) Tickets & Hotels

  Your IPA guide manages all train/bus tickets, Machu Picchu entry, and hotel arrangements. A digital copy of confirmations on your phone is optional for your peace of mind.

• Trekking poles are required (with rubber tips). Bring your own or rent a pair for US$25 USD.

IPA provides a warm sleeping bag and an inflatable sleeping pad (insulated). If you pack these in your duffel (or bring your own), they count toward the 7 kg limit. IPA’s set weighs ~3 kg total.

• 2–3 wicking t-shirts

• 2–3 hiking pants

• 4 sets of undergarments

• 4 pairs of hiking socks

• Warm layers for cold nights at high altitude (Marampata & Coca Masana)

• 1 waterproof jacket + rain pants (or a compact poncho)

• 1 sun hat + 1 wool/beanie

• Lightweight waterproof gloves (for cold mornings)

• Headlamp (essential)

• Comfortable camp shoes (light sandals or slip-ons)

• Quick-dry towel (IPA supplies a small one; bring larger if you prefer)

• Small bottle of soap (IPA provides warm water daily for washing)

• Power bank/charger (no outlets on trail)

• Large plastic/dry bags (organize and separate clean/dirty clothes)

• Sleeping bag (provided by IPA – no need to bring your own; count toward 7 kg if packed in duffel)

• Walking boots / Trekking shoes with good grip (water-resistant)

• Daypack (the smaller, the better; Machu Picchu allows ≤25 L)

• Layered trekking clothing: breathable base layer → fleece/sweater → light waterproof/windproof jacket

• Sun hat or cap + light scarf/buff

• Long-sleeve lightweight shirts (sun & insect protection)

• Lightweight long pants (mosquito protection – breathable fabric)

• Quick-dry underwear (humidity is high in the Apurímac canyon)

• Extra thermal layers for cold nights

• Merino/synthetic socks (bring an extra pair)

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & UV sunglasses

• Lip balm & hydrating face cream

• Hand sanitizer & biodegradable wet wipes

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Toilet paper (small roll)

• Extra insect repellent (high-DEET recommended)

• After-bite / anti-itch cream

• Personal medication (motion-sickness tabs, pain relievers, prescriptions)

• Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, moleskin/Compeed, etc.)

• Water: Inside Peru Adventures provides safe, boiled and filtered drinking water at every meal during the Choquequirao Trek. You are only responsible for carrying water on the morning of Day 1 until the first lunch refill. In Machu Picchu Town, bottled water is readily available for purchase if needed.

• Sunhat

• Rain gear (poncho or shell)

• Fleece / warm layer

• Camera / smartphone

• Music/phone + earphones

• Hand sanitizer

• Toilet paper + small waste bag

• Extra cash (souvenirs, drinks, tips)

• Earplugs

• Passport (required for Machu Picchu entry)

• Water storage: 

• Water reservoirs like Camelbaks are encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.

• High-Energy Snacks

  Pack nutritious, compact snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit. They help replenish energy quickly during the hike.

• Camera or Smartphone + Power Bank

  You’ll want to capture epic landscapes and spontaneous moments. A backup battery ensures you won’t miss a shot.

• Cash in Soles

  Small denominations are useful for optional tips, snacks, or souvenirs from local vendors.

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

• Stay eco-friendly and hydrated. Carry at least 2 liters of water for the day. Please check the Inclusions section to see if water refills are provided on your trail—refilling options may be limited otherwise.

This is a true expedition-style trek through the Apurímac Canyon and high-Andean terrain, and Inside Peru Adventures provides the essential camping infrastructure so you can focus on the experience—not the logistics.

You will sleep in high-quality expedition mountain tents (double occupancy) set up at remote campsites along the route. Each camp includes a full trekking set-up with a dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, seating, and private camping areas, ensuring comfort even in isolated environments.

For cold nights at altitude—especially in Marampata and Coca Masana—IPA includes a complete Sleep-Warm Kit at no extra cost. This kit consists of a warm sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping pad (insulated), clean liner, and a soft pillow. If you place the sleep kit inside your IPA duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb weight limit (a typical split is ~4 kg for personal clothing and ~3 kg for the sleep kit). All sleep systems are cleaned and sanitized between departures.

Your IPA expedition duffel is provided during the pre-trek briefing and transported between camps by our horsemen, so you hike each day with only a light daypack (≤25 L). Trekking poles with rubber tips are required to protect your knees and the trail; bring your own or rent a pair from IPA.

Electricity is not available at campsites, so we strongly recommend bringing a power bank for phones, cameras, or GPS devices. If you have specific comfort needs or gear preferences, let us know in advance—we’re happy to tailor support to your trekking style and pace.

Food on the Choquequirao Trek is an essential part of the experience and is carefully designed to fuel long trekking days in a demanding environment.

From Day 1 through lunch on Day 5, all meals are freshly prepared by our professional trekking chef using local Andean ingredients. Each day includes a hot breakfast, a nourishing lunch, and a hearty dinner, served in our dining tent. In the afternoons, we host IPA’s signature happy hour, offering hot tea, coffee, and snacks to help you recover after the hike.

Meals are served family-style, allowing you to eat to appetite—an important factor for energy and acclimatization at altitude. Our kitchen team follows strict hygiene and food-safety protocols adapted for remote, high-altitude conditions.

Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food allergies can be accommodated with advance notice. On the evening of Day 5 in Aguas Calientes, dinner is enjoyed at a local restaurant, allowing you to relax and celebrate the completion of the expedition before your Machu Picchu visit.

Proper hydration is critical for performance, recovery, and altitude adaptation on the Choquequirao Trek.

Inside Peru Adventures provides safe drinking water—boiled, filtered, and cooled—at every meal during the Choquequirao portion of the trek, from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 5. You are responsible only for bringing your own water on the morning of Day 1, until the first refill at lunchtime.

We recommend starting each hiking day with 2–3 liters of water, carried in reusable bottles or a hydration bladder (CamelBak-style systems are highly encouraged). In Machu Picchu Town, bottled water is readily available for purchase if needed.

As part of our sustainability commitment, IPA actively minimizes single-use plastic on the trail. By using refillable bottles and shared water systems, we help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Apurímac Canyon while keeping you well hydrated and strong throughout the expedition.

The Choquequirao route is a true expedition trek, and its logistics rely on experienced local horsemen who know the Apurímac Canyon intimately. From Day 1 until the return to Capuliyoc on Day 5, our horsemen transport IPA duffels, camping equipment, kitchen gear, and food supplies between campsites.

Guests hike with a light daypack carrying only daily essentials, while the support team manages all heavy logistics behind the scenes—camp setup, meal coordination, water systems, and safety checks. This model allows travelers to move comfortably through steep terrain while ensuring fair, dignified work for local families who have stewarded these trails for generations.

Inside Peru Adventures is a women-led, community-rooted operator committed to ethical employment—not shortcuts.

All horsemen, cooks, assistants, and guides are paid fair and above-market wages, paid promptly, and work under clear agreements. Load limits for pack animals and staff are kept below legal maximums to protect long-term health and safety. Our crews are equipped with appropriate technical clothing, footwear, and rain protection, and they eat the same nutritious meals prepared for our guests.

Field teams receive training in first aid, altitude response, and emergency procedures. Many of our staff are Quechua speakers from farming families in the Apurímac region—this trek directly supports local livelihoods while preserving dignity, pride, and professional standards.

Our commitment to community is visible every day on the Choquequirao Trek. We work with local horsemen associations in Cachora and surrounding communities, source produce and services locally whenever possible, and maintain long-term relationships based on trust—not seasonal convenience.

Rather than extracting value from the region, IPA reinvests in it. Through fair employment, local sourcing, and collaboration with community leaders, the economic benefits of your trek remain in the valley. Broader initiatives in education, training, and community resilience are supported through the IPA Sustainable Fund, detailed in your trip dossier.

Choquequirao is one of Peru’s most fragile and least-visited archaeological landscapes. IPA operates with strict environmental standards to protect it.

We follow Leave No Trace principles, minimize single-use plastics by providing treated drinking water at meals, and ensure all waste is packed out. Campsites are selected to reduce erosion and impact, wildlife is respected at all times, and group sizes are kept small to preserve the sense of remoteness that makes Choquequirao so special.

Where possible, we support trail-cleaning efforts and native reforestation initiatives to protect soils, water sources, and biodiversity in the Apurímac Canyon.

Pack animals are essential partners on the Choquequirao Trek and are treated with care and respect at all times. Horses carry logistics only—not riders—and operate strictly within humane load limits. They receive regular rest, water, shade, and veterinary oversight.

Animals are never taken onto steep, narrow, or dangerous sections of trail, and all handling follows local association rules and animal-welfare standards. In the rare event of an emergency, decisions are made in coordination with community leaders, always prioritizing animal well-being.

Your journey directly supports:

• Fair wages and ethical working conditions for guides, horsemen, chefs, and assistants

• Safer load policies and professional training

• Quality equipment for staff and animals

• Local sourcing that keeps income in the Apurímac region

• Environmental stewardship and trail protection

• Community initiatives supported through the IPA Sustainable Fund

Authentic Paths → Sustainable Futures is not a slogan—it’s how your trip is built, priced, and delivered.

You can be part of this positive impact by packing thoughtfully, using reusable water bottles, following Leave No Trace guidance, and respecting local customs. Tipping is optional and always at your discretion, but deeply appreciated when service exceeds expectations.

A smile, a thank-you, or a few words in Quechua or Spanish go a long way. Together, these small actions help ensure that Choquequirao remains wild, respected, and welcoming—for generations to come.