Where is the trailhead?
Almost all hikers start in the mountain village of Cachora, 3-4 hours by private vehicle from Cuzco.
Transportation details.
A few hikers start from Huancacalle, but logistics are easier starting in Cachora.
How do I get there?
That is the BIG & EXPENSIVE question for foreigners.
In 2004 the cheapest flights we found to South America were into Lima, Peru.
From there it is an easy flight to Cuzco — fares are US$50-$100 one way depending on the time of the year.
Recommendation? If you are flying in to Lima we suggest you connect directly to Cuzco so you can acclimatize to altitude there at 3400m (11,600ft) as soon as possible.
Many hikers choose to travel overland if they have enough time. Many bus companies compete on the Lima <> Cuzco route. No problema.
For specifics on Cuzco to the trailhead, check our recommended Routes section.
What does it cost to hike Choquequirau?
Note: Big fluctuations with US currency make this section inaccurate. Use it only as a general guideline. Note: there is no bank or bank machine in Aguas Calientes — carry enough cash to get you back to Cuzco.
Tour companies in Cuzco advertise a 5-day trek to the ruins, return, for about US$200. But it is easy to do that trip carrying your own pack, or hiring your own arriero in Cachora. Organizing your pack animals on your own would cost you far less.
A 10-day trip starting in Cachora, visiting Choquequirao, finishing in Machu Picchu costs around $350. We have seen it offered for less but — as always — you take a chance going with discount companies in Peru. Our feeling is that this is a fantastic price, US$35 / day! Budget $40 a day to be on the safe side. If you travel to Cachora & book your own arriero & mule(s), it would be cheaper — perhaps half of the tour company price. If you hire pack animals & guides in Cachora budget about US$10 / day for a horseman/guide (arriero) and US$8 / day / burro. Tip about 25% if you are happy with the service.
Machu Picchu (if you are hiking that far) has the reputation of being expensive. It is. Too many affluent suitcase tourists throw money around there.
Aguas Calientes (also called Machu Picchu town) is a tourist trap. The town exists only for tourists. Yet there are inexpensive hostels & restaurants too, if you look for them.
This is one of several hikes which get you to 