Choquequirao vs Inca Trail: Which Trek Is Better for You?

Every traveler dreaming of hiking in Peru eventually faces one essential question: should I hike Choquequirao or the Inca Trail?

Both treks are legendary. Both take you through the Andes, across ancient Inca paths, and deep into the history and spirit of the Inca civilization. Yet, they offer completely different experiences.

As a local guide who has led treks along both routes for years, I’ve seen travelers discover the magic of Choquequirao’s solitude and the pride of reaching Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail. In this guide, I’ll help you understand their differences — so you can choose the trek that fits your adventure style, fitness level, and curiosity.

Overview — Two Legendary Inca Routes

The Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail is the world-famous route leading directly to Machu Picchu, following original stone paths once walked by Inca messengers and nobles. It’s a 4-day, 43 km hike that passes through cloud forests, mountain passes, and breathtaking ruins, finishing with the unforgettable arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise.

The Choquequirao Trek

On the other hand, Choquequirao, known as the sister city of Machu Picchu, remains hidden and less visited. The trek to Choquequirao is remote and challenging — a journey into the wild Andes, descending to deep canyons and climbing steep trails surrounded by lush vegetation. Unlike the Inca Trail, it doesn’t end at Machu Picchu, but it gives you a powerful reward: solitude, authenticity, and the chance to stand among ruins few people ever see.

Accessibility and Permits

The Inca Trail requires a government-issued permit, which is limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters). These permits often sell out months in advance, especially from April to September. Only licensed operators can organize this trek.

The Choquequirao Trek, however, does not require permits. You can book it anytime of the year, and even during peak season, you’ll encounter very few hikers. The main access point is from Capuliyoc, a 4-hour drive from Cusco, followed by a descent into the Apurímac Canyon.

Verdict:
If you want flexibility and fewer crowds, Choquequirao wins. If walking through ancient stone paths to Machu Picchu is your dream, book the Inca Trail early.

Trek Difficulty and Elevation

Both treks are physically demanding — but in different ways.

Inca Trail: 43 km (26 miles), highest point at Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,828 ft). The trail includes steady ascents and descents but is well-maintained and supported by porters.
Choquequirao Trek: 64 km (40 miles) round trip, with steep descents and climbs. The route drops to the Apurímac River (1,500 m) and then climbs to Choquequirao (3,050 m) — a brutal but rewarding challenge.

✅ Verdict:
Choquequirao is tougher — expect long ascents, heavy legs, and raw wilderness.
Inca Trail is moderate-to-hard but well-managed with defined campsites and support.

Scenery and Nature

On the Inca Trail, the landscape changes dramatically each day: high Andean peaks, ancient cloud forests, and stone terraces lost in mist. You’ll see orchids, hummingbirds, and the occasional llama grazing along the path.

The Choquequirao Trek, however, offers more extreme contrasts — from dry canyon walls to lush jungles and panoramic views of the snowcapped Vilcabamba range. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a biologist’s dream, home to condors, spectacled bears, and untouched nature.

✅ Verdict:
The Inca Trail offers a classic blend of beauty and history.
Choquequirao delivers wilderness, drama, and raw natural energy.

Cultural and Archaeological Experience

The Inca Trail is like walking through a living museum — with archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna leading up to Machu Picchu. Each ruin tells a chapter of Inca engineering and spirituality.

Choquequirao, in contrast, is an underrated archaeological masterpiece — nine times larger than Machu Picchu, still being excavated, and surrounded by absolute silence. Here, you can walk through terraces, ceremonial platforms, and residential areas without barriers or crowds.

✅ Verdict:
Inca Trail = iconic, world-famous heritage.
Choquequirao = intimate, untouched discovery.

Crowds and Authenticity

If you seek solitude and a genuine connection with the Andes, Choquequirao is unmatched. You might meet fewer than 20 people along the route.

The Inca Trail, while beautiful, is heavily trafficked. Campsites are organized, and you’ll share the path with hundreds of trekkers daily. However, it’s a well-run system that preserves the trail and supports local communities.

✅ Verdict:
For peace and authenticity, choose Choquequirao.
For cultural camaraderie and structure, the Inca Trail delivers.

Accommodation and Services

The Inca Trail includes organized campsites with facilities, porters to carry your gear, and professional chefs who prepare hot meals.

The Choquequirao Trek is more rustic — campsites are basic, and you’ll carry more equipment or rely on mule support. Yet, this simplicity adds to the feeling of adventure and self-reliance.

✅ Verdict:
Inca Trail = comfort and support.
Choquequirao = authentic, back-to-basics trekking.

Duration and Best Time to Go

Inca Trail: 4 days / 3 nights.
Choquequirao Trek: 4–9 days, depending on the route (some extend to Machu Picchu).

Both treks are best done from April to October, during the dry season. November to March brings rain, slippery trails, and limited visibility.

✅ Verdict:
Both are best in the dry season, but Choquequirao remains open and quiet year-round.

Costs and Value for Money

Inca Trail: $700–$1,200 USD, includes permits, porters, meals, and entrance to Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao Trek: $500–$900 USD, includes guides, meals, and mule support.

✅ Verdict:
Choquequirao offers more adventure for your money.
Inca Trail adds exclusivity and the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you want:

To reach Machu Picchu through an ancient royal route → Inca Trail.
To hike off-the-beaten-path, see real wilderness, and touch untouched Inca ruins → Choquequirao.

Many experienced trekkers start with the Inca Trail — then return for Choquequirao once they crave something deeper, quieter, and more challenging.

Why Book with Choquequirao Trek Operator

At Choquequirao Trek Operator, we are a team of local guides passionate about preserving the authentic spirit of the Andes. We organize responsible treks to Choquequirao and beyond, combining professional logistics with genuine cultural connection.
We know every curve of the Apurímac Canyon, every local family along the trail, and every sunrise that turns Choquequirao gold.