If you’re a trekking enthusiast and are planning to explore Peru, the Inca and Choquequirao trails are two of the most exciting and challenging options you can choose from. Both offer breathtaking landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and, of course, the opportunity to get to know the history of the Inca Empire up close.
However, each has its unique characteristics, challenges, and rewards. The Inca Trail, famous for leading to Machu Picchu, is the better-known and more popular choice, attracting adventurers worldwide. On the other hand, the Choquequirao Trail, less crowded, offers a more secluded and intimate experience, taking you to the mysterious ruins of Choquequirao.
Which one is the right choice for you? This article will explore the key differences between these unbeatable options for an Andean adventure and help you decide. Let’s get started!


Duration and Distance
Inca Trail
The renowned Inca Trail takes 4 days and 3 nights, covering approximately 43 km. It leads trekkers along a historic route culminates in the incredible Machu Picchu, one of the World’s New Seven Wonders. While the trek is relatively short, it’s intense, with high altitudes and steep paths.

Choquequirao Trail
On the other hand, the Choquequirao Trail is significantly longer and requires more physical stamina. The full journey lasts between 4 and 5 days, covering around 60 km. It takes travelers to the ruins of Choquequirao, a lesser-known but equally impressive Inca citadel. Despite the greater distance, the varied altitudes and steep ascents make the experience even more challenging.

Physical Difficulty
Inca Trail
Although it’s a shorter hike, the Inca Trail is considered moderately to highly difficult. It involves steep climbs, high altitudes (ranging from 2,400 to 4,200 meters), and constant terrain changes. Therefore, while the trek is shorter, good physical preparation is essential.

Choquequirao Trail
The Choquequirao Trail is more difficult due to its steeper elevation changes and higher altitude demands. The intense ascents and descents, with some sections of extreme difficulty, require excellent physical conditioning. This route is undoubtedly more challenging and is recommended for experienced trekkers in good health.

Climate and Altitude
The Inca Trail and the Choquequirao Trail traverse different regions of Peru and, therefore, feature varying climates along the way. The main differences lie in the climate and altitude each offers. Let’s explore these differences:
Inca Trail
The Inca Trail begins at about 2,400 meters and ascends to 4,200 meters at Warmiwañusca Pass (or “Dead Woman’s Pass”), the trek’s highest point. The climate is quite diverse due to the altitude changes and the ecosystems encountered along the way.
- Lower sections: The hike starts in cloud forest areas with a subtropical climate, high humidity, and constant mist. Vegetation is dense, and temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C during the day, dropping slightly at night.
- Higher sections: The climate changes significantly as the trail ascends to higher altitudes. Temperatures can vary between 5°C and 15°C during the day and can drop to near 0°C at night in the highest areas. This trail part is drier and cooler, especially at the highest point.
- Dry and rainy seasons: The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to October. The trail can be more challenging during the rainy season (November to April) due to heavy rains and mud.

Choquequirao Trail
The Choquequirao Trail has a similar climate to the Inca Trail but with some differences. It starts at lower altitudes, around 1,500 meters, and ascends to 3,100 meters at the Choquequirao ruins. The altitude differences and sun exposure make it slightly warmer than the Inca Trail, especially in the early stages.
- Lower sections: The initial stretches of the Choquequirao Trail are warm and humid, typical of tropical forest regions. Daytime temperatures with high humidity can range from 20°C to 30°C. However, as the trail is less traveled, the environment is wilder and less influenced by humans.
- Higher sections: As the trail reaches higher elevations, such as the Choquequirao ruins, the climate becomes more temperate, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. While daytime temperatures are pleasant, nights can be cold, dropping to near 0°C in the highest areas.
- Dry and rainy seasons: Like the Inca Trail, the best time to explore the Choquequirao Trail is during the dry season (May to October), when rains are less frequent and trekking conditions are better.

Summary of Climatic Differences
- Altitudes: The Inca Trail features more significant altitude variations, ranging from 2,400 to 4,200 meters, creating more extreme temperature changes. In contrast, the Choquequirao Trail ranges from 1,500 to 3,100 meters, with milder temperatures at lower altitudes.
- Temperatures: The Inca Trail tends to be colder in the higher sections, with lower nighttime temperatures. The Choquequirao Trail offers a warmer climate in its early stages, thanks to its tropical forest regions, though it also becomes more remarkable in the higher sections.
- Overall climate: The Inca Trail passes through a wider diversity of ecosystems, including subtropical zones, cloud forests, and high mountain regions. The Choquequirao Trail, meanwhile, has more tropical characteristics in the lower areas and a mountain climate in the higher ones.
Both trails offer stunning natural beauty and climatic challenges, but it’s essential to be prepared for rapid temperature changes, humidity, and the possibility of rain.
Landscapes and experience
Inca Trail
The Inca Trail offers an iconic experience, passing through Inca ruins, tropical rainforests, dense and mysterious cloud forests, panoramic mountain views, and culminating in Machu Picchu. Most of the trek is surrounded by lush nature, impressive biodiversity, and cultural and historical immersion in the ruins.

Choquequirao Trail
The Choquequirao Trail, being less known, offers a more intimate and secluded experience. The trek takes you through rarely explored areas with fewer tourists. It is a tranquil and reflective journey featuring landscapes of majestic mountains, deep valleys, and cloud forests. At the end of the trail, the ruins of Choquequirao, known as the “mysterious sister of Machu Picchu,” provide a sense of discovery away from large crowds.


Accessibility and Infrastructure
Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is highly accessible and well-structured for tourists, featuring local guides, organized campsites, and excellent transportation infrastructure. The trail is marked, and most people can complete the trek without significant difficulties if they follow acclimatization and physical preparation recommendations.

Choquequirao Trail
The Choquequirao Trail, being less tourist-oriented, is more remote and needs more infrastructure. There are few service options along the route, making it more isolated. Therefore, planning and preparation for this trek must be more thorough.

Crowds and Atmosphere
Inca Trail
Due to its worldwide fame and proximity to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is highly crowded, especially during peak season (April to October). For those seeking a more solitary and introspective experience, there may be better choices than the Inca Trail, as it is usually hectic, and Machu Picchu is one of the most visited attractions in the world.
Choquequirao Trail
As it is less well-known, the Choquequirao Trail offers a more secluded and less crowded experience. It is ideal for those who prefer a peaceful and contemplative trek away from the masses. It is an excellent choice for exploring a unique, tranquil Peruvian location.
Cost and Permits
Inca Trail
One advantage of the Inca Trail is its well-organized system for access and permits. Permits for the Inca Trail are limited and must be purchased in advance, as the number of tourists per day is restricted. This ensures an organized experience but makes it more expensive than other trails due to ticket and guide costs.

Choquequirao Trail
Although it also requires an entry permit (more straightforward), the Choquequirao Trail tends to be more affordable and less crowded. Overall trip costs are lower, especially since the region has less demand for guides and services.

Conclusion: Which is the Better Choice?
- Choose the Inca Trail for a more well-known historical experience, a shorter, well-structured trek that culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu. It’s ideal for those seeking a moderate hike with high cultural value and a more tourist-oriented experience.
- Choose the Choquequirao Trail if you are an experienced adventurer looking for solitude and closer contact with nature. It’s perfect for those wanting a peaceful yet challenging experience, far from the crowds, exploring one of the last great Incan marvels that remains relatively unknown.
Both trails offer breathtaking landscapes and a unique immersion into the history of the Inca Empire. Your choice depends on your traveler profile and the experience you wish to have in the Peruvian Andes.
Whichever path you choose, Salkantay Trekking is your guarantee for unforgettable memories. We look forward to sharing the most incredible experience with you!
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- Inca Trail: Essential Gear for an Unforgettable Adventure
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- Exploring Choquequirao with Salkantay Trekking
- Choquequirao: Top Things to Know Before Your Trek
- The Road to Choquequirao: The Long Hike to Peru’s Less-Visited ‘Lost City’
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