Is the 4-day Choquequirao Trek difficult?

Yes, it is challenging due to steep canyon ascents and descents compressed into fewer days

Do I need trekking experience?

No, but good physical fitness is required.

Which day is the hardest?

Day 2 is the most demanding due to the climb toward Marampata and Choquequirao.

In organized campsites along the route.

Is Machu Picchu included?

No, this tour focuses only on Choquequirao.

The trek operates in light or moderate rain. Proper gear is essential, and guides adjust for safety if needed.

Panoramic view of Choquequirao Inca ruins

View of Inca stone enclosures at Choquequirao archaeological site

Inca archaeological enclosure with stone walls at Choquequirao

Inca agricultural terraces at Choquequirao archaeological site

Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging
Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Group Size: 10 people
Tour Language: English / Spanish

Step into a route where every step reveals deeper mountains, quieter landscapes, and a history that still feels alive among the Andes. The 4-day Choquequirao Trek is an intense and authentic experience for travelers who want to discover one of Peru’s most impressive Inca cities, far from the crowded routes and surrounded by the raw power of the Apurímac Canyon.

During four days, you will hike along Andean trails, natural viewpoints, steep descents, demanding ascents, and landscapes that combine deep valleys, towering mountains, and paths full of history. The ultimate destination of this trek is Choquequirao, known as the "sacred sister of Machu Picchu," a remote, powerful, and still little-visited archaeological complex located high in the mountains.

This 4-day version is ideal for active travelers who want to experience Choquequirao in less time while still keeping the essence of the adventure. It is a challenging route, recommended for people with good physical condition, endurance for several hours of hiking per day, and a strong adventurous spirit.

Important Information

Tour type: Trekking, nature, archaeology, adventure, Andean culture, and camping
Ideal for: Active travelers, trekking lovers, couples, friends, and those seeking an authentic and less crowded route
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Start and end: Cusco / Cusco
Difficulty level: Challenging
Maximum altitude: Approximately 3,050 m / 10,007 ft at Choquequirao
Accommodation: Campsites during the route
Languages: English and Spanish
Meals included: According to the confirmed program
Recommended season: April to October (dry season)
Main destination: Choquequirao Archaeological Complex

Tour Highlights

Explore Choquequirao, one of Peru's most impressive Inca cities
Hike a remote, authentic, and less crowded route
Enjoy spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon
Experience a challenging Andean trekking adventure
Discover Inca terraces, plazas, trails, and ceremonial sectors
Enjoy camping nights surrounded by mountains and nature
Travel with a professional guide and support team
Connect with Andean history in a peaceful and powerful environment
Ideal for travelers seeking adventure, archaeology, and unique landscapes

Included

Professional bilingual guide throughout the trek
Pre-trek briefing before departure
Hotel pickup in Cusco
Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc and back
Entrance ticket to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
All meals during the trek as specified in the itinerary
Professional trekking chef and kitchen equipment
High-quality camping equipment (4-season tents, dining tent, tables, and chairs)
Pack horses or mules for transporting camping equipment
Duffel bag for personal belongings (within the allowed weight limit)
First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Complete support team, including horsemen and camp staff

Not Included

Dinner on the final day
Alcoholic beverages and additional drinks
Personal snacks
Sleeping bag (available for rent if needed)
Trekking poles (available for rent if needed)
Single tent supplement (optional)
Travel insurance
Tips for guides, cooks, horsemen, and support staff

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska – Playa Rosalinas

Your adventure begins early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We then travel by tourist transport to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. Along the way, we pass Andean villages, farmland, and mountain landscapes that gradually introduce us to the natural environment of this route.

At Capuliyoc, your guide will provide a brief explanation of the trek, the route, and key recommendations. From here, you will enjoy one of the first breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon.

The hike begins with a gradual descent along mountain trails. As we continue, the climate becomes warmer and the scenery changes. We walk at a steady pace, enjoying valley views and making stops to rest, hydrate, and observe the surroundings.

After passing through Chikiska, we continue descending until we reach Playa Rosalinas, near the Apurímac River. This is our first campsite. Upon arrival, the team will have everything ready for rest and dinner.

Hiking distance: Approximately 10 to 12 km / 6.2 to 7.5 mi
Starting altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Campsite altitude: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite

Day 2: Playa Rosalinas – Marampata – Choquequirao

After an early breakfast, we begin one of the most demanding days of the trek. From Playa Rosalinas, we start the ascent toward Marampata, a challenging but rewarding climb with increasingly impressive canyon views.

We walk at a comfortable pace, taking breaks to rest and hydrate. Each step brings us closer to Choquequirao. As we gain elevation, the landscape opens up and the mountains reveal a new perspective of the valley.

Upon reaching Marampata, we rest and enjoy the surroundings. From here, we already feel the proximity of the archaeological site. We then continue toward Choquequirao, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.

Later, we may visit parts of the archaeological complex or make an initial exploration depending on the group’s pace and conditions. We then continue to the assigned campsite near Choquequirao.

Hiking distance: Approximately 12 to 15 km / 7.5 to 9.3 mi
Maximum altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite

Day 3: Choquequirao – Marampata – Playa Rosalinas – Chikiska

After breakfast, we spend part of the morning exploring the impressive Choquequirao archaeological complex. With our guide, we visit important sectors and learn about its history, architecture, and possible purpose.

Choquequirao is vast, powerful, and full of mystery. You will see agricultural terraces, plazas, stairways, ceremonial paths, and natural viewpoints. Its location among mountains and the Apurímac Canyon makes the experience feel intimate, quiet, and authentic.

After the visit, we begin our return journey to Marampata and then descend to Playa Rosalinas. This section allows us to appreciate the route from a different perspective.

We continue later to Chikiska, where we spend our final night at camp. This is a long but meaningful day, combining reflection and achievement.

Hiking distance: Approximately 14 to 16 km / 8.7 to 10 mi
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite

Day 4: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco

The final day begins early with breakfast at camp. We then start the ascent toward Capuliyoc, the point where the adventure began. This section requires effort but offers beautiful canyon views.

As we walk, we reflect on the journey and recognize parts of the trail we already crossed. Reaching Capuliyoc feels like completing a meaningful cycle.

After a short rest, we say goodbye to the support team and continue by transport back to Cusco.

Arrival in Cusco will be in the afternoon or evening depending on group pace and conditions.