Choquequirao Trek – 5 Days / 4 Nights
Step into a route where every step reveals a deeper landscape and a more vivid history. The 5-day Choquequirao Trek takes you to one of the most impressive and least visited Inca cities in Peru, offering an experience that combines adventure, nature, and the excitement of discovering a place that still preserves its most authentic essence.
During five days, you will hike through the dramatic landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon, Andean trails, natural viewpoints, deep valleys, and ancient paths that connect with the living history of the Incas. The ultimate reward of this route is Choquequirao, known as the "sacred sister of Machu Picchu," an extensive archaeological complex located high in the mountains, surrounded by nature, mystery, and a special energy that can only be felt when arriving on foot.
This trek is ideal for active travelers who seek a more remote, challenging, and deeply cultural trekking experience. Unlike more traditional tours, Choquequirao offers a more intimate connection with the landscape, history, and tranquility of the Andes. You do not need to be a professional athlete, but good physical condition is essential, as well as being prepared for demanding ascents and descents and having an adventurous spirit.
Important Information
- Tour type: Trekking, nature, archaeology, adventure, Andean culture, and camping
- Ideal for: Active travelers, trekking lovers, couples, friends, and travelers seeking less crowded routes
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Difficulty level: Challenging
- Maximum altitude: Approximately
Why Travelers Enjoy This Tour
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience a real trek in the Andes, far from crowds and surrounded by stunning landscapes. The Choquequirao route combines physical adventure, wild nature, and a powerful sense of discovery that makes each day feel special.
One of the most appreciated aspects is the tranquility of the trail. Unlike more popular routes, Choquequirao receives far fewer visitors, allowing travelers to enjoy the hike in peace, listen to nature, observe the Apurímac Canyon, and feel a deeper connection with the environment.
What Makes This Experience Special
What makes the Choquequirao Trek unique is the combination of adventure, history, and a true sense of exploration that few routes can offer. Choquequirao is a massive archaeological site, still partially covered by vegetation, giving it a mysterious and authentic character.
Throughout the journey, you will walk through impressive geography, with deep descents, challenging ascents, views of the Apurímac Canyon, and mountains that accompany much of the route. This trek is not just about reaching a destination, but about experiencing the entire journey: the effort, the silence, the changing landscapes, and the excitement of slowly approaching a hidden Inca city.
The visit to Choquequirao is often one of the most memorable moments of the trip. Its terraces, plazas, stairways, and ceremonial sectors reflect the greatness of Inca architecture, while its remote location allows for a peaceful and truly unique experience.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to do the Choquequirao Trek is generally from April to October, during the dry season. During these months, trekking conditions are better, with less rain and clearer views of the canyon and mountains.
From November to March, rainfall is more frequent and some sections may become slippery or more challenging. However, the landscapes are greener and more vibrant. If traveling during this season, it is essential to bring a good waterproof jacket or poncho, shoes with strong grip, and rain protection for your backpack.
Who This Tour Is For
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic, physical, and less touristy experience. It is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, being in nature, and exploring archaeological sites with deep historical significance.
It is also an excellent option for travelers who have already visited Machu Picchu or want to explore a different Inca route. Choquequirao offers a quieter, more remote, and truly adventurous experience.
The route is challenging, especially due to the steep descents and ascents in the Apurímac Canyon. It is not a technical hike, but it does require good physical condition, endurance, and comfort walking several hours per day in mountainous terrain. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before the trek for proper acclimatization.
Included
- Professional bilingual guide
- Pre-trek briefing
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Transportation Cusco – Capuliyoc – Cusco
- Entrance to Choquequirao (according to availability and regulations)
- Meals during the trek
- Trekking chef and cooking equipment
- Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, tables, chairs)
- Horses/mules for equipment transport
- Luggage transportation (within allowed limits)
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Full support team during the trek
Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1 (unless otherwise stated)
- Dinner on Day 5
- Additional drinks
- Personal snacks
- Sleeping bag (unless included in package)
- Trekking poles (unless included)
- Single tent (optional extra)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for staff
- Services not mentioned
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska
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, rural landscapes, and mountain views that gradually introduce us to the atmosphere of this incredible route.
At Capuliyoc, your guide will provide a brief introduction and time to organize your gear before starting the hike. From this point, you will enjoy one of the first breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon.
The first day is mainly a descent. We walk along mountain trails with open valley views, gradually approaching warmer areas. The guide will set a comfortable pace so you can enjoy the surroundings.
Later, we arrive at Chikiska, our first campsite. The team will have everything ready so you can rest and enjoy dinner.
- Hiking distance: Approximately 8 to 10 km / 5 to 6.2 mi
- Starting altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Campsite altitude: 1,900 m / 6,234 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 2: Chikiska – Playa Rosalinas – Marampata – Choquequirao
After an early breakfast, we begin one of the most demanding days of the trek. First, we descend to Playa Rosalinas near the Apurímac River.
After crossing the river area, we begin a steady ascent toward Marampata. This section is challenging, but we take breaks to rest and enjoy the valley views.
Upon reaching Marampata, we continue toward the campsite near Choquequirao or make a first approach to the archaeological site depending on logistics.
- 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: Exploration of Choquequirao – Marampata
Today is dedicated to exploring the incredible Choquequirao archaeological complex. After breakfast, we walk through its main sectors with our guide.
We will visit plazas, terraces, ceremonial areas, and viewpoints. Choquequirao is vast, powerful, and full of mystery.
After the visit, we return to Marampata for dinner and rest.
- Hiking distance: Approximately 8 to 10 km / 5 to 6.2 mi
- Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 4: Marampata – Playa Rosalinas – Chikiska
We begin our return journey with a descent toward the Apurímac River and then a steady ascent back to Chikiska.
Although demanding, this day offers a different perspective of the canyon and the trail.
We arrive at camp for our final night in the mountains.
- Hiking distance: Approximately 12 to 14 km / 7.5 to 8.7 mi
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Campsite
Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
The final day begins with a morning ascent to Capuliyoc. After several days of trekking, reaching the starting point feels like a meaningful closure.
We then return to Cusco by tourist transport.
- Hiking distance: Approximately 8 to 10 km / 5 to 6.2 mi
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Accommodation: Not included
Packing List
Proper preparation will make your Choquequirao Trek more comfortable. We recommend traveling light and bringing only what is necessary.
Essentials
- Original passport
- Small day backpack
- Trekking shoes with good grip (already worn in)
- Comfortable hiking clothing
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Warm layered clothing
- Sun hat or cap
- Gloves and warm hat for cold nights
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system
- Headlamp with batteries
- Personal medications
- Cash in Peruvian soles
Daypack Items
- Enough water for the hike
- Personal snacks
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Light warm layer
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Original passport
- Camera or phone with battery
- Power bank
- Toilet paper or tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- Cash
- Trekking poles (if used)
- Rain cover for backpack
Price
Starting from: USD 540 per person
Price may vary depending on the travel date, group size, service type, availability, and additional services.
Private service available upon request.
Yes, it is challenging due to long ascents and descents in the Apurímac Canyon.
No, but good physical fitness is required.
Day 2 is the most demanding due to the climb toward Choquequirao.
In organized campsites along the route.
No, this tour focuses only on Choquequirao.
