Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
This trek is the perfect trekking option for those who are looking for a lower-altitude trek, with unforgettable views. Explore the mystical Inca city of Choquequirao, called Machu Picchu´s sister! hike in and out of the Apurímac canyon and marvel at the Andean Condors, soaring above. Choquequirao Peru is considered the Jewel of the Andes and one of the most incredible Inca settlements. This remote hike to reach Choquequirao is one of Peru’s more moderate treks, elevation-wise, but don’t let that fool you! This is a strenuous trek, but the amazing Choquequirao ruins at the end are more than worth it.
Before the trek, you guide will visit you at your hotel in Cusco to provide you with important information and a detailed trek briefing. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions and buy any last-minute items for the trek, before your departure. The following itinerary is an example itinerary and the hiking times are an estimate, depending on the group. The lunch stops and campsites may change to satisfy the requisites of the group
mapaThe Choquequirao Trek runs four days from Cusco, hitting deep canyons and high ruins. Starts with a drive to Cachora town, then hike down to Apurimac river spots like Playa Rosalina. Steep descents test legs right away, about 1500 meters drop. Camp setups basic, tents under stars. Food from cooks, local style with rice and soups. Altitudes range low river at around 1500 meters, 4900 feet or so, up to site at 3100 meters, over 10,000 feet. Acclimatize in Cusco first, or breath gets short quick. Doubt if everyone’s knees handle the ups. Guides point out Inca walls, terraces unique to the area.
Day two pushes up to Marampata, then Choquequirao itself. Explore the Inca City, less visited than others. Structures like plazas, houses show Andean building ways. Day three more time at ruins, hike back partial. Final day climbs out to Capuliyoc, bus to Cusco. Total distance approximately 60 kilometers, challenging with switchbacks. Groups small, English or Spanish talk. Costs 500-800 dollars maybe, depends on operator. Weather dry best, but rains make slips. Wonder about mule help for packs. Suits fit hikers wanting quiet history spots. Authentic Quechua encounters along farms add flavor. Not crowded, feels raw.
On the first day of the trek, we will arrive at the town of Cachora, a 4-hour car journey from Cusco. From Cachora, we will begin our hike on a descent into the Apurimac Canyon.
The imposing snow-capped peaks in the distance, with the Apurimac Canyon extending in front of us with accompany us all day. After a few more hours hiking, we will eventually have our first impressive views of Choquequirao, nestled into the opposite side of the canyon.
The campsite for the evening is Santa Rosa found at an elevation of 2200 m (7215 ft), which is on the other side of the Apurímac River. We camp at this campsite because it is further away from where the majority of groups camp, meaning it is one of the most secluded camping spots, along the whole route. This allows us to enjoy the spectacular views that surround us, in serenity and without distractions.
Today is probably the most difficult day of the hike. To arrive at Choquequirao, we have to return to the opposite side of the Apurímac valley, which involves a climb of some 800 m / 2624 ft. over a distance of14 km / 8.7 miles, through hot and humid conditions. This section of the trek is tough-going, but the views combined with impressive flora and fauna, make it all worthwhile.
Throughout the day, we will be able to see a great variety of bromeliads, orquids and bamboo stalks. Hopefully we will be able to spot exotic birds such as quetzales, toucans and a variety of hummingbirds. After about 5 hours hiking, we will arrive at the campsite near Choquequirao at an elevation of 3050 m / 10,005 ft, where we will camp this evening. If the weather is clear, the views of the sunset and if we are lucky, we may just be able to see Andean condors soaring over the valley below.
The focus today is to explore the incredible Choquequirao. We will wake up early for our guided tour to explore the most important and interesting of this magnificent Inca City.
We will learn all about the incredible history of The Inca civilization and the relalationship between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
Similarly, to Machu Picchu, little is known about Choquequirao, apart from what we have known for a long period of time. Originally discovered in the 17th century, by the Spanish, the site was abandoned and forgotten until very recently. Only 25% of the Inca city has been excavated and many of its secrets remain undiscovered, awaiting excavation.
After our tour, we will begin our hike back to Cachora along the same route we came along to get here. Our campsite for this evening, will be Chiquiska, at an elevation of 1800 m / 5905 ft at the bottom of the Apurímac valley, next to the river.
Today is the final day of the hike until we reach the town of Cachora, returning on the side of the valley and where we will have our final views of Choquequirao in the distance, before we arrive at Cachora, in the afternoon, where we will return by bus to Cusco.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Insect Repellent: the minimum recommended is 20% de DEET (be aware that there have been reported cases of malaria on this trip.
Bear in mind that we offer a daily snack allowance as well as an extensive breakfast lunch and dinner. The recommendation to take snacks is only for those who have specific snack preferences that may not be included in the food we provide.
The transport will do a number of pick-ups from different hotels in Cusco which is why there is not an exact time. Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby.
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Read moreUpgrades / Rentals
Recommendations
Permits sell out fast limited to two hundred per day. Book through registered agency at least four months ahead.
Climate
Days warm at around twenty °C but nights can drop near zero. Rain likely in November-April makes trail slippery.
Best Season
May to October offers dry trail conditions and stable weather. Avoid rainy months when river crossings swell.
How To Dress
Layer moisture-wicking base fleece mid layer and waterproof shell. Swap to sun-protective long sleeves for high-exposure sections.
Physical Preparation
Train four to six weeks with uphill hikes stair climbs and four-hour hikes carrying a five kilo pack. Include cardio intervals.
Local People
You meet Quechua farmers raising coffee and potatoes on steep fields. They often stop work to offer greetings or sell fresh eggs.
Who Should Go
Fit travelers aged twelve and up seeking history and moderate challenge. Not for first-time trekkers without prior altitude exposure.
You need a government permit bought through an agency usually four months ahead. Permits cap at about two hundred per day.
You climb around fifteen hundred meters over two days with sections that feel relentless on narrow stone paths.
Yes you can hire a horse for the return from Choquequirao to Santa Rosa saving five to seven km of descent.
Tents and sleeping mats are provided. You need only your sleeping bag rated below zero °C.
Nights at three thousand meters can reach minus two to minus five °C so warm sleeping bag is essential.
Yes vegetarian options are available. Inform agency when you book to adjust rice vegetables eggs and cheese portions.
Acclimatize at Cusco for two nights drink plenty of water avoid alcohol and consider coca tea for headaches.
You may spot Andean condors soaring cliffs foxes along ridge lines and occasional spectacled bears tracks near river bends.
Walking sticks are fine but poles offer more stability on steep descents and save knee stress.
Yes basic tent toilets are set up at each camp. Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Regular closures in February for path clearing. Short trail sections may open but check with agency first.
Moderate to challenging. Daily hikes of twelve to eighteen kilometers with up to eight hundred meters of climbing require stamina.
Minimum age is twelve though fitness and prior high-altitude experience matter more than age alone.
It’s about a three hour ride on paved then gravel roads through Andean farmland and coffee groves.
Heavy rain can make trails slippery. Guides may delay departure or reroute to safer tracks ensuring group safety.
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Some people consider Choquequirao to be the alternative Machu Picchu, however this archaeological site stands out on its own as another example of how incredible the Incas were. Trekking to
This trek is the perfect trekking option for those who are looking for a lower-altitude trek, with unforgettable views. Explore the mystical Inca city of Choquequirao, called Machu Picchu´s sister!
