Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
10
Type Service
Group/Private
Max Altitude
3,399 m.s.n.m
Difficulty
Medium
Transportation
Bus/Walk
Duration
4D/3N
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
The Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, often referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” is one of Peru’s most extraordinary and least-visited Inca sites. Rising at 3,030 m.a.s.l. on the slopes of the mighty Salkantay range and overlooking the dramatic Apurímac River canyon, Choquequirao—meaning “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua—remains a hidden sanctuary, accessible only to the most adventurous spirits.
In Inca times, this impressive citadel formed part of a vast network of trails that connected with Machu Picchu, serving both as a religious center and an administrative hub. Even today, only about a third of the site has been excavated, leaving much of its grandeur still veiled by the jungle. This sense of mystery makes every visit a true step back into history, as if discovering a lost world with each terrace, stairway, and ceremonial platform.
The Choquequirao Trek is more than just a hike—it is a journey through contrasting landscapes: deep canyons, snowy peaks, subtropical valleys, and lush cloud forests where wildlife thrives. Along the way, you may witness condors gliding across the sky and pass through fertile lands filled with coffee, banana, and coca plantations.
Blending raw natural beauty with profound history, this adventure offers an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, perfect for travelers seeking both challenge and reward, far from the crowds.
Itinerary
- 05:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately three hours to the town of San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 m), where you will meet your trekking team—cooks, muleteers, and horses—that will accompany you throughout this adventure. After a hearty breakfast, the journey begins.
- Start of the trek. Walk along Andean trails for 6–7 hours until reaching the Capulichayoc Viewpoint, where breathtaking vistas of the Apurímac Canyon open before your eyes. From here, you will enjoy your first glimpse of the distant Choquequirao ruins.
- Lunch at the viewpoint. After resting, continue descending for about 3 hours through winding paths until reaching Chiquisca (1,800 m). Settle into camp surrounded by majestic mountains and the tranquility of nature. Dinner and overnight stay.
- Morning ascent. After breakfast, begin a demanding 4–5 hour climb towards Marampata (2,950 m). The views of the canyon and the roaring Apurímac River will make every step worthwhile.
- Lunch with panoramic views. At Marampata, enjoy lunch while admiring one of the most impressive sceneries of the trek.
- Explore Choquequirao. Spend the afternoon discovering the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, including agricultural terraces, ceremonial platforms, and religious structures. Learn from your guide about its similarities to Machu Picchu and ongoing archaeological discoveries. With luck, spot majestic Andean condors soaring overhead.
- Return to Marampata. Enjoy afternoon tea, dinner, and a peaceful overnight stay.
- Early breakfast. Begin the descent toward Rosalina Beach (1,500 m), a quiet riverside spot perfect for resting.
- Lunch break. Regain energy before ascending back to Chiquisca (1,800 m) through lush vegetation and mountain trails.
- Dinner and overnight camp. Rest under a dazzling Andean sky filled with stars.
- 06:00 AM: Breakfast with sunrise views over the canyon.
- Final trek. Begin the return journey of 5–7 hours, retracing your steps to Capulichayoc for a final lunch stop.
- Arrival in Cachora. Meet your private transport and relax on the drive back to Cusco.
- Evening arrival. Drop-off at your hotel, completing an unforgettable expedition to one of the most spectacular hidden treasures of the Andes.
Includes
- Entrance tickets to the archaeological complex
- Transportation
- Professional bilingual guide
- Private transfer Cusco – Cachora – Cusco
- Food (4 breakfast, 4 lunch, 3 dinner)
- Cook and cooking equipment
- Arriero and horses
- Tents (matras, chairs)
- First aid kit
Not Included
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking sticks
- Last day dinner
Recommendations
- This trek requires good physical condition – prepare with cardio and endurance training.
- Bring comfortable trekking boots, warm layers, rain jacket, and hat.
- Carry water purification tablets or a reusable bottle.
- Use insect repellent and sunscreen – the climate varies from cold mountains to warm valleys.
- Rent or bring your own sleeping bag and trekking poles.
- Pack light, as horses carry the main equipment, but you are responsible for your daypack.
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Price
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Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
4D/3N
Group
10
Difficulty
Medium
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