Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights
Duration
4D/3N
Difficulty
Difficult
Private
From 2ppl
Group
Up to 10ppl
Recommended Age
Only good hikers
The Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights is one of the most spectacular and challenging trekking adventures in Peru. Often described as the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is an impressive Inca archaeological complex hidden deep within the Apurímac Canyon, surrounded by dramatic mountains, lush vegetation, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Far less visited than Machu Picchu, this remarkable site offers a unique opportunity to explore vast agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, temples, and ancient structures away from the crowds, in a peaceful and remote atmosphere. This 4-day, 3-night adventure combines physical challenge, cultural discovery, and incredible natural scenery. The route involves significant elevation gains and losses, with steep ascents and descents as you cross the deep Apurímac Canyon. It requires good physical fitness, endurance, and previous trekking experience. However, the effort is rewarded with spectacular mountain views and the opportunity to discover one of Peru’s most impressive and remote Inca archaeological sites.
Itinerary
What you will do and explore with us
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco (around 4:00–4:30 am), traveling by road through the beautiful Andean countryside towards Capuliyoc.
Upon arrival at Capuliyoc (2,890 m / 9,482 ft), admire spectacular panoramic views of the immense Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding mountains. This is the starting point of your trek.
Begin the journey with a long descent into the canyon along a winding mountain trail. As you lose altitude, the landscape gradually changes from high Andean terrain to warmer, drier vegetation. Along the way, enjoy impressive views of the canyon and the Apurímac River far below.
Stop for a picnic lunch along the route before continuing the descent towards Chiquisca. This section can be particularly demanding due to the steep terrain and warm temperatures, especially later in the morning and afternoon.
Arrive at Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), a small settlement nestled in the warm canyon environment. Settle into a simple local hospedaje, enjoy dinner, and rest after your first day of trekking.
Distance: 10 km
Starting altitude: Capuliyoc – 2,890 m (9,482 ft)
Ending altitude: Chiquisca – 1,900 m (6,234 ft)
Elevation change: Approximately 990 m descent.
Overnight: Local hospedaje in Chiquisca.
After breakfast, continue the trek with a descent towards Playa Rosalina (approximately 1,500 m / 4,921 ft), located beside the Apurímac River. Cross the suspension bridge before beginning the long and demanding ascent on the opposite side of the canyon.
The trail climbs steadily along steep mountain slopes, passing through dry vegetation and cactus-covered landscapes. This is one of the most physically challenging sections of the trek, requiring endurance and a steady pace.
Continue towards Santa Rosa (approximately 1,950–2,100 m / 6,398–6,890 ft), where you can take a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, resume the ascent towards Marampata (approximately 2,900 m / 9,514 ft), a small mountain community perched high above the canyon. From here, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Upon arrival, settle into a simple local hospedaje, enjoy dinner, and rest overnight in preparation for the following day's visit to Choquequirao.
Distance: 12 km
Starting altitude: Chiquisca – 1,900 m (6,234 ft)
Ending altitude: Marampata – approximately 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
Intermediate points: Playa Rosalina – approximately 1,500 m; Santa Rosa – approximately 1,950–2,100 m.
After breakfast, head towards the Choquequirao archaeological complex (approximately 3,050 m / 10,007 ft), often described as the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu.”
Explore the main plaza and the impressive agricultural terraces decorated with stone figures of llamas. During the guided visit, discover the history and architecture of this extraordinary Inca site while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular mountain scenery.
After visiting the archaeological complex, return towards Marampata (approximately 2,900 m / 9,514 ft) before beginning the long descent into the Apurímac Canyon.
Continue along the steep mountain trail towards Playa Rosalina (approximately 1,500 m / 4,921 ft), crossing different vegetation zones and enjoying impressive views of the canyon along the way.
From the river area, follow the trail back up towards Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,234 ft). Upon arrival, settle into your local hospedaje, enjoy dinner, and rest after a particularly demanding day of trekking.
Distance: 18 km
Starting altitude: Choquequirao – approximately 3,050 m (10,007 ft)
Ending altitude: Chiquisca – 1,900 m (6,234 ft)
Intermediate points: Marampata – approximately 2,900 m; Playa Rosalina – approximately 1,500 m.
Overnight: Local hospedaje in Chiquisca.
After breakfast, begin the final day of your adventure with a challenging ascent from Chiquisca towards Capuliyoc.
The trail climbs approximately 990 m through the steep slopes of the Apurímac Canyon. As you gain altitude, the landscape gradually changes from warm canyon vegetation to the cooler Andean environment.
Continue at a steady pace, enjoying the spectacular views of the canyon and surrounding mountains along the way. This final climb requires good endurance, particularly after three demanding days of trekking.
Upon reaching Capuliyoc (2,890 m / 9,482 ft), your transport will be waiting for the return journey to Cusco.
Enjoy the scenic drive back through the Andean countryside before arriving in Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable Choquequirao trekking adventure.
Distance: 10 km
Starting altitude: Chiquisca – 1,900 m (6,234 ft)
Ending altitude: Capuliyoc – 2,890 m (9,482 ft)
Elevation change: Approximately 990 m ascent.
Prices
PRIVATE SERVICE
Based on 2 participants
Private guide · Private transportation
SHARING GROUP
Standard group · Up to 18 participants
Small Group (4–10 participants): price available on request.
CONTACT US FOR A SPECIFIC ESTIMATION FOR YOUR OWN TRIP
Prices per person. Please contact us to confirm availability and your preferred service.
Includes
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Transportation (Cusco – Capuliyoc – Cusco).
- Entrance fee to Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
- 3 nights hostels.
- Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks).
- Pack animals (mules/horses) to carry camping gear (Optional).
- First aid kit and oxygen.
Not Included
- First breakfast and last dinner in Cusco.
- Tips for guides, cooks, and muleteers.
- Personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
Recommendations
- This trek requires good physical condition; regular exercise before the trip is highly recommended.
- Bring comfortable trekking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Carry a light backpack with personal essentials and water.
- Bring warm clothing for cold nights and light clothing for daytime hikes.
- Use insect repellent and carry personal medication.
- Acclimatize in Cusco at least 2 days before starting the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
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Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights
4D/3N