choquequirao trek
4 Days
Cusco
Every day
Moderate
3,000 m.s.n.m
General Description
The 4-Day Choquequirao Trek is an intense adventure that takes you to one of the most impressive and least-visited archaeological sites of the Inca legacy. During the trek, you’ll traverse deep canyons, majestic mountains, and trails surrounded by pristine nature, with spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon. After a challenging ascent, you’ll reach Choquequirao, the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” where you can explore its terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas at your leisure. This experience is perfect for physically fit travelers seeking an authentic challenge and an unforgettable reward in the heart of the Andes Mountains.
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOQ – PLAYA ROSALINA
📍 Departure from Cusco and arrival at Capuliyoq
Early journey to the Apurímac canyon with spectacular views of the valley and mountains.
📍 Start of the hike to Chiquisca
Gradual descent along a scenic trail until reaching the community of Chiquisca.
📍 Continue to Playa Rosalina
Final stretch leading to the camp next to the Apurímac River, surrounded by nature and warm climate.
📍 Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.
A quiet night to recover energy for the climb the next day.
DAY 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
📍 Early ascent to Marampata
Challenging climb with incredible views of the Apurímac canyon and the mountainous landscape.
📍 Rest and refreshments in Marampata
Ideal moment to take photos and enjoy the view towards Choquequirao.
📍 Entrance to the Choquequirao archaeological complex
Initial tour through terraces, ceremonial sectors and natural viewpoints.
📍 Guided exploration of the Inca site
Detailed visit to the most important places in the Sacred Citadel.
📍 Dinner and camping near the archaeological site
Overnight stay very close to the “sister of Machu Picchu”.
DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – PLAYA ROSALINA – CHIQUISCA
📍 Second visit to Choquequirao
Extra time to explore less visited areas and take photos at your leisure.
📍 Return to Marampata
Walk along the same path enjoying the views of the canyon.
📍 Descent towards Playa Rosalina
Steady descent until reaching the Apurímac River again.
📍 Final climb towards Chiquisca
Last stretch of the day to the camp where we rest and have dinner.
DAY 4: Chiquisca – Capuliyoq – Cusco
📍 Ascent to Capuliyoq
Last climb of the trek with unique panoramic views of the Andean sunrise.
📍 End of the hike and free time in Capuliyoq
Time for final photos of the canyon and the snow-capped mountain.
📍 Return to Cusco by transport
Return trip in the afternoon, arriving approximately at nightfall.
Includes
✅Round-trip transportation
✅ Full board: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, snacks, and wine.
✅ Horses: For equipment and backpacks.
✅ Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
✅ Camping equipment: Tents, sleeping mats, kitchen tent, toilet tent, dining tent, tables, and chairs.
✅ Staff: Cook and muleteers.
✅ First aid kit: First aid kit, oxygen, and radio.
Does not include
❌ Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day.
❌ Sleeping bag and walking sticks.
❌Optional: Extra horse for personal luggage (USD $60 for 4 days, up to 25 kg).
Recommendations
🪪 Documents: Bring a valid passport.
👕Clothing: Several layers for cold and warm weather, hiking pants, hat and thermal underwear.
🥾 Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.
🎒 Travel accessories: Water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, toiletries kit, washcloth, personal first aid kit and insect repellent.
💵 Extra: Money for tips, drinks and souvenirs.
Reviews from travelers who experienced it