Choquequirao Trek 5-Day Adventure in Peru

Day 01: The Great Canyon (Cusco-Capuliyoc-Chikisca)

The Cradle of Gold: Choquequirao is the renowned sister of Machu Picchu – a glorious Inca site situated on top of the Vilcabamba Mountains range. The supreme 5-day trek will take us through the profound abyss of the Apurimac River Canyon and into the hidden sanctuary that was inaccessible to the Spanish conquerors for many centuries. Today Choquequirao is one of the biggest and most mysterious archaeological sites in the Andes; it provides an authentic experience that cannot be achieved anymore at its famous twin site.

The journey we embark on today is a grand adventure for brave hearts. Alongside the physical challenges of hiking rocky trails at varying heights, we are to receive a priceless gift of solitude of the Andes. From flights of a condor to the glorious ceremonial plazas, each and every step of this walk is a true discovery. This is the best way to go for the true adventurer who wishes to escape the crowd and immerse himself into the glorious Inca heritage.

• Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
• Distance: 17 km / 10.5 mi
• Highest Point: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner.

Day 02: The Uphill Journey (Chikisca–Santa Rosa–Marampata)

This is the hardest day on our Choquequirao trek, demanding both energy and patience. After breakfast, we start our uphill journey from Chikisca and hike to Marampata, situated over the Apurímac River.

During our 4-hour journey we will have a unique chance to admire the stunning canyons and the natural beauty of this far-away land. After crossing the river, we start hiking uphill on the other side of the valley until we arrive to Santa Rosa, where we make a stop and take a rest.

From Santa Rosa, we will walk uphill during about 2.5 hours till Marampata (2,890 m/9,482 ft). From this place you will get amazing views of the Apurímac Valley and the surrounding mountains-probably this is the reason why this trek is the best choice and an alternative to the Inca Trail, free of tourists.

Our campsite will be ready in the afternoon and after having a rest, we will have hot drinks and will prepare ourselves for our visit to the official Choquequirao complex tomorrow.

• Hiking time: Approx. 8 hours
• Distance: 17 km/10.6 mi
• Elevation gain: 940 m/3,083 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 03: The Hidden Sister: Choquequirao Exploration

On the third day of this adventure after breakfast, we continue with our trekking journey towards Choquequirao and in about two hours hike reach to the amazing Choquequirao ruins which are commonly referred to as the sister of Machu Picchu. The isolation of this route helps us discover this huge archeological site free from crowds.

During the day, we will be exploring terraces, ceremonial plazas, and temples during a guided tour and learning about the significance of this city and its relation with Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. If lucky, we may see condors flying above the canyon.
In the afternoon, have some time to discover Choquequirao on our own. We camp nearby this huge archeological complex when the sun sets behind the canyon which is one of the unique experiences of this incredible trekking journey.

• Hiking Time: 2 hours hiking / 4 hours exploration
• Distance: 2 km / 1.24 mi
• Altitude Gain: 233 m / 764 ft
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Coffee

Day 04: The Great Retrace – Return to the Canyon Floor

Following breakfast amidst the remnants of Choquequirao, we make our way down the mountainside, retracing part of the famous Choquequirao trail all the way to Chikisca. The Choquequirao trek gives you yet another chance to view the magnificent canyon as well as the surrounding mountain ridges.

We revisit places like Marampata and Santa Rosa and descend down the trail, which features amazing views of the Apurímac Valley. It’s going to be an easy hiking day after some exhausting ones and your guide will give you more details about the connections of this trail to other famous hikes in the Andes, such as the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek.
In the early evening, we make our way to the Chikisca campsite, where we have dinner and spend our last night in the canyon, surrounded by nature.

• Hiking Time: Approx. 5.5 hours
• Distance: 13 km / 8.1 mi
• Elevation Change: -1,083 m / -3,553 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 05: The Final Ascent – Success and Back to Cusco

As the sun rises, we will head out to complete our trek to Capuliyoc, the final section of the Choquequirao trek in a 5 day and 4 night experience. From here, we will have one last chance to take in the view from the viewpoint of the Apurímac Canyon.

We descend down to Cachora to board transport back to Cusco. On the way, your guide will help you understand how this trek ties in with others around the Andes and about the trek to Machu Picchu and other treks after Choquequirao.
Today, you will see the real end to your trek experience, proving just how much Choquequirao can give you a memorable adventure, away from crowds and packed full of history, landscape and adventure.

• Hiking Time: Approx. 5.5 hours
• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
• Start: Chikisca – 2,033 m / 7,950 ft
• End: Cusco – 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Meals: Breakfast

Tour Guides

All tour guides are natives of the area and are passionate about the cultures, history, and Andean traditions. Tour guides can communicate fluently in English and many other languages. Being experienced in high-altitude treks like Choquequirao trek in Peru, Inca trail and treks connected to Machu Picchu treks our guides will accompany you all the way with safety and enjoyment in mind.

Tickets & Permits

We are one of the few authorized operators to run this tour or trek through remote Andean regions. All necessary permits and entrance fees are included as part of the trek, campsites along the way, and protected areas on this multi-day route. This ensures a smooth experience while you visit Choquequirao and explore one of Peru’s most impressive archaeological complexes.

Meals

Our professional chefs prepare delicious, energy-rich meals designed specifically for long trekking days. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, they offer a blend of Peruvian and international cuisine, with dietary requirements accommodated upon request. Meals are served three times a day and are a key part of the trek, helping you stay strong during long hiking days, whether on a 4 day hike or an extended route.

Horses & Wranglers

Horses and wranglers are provided for transport of your duffel bag and make the trek to Choquequirao easier. Duffel bags are limited to 7 kg/14lbs (including sleeping bags). You can use your duffel bag once you arrive to the camp in the evening time.

Tents

Four season tents are provided for trekking in the high-altitude zones. Camp tents are spacious and comfortable with protection from various mountain weather conditions. If you require private tents for extra comfort in this trek you should inform us beforehand.

Water

Fresh water for the meals is provided daily. Fresh mountain spring water is treated before its consumption. Travelers need to provide their own refillable water bottles or Camelbaks. To preserve the environment we highly recommend to travelers to follow eco-friendly principles in the trekking.

Transportation

Transportation is provided from Cusco to the trail head and back to Cusco. Transportation includes pickup and transfer directly from the hotel to the starting point of the trek. Once you complete your trek transportation will take you to Cusco back.

First Aid & Safety

All guides are first-aid trained and have with them a full first-aid kit and oxygen for any problems related to altitude. In addition, each group is provided with a satellite phone for any possible evacuation. Your safety is our primary concern at high altitudes and remote locations like the Choquequirao pass.

Sleeping Bag

High quality down sleeping bags (North Face or Therm-a-Rest) suitable for –10°C are provided. The sleeping bags are appropriate for a cold night in the Andes and guaranteed as ethical down sleepers. Extra blankets and pillows are also provided.

Pre-Trek Briefing

There will be a comprehensive pre-trip briefing held the night prior to the start either at our office or at the hotel. This is the ideal time to get familiarized with the itinerary, get your duffel bag, check out the packing list and ask any questions. We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days prior to the trip to allow for adequate acclimatization and to experience the city.

Recommended Packing List: Choquequirao to Machu Picchu (7 Days)

This trek has earned itself recognition as one of the most challenging but amazing journeys in Peru. The trek entails experiencing contrasting geographical landscapes, traversing deep canyons of the two of the deepest canyons in the world (Apurimac and Rio Blanco) and then scaling glacial passes up to 4000 meters above the sea level. For such an adventure, physical stamina and mental toughness are needed. Therefore, light travel with excellent technical equipment is the most important thing for success. Preparation will help you endure sudden changes in microclimates from humid cloud forest to frozen air in the high peaks.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

Documents & Personal Essentials

• Passport: Required for checkpoints at Choquequirao, entrance to the citadel of Machu Picchu and train.
• Cash (Peruvian Soles): Smaller bills for snacks and refreshments,
• Insurance: Digital and hard copies of your travel insurance which should cover trekking on high altitudes and remote rescues.
• Student card: If you have one and it was used to make the reservation.

Clothing & Footwear (Layering System)

• Good Hiking Boots: They should be waterproof, broken-in, provide good ankle support, and have high traction soles (Vibram preferred) for difficult descents.
• Trekking Pants (2-3 pair): Lightweight, synthetic and quick-drying. No cotton or denim which hold water and chafe.
• Breathable Under-layers (4-5 pieces): Wicking shirts made of either synthetic or merino wool to stay dry when climbing intensely.
• Down/Thermal Jacket: Absolutely needed for camping in high altitude camps such as Maizal and Yanama where it gets much cooler in the evening.
• Waterproof Jacket or Good Poncho: Absolutely necessary due to rain in the humid cloud forest sections and rain around Machu Picchu.
• Thermal Layer Clothing (Long Johns): For sleeping in and crossing the very cold Abra San Juan Pass (Day 5).
• Warm Knit Hat and Gloves: Needed in the mornings and in the high altitude passes.
• Wide Brim Hat: Absolutely needed due to the relentless sun on Apurimac Canyon trek.
• Camp Shoes or Sandals: Lightweight sandals that will allow your feet to breathe at the end of the day.

Trekking Equipment & Accessories

• Trekking poles: Highly recommended/mandatory. They are absolutely necessary for stability and for protection of your knees on the 1,400-meter descent down to the river.
• Day pack: (30-35L). It must have rain cover to transport your water, food, additional layers of clothing, and personal documentation.
• Hydration system: (CamelBak) or reusable water bottles. Hydration is key to avoid altitude sickness and dehydration in the canyons.
• Headlamp: with spare batteries. Necessary to move around in campsites where there is no electricity and to depart early morning hours.
• Sleeping bag: down/synthetic at least -10°C (14°F).
• Power bank: High capacity power bank, because there is no electrical connection during several days.
• Dry bags: to keep your clothing and electronics completely dry in your backpacks due to the rain and humidity.

Health and Personal Care

• Insect repellent: Essential. The minuscule sandflies (“Pumahuacachi” at Rio Blanco and Choquequirao) can be quite stubborn; therefore, get something with a high DEET content.
• Sun cream and lip balm: Necessary. Use a high SPF in order to safeguard yourself from the UV radiation in the high-altitude areas.
• Personal hygiene: Toilet paper, moist toilettes (extremely useful to have a “dry wash”), biodegradable soap, and hand sanitizer.
• First aid kit: Essential. Include moleskin/blister plasters (essential for this trek), rehydration salts, altitude sickness tablets (acetazolamide/Soroche), and your personal medication.
• Earplugs: To get a good night’s sleep at camp sites.

Southern Peru Explorers Note: Please remember that we provide the heavy camping equipment (tents, kitchen gear) and the pack horses to carry your main luggage (up to a 7kg limit per person). You only need to focus on your daypack and on enjoying the most epic adventure in the Andes

Confirmation of Your Booking?

Making your booking for your trip with us is fast, convenient, and 100% secure. We kindly ask you to fill out all the necessary data which is mentioned below. We also recommend to fill out the following information exactly as it appears on your passport because according to the Peruvian laws, it is essential to issue the entrance tickets, train tickets, and transportation service.

Passenger Information
Full Name:
Passport Number:
Nationality:
Copy of passport:
Date of Birth:

Trip Details

We kindly ask you to provide your accommodation information in Cusco. It is important for us to know your hotel in order to arrange the pickup point and drop-off point.

Food Requirements

We care about your comfort during the journey. If you have any requirements or limitations on the food which you can eat (vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free food, for example), please tell us about it.

Safe Payment Procedure

We guarantee a secure and user-friendly payment procedure. In order to confirm your booking, please visit the link below to fill out the payment form using your credit or debit card:
[PAYMENT LINK]
Upon successful completion of the payment, we will start securing all necessary services for your tour such as Machu Picchu tickets, train tickets, bus transportations and all the services included in your chosen tour package.
Please note that Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets are limited and are available depending on their availability. Thus, we highly recommend you to complete the payment process as soon as possible in order to ensure your place in the tour.

Booking Confirmation

In case of successful completion of your reservation, you will be sent a final confirmation email with all the details about your booking.

What is Choquequirao?

Choquequirao is the name of the archeological site that is situated in the Cusco region of Peru, La Convención province. It is an Incan city known for its amazing view of the Apurímac River Canyon. The name of the city means “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua and is known as the sister city of Machu Picchu for its architecture. Choquequirao was featured on the list of the “52 Places to Visit in 2024” by the New York Times on the 49th place because this archeological site is actually larger than Machu Picchu. Visiting Choquequirao in Peru will give you some unforgettable experience.

How long does it take to trek to Choquequirao?

Usually, it takes 4 to 5 days, however, you have an option to extend or shorten your itinerary according to the chosen type of the tour. Such flexible approach will allow you to see more if you decide to visit the Choquequirao cable car or if you choose to spend several extra days to see Machu Picchu.

What is the best time to hike to Choquequirao?

The best time to hike there is between April and October when it rarely rains. It is also a perfect time to spend 2-3 days before the trek in order to adapt to altitude in Cusco or nearby villages.

Is there any faster access to Choquequirao?

There is no other way but to walk. From Cusco, you will travel by car until Cachora that is the starting point of the trek. From this place you will walk along Choquequirao route because there is no other kind of transport available for reaching Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.

Is the trekking route dangerous?

This trek is classified as moderate or difficult one. There are many steep and rocky routes, changing weather conditions on the way. Therefore, trekkers need to prepare themselves for this trip. Also, November rainfall might make the trail very slippery. Guides are well-prepared for dealing with altitude sickness, injuries and other emergencies.

Are there any guides on the Choquequirao trek?

Of course. Local guides accompany all teams throughout the several day trek to Choquequirao and explain all interesting information about culture, history and nature of Choquequirao. Guides are also able to provide assistance in case of emergency situations such as altitude sickness and injuries.

How big is Choquequirao?

It is really big. Choquequirao is considered to be as big as Machu Picchu and even bigger. Choquequirao measures around 1,800 hectares (18 km²). That is four times more area than Machu Picchu.

Is it safe for tourists to visit the area?

Yes. It is safe to travel to Choquequirao especially if you choose an experienced tour operator or local guide. Obeying security rules, you can enjoy the landscapes of this place safely.

Is it possible to come to Choquequirao by bicycle?

It is possible, although not recommended since this route was designed to be used by hikers only. Parts of it have slopes and rocks that may require you to walk.

Can Choquequirao be seen in one day?

You can visit Choquequirao in one day; however, it is not recommended because this requires enormous physical effort and will not provide enough time to see all the beauty of the ruins. It is better to spend 2-3 days there for a comfortable 4-day trek to Choquequirao.

Is physical training needed for a trek?

Good physical condition is necessary to travel to Choquequirao without any problems. Previous training will decrease the chance of exhaustion and injuries on your trek.

Which climate zone does Choquequirao belong to?

There is a varied climate in Choquequirao; it is warm at low altitudes in the dry season but cool at high altitudes, with temperatures falling as low as 0-5°C at night. It is humid and rainy in the rainy season, making it advisable to pack suitable clothes for both kinds of weather when visiting the site.

Is there another tour apart from Choquequirao that is close by?

Yes. There is also Pinchaunuyoc Mountain, Inca Wasi ruins, and Abra de Choquequirao that can be accessed through trekking, which involves terraces and ceremonial platforms.

Are horses and mules available for the trekking?

Yes. You may hire horses or mules to transport your bags. They can also take you for short distances in places where it is feasible to do so; however, at some steeper places, you will have to trek to ensure safety of the animals and the trail.