Tour Description
The Choquequirao Trek is one of Peru's most challenging and rewarding hikes. Often called the "Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu," Choquequirao is a massive Inca archaeological site perched high on a ridge overlooking the deepest canyon in the Americas, the Apurimac Canyon. Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao receives only a fraction of the visitors, offering an incredibly authentic and peaceful experience.
This 4-day trek involves steep descents into the sweltering canyon and equally steep, grueling ascents up to the ruins. However, the physical effort is rewarded by the chance to camp right next to the ruins, explore uncrowded terraces decorated with white stone llamas, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the Andes.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquiska – Playa Rosalina
- 04:30 AMPick up from Cusco and a 4-hour drive to the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,900m).
- 09:00 AMMeet the muleteers and begin the steep descent into the Apurimac Canyon.
- 01:00 PMStop at Chiquiska for lunch in the warm canyon climate.
- 04:00 PMArrive at Playa Rosalina (1,550m) at the bottom of the canyon. Set up camp and rest.
Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao
- 05:00 AMEarly start to cross the Apurimac River and begin the tough, steep zigzag ascent.
- 11:00 AMReach Marampata (2,850m) for an early lunch and a well-deserved rest.
- 02:00 PMContinue a gentler hike towards the Choquequirao campsite (2,950m).
- 04:00 PMVisit the lower terraces of Choquequirao to watch the sunset.
Day 3: Choquequirao Tour – Marampata – Chiquiska
- 06:00 AMSpend the entire morning exploring the vast Choquequirao complex with your guide, including the main plaza and the famous llama terraces.
- 11:30 AMReturn to camp for lunch and begin the hike back.
- 03:00 PMDescend back down into the canyon, crossing the river again.
- 05:30 PMArrive at Chiquiska campsite for the night.
Day 4: Chiquiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
- 05:00 AMStart hiking early to avoid the intense canyon sun during the final ascent.
- 10:00 AMReach the Capuliyoc viewpoint, completing the trek.
- 11:30 AMEnjoy a final lunch with the trekking crew.
- 04:30 PMArrive back at your hotel in Cusco.
Included
- Pre-trek briefing
- Private transportation to/from the trailhead
- Professional bilingual guide
- Choquequirao entrance fee
- Camping equipment, chef, and mules for carrying gear/food
- Meals (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners)
Not included
- Sleeping bag and trekking poles
- First breakfast and last dinner
- Tips for the guide, cook, and muleteers
What to bring
- Passport
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles (highly recommended for the steep descents)
- Strong insect repellent (the canyon has many midges)
- Sun protection and wide-brimmed hat
Expert Tips
- This is considered tougher than the Inca Trail due to the steep, hot canyon walls. Train well before coming.
- Protect yourself from the sun and bugs in the canyon.
