Choquequirao Trek 4 days
Cusco - Lima Tambo Ruins – Cachora – Chiquisca – Maranpata – Choquequirao Ruins - Chiquisca – Cachora – Cusco
Choquequirao Trek
Hidden deep in the mountains of Cusco, the Choquequirao Trek is one of the most fascinating journeys you can take in Peru. Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery—lush valleys, towering snow-capped peaks, and a unique variety of flora and fauna—this adventure is perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the crowds of Machu Picchu.
Perched at more than 3,030 meters above sea level, Choquequirao rests on a ridge of the mighty Salkantay Mountain range. It is guarded by the sacred Apus (mountain gods) Yamana, Ampay, Chokecarpu, Pumasiyo, and Panta, overlooking the dramatic canyon of the Apurímac River. Just reaching this archaeological wonder is an adventure in itself, making the experience even more rewarding.
During the Inca times, Choquequirao was connected to other important cities—including Machu Picchu—through an extensive network of stone trails. Because of its strategic location, many archaeologists believe that this citadel served as a key checkpoint and spiritual center for the Incas as they expanded toward the Apurímac Valley.
Often called “The Last Refuge of the Inca Empire”, Choquequirao reveals a fascinating story. Visitors can walk through an impressive system of agricultural terraces, ceremonial platforms, and hydraulic channels that once supplied water for both daily life and sacred rituals. The site’s design and architecture show many similarities to Machu Picchu, but its remote location keeps it far less visited—offering a truly authentic and intimate experience with Inca history.
At Russell Experience Peru Travel, we believe Choquequirao is much more than a trek—it’s a journey back in time, surrounded by nature and silence, where every step feels like a discovery.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Cusco – Lima Tambo Ruins – Cachora – Chiquisca
Our adventure begins early in the morning. At 5:00 am, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel in a private van through the Andean countryside until reaching the traditional town of San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 m). Here you’ll have time to enjoy a delicious local breakfast (not included, but very affordable) before meeting the rest of our trekking team, including the cook and muleteers who will accompany us during the expedition.
Once everything is ready, we start our first trekking day—about 7 to 8 hours of hiking through changing Andean landscapes. Along the way, we will admire the impressive snow-capped peak of Padreyoc, colorful vegetation, and a wide variety of birds and plants that bring life to the mountains.
Our first big stop is at the Capulichayoc viewpoint, where we will enjoy our lunch with a spectacular view of the Apurímac Canyon—considered one of the deepest in the world. From here, you will also catch your very first glimpse of Choquequirao, perched high above the mountains on the opposite ridge.
After a well-deserved rest, we continue descending the trail until reaching Chiquisca (1,800 m), a charming campsite surrounded by lush nature. Here we set up camp, enjoy dinner prepared by our cook, and spend our first night under the stars.
Meals included: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2 | Chiquisca – Maranpata – Choquequirao Ruins
We wake up early with the first light of the Andes and enjoy a nourishing breakfast to get ready for one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. From Chiquisca, we begin a strenuous uphill hike of around 5 hours, climbing along steep switchbacks until reaching Maranpata (2,850 m), a small farming community with breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon. Here we take a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch before heading to the highlight of the entire journey.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the archaeological complex of Choquequirao, also known as the “Cradle of Gold”. Often referred to as the sister city of Machu Picchu, this Inca citadel shares striking similarities: both are perched on high ridges above deep canyons, both align with the same latitude, and both extend across more than 8 hectares—although only about one-third of Choquequirao has been uncovered so far.
Together with your guide, you will explore the most remarkable sections of the site, including agricultural terraces, ceremonial platforms, and residential areas. As archaeologists continue to make discoveries here every year, walking through Choquequirao feels like stepping into a living history book, surrounded by mystery and silence.
After a fascinating guided tour, we return to Maranpata, where we set up camp and enjoy a magical Andean sunset overlooking the canyon. Dinner will be served at camp, followed by a peaceful night under the starry sky.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 | Choquequirao Ruins – Chiquisca
We begin the day with an unforgettable experience: watching the sunrise over the Choquequirao ruins. As the first golden rays of light illuminate the ancient stone walls and terraces, the citadel reveals a mystical atmosphere that makes you feel connected to the spirit of the Incas. After enjoying this magical moment, we share a hearty breakfast before starting our trek back.
Following the same trail, we descend from the heights of Choquequirao toward the canyon. The hike offers completely different perspectives on the landscapes we crossed earlier, with new angles of the Apurímac River and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
In the afternoon, we arrive once again at Chiquisca (1,800 m), where our campsite will be ready to welcome us. Here we can relax, enjoy dinner prepared by our cook, and rest after a full day of exploration and hiking.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 | Chiquisca – Cachora – Cusco
We wake up early to make the most of our final trekking day. After breakfast, we begin the ascent from Chiquisca through the Apurímac Canyon. Starting early allows us to hike in the fresh morning air, avoiding the strongest heat of the day and giving us clear panoramic views of the canyon and the snow-capped peaks that guard it.
Along the way, we stop once again at the Capuliyoc viewpoint, where we bid farewell to the breathtaking scenery of the Apurímac River and enjoy one last glimpse of the Choquequirao ruins in the distance. From here, the imposing Padreyoc Mountain rises proudly above the canyon, offering the perfect backdrop for photos and reflection on the adventure we’ve just completed.
Continuing our journey, we make our way to San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 m), where our trek officially ends. Here we’ll board our private transport back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon with unforgettable memories of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
What’s Included in Your 4-Day Choquequirao Trek
Transfers in/out (hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco).
Private transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the trek and back.
Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish) with expertise in Choquequirao history and culture.
Entrance fee to the Choquequirao archaeological complex.
Meals during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners – all prepared by our experienced cook.
Special diets available at no extra cost: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, allergies, or personal preferences (please inform us in advance).
Professional cook and support team.
Dining tent equipped with tables and chairs for comfortable mealtimes.
Extra horses to carry tents, food, and equipment.
Quadruple waterproof camping tents (used by two people for extra space).
1 sleeping mattress per person.
First aid kit for emergencies.
1 oxygen tank for altitude support.
Meals after breakfast on Day 4 (in Cachora and Cusco).
Sleeping bag (available for rent if needed).
Walking sticks (available for rent).
Tips for guides, cooks, and horse handlers (optional, but appreciated).
Personal expenses or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Why Choose Russell Experience Peru?
Local guides with deep knowledge of Inca culture
Comfortable private transport from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Customizable itineraries to suit your interests and pace
Authentic experiences with attention to every detail
Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades
Additional Services & Rentals
To make your trek more comfortable, we offer optional rentals and extra services. These are not included in the package price but can be requested when booking:
Sleeping Bag Rental – USD $25.00 for the entire trip.
Metal Walking Sticks – USD $15.00 for the entire trip.
Extra Horse for Personal Equipment – USD $60.00 (valid for 4 days).
Supplemental Single Tent – USD $35.00 (for travelers who prefer more privacy during camping nights).
Hotel Reservations in Peru
If you need accommodations before or after your trek, we can also help arrange hotels in Lima, Cusco, or other cities in Peru, tailored to your preference:
Economy
Standard
First Class
Luxury
Thanks to our confidential partner rates, we are able to offer you the best deals on hotels in Cusco and beyond. Just let us know the category you prefer, and we will handle the rest.
Packing list for the Choquequirao Trek 4 days
Essential
Clothing
Recommended
Equipment
Cancellation Policies
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.
FAQs About the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?
The Choquequirao Trek is considered a challenging hike. The route includes long ascents and descents, with steep sections along the Apurímac Canyon. Trekkers should have a good level of fitness and some previous hiking experience. However, with the support of our professional guides and a steady pace, most travelers complete it successfully.
Do I need to acclimatize before starting the trek?
Yes! Since Choquequirao is located above 3,000 meters (9,800 ft), we recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to properly acclimatize before beginning the trek. This helps prevent altitude sickness and makes the hike more enjoyable.
What is the best time of year to do the Choquequirao Trek?
The best time is during the dry season:
April to October – Clear skies, warm days, and colder nights. Perfect for trekking and photography.
November to March – Rainy season, with slippery trails and cloudy views, but fewer crowds.
Most travelers choose May to September as the ideal trekking months.
Do I need a permit for Choquequirao?
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Choquequirao Trek does not require a special permit. You only need to pay the entrance fee to Choquequirao, which is already included in our tour package.
How many kilometers will I hike in total?
The 4-day Choquequirao Trek covers approximately 62 kilometers (38 miles) round trip. Expect to walk 6–8 hours per day, depending on the group pace.
What type of accommodation is provided on the trek?
You will camp in comfortable, waterproof tents. Each tent is designed for 4 people but used by 2, giving you extra space. We also provide a sleeping mattress. If you want more privacy, you can rent a single tent supplement.
What kind of food will be provided?
Our professional cook prepares nutritious, fresh, and abundant meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special diets can be accommodated at no extra cost – just let us know in advance.
Is there drinking water available?
Yes. We provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water each day during the trek (except for the first morning, when you should bring your own bottle). We recommend carrying at least 1.5 liters for the first stretch.
Can I rent equipment for the trek?
Yes! We offer optional rentals:
Sleeping bag – USD $25 (entire trek)
Metal walking sticks – USD $15 (entire trek)
Extra horse for personal belongings – USD $60 (4 days)
Single tent supplement – USD $35
What happens if I cannot complete the trek?
If you are unable to continue due to exhaustion or health reasons, our team will arrange assistance, including extra horses (at an additional cost) or emergency evacuation if necessary. Safety is always our priority.
How crowded is Choquequirao compared to Machu Picchu?
Choquequirao is often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu”, but it is far less visited. On average, only 20–30 visitors per day explore the site, compared to thousands at Machu Picchu. This makes it a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
Can I combine Choquequirao with Machu Picchu?
Yes! Many adventurers choose to extend their trek to reach Machu Picchu via a longer 7–9 day route. If you’re interested, let us know and we can customize your itinerary.
Strict cancellation
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.