Embark on an epic journey to the citadel of Choquequirao trek, one of the last Inca refuges deep in the Peruvian Andes. This 4-day tour will take you through breathtaking landscapes, from the towering canyons of the Apurimac to the lush cloud forest, all while exploring Inca history and culture.
- Day 1: Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Cusco to Capuliyoc, followed by a hike to the first campsite at Santa Rosa. Enjoy the first views of the canyon as you descend through diverse ecosystems.
- Day 2: Prepare for a challenging but rewarding day. You will ascend to Marampata, where you will be greeted by spectacular views before continuing on to Choquequirao, a little-explored Inca archaeological site, where you will camp with breathtaking views.
- Day 3: Descend into the Apurimac Valley and enjoy the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area as you make your way to the final camp at Chikiska.
- Day 4: Finish your trip with a Pachamanca, a traditional Andean lunch, and a visit to the mysterious archaeological site of Saywite, before returning to Cusco.
This tour is perfect for those looking for a combination of adventure, culture and breathtaking scenery, all while discovering a little-known Inca archaeological site. Join this unique experience and relive history in the heart of the Andes!
Location
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Capuliyoc - Santa Rosa
Departure at 4:30 am from your hotel in Cusco. The trip will take you through the Andes to Capuliyoc, where you will arrive around 8:30 am. After enjoying the first breakfast prepared by the chef, you will begin the TreXperience to the citadel of Choquequirao. The first part of the trek is a 4-hour descent from Capuliyoc (2950 m) to Chikiska (1950 m), where you will have lunch. During this stretch, you will be able to admire the impressive views of the Apurimac Canyon. After lunch, you will continue the trek for 2 more hours until you reach Santa Rosa (2230 m), where you will camp for the night.
- Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Santa Rosa - Marampata - Choquequirao
After breakfast, you will prepare for one of the most challenging but rewarding days of the TreXperience. You will start with a 4-hour hike uphill to Marampata (2940 m). On the way, you will visit sugar cane farms where the locals produce “Cañazo,” a traditional alcoholic beverage. You will have lunch in a local house with spectacular views of the mountains and the river. Afterwards, you will ascend for 2 more hours to Choquequirao (3050 m), an impressive Inca citadel. Here, you will camp with panoramic views of the Apurimac Valley and the Andes.
- Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Hiking time: 8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Camping
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Marampata - Chikiska
Wake up with a cup of coffee or coca tea while enjoying the sunrise in this magical place. Then, you will hike for 3 hours downhill to Santa Rosa, where you will have breakfast. Afterwards, you will continue descending for another hour and then climb for 2 hours to the last camp at Chikiska (1950 m). This day is perfect to appreciate the scenery, full of flowers, birds and waterfalls.
- Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Camping
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 4: Chikiska - Saywite - Cusco
On the last day, you will wake up early to enjoy the final breakfast with your team. Then, you will prepare for a 4-hour hike uphill to Capuliyoc. Here, you will enjoy a Pachamanca, a traditional Andean lunch cooked underground. After saying goodbye to the trekking team, you will visit the Saywite archaeological site before returning to Cusco, where you will arrive around 6:00 pm.
- Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
- Duration of hike: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch
- Lodging: Not included
- Difficulty: Moderate
Included
- All transportation included
- Professional Tour Guide
- Second Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Trekking Chefs to prepare fresh meals
- Porters, muleteers
- Horses to carry food and equipment
- Duffle bag for 8 kilos of your stuff
- 3 meals per day
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Comfortable camping equipment
- Sleeping foam mattress, pillows
- First aid kit with Oxygen bottle, satellite phones
- Entrance fee to Choquequirao site and Saywite
- All taxes and booking fees
Not Included
- Sleeping Bag, air mattress, trekking poles (Can be hired from us)
- Dinner on day 4 (When back in Cusco)
- Gratuities (Optional)
- Travel Insurance (Strongly recommended)
Before you
- Physical Preparation: This trek is demanding, with steep ascents and descents. It is recommended to have a good level of physical conditioning prior to the trip.
- Acclimatization: Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
- Adequate Equipment: Bring comfortable, well-worn trekking boots, layered, waterproof clothing, and a light backpack. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Hydration: Drink enough water throughout the trek. Bring water purification tablets or a water filter.
- Food and Snacks: Although meals are included, bring energy snacks such as cereal bars, nuts and chocolate.
- Camera: Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views and rich history of the place.
- Respect Nature and Culture: Follow the instructions of the guides, respect the local fauna and flora, and take all garbage with you.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure you have insurance that covers outdoor and high mountain activities.
By following these recommendations, you will be ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience in Choquequirao. Get ready for adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
The Choquequirao Trek has a duration of 4 days and is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The terrain includes steep ascents and descents along the Peruvian Andes, passing through different altitudes ranging from 1950m to 3050m. Prior physical preparation is essential to fully enjoy this experience.
The best time to do the Choquequirao Trek is during the dry season, which goes from May to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable and there is less rain, which makes the trek easier. However, it is important to bring adequate clothing for the cold, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Yes, it is highly recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco or another high altitude area before starting the Choquequirao Trek. This will help you acclimatize to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness. During this time, it is advisable to take light hikes, stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol.
For the Choquequirao Trek, it is recommended to bring comfortable and well-worn trekking boots, layered clothing (including a waterproof jacket), sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and a light backpack. It is also useful to carry a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, trekking poles, and water purification tablets.
Yes, the Choquequirao Trek is safe if done with a reliable travel agency and professional guides. The support team is trained to handle emergencies and the trek is done in small groups to ensure safety and personalized attention to the participants.
During the Choquequirao Trek, fresh, varied and nutritious food is provided. Chefs prepare typical Peruvian and international dishes, including options for vegetarian, vegan or restricted diets. Meals include breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner, as well as hot beverages such as coffee and tea.
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