Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Embark on a journey to Choquequirao, the "sacred sister" of Machu Picchu, discovering an Inca city hidden among the majestic Salkantay mountains. Along the 64 kilometers of winding trails and canyons of the Apurímac River, you will enjoy stunning landscapes and lush vegetation. Guided by experts, each step will bring you closer to the history and mystery of this hidden treasure.

Day 1: Cusco - Capuliyoc - Chiquisca

We leave Cusco early in the morning at 6:00 am and drive through the spectacular Anta plateau, surrounded by the towering snow-capped peaks of the Andes. The road descends more than 1,820 meters to a bridge over the Apurímac River gorge and then ascends again through fields and orchards before reaching the Cachora district at an altitude of 3,400 meters (approximately 5 hours of travel). From here, we enjoy stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.

We follow a gentle trail that offers the first glimpses of distant Choquequirao from the Capuliyoc viewpoint, situated in front of the majestic Pedrayoj (5,482m). We begin a steep descent through an area of dry cactus, ichu (Stipa ichu), bromeliads (achupallas), and orchids in the Apurímac River canyon. Finally, we arrive at our campsite in Chiquisca (1,900m), located next to the Apurímac River (known as the Great Talking Spirit by the Incas), where our cabins will be ready to welcome us.

Meals: Lunch and dinner
Overnight: Chiquisca, in established cabins
Maximum altitude: 3,200m
Minimum altitude: 1,900m
Hiking distance: Approximately 19 km

Day 2: Chiquisca - Marampata

After a hearty breakfast, we leave our camp in Chiquisca early to take advantage of the cool weather during the ascent. We descend briefly before crossing the rushing Apurímac River on a newly constructed iron bridge. A wide and winding path takes us through the dry canyon, passing small sugar cane plantations and ascending to the highland meadows.

After two hours of hiking, we take a brief stop at Santa Rosa, where we can buy mineral water, soft drinks, and enjoy delicious sugar cane chicha. After a short rest, we continue the ascent until we reach Marampata for lunch. From here, we have our first panoramic view of Choquequirao's buildings and terraces across a deep valley. The final stretch passes through the cool shadows of a native cloud forest as we approach the wooded ridge (3,000m) where the Incas built their ceremonial center.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight: Marampata, in our cabins
Maximum altitude: 3,200m
Minimum altitude: 1,550m
Hiking distance: Approximately 13 km

Day 3: Marampata - Choquequirao - Chiquisca

We start early with breakfast and head to Choquequirao for a guided tour and free time to explore. Choquequirao, meaning "Cradle of Gold," offers stunning views of the Apurímac River 1,450 meters below. Andean condors often soar above in the afternoon thermal currents. After our visit and lunch at Marampata, we prepare for the return journey, following the same trail through Marampata, Santa Rosa, and Playa Rosalina, finally reaching our camp at Chiquisca.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight: Our cabins
Maximum altitude: 3,200m
Minimum altitude: 1,900m
Hiking distance: Approximately 13 km

Day 4: Chiquisca - Capuliyoc - Cusco

We start very early to avoid the intense canyon heat, taking advantage of the morning coolness. This effort rewards us with an incredible sunrise over the Apurímac canyon and a final view of Choquequirao. After a three-hour hike through winding trails and a brief rest at Capuliyoc viewpoint, we enjoy our farewell lunch before returning to Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Maximum altitude: 3,200m
Minimum altitude: 1,550m
Hiking distance: Approximately 19 km

Included

  • Hotel pickup on trek departure morning
  • Private transport Cusco-Capuliyoc and Cachora-Cusco
  • Entrance fees to Choquequirao and other Inca sites
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Comfortable cabins
  • Meals as indicated (vegetarian option upon request)
  • Emergency horse with helmet
  • First aid kit including emergency oxygen
  • Pack horses for equipment and personal items
  • Camping pillows and foam mattresses
  • Boiled water for drinking and washing

Not Included

  • Sleeping bag suitable for -10°C temperature - $20
  • Air mattresses - $20
  • Trekking poles - $15
  • Additional horses for extra personal luggage above allowance

Price Per Person: 380 USD