Choquequirao trek 4 days
Overview
Embark on one of Peru’s most authentic and transformative treks with Machu Picchu Explorators. Discover Choquequirao, the mystical Inca citadel known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, perched high in the majestic Andes Mountains. This 4-day trek immerses you in untouched landscapes, ancient pathways, and a deep connection with Andean culture and nature an adventure designed for travelers seeking authenticity, challenge, and a journey filled with living history.
Embark on one of the most authentic and transformative trekking experiences in Peru with Machu Picchu Explorators. Discover Choquequirao, the mystical Inca citadel known as the Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu, dramatically set high in the Peruvian Andes.
This 4-day Choquequirao Trek takes you deep into untouched landscapes, ancient Inca trails, and a profound connection with Andean culture and nature. Designed for travelers seeking authentic adventure, cultural immersion, and living history, this journey goes far beyond the conventional tourist routes.
Tour Highlights
- Escape the traditional tourist paths and experience a unique trek to Choquequirao
- Explore an Inca citadel still under archaeological exploration, rich in mystery and ancestral history
- Enjoy a traditional Andean Pachamanca lunch on the final day of the trek
- Admire breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding Andean mountain landscapes
- By booking with Machu Picchu Explorators, you directly support our local community social projects
Day 1: Cusco - Capuliyoc - Santa Rosa
- Overnight Camp: Santa Rosa
- Elevation: 2,230 m / 7,316 ft
- Early morning departure from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m., traveling by private transport to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. After breakfast, we begin a 6-hour downhill hike into the spectacular Apurímac Canyon, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and rich Andean biodiversity.
Day 2: Santa Rosa - Choquequirao
- Overnight Camp: Near Choquequirao Archaeological Site
- After breakfast, we start a challenging 6-hour ascent toward the magnificent Inca citadel of Choquequirao. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon exploring its impressive terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, and ancient structures, while enjoying breathtaking views and a magical Andean sunset.
Day 3: Choquequirao - Chiquisca
- Overnight Camp: Chiquisca
- Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
- Wake up to a hot cup of coffee and prepare for the return journey. Today’s trek consists of approximately 8 hours of hiking through changing ecosystems until reaching the camp at Chiquisca, a peaceful spot perfect for resting and enjoying a starlit Andean night.
Day 4: Chiquisca - Saywite - Cusco
- After breakfast, enjoy a 4-hour final hike back to Capuliyoc. Here, we celebrate the end of the trek with a traditional Andean Pachamanca lunch, prepared with ancestral techniques. In the afternoon, return to Cusco by private transport, arriving in the evening.
Your expedition begins early with hotel pickup in Cusco at 5:00 a.m.. You will travel by private transportation through the majestic Peruvian Andes to Capuliyoc, the official trailhead of the Choquequirao Trek, arriving at approximately 8:30 a.m.
After enjoying an energizing breakfast prepared by our professional trekking chef, you will begin the journey toward the legendary Inca citadel of Choquequirao a remarkable archaeological site often described as less visited than Machu Picchu, yet equally impressive.
The first section of the trek features a 4-hour downhill hike from Capuliyoc (2,911 m / 9,550 ft) to Chiquiska (1,893 m / 6,210 ft), where a freshly prepared lunch will be served. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, surrounded by dramatic mountains and lush cloud forest landscapes.
After lunch and a short rest, continue hiking for an additional 2 hours to reach the campsite at Santa Rosa (2,230 m / 7,300 ft). Here, you will spend your first night camping under the stars, immersed in pristine Andean nature.
- Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
- Distance: 10.8 km / 6.7 miles
- Campsite Elevation: 2,230 m / 7,300 ft
- Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
After a nutritious breakfast, prepare for one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the Choquequirao Trek with Machu Picchu Explorators.
Today’s hike begins with an approximately 4-hour uphill ascent to Marampata (2,911 m / 9,550 ft). Along the way, you will pass through sugarcane fields, where local families produce “cañazo,” a traditional Andean alcoholic beverage with centuries of history.
Upon arrival in Marampata, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, accompanied by spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Apurímac River far below an authentic high-Andean experience.
In the afternoon, continue hiking for another 2 hours uphill until reaching the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Choquequirao (3,057 m / 10,029 ft). Built within the cloud forest, this ancient stronghold was one of the last Inca refuges and offers a truly unique archaeological experience, far less crowded than Machu Picchu.
The campsite is located right next to the archaeological site, allowing you to explore the terraces, ceremonial structures, and ancient pathways at your own pace during the afternoon and again at sunrise, when the citadel reveals its most magical atmosphere.
- Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
- Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
- Campsite Elevation: 2,866 m / 9,401 ft
- Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Begin the day with a hot cup of coffee or traditional coca tea while enjoying a spectacular sunrise in this magical Andean setting, surrounded by silence and ancient history.
After breakfast, start a 3-hour downhill hike toward Santa Rosa, where you will stop for lunch before continuing the journey. The trail then continues with an additional 2 hours of descent, followed by a gentle 2-hour ascent leading to the campsite at Chiquisca (1,800 m / 5,905 ft).
This day offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate the region’s remarkable biodiversity, including a wide variety of wildflowers, exotic bird species, and distant waterfalls cascading through the dramatic landscape.
As night falls, relax at camp and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Andes, far from modern distractions.
- Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
- Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Campsite Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
- Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
After an early and energizing breakfast, you will prepare for the final return to Cusco. Today’s stage features a 4-hour uphill hike, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Andean landscapes that have accompanied you throughout this unforgettable adventure
Upon reaching the trailhead, you will share a delicious farewell lunch with your guide, porters, and muleteers, celebrating the successful completion of the Choquequirao Trek and the strong bonds formed along the journey.
After saying goodbye to our trekking team, you will continue your return to Cusco by private transportation, with an approximate travel time of 3 hours.
You will arrive back in Cusco at your hotel at approximately 6:00 p.m., bringing to a close an extraordinary trekking experience with Machu Picchu Explorators one filled with adventure, culture, and living history.
- Hiking Time: Approximately 4 hours
- Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles
- Campsite Elevation: 1,800 m / 5,905 ft
- Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch
- Accommodation: Not included
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
What’s Included in Your Choquequirao Trek with Machu Picchu Explorators
At Machu Picchu Explorators, we are committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and truly authentic trekking experience to Choquequirao. Our all-inclusive package covers every essential service, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying the adventure.
Private hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
ensuring comfort from the beginning to the end of your journey
Certified professional tour guide
specialized in Inca history and Andean culture, accompanying you throughout the entire trek
Experienced trekking chefs
preparing fresh, nutritious meals daily, tailored to your dietary needs
Dedicated team of porters and muleteers
responsible for carrying group equipment and supplies so you can hike comfortably
Pack horses
for transporting food, camping equipment, and heavy gear along the trail
Duffel bag (up to 7 kg / 15 lbs)
provided for your personal belongings during the trek
Private and comfortable round-trip transportation
between Cusco and the Choquequirao trailheads
Three full meals per day
including vegetarian and vegan options upon request
High-quality camping equipment
including sturdy tents designed for comfort and safety
Comprehensive first-aid kit
equipped with portable oxygen and satellite phones for emergencies
Official entrance tickets
to Choquequirao Archaeological Site
All taxes and booking fees included
with no hidden costs
What's not included (but you can add if you need it):
- Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, and trekking poles (available for rent upon request)
- Dinner on Day 4, upon return to Cusco
- Tips for guides, porters, and muleteers (optional but greatly appreciated)
- Travel and trekking insurance, highly recommended for your safety and peace of mind
What Should I Pack for the Choquequirao Trek with Machu Picchu Explorators?
To ensure your Choquequirao trekking adventure is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable, proper packing is essential. Below is a complete and practical packing list designed to help you prepare for the variable weather conditions and physical demands of trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
This guide has been carefully created to guarantee a seamless experience with Machu Picchu Explorators, allowing you to focus fully on the journey.
Valid original passport
if applicable for a student discount (must be presented at official control points)
Travel insurance
highly recommended to cover any unexpected situations during the trek
Trekking poles
(highly recommended to improve stability and reduce knee impact)
Sturdy hiking boots
comfortable and already broken in to prevent blisters
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
essential for sudden Andean weather changes
Warm jacket or fleece
especially for cold mornings and evenings
Sun hat, cap, or bandana
for protection against strong high-altitude sun
Thermal gloves
to keep your hands warm during early mornings
2–4 moisture-wicking T-shirts
made from breathable materials
2 pairs of pants
one suitable for hiking and one comfortable for camp use
Thermal or long underwear
for sleeping and staying warm at night
Hand sanitizer or alcohol gel
for proper hygiene on the trail
High-SPF sunscreen
to prevent sunburn at high altitude
Insect repellent
especially useful in cloud forest and jungle areas
Reusable water bottle
to stay hydrated throughout the trek
Personal toiletries
including biodegradable toilet paper
Personal medications
such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or prescribed medicines
Headlamp or flashlight
for nighttime use at camp
Extra cash in Peruvian soles
for tips, snacks, or additional drinks such as local beers
The Choquequirao Trek is considered moderate to challenging, mainly due to altitude changes, long hiking days, and varied terrain. A good level of physical fitness and basic hiking experience is recommended. The Machu Picchu Explorators team provides constant support to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek.
The best season to do the Choquequirao Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, weather conditions are more stable, with less rainfall and pleasant temperatures for trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
Our all-inclusive package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, professional certified guides, trekking chefs, porters and muleteers, full camping equipment, official entrance tickets to Choquequirao, private transportation, and more. Please refer to our What’s Included section for full details.
Previous trekking experience is not mandatory, but a basic to moderate fitness level is recommended. Beginners are welcome, and our experienced guides will provide guidance, pacing, and assistance throughout the entire trek.
You should bring proper mountain clothing, hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal items. A complete packing list is available on our website to help you prepare for your adventure with Machu Picchu Explorators.
During the 4-day trek, you will stay in well-equipped campsites, sleeping in high-quality, durable tents that ensure a comfortable rest after each day of hiking.
Mobile phone signal and internet access are very limited or unavailable throughout most of the trek due to the remote location of Choquequirao. For safety, our team carries satellite phones for emergency situations.
Yes. Machu Picchu Explorators offers equipment rental, including sleeping bags, trekking poles, and other accessories, so you can travel lighter and worry less about gear.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek, staying well hydrated, and avoiding intense physical activity during your first days at altitude. Our guides are trained to assist travelers in case of altitude-related symptoms.
Absolutely. We offer customized trekking options, private groups, extensions, and additional tours to Machu Picchu and other Andean destinations. Contact us to design the perfect experience tailored to your needs.