Choquequirao trek 4 days

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

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.