The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes, located northeast of the city of Cusco. This trek takes you between the dramatic Apurimac River canyon and the majestic Vilcabamba mountain range, home to the impressive snow-capped Salkantay peak, rising to 6,271 m.a.s.l. (20,575 ft.).
Along the Choquequirao trail, hikers are treated to extraordinary biodiversity, including rare sightings of iconic Andean wildlife such as the Andean condor, puma, and the elusive spectacled bear. This remote region also holds deep historical significance—it once served as a strategic refuge and natural fortress for the last Inca resistance during the 16th century.
According to local oral traditions, the legendary El Dorado is believed to be hidden somewhere in this area, still undiscovered by archaeologists. For adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike, the 4-day Choquequirao hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and Inca mystery.
We will pick you up from the hotel at 3:00 a.m. to start the trip to the town of Capuliyoc, passing through the towns of Izcuchaca until we reach the Tarawasi Archaeological Complex. We will continue our journey to the Cunyac Bridge, passing through the villages of Curahuasi, Saywite, and Cachora, to finally arrive at Capuliyoc.
At this point, we prepare the pack animals and muleteers, and begin our trek with beautiful views of the landscapes, the Vilcanota mountain range, and its glaciers as we walk the zigzagging paths ascending to the village of Chiquisca (1,850 m.a.s.l), where we will stop for lunch.
After lunch, we continue our journey towards Rosalina’s beach (1,500 meters above sea level) to cross the Apurímac River, where it is quite warm, and then ascend for 2 hours, covering 3 kilometers, to the village of Santa Rosa. During this part of the trek, we will have the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views, beautiful landscapes, warm weather, glaciers of the Vilcabamba mountain range, and the impressive Apurímac canyon. Here, we will set up our first camp and enjoy dinner.
After breakfast at approximately 6:00 a.m., we begin our second day of trekking towards the lost city of Choquequirao, which is said to be three times larger than Machu Picchu. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, beautiful landscapes, and the great history hidden in this place.
We will explore Choquequirao for about five hours, accompanied by our guide who will explain the significance of this important Inca refuge. We will visit the Administrator’s House, Pikiwasi, the Priest’s Temple, the Main Plaza, the llamas, the Qolqas, and the House of Mummies. After the guided tour, we will have lunch at the same location, and then we will begin our hike back to our Marampata camp. Dinner and camp.
At approximately 6:00 a.m., we wake up for breakfast and then begin our hike, retracing the same path from the first day, descending towards Rosalina’s Beach, where we will stop for lunch. Along the way, we will be able to observe a variety of exotic flora and fauna, panoramic views of imposing snow-capped peaks, and the impressive Apurímac Canyon, considered the most spectacular in South America. If we are lucky, we may also witness the flight of condors, the majestic bird of the Andes.
After lunch, we continue our uphill hike towards the village of Chiquisca, our campsite for the night, arriving at approximately 4:00 p.m. There will be time to relax and enjoy the afternoon, surrounded by nature.
Dinner and overnight stay.
At approximately 6:00 a.m., we wake up for breakfast and begin our return journey to the city of Cusco. We will have one final hike of about 4 hours until we reach Capuliyoc, the end of the trek and the location of our last lunch with our guide and the team who accompanied us on this journey.
Finally, we board the transport that will take us to our destination, Cusco, in a journey of almost 4 hours.
Optionally, if time allows in the afternoon, we can stop and enjoy the thermal medicinal baths of Cconocc, where we will rest for about an hour before continuing our return to Cusco, ending our service with a transfer to the hotel.
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Choquequirao trek 4 days
Price Per Person In A Shared Service- English Speaking – Guide
Choquequirao trek 4 days – Private Tour Pricing
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The Choquequirao trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents. It is recommended for those in good physical condition with prior trekking experience.
It takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to reach Choquequirao from Santa Rosa, including the climb to Marampata and the walk to the archaeological site.
Accommodation is in rustic campsites, with tents and sleeping bags. You will camp at Santa Rosa, Marampata, and Chiquisca.
Yes, it is advisable to spend at least two days in Cusco or another high-altitude area to acclimatize, as the trek reaches altitudes over 3,000 meters.
Nutritious and balanced meals are provided, including hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, prepared by a specialized cook on the route, we also have a vegetarian option with prior notice at the time of booking.
The best time to do the trek is during the dry season, from May to October, when trail conditions are more stable and there is less rain.
Yes, it is possible to visit Choquequirao in a day from Marampata. The round trip takes about 2 to 3 hours each way.
Restroom facilities are basic. There are rustic toilets at some campsites, but it’s advisable to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
You should bring lightweight and warm clothing, rain gear, trekking boots, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, a flashlight, and a reusable water bottle. Energy snacks are also recommended.
No, Machu Picchu is not visible from Choquequirao, but the two sites share similarities in their construction and purpose. However, they are located in different geographic areas.