The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is the most rewarding trek in Peru for those looking for the real challenge of the Andes. This hike leads to Choquequirao, sometimes referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” but without the tourists, high above the stunning Apurímac Canyon. “Cradle of Gold,” its Quechua name, alludes to the rich cultural heritage of this expansive Inca site. Our 4-day hike is a genuine historical journey through Peru that demands commitment but offers unmatched access to breathtaking ruins, unusual microclimates, and ecosystems brimming with unusual plants and animals. One of Peru’s most breathtaking and under-explored gems is still the Choquequirao hike.
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Choquequirao Trek – Journey to the Lost City of the Incas
The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is the trip for tourists looking for the real, fulfilling challenge of the Andes. This journey brings you to Choquequirao, sometimes referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu” but without the crowds high above the magnificent Apurímac Canyon. “Cradle of Gold ” its Quechua name, refers to the rich cultural heritage of this enormous Inca structure. Select this 4 day hike if you want to experience a genuine, demanding and unique cultural exploration in Peru.
Day 1: Ascent to the Apurímac Canyon Gateway
With breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon, the tour begins with a picturesque drive from Cusco to Capuliyoc. We camp for the first night close to Santa Rosa as our journey swiftly starts the difficult descend to the canyon floor. This prepares you for your trek across Choquequirao.
- Focus: Difficult descent, beautiful scenery, and logistical preparation.
Day 2: Exploration day for the ascent to Choquequirao
The four kday trek’s pivotal day is today. We must endure the arduous climb to the elevated plateau, ultimately arriving in Choquequirao. Following camp setup, the day is spent visiting the expansive, spectacular ruins, away from the typical throng, including the main plaza and ceremonial sites.
- Focus: Choquequirao ruins, full-day exploration, and a strenuous climb.
Day 3: The challenge of the return journey and the terraces
We begin the exhausting hike back after our last morning visit to the famous Llama Terraces of Choquequirao. This day entails returning to the Apurímac River and completing the difficult ascent to the next high point, where you will camp close to Chiquisca.
- Focus: Important rest stop, downhill difficulty, and key site viewing (Llama Terraces).
Day 4: Last Ascent and Journey Back to Cusco
In order to get the last comprehensive view of the canyon, we begin our final trekking expedition early and ascend back toward Capuliyoc. We then return to Cusco via ground transportation, finishing the historic and incredibly successful Peru Choquequirao walk.
- Focus: Canyon vista, last strenuous ascent, and quick return to Cusco.
Choquequirao Private Trek 4 Days Your Ultimate Expedition
Take your trip to the next level with our 4 day Choquequirao Private Trek service. This is the perfect trip for tourists who want complete control and individualized attention. Under the guidance of a committed specialist, you will explore the spectacular “Cradle of Gold” at your own speed, high above the Apurímac Canyon. This private climb ensures smooth logistics, top-notch gear, and the unique opportunity to explore this enormous Inca structure undisturbed. The most sophisticated and fruitful strategy for defeating Choquequirao is this one.
Bookings and Availability – Choquequirao Trek
To be able to make the reservation or check the availability of the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days, just click on the BOOK NOW button. You will be directed to our departure calendar, where you can see all the available dates and fill in your personal information. If your preferred date is available in the calendar, you will be able to complete your reservation easily and quickly through our online booking system, in this way you will be able to confirm your departure with 200 USD.
Choquequirao Trek Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – CACHORA – CAPULIYOC – CHIQUISCA – ROSALINA BEACH – SANTA ROSA.
Our adventure begins with the pick up at your hotel in Cusco, then we will board our bus towards the village of Cachora, (Punta Carretera) where we will meet the rest of the Choquequirao Travel team, the muleteers, cooks and horses. From this point we start our hike through a beautiful Andean landscape and we will have a beautiful view of the Padreyoc and Wayna Cachora mountains. From the Capuliyoc viewpoint, which offers a stunning view of the Apurimac valley, we will hike until we reach Chiquisca, where we will have lunch.
After that, we will climb till we reach the lowest point, Playa Rosalina (1550 m.a.s.l.). From there, we will ascend for about two hours to reach Santa Rosa, where we will set up camp for the first time (lunch and dinner).
Total distance: 15 km
Estimated walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,885 masl (9,465 ft)
Altitude of the camp: 1,914 masl (6,279 ft)
DAY 2: SANTA ROSA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
In Santa Rosa we can find the famous Cambrai, a drink made from sugar cane, which in large quantities can intoxicate us.
Along the hike from Santa Rosa to Marampata we will have a beautiful view of the Apurimac canyon, we will cross small hunts like Santa Rosa Alta and Huchuerta, once we arrive to Marampata that will be the place of our camp, we will have a small rest and then we will have a walk of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Inca city of Choquequirao.
Arriving at Choquequirao we will have a guided tour of the most important areas of the place, such as the main esplanade, the Usno, the workshops and the sector of the platforms that are embedded in stone in the form of Llamas.
After our visit we will return by the same road to Marampata for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, where we will have our dinner and camp (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Total distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Walking Estimated time: 8 to 9 hours
Maximum altitude: 3,100m.s.n.m (10,170 feet)
Height of the camp: 2,870 masl (9,416 ft)
DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – ROSALINA BEACH – CHIQUISQA
This will allow us to rest a little more time, after a good breakfast we will start our way back and we will say goodbye to this beautiful tourist attraction as Choquequirao is. We will continue our hike to Playa Rosalina where we will have a short rest, and then continue to Chiquisca where we will have our last camp (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Total distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Walking Estimated time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,870 masl (9,416 ft)
Height of the camp: 1,910 masl (6,266 ft)
DAY 4: CHIQUISQA – CAPULIYOC – CACHORA – CUSCO
After a comforting breakfast we will start the return hike to the Capuliyoc pass where we will have for the last time a beautiful view of the Apurimac canyon, and after approximately 2 hours of walking we will arrive to San Pedro de Cachora where we will say goodbye to our muleteers who accompanied us. In this wonderful adventure, then we will head to the mobility, we will be arriving in the afternoon to Cusco and thus ending the 4 days Choquequirao trek and our services (Breakfast).
Total distance: 7 km
Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,885 masl (9,465 ft)
Choquequirao Trek: What’s Included & Not Included
Included
- Previous meeting with the guide prior to the departure of the Trek.
- Transportation Cusco – Capulilloq – Cusco.
- Entrance to Choquequirao.
- Professional guide service.
- Chef.
- Food: 03 breakfasts, 03 lunches and 03 dinners.
- Pack horses and muleteers: For 3 days. (5 kilos per person).
- Saddle Horse the First and third day.
- Camping equipment: Quadruple sleeping tent for double use, mat.
- Emergency medical kit: Oxygen bottle and first aid kit.
Not Included
- Breakfast on the 1st day and Lunch on the 4th day.
- Sleeping bag (necessary) and walking sticks.
- Additional water and Snack on the route.
Recommendations
Passengers should personally carry the following: Cleaning supplies, a small first aid kit containing a couple of bandages, cream for muscle pain, pills for: altitude sickness, fever, upset stomach, water purification tablets, sunscreen , mosquito repellent, bottled water, flashlight, plastic rain ponchos, sunglasses, binoculars, camera, walking stick, trekking shoes, thermal clothing for the night, light clothing for the day, money at discretion do not forget to carry your Original Passport.
- Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
- Down or synthetic sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
- Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves, rain jacket)
- Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
- Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
- Head lamp
- Sunglasses
- Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
- Binoculars
- Book to read (you will have some spare time at every camp to read your favorite book)
- Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us)
- Insect repellent
How Much Does the Choquequirao Trek Cost?
GROUP SERVICE
$ 580 USDPRIVATE SERVICE
- 02 – 03 peoples 680 USD
- 04 – 05 people 650 USD
- 06 or more peples 600 USD
Every trekker needs a sleeping bag when camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but encouraged. If you don’t want to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent:
- Sleeping Bag: $20
- Inflatable Air Mattress: $25
- Walking Sticks (Pair): $20
Essential Travel Information for the Choquequirao Trek
At what altitude is Choquequirao?
Choquequirao archaeological site boasts a stunning 3,033 meters (9,951 ft) of elevation above sea level. Because of its strategic location in the Andes, the majority of researchers believe that this citadel was once an important checkpoint between major Inca centers such as Pisac, Cusco, and Machu Picchu.
Hiking to this remote wonder involves a taste of microclimates, ecosystems, and stunning biodiversity along the way. From cloud forest to rugged highlands, every step of the Choquequirao Trek reveals new landscapes full of orchids, birds, and stunning views over the Apurímac Canyon.
Because of its isolation, Choquequirao Trekking is normally called a journey to a hidden treasure. Compared to other Inca ruins, this citadel is still undeveloped and has fewer visitors, making it the “Lost City of the Incas.”.
The standard Choquequirao Trek Tour will take around four days, with steep downtrips into the canyon and steep uphills back out to the ruins. It’s a long and demanding hike, but for people in sound physical and mental health, it’s one of the best adventures in Peru. The effort is rewarded by stunning mountain scenery, remote Andean villages, and the chance to see an old city nearly by yourself.
The classic Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is one of the most rewarding hikes in Peru, taking you down into the dramatic Apurímac Canyon and up again to reach this sacred site. For travelers who prefer something more personal, a Private Choquequirao Trek 4 Days offers the same route but with added comfort and flexibility. Either way, this is a journey that combines physical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and the magic of walking in the footsteps of the Incas.
What makes Choquequirao so unique?
Even though only 30% of Choquequirao has been excavated, what is visible today is truly fascinating. Each section has a tale to relate about Inca life, their rituals, and their connection with nature. Choosing Choquequirao Trekking is not just about reaching ruins—it’s about discovering a living museum amidst the mountains.
Central Plaza
The Huacaipata, or main square, was the heart of Choquequirao. From here, the site divides into two sections, with a two-story stone building and other buildings surrounding it. Standing in this plaza after days of hiking is like stepping centuries back into the golden age of the Inca Empire.
Colcas (Storehouses)
Dotted around the site are the storehouses, or colcas. These deceptively simple buildings stored food, clothing, and tools through natural ventilation. It is a testament to how well-equipped the Incas were to have settlements in such remote places to find them along the way to Choquequirao.
Agricultural Terraces
The terraces of Choquequirao are masterpieces of engineering. They go up the hillside and were planted with crops while protecting the land from erosion. On the west side is something unique: 22 figures of llamas carved in 15 terraces, the “Solar Spark.” It is one of the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days highlights for many tourists.
Residential Sector
Five stone buildings high above the plaza are thought to have been the homes of priests or rulers. Nearby is the Inca Necropolis, or Wall of Victory, with tombs and a ceremonial water reservoir. Being able to view this part of the complex on a Private Choquequirao Trek 4 Days provides an extra sense of connection to the spiritual world of the Incas.
Kallankas
These grand halls served as workshops, administration, and communal structures. The unusual thing about them here is that there are water channels in the walls—testament to the ingenuity of the Incas in hydraulics. For people who are Choquequirao Trekking, one feels like walking into the very heart of Inca society while walking within the kallankas.
Ushnu
Perched on a hill, the ushnu is a ceremonial platform with heart-stopping views of soaring snow-capped peaks and the gaping Apurímac Canyon below. It’s believed rituals and offerings took place here, connecting the Incas with their gods. For trekkers today, reaching this point of the trek to Choquequirao often has a spiritual quality, a payoff for the effort.
Why choose the Choquequirao Trek?
The journey to Choquequirao is demanding but unforgettable. You’ll pass through changing landscapes—cloud forests, high Andean plateaus, and canyon floors—while spotting condors, orchids, and maybe even spectacled bears along the way.
Unlike other popular routes, here you’ll rarely see crowds. That’s why many call it Peru’s true hidden gem. Whether you join the classic Choquequirao Trek 4 Days or prefer the comfort of a Private Choquequirao Trek 4 Days, the reward is the same: the chance to walk through ancient plazas and terraces where history and nature still breathe together.
More than just ruins, the Choquequirao Trek is about the silence of the mountains, the challenge of the trail, and the privilege of discovering a sacred city almost forgotten by time.
HOW TO GET TO CHOQUEQUIRAO?
The only way to get to Choquequirao is by land. Currently, the main route is to Cachorra (2,903 m above sea level), 3-4 hours by car from Cusco (2 hours from Abancay). From there, the walk begins towards the Inca archaeological site. The route passes through important points such as Kapulioc, Maranpata and Sunchupata. From Cachora you can reach Choquequirao by walking 32 km.
You will experience different microclimates, ecosystems and biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is currently a hidden gem to which visitors do not have easy access, but not impossible either. The 04-day Choquequirao Trek is a fascinating hike into the Apurimac Canyon. This is an amazing construction made by the Incas and due to the distance and little visited it is considered as the “Lost City of the Incas”. Immerse yourself in the Choquequirao Trekking, you will appreciate beautiful landscapes and mountains, remote ancient villages celebrated in the last century by cattle ranchers.
Each Choquequirao Trek Tour is done on foot and the trip lasts two to three days. It is a long walk so it is necessary to be in good physical shape. Furthermore, due to the climate and altitude of Cusco, this route, surrounded by hiking lovers, is somewhat more difficult than those carried out in less rugged areas, so it is necessary to be mentally prepared.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE?
The archaeological site of Choquequirao is located at an altitude of 3033 meters above sea level. The climate is temperate and the nights are cool. However, tourists remain in the Inca compound only after sunset. However, because it is close to the Apurimac Gorge, the road to the top of Choquequirao is hot. It is estimated that temperatures at the archaeological site will range between 5°C and 25°C.
You will experience different microclimates, ecosystems and biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is currently a hidden gem to which visitors do not have easy access, but not impossible either. The 04-day Choquequirao Trek is a fascinating hike into the Apurimac Canyon. This is an amazing construction made by the Incas and due to the distance and little visited it is considered as the “Lost City of the Incas”. Immerse yourself in the Choquequirao Trekking, you will appreciate beautiful landscapes and mountains, remote ancient villages celebrated in the last century by cattle ranchers.
Each Choquequirao Trek Tour is done on foot and the trip lasts two to three days. It is a long walk so it is necessary to be in good physical shape. Furthermore, due to the climate and altitude of Cusco, this route, surrounded by hiking lovers, is somewhat more difficult than those carried out in less rugged areas, so it is necessary to be mentally prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Choquequirao Trek
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Located between the high Andes and the edge of the Amazon rainforest, Choquequirao contains an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. On the Choquequirao Trek itself, the trails and terraces are decorated with orchids, bromeliads, ferns and colorful wildflowers. The forests surrounding Choquequirao contain spectacled bears, condors, foxes, hummingbirds, and sometimes even pumas. This diversity of life makes trekking Choquequirao not just a journey into Inca history, but a chance to experience Peru’s actual living natural heritage.
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Many tourists choose to tour Choquequirao, but you can also do it yourself. To get there you have to follow the usual route and pay the entrance fee at the entrance gate to Choquequirao.
Important information to Choquequirao Trek Tour on your own:
You can start your bus trip to Cachora from Cusco or Abancay. Both cities are easily accessible by public transport.
The hiking route begins in the village of Kachora along a well-marked road. When you travel alone, it is important to calculate the weight of your backpack. The food should last at least 5 days, but should not weigh more than necessary. A typical tour lasts 4 days and 3 nights. This may take some time if the visitor does it alone. Upon arrival in Choquequirao, you will need to pay an entrance fee (including admission to the guided tour). This ticket allows visitors to spend the night in camps around the Inca archaeological site.
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Whether on a tour or alone, every tourist who visits Choquequirao has the essentials:
- Mosquito repellent
- Hat
- Sunglasses.
- Rain poncho (in case it rains).
- Sleeping bag (not included in the tour)
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The best time to travel is between April and October. Choquequirao has two stations.
Rainy season (November to March): It is characterized by often intense rains. The sun is not very strong, but the rain can make the walk difficult.
Dry season (April-October): Characterized by little rainfall. The days are getting warmer and the nights are getting colder. However, the less it rains the better for walking. Tips for visiting Choquequirao
You don’t have to be an experienced climber to visit Choquequirao, but it’s a good idea to have some prior experience before embarking on the adventure.
Due to the altitude at which Choquequirao is located, you may experience altitude sickness or discomfort during the climb due to your shirt. It is recommended to acclimatize to the climate of Cusco (or Abancay) before starting the tour.
Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao receives several visitors a day. We encourage you to enjoy nature and archaeological sites responsibly.
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The Choquequirao Trek Tour is of moderate difficulty. There are a total of 31 km from the town of Cachora to the archaeological site and 31 km back. The hike includes steep descents and ascents.
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Choquequirao Trek Tour vary according to each travel agency. This usually includes:
- Transportation from Cusco to Cachora. Food (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Camping equipment.
- Transportation from Cachora to Cusco.
- Choquequirao Tickets.
- Official travel guide.
You will experience different microclimates, ecosystems and biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is currently a hidden gem to which visitors do not have easy access, but not impossible either. The 04-day Choquequirao Trek is a fascinating hike into the Apurimac Canyon. This is an amazing construction made by the Incas and due to the distance and little visited it is considered as the “Lost City of the Incas”. Immerse yourself in the Choquequirao Trekking, you will appreciate beautiful landscapes and mountains, remote ancient villages celebrated in the last century by cattle ranchers.
Each Choquequirao Trek Tour is done on foot and the trip lasts two to three days. It is a long walk so it is necessary to be in good physical shape. Furthermore, due to the climate and altitude of Cusco, this route, surrounded by hiking lovers, is somewhat more difficult than those carried out in less rugged areas, so it is necessary to be mentally prepared.
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Differences between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu:
Choquequirao Machu Picchu The name translates as “golden cradle” “old mountain.” Location Province of La Convencion – Santa Teresa, Cusco Province of Urubamba – Hot Springs, Cusco The height is 3033 m above sea level 2430 m above sea level The size of the extension is 18 square kilometers 120 square kilometers Function Citadel and religious center Citadel and religious center It was built in 1536 1450 Date of discovery 1909 (Hiram Bingham) 1911 (Hiram Bingham) The entrance ticket costs S/ 60 (General Admission) S/ 152 (individual ticket Machu Picchu) How to get? 4-Day Walking Itinerary (Round Trip) 4-Hour Scenic Train Trip (Optional 4-Day Inca Trail) Climate Temperate climate (5°C to 25°C). Warm climate (13°C. 26ºC). Tour Price 4-day tour USD 510 (approx.) 1-day tour USD 250 (approx.) You will experience different microclimates, ecosystems and biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is currently a hidden gem to which visitors do not have easy access, but not impossible either. The 04-day Choquequirao Trek is a fascinating hike into the Apurimac Canyon. This is an amazing construction made by the Incas and due to the distance and little visited it is considered as the “Lost City of the Incas”. Immerse yourself in the Choquequirao Trekking, you will appreciate beautiful landscapes and mountains, remote ancient villages celebrated in the last century by cattle ranchers.
Each Choquequirao Trek Tour is done on foot and the trip lasts two to three days. It is a long walk so it is necessary to be in good physical shape. Furthermore, due to the climate and altitude of Cusco, this route, surrounded by hiking lovers, is somewhat more difficult than those carried out in less rugged areas, so it is necessary to be mentally prepared.
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Like Machu Picchu, many people knew that Choquequirao contained Incan archaeological ruins. However, it was Hiram Bingham (the discoverer of Machu Picchu) who made the world aware of the importance of the Inca ruins in 1909. Excavations did not begin until 1970. It is estimated that currently only 30% of Choquequirao has been excavated and is is on public display.
You will experience different microclimates, ecosystems and biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is currently a hidden gem to which visitors do not have easy access, but not impossible either. The 04-day Choquequirao Trek is a fascinating hike into the Apurimac Canyon. This is an amazing construction made by the Incas and due to the distance and little visited it is considered as the “Lost City of the Incas”. Immerse yourself in the Choquequirao Trekking, you will appreciate beautiful landscapes and mountains, remote ancient villages celebrated in the last century by cattle ranchers.
Each Choquequirao Trek Tour is done on foot and the trip lasts two to three days. It is a long walk so it is necessary to be in good physical shape. Furthermore, due to the climate and altitude of Cusco, this route, surrounded by hiking lovers, is somewhat more difficult than those carried out in less rugged areas, so it is necessary to be mentally prepared.
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