Choquequirao Trek 4 days

Overview for the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days

The Choquequirao Trek 4 days is a journey into the remoteness of the Andes in search of impressive archaeological sites and unique landscapes. You will be physically challenged following the steps that the Incas once took to reach Choquequirao.

This experience will take you over different microclimates and dramatic altitude changes, from 2,850m at Capuliyoc down to 1,475m at Playa Rosalina in the Apurimac Canyon and back up to 3,050m at Choquequirao itself.

Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao receives only about 30 visitors per day. It is possibly 3 times the size of Machu Picchu and still only 40 percent excavated. It is as mysterious as it is remote.

If you are looking for the unexplored side of the Inca world, this unforgettable trek is for you. For something less adventurous, check our Machu Picchu Tours.

What to Expect on the Choquequirao Trek

Trekking through steep descents into the Apurimac Canyon, then ascending back up to mountain ridges
Long hiking days, 6 to 8 hours daily
Remote campsites with no phone service and no villages
Unique landscapes and stunning views of Apurimac Canyon and Vilcabamba Mountain Range
Shared time around campfires with your small group and local crew

Main Challenges You Should Know

Steep descents and ascents: Day 1 you descend 1,375m to Playa Rosalina then climb to Santa Rosa. Day 4 you climb 1,400m back to Capuliyoc Pass
Physically demanding trail: Long hours on trail, uneven terrain, loose gravel and high exposure to sun radiation. You need good knees and good fitness
Remoteness: Less access to facilities, need to carry all essentials and no phone service along trail. Our crew carries safety equipment including oxygen and first aid

Highlights

Visiting Choquequirao archaeological complex: Recently discovered, possibly over 3 times size of Machu Picchu, with palaces, temples, ritual fountains, Usnu ceremonial platform, agricultural terraces and llama terraces
Incredible views of Apurimac Canyon and snow capped peaks: Padreyoc peak at 5,571m, plus views of Vilcabamba range
Diversity of flora and fauna: Change from high Andes to cloud forest to canyon. Possibility of spotting condors, spectacled bears, orchids and bromeliads
Remote camping experience: Nights at Santa Rosa, Marampata and Cocamasana camps with starry skies and campfire stories

Who Is This Trek For?

This adventure is for travelers brave enough to go as remote as the trail can take you. It is highly demanding due to terrain and long distances covered every day, about 64km total.

It is perfect if you want to see Inca history without crowds, you love physical challenges, you enjoy nature and you have at least 2 days acclimatization in Cusco before trek. Not recommended for travelers with knee problems or those looking for easy walks.

Itinerary
Inclusions
Prices
Packing List

Day 1: Cusco to Capuliyoc to Chiquisca to Santa Rosa

From Cusco to the trailhead. Welcome to the Choquequirao Trek

You will be picked up from your hotel at 5:00am. Our private shuttle takes us 4 hours to Capuliyoc at 2,850m, the official start point. On arrival we meet our horsemen who will carry our equipment for the trek.

Time to start hiking, destination Santa Rosa Campsite

Our adventure begins with a moderate descent following Apurimac Canyon. Along trail we spot towering peaks like Padreyoc which summit reaches 5,571m. We hike down to Chiquisca at 1,900m, a small oasis with eucalyptus trees.

We continue to Playa Rosalina at 1,475m, the lowest point of trek at the Apurimac River. Here we will take a break to enjoy a nourishing lunch and recharge our energy for upcoming ascent.

The final segment takes us 2 hours uphill to Santa Rosa at 2,200m. Our first campsite will be waiting, with hot beverages and appetizers before dinner.

Statistics Day 1

Level: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi, 6 to 7 hours
Lowest: 1,475m Playa Rosalina
Highest: 2,850m Capuliyoc
Meals: Lunch, Dinner, snacks, hot tea

Day 2: Santa Rosa to Marampata to Choquequirao

The day we reach Choquequirao

Day 2 starts with hot beverage delivered to your tent and promise to reach Choquequirao in afternoon. We enjoy hearty breakfast before heading to Marampata.

To Marampata: 2 hour uphill hike to Marampata at 2,850m, a rural village. Around this area we experience a micro climate that sets perfect conditions for large diversity of flora and fauna. You will see coffee plants, avocados, orchids.

There we enjoy nourishing lunch and recharge for enriching afternoon. After this stop we continue 1.5 hours to Choquequirao at 3,050m, arriving early afternoon.

Visit to Choquequirao: You will spend the afternoon exploring the ancient site. Our licensed guide shows you different sections, sharing tales and facts about palaces, temples, ritual fountains, Usnu or ceremonial platform, agricultural terraces and area designed for llamas with the famous white stone llamas on the terraces. You will plenty of time for photos with no crowds.

After exploration we return to Marampata (30 minutes), where our campsite waits where you will have hot beverages, appetizers, a well deserved dinner, with time for stargazing.

Statistics Day 2

Highlights: Diversity of ecosystems and Choquequirao visit
Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi, 5 to 6 hours plus 2 hours site tour
Lowest: 2,200m Santa Rosa
Highest: 3,050m Choquequirao
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Marampata camp

Day 3: Choquequirao to Marampata to Cocamasana to Chiquisca

A mix of physical challenge and stunning nature.

Before starting the trek today, first we fuel up with hearty breakfast with views of Choquequirao. Then we start descending toward Apurimac River. For 2 hours we hike down to river at 1,550m, one of most sacred rivers for Andean peoples.

Second segment takes us uphill. We climb 1 hour to our next campsite Chiquisca at 1,900m, also called Cocamasana. There our team waits with tents ready and hot beverages and appetizers to welcome us. A perfect end to physically demanding third day.

This descent and ascent reveal the full scale of the canyon, with more than 1,500 meters of vertical relief.

Statistics Day 3

Level: Moderate to challenging
Distance: 16 km / 10 mi, 6 to 7 hours
Highest: 2,850m Marampata
Lowest: 1,550m Apurimac River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Chiquisca to Capuliyoc Pass to Saywite to Cusco

Final challenge and Inca history.

Welcome to final day of Choquequirao Trek. We start with delicious breakfast prepared by our expedition chef.

Capuliyoc Pass: Our final day challenges us to last step. First we climb 3 to 4 hours to Capuliyoc Pass at 2,900m. We are rewarded at top with privileged views of mountain ranges and Apurimac Canyon. Then we proceed to Cachora at 2,850m but terrain between presents many punchy climbs. Upon arrival at Cachora our team spoils us with final lunch.

Archaeological site of Saywite: We have one more stop before heading back to Cusco. After lunch our driver takes us 20 minutes to Saywite archaeological site. This site is less visited but filled with historical relevance. You see Saywite Stone, a large carved monolith with over 200 figures depicting Inca cosmology. Our guide explains its meaning.

Next, we enjoy a scenic 4-hour drive back to Cusco with Andean views. We arrive at your hotel around 6:00pm. End of service. You will sleep well tonight.

Statistics Day 4

Highlights: Exploration of Saywite
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi plus drive
Highest: 2,900m Capuliyoc Pass
Lowest: 1,900m Chiquisca
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Level: Moderate to challenging

What is included for the Choquequirao Trek 4 days?

Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc and return from Cachora to Cusco
Licensed professional mountain guide fluent in English and Spanish
Experienced local horsemen and pack horses for all group equipment
3 nights camping in spacious 4 season tents with sleeping mats
Dining tent kitchen tent toilet tent and all camping logistics
All meals as indicated 3 breakfasts 4 lunches 3 dinners plus snacks and hot tea
Boiled water every day for drinking bring your reusable bottle
Emergency horse that can be ridden if you feel tired or sick
Emergency oxygen bottle first aid kit and safety communication
Entrance ticket to Choquequirao Archaeological Park
Entrance ticket to Saywite Archaeological Site
Duffel bag and liner bags for your 7 kgs personal gear on horses

What is excluded?

Sleeping bag suitable for 0°C can be rented from us for 20 USD
Travel insurance that covers trekking and emergency evacuation
Personal trekking gear like daypack boots poles and clothing
Meals in cities breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 4 in Cusco
Tips for guides cooks and horsemen optional and appreciated
Additional snacks drinks and personal expenses
Extra activities or side trips not mentioned in itinerary
Transportation outside of trek itinerary
Extra nights of accommodation in Cusco before or after trek
Emergency evacuation and medical costs

Price – Choquequirao Trek to Lost City 4 Days

Trek Details: $527 USD per person for 2 or more people | Pack horses included for 7 kgs personal gear | Large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers | Depart any day with minimum 2 people

Price Per Person

Standard Price – 2 or More People: $527 USD
- Pack horse included for 7 kgs, duffel bag provided, all camping equipment, entrance tickets to Choquequirao and Saywite

Extras – Optional Rental and Upgrades

Sleeping Bag: $20 USD
- Per person per trek, clean and warm, minus 10C, recommended for cold nights at Marampata
Air Mattress: $20 USD
- Per person per trek, Therm-a-rest mattresses for better sleep at 2,850m
Walking Poles: $15 USD
- Per pair per trek, professional extendable poles, recommended for steep descent to Apurimac River
Personal Tent: $30 USD
- For solo trekkers only, single tent for more privacy

Added Values For FREE

Duffel Bag and Liner Bags – FREE: Included
- Included in trek price, duffel for 7 kgs personal gear on pack horses
Extra Pack Horse up to 7 kgs – FREE: Included
- Will carry sleeping bag, mattress, clothes, duffel included
Boiled Water – FREE: Included
- Included daily along the trek for drinking, bring reusable bottle
Oxygen Tank and First Aid Kit – FREE: Included
- Available along the trek for emergency, guide certified Wilderness First Aid
Emergency Horse – FREE: Included
- Can be ridden if you get tired or sick on steep ascents
Entrance to Choquequirao and Saywite – FREE: Included
- All park entrance tickets included in $527 price

Key Information

Best Value: $527 USD per person for 2 or more people includes private transport, professional guide, pack horses for 7 kgs, duffel bag, all camping equipment, meals, emergency horse, oxygen, entrance tickets to Choquequirao and Saywite. Depart any day with minimum 2 people. Licensed local operator Cusco

What You Need to Pack for Choquequirao Trek 4 Days

Trek Details: 64km / 40 miles over Apurimac Canyon to 3,050m at Choquequirao | 3 nights camping + campfire | Challenging trek

Essential Documents, Valuables, and Cash

Original Passport Required
- You must carry the original passport used for booking
- Checked at Capuliyoc checkpoint and at Choquequirao entrance
- Name and number must match your ticket exactly. If renewed after booking, bring both passports
- Licensed guides verify documents the night before in Cusco
Camera, Power Bank, and Extra Money
- Camera with extra batteries
- Power bank (10,000 mAh minimum; no charging on trail)
- Small dry bag for electronics
- Peruvian Soles in small bills for tips for crew, first breakfast in Tinki (not included), last dinner in Cusco, and souvenirs at Saywite

Backpack System and Clothing

Daypack and Duffel Bag
- Horses carry your main duffel up to 7 kilos (duffel provided with liner bag)
- Hike with lightweight daypack (30 to 40 liters) for water, rain jacket, passport, camera, and snacks
- A big backpack makes the steep descent to Apurimac River harder
Clothing for Hot Canyon and Cold Nights
- Apurimac Canyon is hot and dry at 1,475m, while Marampata camp is cold at 2,850m
- Bring thermal base layer, 2 quick-dry t-shirts, 2 long-sleeve shirts, fleece, down jacket for evenings, 2 hiking pants (including one that converts to shorts), and rain pants
Waterproof Jacket and Rain Poncho
- Lower canyon has little rain, but Marampata and Capuliyoc Pass have afternoon showers even in dry season (May to September)
- Bring waterproof jacket with hood and full rain poncho that covers your daypack (essential for Apurimac descent)
Warm Layers for Cold Nights at Marampata
- Warm jacket (down or similar) for cold nights at Santa Rosa and Marampata (2,850m) where temperatures drop to 5°C
- Sun hat for canyon heat and woolen hat for evenings
- Waterproof gloves, thermal underwear for sleeping, and 4 pairs of wool hiking socks

Footwear and Gear

Footwear for Steep Canyon Trail
- Sturdy, waterproof, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are mandatory for 64km over steep descents and ascents, loose rock, and sand
- Do not bring new boots
- Bring comfortable shoes or sandals for camp evenings at Chiquisca and Marampata
Trekking Poles and Headlamp
- Trekking poles highly recommended for Choquequirao steep descents and ascents to save your knees (Rental available: $15 USD per pair with rubber tips)
- Headlamp with extra batteries essential for early mornings and toilet tent at night (no electricity for 3 nights camping)

Hydration, Sun, and Insect Protection

Toiletries and Personal Items
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, small quick-dry towel, and biodegradable soap
- Personal medication, blister plasters, painkillers, altitude medication
- Note: Guides carry oxygen bottle and first aid kit

Hydration and Snacks
- Bring 2 to 3 liter reusable bottle minimum (canyon is very hot and dry)
- Boiled and filtered water provided daily starting from Day 1 lunch
- Bring energy bars, chocolate, electrolytes, and salty snacks for steep climbs from Playa Rosalina to Santa Rosa
Sun Protection and Insect Repellent
- High sun exposure in Apurimac Canyon with no shade for hours
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 50+), sunglasses with UV protection, and brimmed sun hat
- Insect repellent with DEET essential for lower elevations at Playa Rosalina and Apurimac River where mosquitoes are common

Health and Personal Items

Toiletries and Personal Items
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, small quick-dry towel, and biodegradable soap
- Personal medication, blister plasters, painkillers, altitude medication
- Note: Guides carry oxygen bottle and first aid kit

FAQS

The Choquequirao Trek is challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents of up to 1,400m in one day, uneven terrain, loose gravel and high sun exposure. You hike 6 to 8 hours per day for 64km total over 4 days. The challenge is physical and altitude, with a maximum of 3,050m at Choquequirao and 2,900m at Capuliyoc Pass. You need good fitness, strong knees and 2 days acclimatization in Cusco before starting. Our guides walk at your pace and an emergency horse is included.

Choquequirao archaeological site is located at 3,050m or 10,007 ft above sea level. The highest point of the trek is Capuliyoc Pass at 2,900m. The lowest point is Playa Rosalina at 1,475m in the Apurimac Canyon. This 1,500m vertical difference is what makes the trek demanding.

The best time is in the dry season from April to October. On these months, the weather is clearer, the trails are less muddy and views of Apurimac Canyon and Padreyoc peak at 5,571m are best. May to September is peak dry season with cold nights at Marampata. April and October are shoulder months with fewer tourists and still good conditions. Rainy season November to March has slippery trails and more clouds but trek still operates.

You can legally hike to Choquequirao without a guide, but it is not recommended. The trail is remote, 64km with no phone service, no villages and limited water sources. A licensed guide provides safety, navigation, history of the site, and manages horses and emergency equipment. All our Choquequirao 4 Day tours include a professional English-speaking guide certified in Wilderness First Aid, plus horsemen and pack horses.

Essential items include a 30 to 40L daypack, sleeping bag rated to 0C, trekking poles, broken in hiking boots with ankle support, layered clothing, fleece and down jacket, waterproof jacket and poncho, sun hat, wool hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, 2 litre water bottles, snacks, headlamp, power bank 10,000 mAh, toiletries and personal medication. We provide a duffel bag for 7 kgs of personal gear which is carried by horses, and all camping equipment.

No limited permits like Inca Trail are required. You can book last minute. There is an entrance fee of 60 soles per person for Choquequirao Archaeological Park and Saywite site. This fee is included in our price of $527 USD per person, so you do not need to pay separately. We handle all tickets.

Spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco at 3,400m before starting trek. Avoid strenuous activity on first day, drink 2 to 3 litres of water daily, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol, and do short acclimatization hikes to Sacsayhuaman or Pisac. Tell your guide immediately if you have headache, nausea or dizziness. Our guides carry oxygen bottle and first aid kit and know emergency evacuation routes.

Our groups are small, from minimum 2 people to maximum 8 people. We depart any day that suits your schedule with 2 people. Small groups allow personal service, better safety and less impact on fragile canyon ecosystem. Private tours are available on request for families or friends.

If you cancel, send written notice to our email. Initial deposit is non refundable. Cancellations more than 15 days before departure result in 50 percent deposit forfeiture. For cancellations between 7 and 15 days before departure with full payment made, 50 percent of total cost will be refunded. No refunds are given for cancellations less than 48 hours before departure or for partial tour cancellations. Check your travel insurance for potential coverage.

If we need to alter or cancel due to unforeseen circumstances such as technical issues, adverse weather, strikes, government actions or civil disturbances, we will try to provide alternative arrangements or equivalent trips without offering refunds. Significant changes will be communicated before trip with comparable alternative plans offered. If we cancel a tour, a full refund will be provided.

All our treks are guided by local experienced English-speaking guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism Cusco. Our guides have an average of 8 years guiding Choquequirao and Inca Trail, are certified in Wilderness First Aid, and are familiar with trail and Incan history of Choquequirao and Saywite.

Yes, we arrange customized trips in Peru. We offer an extensive range of experiences in Cusco such as Salkantay and Humantay Lake, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail and Alternative Inca Trails, Sacred Valley and South Valley, Ausangate and Vilcanota Range experiences. We can create 3 day express Choquequirao, 5 day Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, or private family departures. Contact us for a tailored plan for your Peru vacation.