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Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Peru
Cusco & Peru Adventure

Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

Discover Choquequirao, the hidden Inca city, through an epic 5-day trek across the Apurímac Canyon.

5 days / 4 nights Moderate to Challenging 3,050 m / 10,006 ft Small groups
Overview

About this experience

The Choquequirao Trek 5 Days is one of the most rewarding and off-the-beaten-path trekking experiences in Peru. This adventure takes you deep into the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, leading to the incredible Inca city of Choquequirao. Often referred to as the sister city of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao remains largely undiscovered, offering a unique and less crowded alternative. This trek combines challenging hiking days, breathtaking landscapes, and a complete guided exploration of one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in South America.

Highlights

Why you will love this tour

Explore Choquequirao, one of the largest Inca cities ever built

Trek through the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world

Enjoy panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and rivers

Spot wildlife such as condors, deer, and spectacled bears

Experience authentic camping in remote Andean landscapes

Perfect alternative trek to Machu Picchu with fewer crowds

Ideal for adventure travelers seeking a real challenge

Itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Day 1 Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa Camp

Your Choquequirao Trek begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You will travel by private transportation to Capuliyoc (2,885 m), where you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon and surrounding snow-capped peaks such as Padriyoc. From here, begin your descent through diverse ecosystems until reaching Chiquisca, where you will enjoy lunch. Afterward, continue descending for approximately one more hour to Playa Rosalina (1,550 m), crossing the Apurímac River. Then begin a challenging uphill hike of about 2 hours to Santa Rosa Camp (1,950 m), where you will spend the night after tea and dinner.

Day 2 Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao Camp

After breakfast, continue your ascent for approximately 3 hours to Marampata, where you will enjoy spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon and the Choquequirao complex. After a well-deserved rest, continue to your campsite near Choquequirao (2,850 m). After lunch, you will have a free afternoon to relax and prepare for the full exploration of the archaeological site the next day.

Day 3 Day 3: Choquequirao Full Day Exploration

After breakfast, hike to the magnificent archaeological site of Choquequirao and enjoy a full guided tour. Explore temples, terraces, plazas, ceremonial structures, water channels, and the famous llama sector. Your guide will explain the importance of this site, often referred to as the last refuge of the Incas. Only about 30% of the site has been restored, making it a true hidden gem. You may also have the chance to spot Andean condors flying above the canyon. Return to camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 4 Day 4: Choquequirao – Santa Rosa – Chiquisca

After breakfast, begin your return journey along the same route. Descend back to Playa Rosalina, where you may have time to relax near the river. Then hike uphill to Chiquisca (1,911 m), where you will spend your final night camping. Enjoy dinner and a well-earned rest after a long day of trekking.

Day 5 Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco

On the final day, wake up early and begin the last ascent to Capuliyoc (2,885 m), which takes approximately 4 hours. At the top, enjoy your final lunch with your trekking team and say goodbye. Afterward, return by private transportation to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon. Optional visit to Cconoc hot springs may be available depending on time and group conditions.

Includes

What is included and not included

Included

  • Pre-trek briefing before departure
  • Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
  • Private transportation Cusco – Capuliyoc – Cusco
  • Entrance ticket to Choquequirao archaeological site
  • Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, kitchen equipment)
  • Foam sleeping mat per person
  • Horsemen and pack animals for equipment transport
  • Professional trekking chef and assistant
  • Meals during the trek (4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners)
  • Daily snacks and afternoon tea service
  • Boiled, filtered, and cooled drinking water
  • Morning wake-up tea (coca tea)
  • Personal hygiene equipment (warm water and towel)
  • First aid kit and oxygen tank
  • 24-hour customer support

Not included

  • Sleeping bag (available for rent)
  • Trekking poles
  • Breakfast on Day 1
  • Dinner on Day 5 in Cusco
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for trekking staff
  • Personal expenses
  • Extra costs due to weather, strikes, or route changes
Before you go

Important information

  • Bring your original passport
  • Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before trekking
  • Wear proper trekking boots
  • Bring warm clothing for cold nights and light clothes for hot canyon
  • Carry at least 2–3 liters of water
  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Prepare for long hiking days and steep terrain
Pricing

Price and booking information

Starting from $600 USD

The Choquequirao Trek 5 Days includes transportation, guide service, camping equipment, meals, and full logistics. It is one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu for adventure travelers seeking a unique experience.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?

It is considered moderate to challenging due to steep ascents and long hiking days.

Is Choquequirao similar to Machu Picchu?

Yes, it is often called the sister city of Machu Picchu but is much less visited.

How long is the trek?

The trek covers approximately 50 km over 5 days.

Can I see wildlife during the trek?

Yes, it is possible to see condors, deer, and other Andean wildlife.