SUMMARY
Epic Choquequirao 4-Day Trek
Ready for a thrilling adventure? Discover Choquequirao, the hidden Inca gem, on a 4-day trek through Peru’s dramatic Apurimac Canyon. This journey promises breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and a deep dive into Inca history.
Why Go?
Scenic Wonders: Traverse snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and spot wildlife like condors and hummingbirds.
Historic Ruins: Explore Choquequirao, an enigmatic Incan site with panoramic mountain views.
Unique Experience: Trek through one of Peru’s most remote areas and connect with ancient Inca culture.
Quick Itinerary:
- Day 1: Cusco to Playa Rosalina Camp
Day 2: Playa Rosalina to Choquequirao Camp
Day 3: Choquequirao Site, Chikisqa, Cocamasana
Day 4: Cocamasana to Sayhuite Stone, then back to Cusco
Highlights:
- Explore the elusive Choquequirao ruins.
Hike through Peru’s deepest canyon.
Experience awe-inspiring views and Inca heritage.
Choquequirao Trek 4 days / 3 nights
Discover Choquequirao Trek This thrilling . journey to Choquequirao is a hidden gem. While some may describe it as exhausting, the effort is always worth it. This archaeological site, located in the Cusco region of Peru, is
a fascinating wonder. It’s often compared to Machu Picchu due to its historical significance and natural beauty. If
you dream of exploring the majestic landscapes of the Andes and the jungle while visiting the lost city of the Incas in CUSCO, Choquequirao is an exceptional choice. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to embark on an extraordinary adventure at an incredible price.
Overview: Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cusco to Chiquisca, starting with a scenic drive and culminating in a thrilling descent through stunning landscapes.
Day 1: Embark on an Unforgettable Choquequirao Trek: From Cusco to Santa Rosa
Early Morning Transfer: Depart from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 AM for a 4.5-hour scenic drive to Capuliyoc.
Arrival at Capuliyoc: Reach the charming Andean village at 2,915 meters (9,564 feet), where you’ll meet your support crew, including horsemen and a chef.
Breakfast and Orientation: Enjoy a hearty breakfast and receive a brief orientation from your local guide about Andean hiking tips.
Trek to Capuliyoc Viewpoint: Begin your trek with a steady climb to the Capuliyoc viewpoint, taking in
panoramic views of the snow-capped Padereyoc peak and learning about Andean mythology.
Descent to Chiquisqa Oasis: Descend through highland communities and farmlands on a three-hour hike to
Playa Rosalinas for a delicious lunch prepared by your chef.
Ascend to Santa Rosa: After lunch, embark on a gradual ascent with stunning views of the Apurimac Canyon to reach your campsite at Santa Rosa Baja, situated at 1,900 meters (6,234 feet).
Evening Relaxation: Enjoy hot drinks, appetizers, and a freshly cooked Andean meal under the starlit sky at your campsite.
Day 2: Discover the Mysteries of Choquequirao: From Santa Rosa to the Lost City
Morning Wake-Up: Start your day with freshly brewed Peruvian coffee and a traditional Andean breakfast.
Hike to Marampata: Begin your trek to Marampata, located at 2,925 meters (9,596 feet), where you’ll catch your
first view of the majestic Choquequirao.
Trek Through Jungle: Explore the dense jungle, learning about local flora and spotting alpacas and llamas. Arrive at the Choquequirao campsite for a hearty traditional lunch.
Explore Choquequirao: Dive into an immersive exploration of the Choquequirao archaeological complex with
your expert guide. Discover the complex’s history, including its significance and abandonment.
Tour the Ruins: Visit the Pikawasi sector, main plaza, ceremonial sites, Inca temples, and the priest’s residence. See the Llama Sector, featuring llamas depicted in stone art.
Sunset Views: Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over Choquequirao before returning to your campsite for dinner and rest.
Day 3: The Mystical Choquequirao to the Vibrant Villages of Chiquisca
Spectacular Sunrise: Enjoy a serene sunrise at Choquequirao with a cup of coffee and breakfast, taking in the views of the ancient ruins.
Descend to Cocamasana: After breakfast, descend through scenic areas towards Cocamasana, visiting local farms
and learning about traditional farming techniques, including potato and quinoa cultivation.
Local Flavors: Explore a blackberry farm and arrive in Santa Rosa, famous for its avocado plantations. Sample
Chicha de Cambray, a traditional fermented beverage.
Lunch and Scenic Hike: Have lunch at Playa Rosalinas and then hike through a vibrant tropical region to reach the Chiquisca campsite for your third night.
Day 4: Chiquisca to Cusco – The Final Stretch of Your Andean Adventure
Early Morning Ascent: Begin your day with breakfast and a four-hour ascent back to Capuliyoc, reliving the
stunning vistas and lush landscapes from the start of your trek.
Farewell to the Team: Say goodbye to your support staff who have been with you throughout the journey.
Return to Cusco: Meet your driver for the scenic drive back to Cusco. Enjoy a few scenic stops and a satisfying lunch along the way.
Arrival in Cusco: Arrive in Cusco by 5:00 PM, where you can unwind and reflect on your memorable trek.
ITINERARY
Choquequirao Trek 4 days / 3 nights
Day 1 : Embark on an Unforgettable Choquequirao Trek: From Cusco to Santa Rosa
Your Adventure Awaits
Kick off your epic Choquequirao Trek with a 4:30 AM transfer from your Cusco hotel. Prepare for a scenic 4.5-hour drive to Capuliyoc, a charming Andean village nestled at 2,915 meters (9,564 feet). Here, you’ll meet your support crew, including horsemen and a talented chef, while enjoying a hearty breakfast to fuel your journey.
Step Into the Andes :After a brief orientation from your local expert on Andean hiking tips, begin your trek with a steady climb to the Capuliyoc viewpoint. Marvel at breathtaking panoramas of the snow-capped Padereyoc peak and immerse yourself in the rich Andean mythology.
From Vista to Oasis :Next, descend through lush highland communities and verdant farmlands on a three-hour hike to Chiquisqa Oasis. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Playa Rosalinas, where your chef will have everything prepared in advance. Recharge and get ready for the next leg of your journey.
Ascend to Santa Rosa :Post-lunch, embark on a gradual ascent with awe-inspiring views of the Apurimac Canyon, making your way to your campsite in Santa Rosa Baja, situated at 1,900 meters (6,234 feet). Upon arrival, savor hot drinks and appetizers prepared by your crew before settling into your pre-erected tent.
End the Day in Style :As night falls, relish a freshly cooked Andean meal under the starlit sky, sharing stories of the day’s adventures with fellow trekkers.
Quick Facts
Meals: Brunch/Dinner
Accommodations: Camping at Santa Rosa Baja
Lowest Elevation: 1,900 meters (6,234 feet)
Highest Elevation: 2,915 meters (9,564 feet)
Distance Walked: 8 km (5 miles)
Approximate Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Apurimac Canyon, Padereyoc Mountain
Get ready for a journey of a lifetime through stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Day 2: Discover the Mysteries of Choquequirao: From Santa Rosa to the Lost City
Start Your Day Right
Wake up to the rich aroma of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee and a traditional Andean breakfast. Energized and ready, you’ll begin your hike up to Marampata, situated at 2,925 meters (9,596 feet). This charming village offers your first glimpse of the majestic Choquequirao, just two hours away.
Hike Through Tropical Wonders :As you trek through the dense, vibrant jungle, your guide will share fascinating insights into the diverse plant life and the opportunity to spot alpacas and llamas in their natural habitat. The path will lead you to the Choquequirao campsite, where a hearty traditional lunch awaits.
Explore the Inca Treasure :Post-lunch, dive into an immersive exploration of the Choquequirao archaeological complex. Discover the history and significance of this Incan marvel with your expert guide. Learn about the Spanish conquest’s impact and the reasons behind the complex’s abandonment.
Marvel at the Ruins:Your tour includes the Pikawasi sector, the main plaza, ceremonial sites, Inca temples, and the priest’s residence. Take in the intricate details and historical significance of each site. Don’t miss the iconic Llama Sector, where you’ll see how llamas were vital to the Incas, both as transport animals and in their art, with llamas depicted in white stones against gray.
Sunset Serenity :Absorb the stunning views of the Inca complex and the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the breathtaking sunset over Choquequirao before heading back to your campsite for a delicious dinner and a well-earned rest.
Quick Facts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping
Lowest Elevation: 1,550 meters (5,117 feet)
Highest Elevation: 3,150 meters (10,397 feet)
Distance Walked: 14 km (8.75 miles)
Approximate Walking Time: 6 hours
Difficulty Level: Demanding
Highlights: Apurimac River, Soray and Tuncarway Mountains
Prepare for a day filled with adventure, history, and awe-inspiring views. Your Choquequirao trek promises to be an unforgettable experience
Day 3: The Mystical Choquequirao to the Vibrant Villages of Chiquisca
Awaken to a Spectacular Sunrise
Start your day with the serene sounds of chirping birds and the first light of dawn casting a golden glow on the Choquequirao ruins. Enjoy a steaming cup of coffee as you savor your breakfast, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of this ancient Incan marvel.
Descend Through Andean Beauty :After breakfast, embark on a scenic descent towards Cocamasana. Along the way, we’ll pass through Maranpata, where you’ll visit local farms. Discover traditional farming techniques and the cultivation of potatoes and quinoa with insights from the farm’s head.
Experience Local Flavors :Next, wander through a lush blackberry farm and arrive in Santa Rosa, famed for its thriving avocado plantations. Here, you’ll have the chance to taste Chicha de Cambray, a traditional fermented beverage enjoyed by locals.
Lunch and Scenic Hike :Refreshed from the local flavors, hike down to Playa Rosalinas for a delicious lunch. Post-lunch, traverse through a vibrant tropical region, making your way to the Chiquisca campsite for your third night under the stars.
Quick Facts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Camping
Lowest Elevation: 1,550 meters (5,117 feet)
Highest Elevation: 3,150 meters (10,397 feet)
Distance Walked: 14 km (8.75 miles)
Approximate Walking Time: 6 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Choquequirao Ruins, Local Farms, Avocado Plantations
Prepare for a day full of cultural discoveries, delicious local foods, and scenic beauty as you continue your adventure through the Andes
Day 4: Chiquisca to Cusco – The Final Stretch of Your Andean Adventure
Goodbye Chiquisca, Hello Capuliyoc
After an early breakfast, lace up your hiking boots for a four-hour ascent back to Capuliyoc, the starting point of your trek. Relive the stunning vistas and lush landscapes as you make your way up the hill, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve experienced.
Farewell to the Team :At Capuliyoc, it’s time to bid farewell to your dedicated support staff who have been with you every step of the way.
Return to Cusco Meet your driver for the scenic drive back to Cusco. Enjoy a few scenic stops along the way and savor a satisfying lunch before arriving in the city.
You’ll reach Cusco by 5:00 PM, where you can unwind and reminisce about your unforgettable trek.
Quick Facts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Lowest Elevation: 1,900 meters (6,270 feet)
Highest Elevation: 2,850 meters (9,407 feet)
Distance Walked: 8 km (5 miles)
Approximate Walking Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highlights: Sayhuite Ruins, Scenic Views
Conclude your adventure with a scenic drive and cherish the memories of your Andean exploration as you return to Cusco
INCLUDED (NOT)
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days, Inclusive
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capulilloc is a “round trip.”
English-speaking tour guide (Local from Cusco)
Choquequirao tour entrance fee
Camping equipment:
Comfortable igloo tents.
Foam Mattresses.
Dinner and kitchen tent
Donkeys to carry all-mountain equipment
Donkeys for personal items to carry 07 kg/15.4 lb.
01 cook.
Meals as indicated: “B = Breakfast (03), L = Lunch (04), D = Dinner (03)”
Wake up to coca tea in your tent every day.
Medical Assistance: A first-aid kit and oxygen bottle are available for the whole trip.
Local taxes
NO INCLUSION CHOQUEQUIRAO 4 DAY HIKE
- Cusco Hotel or Airbnb
Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the fourth day
Sleeping bags for the entire trail.
Extra mule to carry more belongings than are personal for four days.
Tips for support staff: muleteers, cooks, kitchen assistants, and tour guides.
Choquequirao 4 Day Hike Checklist.
- Passport.
Insurance info.
Day-pack.
First-aid kit.
Flashlight/torch.
Fleece top/sweater.
Reusable water bottle.
Long-sleeved shirts or sweaters.
Small travel towel.
Sunglasses.
Toiletries.
Windproof rain jacket.
Hiking pants.
Walking poles.
Waterproof hiking boots.
Sandals/flip-flops.
Shorts/skirts.
GALLERY LODGE
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Known as the ‘Sister of Machu Picchu,’ Choquequirao boasts its own captivating stone citadel and a rich history. Nestled at the confluence of two drastically different worlds, the Peruvian Andes and the Amazon rainforest, it is completely enveloped by lush vegetation, making it a place not easily accessible.
Its location atop a peak in the Salcantay Mountain range adds to its grandeur. This ancient city remained hidden from human eyes for nearly four centuries, retaining an air of mystery that intrigues archaeologists, researchers, and curious travelers alike. Its construction dates back to around 1536, during the reign of the Inca Empire.
What is certain is that this destination has become a favorite among adventure enthusiasts due to the challenge it presents to reach it, as well as history buffs drawn to its millennia-old secrets hidden in every corner of its citadel. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, it’s time to mark your calendar for a visit to Choquequirao.
Often dubbed the ‘Sister of Machu Picchu,’ Choquequirao is not far from its family; it is located in the Cusco region, precisely in the district of Santa Teresa, within the Convención province, in the southern Peruvian Andes. Many wonder why reaching Choquequirao is considered a challenge. The answer is quite simple: only those who are physically and mentally prepared can access this territory.
No vehicles venture into its domain. All routes to Choquequirao are on foot, typically taking 2 to 3 days in guided excursions. Physical preparation is essential due to the long hikes involved, and mental readiness is equally crucial as the Cusco region’s climate and altitude make this trail, favored by hiking enthusiasts, a bit more demanding than traversing less rugged terrain.
The Jewel of the Andes
The exact function of Choquequirao is still a matter of speculation, but it is believed to have served as a sacred center, possibly connecting Pisac and Machu Picchu with the Peruvian Amazon. Due to its challenging access, there is also a hypothesis that this area served as a refuge for the Incas following the Spanish Empire’s conquest. Regardless, its historical legacy is priceless, as much of the site remains unexplored (an estimated 70% remains to be restored), offering a wealth of evidence for future study.
Its nine sectors, featuring a political and religious center, a prominent upper main plaza, buildings, fountains, storehouses, colossal staircases, sacred enclosures, rulers’ houses, a triumphal wall temple, and a priest’s temple, among other structures, all contribute to the grandeur of Choquequirao. With so much waiting to be discovered, will you think twice about embarking on an adventure to Choquequirao?
The Choquequirao trek, spanning 4 days, encompasses nine distinct sectors, with the most prominent being the political and religious center, the intricate system of water supply sources and channels, and the extensive group covers. It’s essential to underscore the religious significance of this complex. The architectural layout revolves around a central plaza or town square and is enhanced by a meticulously preserved system of agricultural terraces. The archaeological remnants are dispersed across the lower section of the Choquequirao trek hill, organized into small neighborhoods that are somewhat distinct, likely following a functional and social hierarchy criterion.