Trek Choquequirao Peru 4 Days

Discover

Highlights

Views of the Apurimac Canyon from the Capuliyoc lookout point.
The demanding hike down to the Apurimac River and back up.
A guided visit of the extensive and largely empty Choquequirao archaeological site.
Hiking through multiple climate zones, from dry highlands to a hot canyon floor.
Passing through the fertile valleys near Tambo bamba on the return route.

Overview

Trip details

Starting Altitude: $2, 800 m /9, 186 ft$ (Capuliyoc Pass).
Highest Altitude: $3, 150 m /10, 335 ft$ (Day 4 at Huanipaca).
Total Walking Distance: $60 km /37 miles$ approximately.
Overall Difficulty: Difficult.
Sites to Visit: Capuliyoc Pass, Apurimac Canyon, Playa Rosalina, Marampata, Choquequirao, San Ignacio.
Acclimatization: Acclimatization in Cusco for at least 2-3 days is recommended.

At a glance

Trip overview

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca An early departure from Cusco to the Capuliyoc pass, followed by a long descent into the Apurimac Canyon to the campsite at Chiquisca.
Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata A short descent to the Apurimac River at Playa Rosalina, followed by a continuous and steep ascent to the Marampata campsite.
Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – San Ignacio A morning visit to the Choquequirao ruins, followed by a descent into another part of the canyon to the campsite near San Ignacio.
Day 4: San Ignacio – Huanipaca – Cusco A final ascent through the Tambo bamba area to the town of Huanipaca, where transport will be waiting for the return drive to Cusco.

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

CUSCO/CHIQUISCA

We leave Cusco ( $3350 m /10991 f$ ) at 5 am, driving toward Cachora village ( $2850 m /9350 f$ ), the place where we meet our support staff. Thereafter, we continue our journey towards the pass of Capuliyoc ( $2800 m /9186 f$ ), where we have nicer views of mountain Padreyoc and the Apurimac canyon (meaning “river speaking”). Thereupon, we start descending through the Apurimac canyon toward Chiquisca ( $1930 m /6332 f$ ), camping and overnight.

HIKING TIME: 7 HOURS
MEALS: LUNCH & DINNER
ACCOMMODATION: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES)
WEATHER: WARM / HUMID

DAY 2

MARAMPATA/CHOQUEQUIRAO

After breakfast, we descend to Playa Rosalina ( $1550 m /5085 f$ ). And we continue heading for Marampata ( $2850 m /9350 f$ ) where we are covered with beautiful views of the archeological site of Choquequirao ( $3033 m /9951 f$ ). Our camping site is located 25 minutes from the settlement.

HIKING TIME: 7 to 8 HOURS
MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
ACCOMMODATION: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES)
WEATHER: WARM

DAY 3

SAN IGNACIO/APURIMAC CANYON

We first visit the archeological site of Choquequirao prior to the breakfast. We visit the only 30% of this “golden cradle” that has been exposed. We descend to the deepest Apurímac canyon’s part called San Ignacio at $1500 m /4921 f$ then hike to our lunch spot. After that, we hike a short ascent to our campsite ( $2000 m /6562 f$ ).

HIKING TIME: 6 to 7 HOURS
MEALS: BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
ACCOMMODATION: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES)
WEATHER: WARM / HUMID

DAY 4

HUAÑIPACA /CUSCO

Our campsite is near The gardens of Carmen are situated to the manor of Tambo bamba ( $2500 m /8202 f$ ), a region considered to be one of the most fertile valleys to cultivate maize and a variety of potatoes. We observe small villages such as Pacobamba and Huanipaca ( $3150 m /10335 f$ ) and return to Cusco.

HIKING TIME: 6 to 7 HOURS
MEALS: BREAKFAST & LUNCH
WEATHER: WARM / HUMID

What's included

Inclusions

Pick up from your hotel. Collection from your hotel in Cusco on the morning of the trek’s departure.
Transportation Round trip. Private vehicle from Cusco to the trailhead at Capuliyoc and from Huanipaca back to Cusco.
English speaking professional guide. A licensed, bilingual guide for the entire 4-day trek.
Choquequirao Inca Site entrance fee. The official ticket to enter the archaeological complex is covered.
Hot water every morning and evening. Warm water for personal washing is provided at the campsites.
Cook and Cooking equipment. A dedicated cook and all necessary equipment to prepare the meals.
Excellent Meals (03B,03L,03D + 04 morning snacks). Includes high-energy meals suitable for trekking and hot drinks like coca tea.
Igloo tents. Two people will share a 4-person capacity tent for more space and comfort.
Double thickness foam mattress. A sleeping pad is provided for each person.
Kitchen tent, Dining tent with camp tables and chair. Common tents for meals and food preparation are provided.
Accommodations: 3 nights camping. Tents and campsite fees are included.
First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle. Carried by the guide for any emergencies.
We supply boiled water. Treated water is available at mealtimes to refill your bottle.
Teatime. Daily afternoon tea with snacks on the first three days.
Horses days 1-4. Pack animals will transport heavy equipment and your personal items (up to a weight limit). An emergency horse is included for groups of 6 or more.
Horsemen. The staff responsible for handling the pack animals.

Sleeping bag. You must provide your own or rent one. Rental options are listed below.
Drinks. Bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Choose your package

Prices

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (Clean, warm, and rated for cold mountain nights. Essential if you don’t have your own — temperatures at high campsites can drop significantly after sunset. Our bags are thoroughly cleaned after every use)
Air Mattress – $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest insulated mattresses that protect you from the cold ground at campsites. Significantly improves comfort and sleep quality during the 3 nights on the trail)
Walking Poles – $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional, extendable poles that provide essential support on the brutal steep descents and ascents of the Apurímac Canyon. Strongly recommended given that the round-trip trek covers approximately 62 km / 40 miles)
Personal Tent – Single Occupancy Upgrade – $30 USD per person per trek (Standard tents sleep 2 people. Request a private single-occupancy tent at the time of booking for added privacy and personal space on the trail)
Extra Pack Horse / Mule for Personal Gear – $60 USD per trek (An additional mule dedicated exclusively to your personal gear. The standard package includes shared porter carry of up to 7 kg / 15 lbs. Ideal for travelers who want to bring extra clothing, camera equipment, or personal comfort items)
Choquequirao Site Entrance Fee – Included (~S/. 60 / $16 USD — Unlike the Inca Trail, no government permit is required for this trek. The entrance fee to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is included in the tour package)
Extension to the Llama Terraces & Lower Sector – $10 USD per person (Only about 40% of Choquequirao has been excavated. This guided extension takes you down to the famous Llama Terraces — one of the most striking and less-visited sections of the complex, decorated with white llama figures carved in stone)
Condor Watching Stop at Capuliyoc Viewpoint – Included as optional (The Capuliyoc Mirador offers one of the best chances to spot Andean Condors soaring above the Apurímac Canyon. Your guide will identify the best vantage point and timing — no extra cost)
Passport Name Change Fee – $25 USD per person (If you need to update the passport number used at the time of booking due to renewal or a name change, a processing fee applies. Please send copies of both old and new passports)

Pricing & Availability – Trek Choquequirao Peru 4 Days

The Choquequirao 4 Day Trek departs on any date that suits you, as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers. Unlike the Inca Trail, no government permit is required, making last-minute bookings more flexible. However, advance booking is strongly recommended as the logistics — transport, muleteers, and cooking staff — require prior arrangement. A pre-departure briefing takes place at our Cusco office at 6:00 PM the evening before departure. Pickup from your hotel is at 4:30 AM on Day 1.

GROUP SERVICE

$499 USD per person
Personal pack horse included (carries up to 7 kg / 15 lbs of your gear)
Discount of $30 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons

PRIVATE SERVICE

$749 USD per person – 2 to 3 persons
$649 USD per person – 4 to 6 persons
$549 USD per person – 7 to 8 persons

DISCOUNTS

Students (18–25 years old): $30 USD discount. Information required from the student card: name of university, student name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at the time of booking.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking. Note: this is a physically demanding trek of 62 km round-trip and is not recommended for children under 10 without significant trekking experience.

Important Notes: The Choquequirao Trek is widely considered one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Cusco region — and one of the least crowded. The only way to reach Choquequirao is on foot; there are no trains, buses, or cable cars. The round-trip route covers approximately 62 km / 40 miles with elevations ranging from 1,400 m / 4,593 ft at the canyon floor to 3,100 m / 10,170 ft at the ruins. Good physical fitness and a minimum of 2–3 days of acclimatization in Cusco are essential. There is no mobile phone reception or WiFi along the trail. Tips for guides, cooks, and muleteers are optional but warmly appreciated — a guideline of $6–$8 USD per day per traveler for the full support team is customary.

Backpack with rain shelter. A daypack (20-30 liters) is needed for your daily personal items.
Sleeping bag. A bag rated for cold temperatures is recommended as nights can be cool.
Clothing for warm and cold climate. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket for potential rain.
Rain pants and lightweight pants. Both are useful for the variable weather.
Trekking shoes. Sturdy, waterproof, and well-worn-in hiking boots are essential.
Slippers or sandals. Useful for relaxing at the campsite.
Woolen or synthetic socks and a sweater. Important for warmth during cool evenings.
Long- and short-sleeved polo’s/T-Shirts. For hiking in different temperatures.
Rainponcho and a hat. A poncho for rain and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, disinfecting alcohol and gel. Repellent is critical for the canyon.
Water bottle and sterilizing tablets. Bring a reusable bottle; tablets are a good backup.
Camera, a flashlight, and batteries. A headlamp is best for hands-free use at night.
Some snacks like chocolate bars and dry fruit. For extra energy between meals.
Original passport and extra money in soles. For any personal purchases and tips.
Take some clothes to change. Clothes that get wet may not dry overnight due to humidity.

Tour Duration

This is an intense 4-day, 3-night trek. It requires full days of strenuous hiking, starting early each morning.

Recommendations

Use two trekking poles. They are essential for saving your knees during the steep descent and ascent.
Protect yourself from the sun and insects. Use a high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and strong insect repellent.
Stay well-hydrated, but pack light. Your daypack should only contain what you need for the day’s hike.

Climate

The climate varies greatly. The higher sections near Capuliyoc and on the final day are cool and can be windy. The bottom of the canyon (Playa Rosalina, San Ignacio) is hot and humid. Be prepared for both extremes within the same day.

The Local People

This trek is very remote, and you will have limited interaction with locals outside of your trekking crew (guide and horsemen). The horsemen are from the communities near the start of the trail.

How to Prepare for the Tour

A high level of physical fitness is required. Your preparation should include cardiovascular training (running, cycling) and strength training, especially for your legs (squats, lunges). Practice by taking long hikes with elevation changes if possible.

Recommended Age

This trek is best suited for experienced hikers who are in excellent physical condition. It is generally not recommended for children under 16 or for adults who are not accustomed to strenuous, multi-day hiking.

How to Acclimatize

Proper acclimatization is crucial to prevent health issues before you start.

Arrive in Cusco ( $3, 400 m$ ) at least two, preferably three, days before your trek.
On these days, focus on resting, drinking plenty of water and coca tea, and eating light meals.
Avoid alcohol and heavy physical exertion while your body adjusts to the altitude.

How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?

This is one of the most physically demanding treks in the Cusco area. It involves a very steep descent of over $1, 500$ meters and an equally steep ascent. It is recommended only for people with a high level of physical fitness and hiking experience.

Will I see many other tourists on the trail?

No. The Choquequirao trail is remote and difficult, so it receives very few visitors. You will likely see only a few other trekking groups during your entire trip.

What is the biggest challenge of the trek?

The biggest challenge is the drastic and rapid changes in elevation. The continuous “down and up” hiking puts significant strain on your legs and knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended.

Are there issues with altitude sickness on this trek?

While you start at high altitude in Cusco, the majority of the hike takes place at lower elevations inside the canyon, reducing the risk of altitude sickness during the trek. However, proper acclimatization in Cusco for 2-3 days before the trek is still mandatory.

What are the camping facilities like?

The campsites are basic. They are designated flat areas for setting up tents. Toilet facilities are simple (pit toilets) or a portable toilet tent may be provided by the crew. There are no showers.

Do I need to carry all of my equipment?

No. Horses or mules will carry all the heavy camping equipment, food, and your personal duffel bag (up to a specific weight limit). You only need to carry a small daypack with your daily essentials.

Is insect repellent necessary?

Yes, insect repellent is essential. The bottom of the Apurimac Canyon is hot and humid, and there are small biting insects (sand flies) that can be very bothersome.

What if I cannot finish the trek?

Due to the remote “out-and-back” nature of the trail, leaving the trek mid-way is difficult and costly. You would have to return along the same path with a horseman to the trailhead. It is important to be sure of your physical condition before starting.

Can I rent equipment for the trek?

Yes, sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, and walking sticks are available to rent. You should reserve them at the time of booking.

Is it possible to buy snacks or water on the trail?

There are a few small, family-run shops at points like Chiquisca and Marampata where you can buy basic snacks, water, or soda. However, availability is not guaranteed, so it is best to bring your own.

Get in touch

Inquire now

Ready to experience Machu Picchu? Let our expert team take care of every detail, from tickets and trains to transportation and guiding, so you can just focus on enjoying one of the world's most impressive destinations. With years of experience, personalized assistance, and hundreds of happy travelers each year, we make your visit simple, safe, and unforgettable. Book your Machu Picchu tour today and secure your spot in Peru's most iconic wonder before availability runs out.

Need more information?

If you have questions or want to customize your experience, our local experts are ready to help you 24/7.

Address

Calle Cusco N° 123 Of 1, Cusco

info@cuscotoursinsight.com

Call us

+51 930 343 195

Websitesite

cuscotoursinsight.com

The Cusco Tours Insight experience

At Cusco Tours Insight, it's our people who make the real difference. Our travel experts carefully design the perfect trip for each traveler, backed by high-quality customer service. We are real people helping real people, accompanying you every step of the way to make your adventure unforgettable.