Choquequirao Trek – 5 Days / 4 Nights

Region: Cusco, Peru
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Season: April – October

Discover the Lost City of the Incas in the Apurímac Canyon

Hidden high in the Andes and overlooking the deep Apurímac Canyon, Choquequirao — “The Cradle of Gold” — remains one of the most spectacular and least-visited Inca sites in Peru.

This 5-day expedition is a journey back in time through dramatic mountain trails, remote Quechua villages, and breathtaking archaeological ruins that rival Machu Picchu in scale and beauty.

With Inkaland Treks, you’ll enjoy a fully supported small-group trek guided by expert mountain professionals — perfect for travelers seeking a challenging, authentic, and uncrowded adventure in the heart of the Andes.

Quick Facts Choquequirao Trek

Location: Cusco Region, Apurímac Canyon
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Distance: ~44 km / 27 mi total
Max Elevation: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Difficulty: Challenging (steep ascents/descents)
Best Season: April – October (dry season)
Start / End: Cusco → Capuliyoc / Cachora → Cusco
Group Size: Small groups (max. 8) or private departures

👉 Ideal for experienced hikers seeking remote Inca history and stunning mountain landscapes.

📩 Ready to discover the “Cradle of Gold”?

Venture into the wild Andes with Inkaland Treks and explore one of Peru’s greatest hidden treasures — Choquequirao, the Lost Sister of Machu Picchu.

Reserve your 2026 departure today and walk in the footsteps of the Incas through epic mountain landscapes and timeless history.

Highlights Ausangate Trek

Explore Choquequirao, one of the most impressive and isolated Inca sites in Peru.
Descend into the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in South America.
Experience the shift from arid highlands to lush tropical vegetation in one trek.
Hike through traditional Andean villages and ancient footpaths once used by the Incas.
Enjoy Inkaland Treks’ premium small-group service with professional guides and full support.

Join Group 2026

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Route	Max Elevation	Trek Time	Highlights
1	Cusco → Cachora → Capuliyoc → Chiquisca	1,900 m / 6,234 ft	3–4 h hike + transport	Scenic drive, first views of Apurímac Canyon
2	Chiquisca → Playa Rosalinas → Santa Rosa → Marampata	2,900 m / 9,514 ft	5–6 h	Climb toward Choquequirao viewpoint
3	Marampata → Choquequirao Ruins → Marampata	3,050 m / 10,007 ft	4–5 h	Guided exploration of Choquequirao
4	Marampata → Santa Rosa → Playa Rosalinas → Chiquisca	1,900 m / 6,234 ft	5–6 h	Return through canyon trail
5	Chiquisca → Capuliyoc → Saywite → Conoc Hot Springs → Cusco	2,850 m / 9,350 ft	3–4 h + drive	Final ascent, hot springs, return to Cusco

Day 1 – Cusco → Cachora → Capuliyoc → Chiquisca (1,900 m)

Early morning departure from Cusco toward Cachora, the starting point of the trek. We begin hiking from Capuliyoc (2,850 m), following a winding trail with panoramic views of the snow-capped Padreyoc and the Apurímac Canyon.
We descend to Chiquisca, a small farming village surrounded by lush vegetation where we camp for the night.

Overnight: Chiquisca Camp
Trek time: 3–4 hours | Meals: L / D

Day 2 – Chiquisca → Playa Rosalinas → Santa Rosa → Marampata (2,900 m)

After breakfast, descend to Playa Rosalinas (1,550 m) at the bottom of the canyon, then begin the steep ascent to Santa Rosa and continue up to Marampata (2,900 m).
This section offers spectacular views of the Apurímac River and the mountains surrounding the valley.

Overnight: Marampata Camp
Trek time: 5–6 hours | Meals: B / L / D

Day 3 – Marampata → Choquequirao Archaeological Site → Marampata (3,050 m)

Today we explore Choquequirao, the “Cradle of Gold.” After a hearty breakfast, hike for about 1.5 hours to reach the site, where your guide will lead a detailed exploration of the plazas, terraces, ceremonial centers, and the famous llama-carved walls.
You’ll have time to explore and photograph this magnificent site before returning to camp.

Overnight: Marampata Camp
Trek time: 4–5 hours | Meals: B / L / D

Day 4 – Marampata → Santa Rosa → Playa Rosalinas → Chiquisca (1,900 m)

After breakfast, descend along the same route, retracing the steep trail to the river and climbing back to Chiquisca. Along the way, enjoy changing vegetation and views of the deep canyon below.

Overnight: Chiquisca Camp
Trek time: 5–6 hours | Meals: B / L / D

Day 5 – Chiquisca → Capuliyoc → Saywite → Conoc Hot Springs → Cusco

Our final day begins with a 3-hour climb back to Capuliyoc, where our private vehicle awaits. On the return drive, we stop to visit the mysterious Saywite Monolith and then relax at the Conoc Hot Springs before continuing to Cusco.

End of Services
Trek time: 3–4 hours + transport | Meals: B / L

Departure

📅 Departures & Pricing

Season: April – October
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Service Type: Private or Small Group Trek
Price: On request (depends on group size & service level)

FAQ

Good to Know

Is Choquequirao similar to Machu Picchu?
Yes — both are large, well-preserved Inca citadels, but Choquequirao remains far more isolated and peaceful, ideal for those seeking an authentic exploration without crowds.
How difficult is the trek?
This is one of the most physically demanding treks in the Cusco region due to steep ascents and descents, but it requires no technical climbing skills.
What acclimatization is needed?
We recommend at least 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek.

What to bring

Sturdy trekking boots (broken-in)
Warm & layered clothing (fleece + down jacket)
Rain gear (jacket / poncho)
Hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen
Refillable water bottle (1.5 – 2 L)
Daypack (25–30 L) + small duffel (bag for mules)
Headlamp + spare batteries
Personal toiletries / medications
Camera or phone for photos

INCLUSION

✅ Included

Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
Private transport Cusco ↔ Capuliyoc trailhead
Entrance ticket to Choquequirao Archaeological Park
4 nights camping (double occupancy)
All meals during trek (B/L/D + snacks)
Mules and muleteers for expedition gear
Duffel bag (up to 7 kg per person)
Camping equipment (tents, mats, dining & kitchen tents)
First-aid kit, oxygen, and radio communication

❌ Not Included

Sleeping bag rental (available upon request)
Breakfast on Day 1 / Dinner on Day 5
Travel & cancellation insurance (mandatory)
Tips for guide, cook & muleteers
Personal beverages and snacks

Tours