GENERAL INFORMATION
Duration: 4 days/3 nights.
Point of departure: Cusco
Point of Return: Cusco
Group Zize: Small Group (Average 4, Maximum 8 People).
Type of Tour: Walking, Trekking, it is also archaeological and cultural.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Height: 1475 m.s.n.m.
Tour Ranking: The Choquequirao Trek is one of the most interesting in the Peruvian Andes.
TOUR DETAILS
Information
INTRODUCTION
The classic Choquequirao trek is a 4-day, 45-kilometer route from the Capuliyoc sector to the Choquequirao Inca archaeological site, one of the least visited and best preserved archaeological complexes in the Cusco region.
Pickup is from your hotel in Cusco by private transport to the starting point of the hike at Capuliyoc. Over the 45-kilometer route the trail crosses deep canyon landscapes, mountain forest, and puna zones, with wide panoramic views of the Apurímac River canyon.
Choquequirao was selected by National Geographic Traveller magazine as one of the 20 best tourist destinations in the world, and is distinguished by its agricultural terraces, temples, enclosures, and plazas in a remote setting that limits the number of daily visitors.
RECOMENDACIONES
- Book your excursion in advance, as spots are limited and can fill up weeks ahead of the departure date.
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1 day before the hike to acclimatize.
- Keep in mind that Cusco is located at 3,400 m.a.s.l.
- Review your personal items in advance to make sure you have everything needed for the hike.
- Visit our office in the historic center of Cusco the day before the hike at 7:00 p.m. to attend the pre-trek briefing with your tour guide.
- Leave any luggage you will not need during the excursion at the free storage facility at our office.
- For questions or additional information contact us: Phone: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 / Email: info@incredibleperutours.com
ITINERARY
DAY 01: CUSCO – CACHORA – CAPULIYOC – CHIQUISCA
- 5:00 a.m. Hotel pickup in Cusco and transfer to Cachora.
- 8:00 a.m. Approximate arrival in Cachora (2,909 m / 9,543 ft). Breakfast and gear preparation.
- 9:00 a.m. Start of the hike.
- 11:00 a.m. Approximate arrival at Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,915 m / 9,561 ft). Short stop and snack.
- 1:00 p.m. Lunch on the descent.
- 5:00 p.m. Estimated arrival at Chiquisca camp (1,836 m / 6,023 ft).
- 7:00 p.m. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Hiking time: 6 hours · 19 km / 11.8 miles
DAY 02: CHIQUISCA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
- 6:00 a.m. Breakfast at camp.
- 6:30 a.m. Start hiking. Descent to Playa Rosalinas and the Apurimac River (1,550 m / 5,084 ft).
- 8:00 a.m. Start the climb to Santa Rosa (2,095 m / 6,873 ft).
- 10:00 a.m. Rest stop at Santa Rosa.
- 12:30 p.m. Approximate arrival at Marampata (2,913 m / 9,557 ft). Lunch.
- 2:00 p.m. Continue to Choquequirao camp (3,110 m / 10,120 ft).
- 3:00 p.m. Estimated arrival at camp. Afternoon visit to the ruins.
- 7:00 p.m. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours · 14 km / 8.7 miles
DAY 03: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – PLAYA ROSALINAS
- 6:30 a.m. Breakfast at camp.
- 7:00 a.m. Guided visit of Choquequirao: main plaza, residences, storehouses, ceremonial sector, terraces, and the Llama sector.
- 9:30 a.m. Free time at the site.
- 11:00 a.m. Start the return. 1-hour hike to Marampata.
- 12:30 p.m. Lunch at Marampata.
- 1:30 p.m. About 4 hours downhill to La Playa.
- 5:30 p.m. Estimated arrival at Playa Rosalinas (1,550 m / 5,084 ft).
- 7:00 p.m. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Hiking time: 6 hours · 13 km / 8.1 miles
DAY 04: PLAYA ROSALINAS – CAPULIYOC – CACHORA – CUSCO
- 5:30 a.m. Breakfast at camp.
- 6:00 a.m. Start the climb to Capuliyoc.
- 10:00 a.m. Approximate arrival at Capuliyoc (2,915 m / 9,561 ft). Lunch.
- 11:00 a.m. Final hike to Cachora.
- 1:00 p.m. Estimated arrival in Cachora (2,909 m / 9,543 ft). Farewell to the muleteers.
- 1:30 p.m. Transfer to Cusco (about 3 hours 30 minutes).
- 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Estimated arrival in Cusco and hotel drop-off.
Hiking time: 6 hours · 19 km / 11.8 miles
DETAILED ITINERARY
DAY 01: CUSCO-CACHORA-CAPULICHAYOC-CHIQUISCA.
At 5:00 a.m. we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco by private transport. The journey to the town of Cachora (2,909 m.a.s.l. / 9,543 ft) takes approximately 3 hours. In Cachora we stop for breakfast and gear preparation before starting the hike at around 9:00 a.m.
From Cachora we begin the route with a descending section of approximately 2 hours. The trail passes through a zone of varied vegetation with begonias, orchids, and cacti, along with various native bird species. The path leads to the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,915 m.a.s.l. / 9,561 ft), from where there are direct views of the Apurímac River canyon and the Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora snow-capped peaks, both over 5,400 m.a.s.l. At Capuliyoc we stop for snacks and to take in the canyon panorama.
We continue the descent along a zigzag trail for 2 more hours to the lunch stop, arriving at approximately 1:00 p.m. After lunch and a rest with afternoon tea, we resume the hike for 2 more hours downhill to the Chiquisca campsite (1,836 m.a.s.l. / 6,023 ft), arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m. where we spend the night.
- Elevations: Capuliyoc 2,915 m.a.s.l. / Chiquisca 1,836 m.a.s.l.
- Hiking time: approximately 6 hours.
- Distance: 19 km / 11.8 miles.
- Weather: warm.
DAY 02: CHIQUISCA-MARAMPATA-CHOQUEQUIRAO RUINS
After breakfast we depart early. Throughout this day it is possible to spot bromeliads, orchids, and bamboo, as well as bird species such as the clock bird, toucans, and various hummingbirds.
From the Chiquisca campsite we hike approximately 1 hour downhill to the bottom of the canyon, known as Playa Rosalinas, on the banks of the Apurímac River (1,550 m.a.s.l. / 5,084 ft). From this point we begin the ascent, which is the most demanding section of the route. We climb for 2 hours to Santa Rosa (2,095 m.a.s.l. / 6,873 ft), where we stop to rest. We continue uphill for 2 more hours to Marampata (2,913 m.a.s.l. / 9,557 ft), a flat section with views of the Apurímac River canyon and the Choquequirao archaeological site. In Marampata we stop for lunch. The area has bathroom facilities and a washing area.
After lunch we continue for 1 more hour to the campsite located near the Choquequirao archaeological site (3,110 m.a.s.l. / 10,120 ft). The afternoon allows enough time to explore the ruins. In favorable conditions condors can be spotted soaring above the valley. The campsite has bathrooms and cold water showers.
DAY 03: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – PLAYA ROSALINAS.
After breakfast we carry out the guided visit to the Choquequirao archaeological site. The guide will explain the history and function of the main sectors of the complex: the main plaza, Inca dwellings, storehouses, the ceremonial sector and its altars, agricultural terraces, and the Llamas sector, where the Incas depicted this animal on the walls of the buildings. It is estimated that to date only 50% of the site has been explored, making it one of the archaeological complexes with the greatest research potential in the region.
After the guided tour there is free time to explore the site independently. We then begin the return journey along the same route toward Cachora. We hike 1 hour to Marampata, where we stop for lunch and rest. After lunch we continue 4 hours downhill to the Playa Rosalinas campsite (1,550 m.a.s.l. / 5,084 ft), located on the banks of the Apurímac River, where we spend the night.
- Hiking time: approximately 6 hours.
- Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles.
- Weather: warm.
- Elevations: Choquequirao 3,110 m.a.s.l. / Playa Rosalinas 1,550 m.a.s.l.
DAY 04: LA PLAYA ROSALINAS – CAPULIYOC – CACHORA – CUSCO.
After breakfast we leave the campsite early. From Playa Rosalinas we ascend for approximately 4 hours to the Capuliyoc viewpoint, where we stop for lunch in the open air. Capuliyoc is the last panoramic point of the route with views of the Apurímac River canyon.
After lunch we hike 2 more hours to the town of Cachora (2,909 m.a.s.l. / 9,543 ft), the final point of the hike. In Cachora we say goodbye to the muleteers and board the private transport back to Cusco, a journey of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Arrival in Cusco between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m.
- Elevations: Playa Rosalinas 1,550 m.a.s.l. / Cachora 2,909 m.a.s.l.
- Hiking time: approximately 6 hours.
- Distance: 19 km / 11.8 miles.
- Weather: warm.
Included services
THIS TOUR INCLUDES
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before the hike at our office in Cusco.
- luggage storage at our office during the hike for those who have no place to leave their belongings.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and transport to the starting point of the excursion.
- Professional bilingual guide for the full route (Spanish and English).
- Entry tickets to the Choquequirao archaeological site.
- Muleteers and horses for the transport of all camping equipment: tents, tables, chairs, food, kitchen gear, and personal items.
- Transport of up to 7 kg / 15 lbs of personal luggage.
- Canvas bags provided at the briefing to organize your items, so you only carry a small daypack during the hike.
- All meals during the excursion: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Vegetarian and special diets available at no additional cost.
- Boiled water available from the second day onward.
- Complete camping equipment:
– High-altitude sleeping tent for 4 people used by 2 for greater comfort and storage space.
– Thermarest inflatable sleeping mat.
– Dining tent with folding tables, camp chairs, and gas lamp.
– Kitchen tent with complete utensils for the preparation of all meals. - First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide.
- Return transport from Cachora to Cusco.
What should you bring
LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS FOR THE CLASSIC TREK TO CHOQUEQUIRAO
The weather on this route varies considerably throughout the day. At higher sections temperatures can be low, especially at night, while at the bottom of the Apurímac River canyon the climate is warm and humid. Below you will find the list of recommended items for this 4-day hike. If you do not have any of them, you can purchase or rent what you need in Cusco before departure, as the city has a good selection of stores specializing in trekking gear.
Documents
- Original passport
- ISIC student card if you are a student
- Travel insurance (some copies).
Essential
- Pack for the day.
- Sleeping bag.
- Bottle of water.
- Water purification tablets or filter
- Some snacks like cookies, sweets, chocolates, energy bars.
- Some money if you want to buy souvenirs.
Clothing
- Hiking boots and sandals.
- Warm clothes: mainly for the night such as a thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, wool socks, wool hat.
- Waterproof clothing (jacket and poncho)
- Synthetic or cotton clothing (pants, socks, shorts, 4 hiking t-shirts)
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat
Pharmaceutical products
- Personal first aid kit with bandages and anti-inflammatory tablets
- Insect repellent.
- Sunblock
- Lip moisturizer
Personal hygiene articles
- Small towel.
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush
- Spray body deodorant
- Toilet paper
Other articles
- Flashlight
- Sunglasses
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Walking sticks with rubber tips (optional).
- Switchblade
- Some biodegradable plastic bags.
- We recommend prior acclimatization in Cusco City, at least 1 day and good general health.
Frequent questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here you will find the Most Frequently Asked Questions from our Customers. Before doing anything, we invite you to carefully read these questions and answers, as well as all our links about this Tour. This will help you obtain information in a simple, quick and practical way.
1. HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CLASSIC CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK – 4 DAYS?
The Classic Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days has a moderate to challenging level of difficulty. Good physical condition is recommended, as the route includes steep descents, demanding uphill sections, and several hours of hiking per day.
2. WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO DO THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?
The best time to do the Choquequirao Trek is during the dry season, from April to October, when there is less rain and better hiking conditions. The rainy season runs from November to March, so proper gear is recommended if you travel during those months.
3. WHAT SHOULD I BRING FOR THE CLASSIC CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK – 4 DAYS?
For the Classic Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days, we recommend bringing trekking shoes, comfortable clothing, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a flashlight, a reusable water bottle, personal items, travel documents, and a small daypack.
4. DOES THE CLASSIC CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK – 4 DAYS INCLUDE A GUIDE AND CAMPING EQUIPMENT?
Yes, most organized Classic Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days packages include a professional guide, camping equipment, meals during the route, a cook, transportation, and assistance throughout the entire trek.
5. WHY CHOOSE THE CLASSIC CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK INSTEAD OF OTHER ROUTES?
The Classic Choquequirao Trek is ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, less crowded experience surrounded by nature. Unlike other tourist routes, Choquequirao offers a unique combination of adventure, Inca history, spectacular landscapes, and tranquility.
6. WHAT MEALS WILL I HAVE DURING THE TOUR?
During the Classic Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days, you will have complete and nutritious meals prepared by our trekking cook. In general, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the route, made with fresh ingredients to give you energy during the hike. Meals may include soups, hot dishes, pasta, rice, vegetables, meats, fruit, hot drinks, and snacks. We can also prepare vegetarian, vegan, or special diet options upon request, so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and well-organized experience throughout the trip.
7. WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE DURING THE TREK?
During the Classic Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days, the weather can vary quite a bit due to altitude changes between the Apurimac Canyon and the mountain areas. During the day, the weather is usually mild to warm, especially in the lower areas, while at night it can be cold, especially at the campsites. The dry season, from April to October, offers sunnier days and better hiking conditions, while the rainy season, from November to March, may bring wet trails and frequent rain. For this reason, we recommend bringing light clothing for the day, a rain jacket, warm clothing for the night, a hat, sunscreen, and good trekking shoes.
8. HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE, COOK AND CARRIERS?
Don’t worry! All of our Guides are trained in case you become ill with this problem. They all carry an oxygen tank and a First Aid Kit, this ensures that you are very well looked after, which will allow you to continue the Hike. Furthermore, our entire team is prepared in cases of Emergency. After treatment, if you still feel very unwell and are unable to continue the Trail, the Guide will make the best decision for you: to continue or return. For us, your Safety and Health always come first.
9. IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS, CAN I CONTACT INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
You can contact us anytime, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will be very happy to assist, call us at Cell: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or send us an email to: info@incredibleperutours.com. You can also check the Contact Us link on this website
10. HOW TO BOOK MY TOUR?
Booking this Trek with us will really be very safe, easy and practical, you will also have Payment Facilities, such as Paying for your Tour up to 1 day before the Tour and in 2 Parts:
- First Part can be paid online, from the comfort of your home, by making a Pre-Payment with any Credit or Debit Card from any Bank, using our safe and reliable money transfer system. Prepayment will be made via a deposit of US$200.00 per person. (Click on the Book link)
- The Second Part or the balance will be paid upon arrival in Cusco City, in person at our Central Office located in Historic Downtown, up to 1 day before the Tour.
⇒ To book the Choquequirao Classic Hike, simply follow these 3 simple steps:
1. Fill out the Reservation Form: It’s on the Book link.
2. Pay the First Part (Pre-payment): We accept all cards. You can use a Credit or Debit Card from any Bank or any company: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, ETC.
3. Print your Travel Coupon (Receipt): We will send it to you immediately after making the Pre-payment.
⇒ OTHER PAYMENT METHODS: If you want to make the Pre-Payment by other means such as: PayPal, Western Union, Bank Deposit, Bank Transfer or any other method, let us know so we can send you all the necessary information to do so.
11. IF I ALREADY PAID MY FIRST FEE AND DECIDE TO CANCEL, WILL I BE REFUNDED?
Unfortunately No. We will not be able to make any type of refund or change dates for Tours that are paid in Installments. All Pre-Payments are not refundable or transferable since this money will be invested immediately in all the Procedures and Reservations necessary to carry out your Tour, as well as in the purchase of Permits and Tickets.
We understand that unexpected things happen that are out of your control, but we cannot make exceptions. You can read more about our Change and Cancellation Policies on our website.
12. WHY SHOULD I BOOK MY TREK WITH INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?
There are very good reasons to book your tour with us, let’s look at some:
- Excellent location of our travel office: We are located in the Historic Center of Cusco, just one block from the Main Square, making it easy to coordinate and assist you at any time.
- Peruvian and authorized travel agency: We are a 100% local company, proudly Peruvian, with more than 15 years of experience organizing tours to the most amazing destinations in our region.
- Authorized Inca Trail to Machu Picchu operator: We have all our documentation up to date and comply with all local government requirements, giving our travelers safety, support, and confidence.
- Best price with no hidden fees: We offer all-inclusive travel services at affordable prices, with no intermediaries, because we are a direct tour operator.
- Travel with local experts: Our team is made up of professional tour guides, cooks, and porters, trained to assist groups, families, couples, friends, and outdoor adventure lovers.
- High-quality equipment for your trip: We provide comfortable tents, sleeping bags, trekking poles, trekking pillows, and equipment that is constantly renewed to ensure comfort and safety.
- Excellent meals included: Meals are included throughout the trek and prepared with fresh ingredients. We also offer vegetarian meals and special diets at no extra cost.
- Safe and guaranteed departures: We operate 100% of our treks, even with just one confirmed traveler, with no additional charges. Our groups are usually small, with an average of 4 to 8 people.
- Fair treatment of our staff: We provide our team with lodging, transportation, uniforms, meals, health insurance, and fair wages, recognizing their important work on every trip.
- Commitment to social projects: We support social programs that benefit children in local communities, especially in health and education.
- Sustainable and responsible tourism: We are committed to protecting the environment, using biodegradable products, and participating in cleanup campaigns along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Personalized service and support: We provide direct and personalized assistance by phone or email, answering your questions and supporting you before, during, and after your trip.
Availability and prices
IMPORTANT:
- Available spots for this excursion are updated automatically on our website.
- Each confirmed booking reduces availability immediately, as spots are shared across all authorized tour operators on this route.
- We recommend securing your place as far in advance as possible to avoid spots selling out before your travel date.
- If you are interested in doing this Trek and want to reserve permits, or would like more information, please contact us: Cell phone: +51 984525006 / WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or write to us at: info@incredibleperutours.com
- If, there is no longer availability for your Travel Date, you can search for other similar Excursions such as: the Inca Trail Route of 2 days/1 night, the Salkantay Route, the Choquequirao Route or the Lares Trek, or the famous Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 4 Days / 3 Nights.
PRICES
| Category | Price | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | USD 550 | 17 years and older |
| Student / Child | USD 540 | Ages 4 to 17 |
| Infant | Free | Ages 0 to 3, traveling with parents |
IMPORTANT:
- Please note that this is a group tour.
- IF you want a PRIVATE TOUR, please request your quote by email: info@incredibleperutours.com or via WhatsApp: +51 984 525 006
TO CONSIDER:
- Our passion is family travel, so if you are coming with children, get in touch to offer our
- promotions.
- Our company also has promotions and discounts for student groups and groups of friends. Contact us to receive our offers.
- Incredible Peru Tours – IPT for your peace of mind does not have any hidden charges or expenses.
