The legendary Choquequirao Trek is a true calling for dedicated adventurers. This demanding four-day expedition into the Peruvian Andes leads to the majestic, time-worn ruins of an Inca citadel often called the sacred sister of Machu Picchu. Expect steep canyons, unpredictable alpine weather, and high-altitude trails — an authentic, raw connection with a lost civilization, far from the crowds.
What makes this route unique is its immense global value. Choquequirao is currently listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List due to its extraordinary architectural mastery. Furthermore, prestigious global authorities like Lonely Planet have awarded this route as one of the best and most rewarding wilderness journeys on earth.
Overview
Trip Summary
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Cusco to Santa Rosa via Capuliyoc and Chiquiska
Hotel pickup in Cusco (5:00 a.m.), scenic drive to Capuliyoc, 4-hour descent to Chiquiska for lunch, and final hike to the Santa Rosa outpost.
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Santa Rosa to Marampata and Choquequirao Citadel
Demanding 4-hour uphill trek to Marampata, local sugarcane farm exploration, and a 2-hour afternoon ascent to reach the spectacular Choquequirao Citadel.
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Choquequirao Exploration and Return to Chiquiska
Sunrise exploration of the ancient ruins, followed by a steady canyon descent to Santa Rosa for lunch, and final overnight rest at Chiquiska.
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Chiquiska to Capuliyoc, Pachamanca Feast and Return to Cusco
Final 4-hour climb back to Capuliyoc, celebratory traditional underground Pachamanca barbecue, visit to the mysterious Saywite monolith, and transfer to Cusco (6:00 p.m.).
Highlights
✦ The Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu
Deep exploration of the majestic, uncrowded archaeological complex of Choquequirao.
✦ Colossal Apurimac Canyon
Experience jaw-dropping panoramic views of one of the deepest and most dramatic river gorges in Peru.
✦ Authentic Pachamanca Feast
Savor a historic underground stone barbecue prepared fresh by our local culinary team.
✦ Mysterious Saywite Stone
Discover a fascinating pre-Columbian complex featuring a massive, intricately carved ritual monolith.
✦ Traditional Andean Hospitality
Support local remote communities while resting comfortably in local rural guest houses.
✦ Ultimate Physical Milestone
Conquer a raw, legendary wilderness route highly celebrated by global travel authorities.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Cusco to Santa Rosa via Capuliyoc and Chiquiska
Our journey starts early in the morning by leaving Cusco to drive toward the trailhead at Capuliyoc. Today’s hike is designed to help your body acclimate to the local geography, transitioning steadily from the high Andean valleys down into the warmer climate of the Apurimac Canyon. We will maintain a comfortable, steady pace to ensure a smooth and safe start to the expedition.
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Morning Pickup & Drive to Capuliyoc
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m. in our private transport. The drive takes us through regional towns and scenic mountain landscapes, arriving at the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) around 8:30 a.m.
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Breakfast & Gear Organization
Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast at the viewpoint before starting the trek. While you eat, our team will pack the gear onto the mules and conduct a final safety briefing before we officially enter the trail.
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Descent into Apurimac Canyon
The first part of the trek is a 4-hour downhill walk into the Apurimac Canyon. The trail follows a series of mountain switchbacks, offering clear and expansive views of the river gorge below.
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Lunch Break at Chiquiska
We will stop for a hearty lunch in the small settlement of Chiquiska (1,893 m / 6,210 ft). This provides a great opportunity to rest, rehydrate, and escape the midday sun in a shaded rest area.
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Evening Arrival in Santa Rosa
After lunch, we continue hiking for 2 hours, crossing the bridge over the Apurimac River and ascending into the cloud forest zone. We will finish the day at our Andean Guest House in Santa Rosa (2,230 m / 7,300 ft) for hot tea and dinner.
DAY 1 Technical Specifications
Total Distance: 14–15 km / 8.7–9.3 miles
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft (Capuliyoc viewpoint, trek starting point)
Places to Visit: Capuliyoc Viewpoint, Chiquiska
DAY 2: Santa Rosa to Marampata and Choquequirao Citadel
The second day is widely considered the most demanding but rewarding day of the expedition. We will wake up early to beat the midday heat and begin our steady ascent out of the canyon toward the high plains, eventually reaching the ancient ruins of the Inca citadel.
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Uphill Hike to Marampata
Following a nutritious breakfast, we start a 4-hour uphill hike along a steep, winding trail. Along the way, we will pass by small local sugarcane farms where residents produce cañazo, a traditional spirit crafted in these valleys for generations.
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Local Lunch at Marampata
We will stop for lunch at a rustic home in the settlement of Marampata (2,911 m / 9,550 ft). This break offers a well-deserved rest and exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ridges and the Apurimac River winding far below.
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Final Approach to Choquequirao
After refueling, the trail flattens out slightly as we hike for another 2 hours through a dense cloud forest environment. This pathway leads us straight toward the outer sectors of the spectacular Choquequirao archaeological complex (3,050 m / 10,007 ft).
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Evening Rest near the Ruins
We will finish the afternoon by settling into our nearby Andean Guest House. Because our base for the night is located right next to the archaeological park, you will have plenty of time to rest, unwind, and enjoy a warm dinner prepared by our team with the ancient structures nearby.
DAY 2 Technical Specifications
Total Distance: 10–12 km / 6.2–7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5 to 6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft (Choquequirao Citadel)
Places to Visit: Marampata, Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
DAY 3: Choquequirao Exploration and Return to Chiquiska
The third day offers an exceptional experience as we wake up early right next to the archaeological park. After spending the morning exploring the unique sectors of this ancient citadel, we will begin our gradual return journey back down into the canyon.
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Morning Exploration of the Citadel
You will awaken to a hot cup of local coca tea served directly at your room, just in time to watch the sunrise over the mountains. We will spend the morning exploring the main sectors of Choquequirao, learning about its deep history as an isolated Inca outpost and enjoying the quiet atmosphere of these uncrowded ruins.
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Canyon Descent to Santa Rosa
Following our morning visit, we begin a steady 3-hour descent back down the mountain slopes. The trail offers a final look at the cloud forest terraces as we head toward our midday rest spot at the settlement of Santa Rosa (2,230 m / 7,300 ft).
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Fresh Lunch at Santa Rosa
Our culinary team will have a fresh lunch waiting for you upon arrival. This midday break gives us a perfect opportunity to rest our legs, escape the strongest hours of the sun, and rehydrate before continuing further into the valley.
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Evening Arrival at Chiquiska
We resume the hike by descending for 2 more hours to the canyon floor, crossing back over the Apurimac River. From there, a final 2-hour uphill stretch brings us to our comfortable Andean Guest House in Chiquiska (1,800 m / 5,905 ft). You can spend the evening looking for local birds, relaxing in the warm valley climate, and enjoying a fresh dinner.
DAY 3 Technical Specifications
Total Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft (departure from Choquequirao at dawn)
Places to Visit: Choquequirao Citadel (sunrise visit), Santa Rosa
DAY 4: Chiquiska to Capuliyoc, Pachamanca Feast and Return to Cusco
On our final day, we will start early to tackle the last physical milestone of the trek. After ascending out of the canyon, a traditional culinary celebration and a fascinating cultural visit will welcome us back before our return to Cusco.
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Final Climb back to Capuliyoc
Following our early morning breakfast with the crew, we begin the final uphill hike out of the canyon. With the morning air on our side, we will steadily make our way back up to the Capuliyoc viewpoint, completing the walking portion of our expedition.
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Traditional Pachamanca Feast
At Capuliyoc, a brilliant culinary celebration awaits you. Our team will prepare an authentic Pachamanca, a traditional underground barbecue where various meats, local potatoes, and native vegetables are slowly cooked over hot stones. This is the perfect setting to celebrate our journey and say goodbye to the field crew.
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Discovering the Saywite Monolith
After lunch, our private transport will take us to the fascinating Saywite archaeological site. Here, you will explore the famous and mysterious ritual rock, a massive carved monolith believed to represent a highly advanced Incan map of the region’s water systems and geography.
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Drive Back to Cusco
Once our exploration is complete, we will board our private transport for a relaxing drive back across the mountains. We will drop you off safely at your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco around 6:00 p.m., concluding our 4-day expedition.
DAY 4 Technical Specifications
Total Distance: 8–10 km / 5–6.2 miles (trek) + private bus transfer to Cusco
Hiking Time: 3 to 4 hours (uphill hike to Capuliyoc)
Maximum Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft (Capuliyoc, last point of the trek)
Places to Visit: Capuliyoc, Saywite Archaeological Site
Inclusions
What's Included in Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
Preparation & Transfers
Pre-Trek Briefing: A comprehensive orientation session conducted by your guide at our office in Cusco the evening before your trek at 6:00 p.m. to review the route and safety details.
Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off Service: Convenient morning pickup directly from your hotel in Cusco between 5:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on Day 1, and drop-off back at your hotel upon return.
Private Transportation (Round Trip): Dedicated and comfortable private vehicles adapted to high mountain routes for transfers from Cusco to the Capuliyoc trailhead and back.
Free Storage Support: Secure and complimentary luggage storage at our main office in Cusco for any extra personal bags you prefer not to bring on the trail.
Permits & Guidance
Professional Bilingual Guide: Services of an experienced, certified professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, fully knowledgeable about the canyon trails and archaeology.
Admission Permits Included: Full entry tickets to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex and the Saywite Archaeological Park.
Accommodation & Catering
Duffel Bag and Horse Transport: Provision of a duffel bag for up to 7 kg (15.4 lbs) of your personal belongings, which will be carried by pack horses and accessible at lunch stops and campsites.
Full Meals on the Trail: 4 nutritious breakfasts, 4 hearty lunches, and 3 fresh dinners prepared daily by our professional trekking cook, with full flexibility for dietary restrictions.
Andean Guest Houses Accommodation: 3 nights of lodging in rustic, family run rural guesthouses featuring proper beds and warm blankets, eliminating the need to carry tents or sleeping bags.
Safety Equipment
Safety Equipment and First Aid: Comprehensive safety gear carried by your guide at all times, including an emergency oxygen tank, radio communicators, and a complete first aid kit.
What's Not Included in Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
Personal Hydration and Snacks: Water for refilling your bottles is not included. You can purchase bottled water and energy drinks at small local family shops every 3 to 4 hours along the route, or bring purification tablets/filters. Additional trail snacks like chocolate or energy bars are recommended.
Trekking Poles: Hiking poles are not included in the package. Due to the steep ascents and descents of the Choquequirao trail, they are highly recommended. You can rent a professional, durable pair from us for $15 USD for the entire trek.
Gratuities and Tips: Discretionary rewards for the support team, including your guides, cooks, and muleteers, are not included. While entirely optional, tips are deeply appreciated by the crew as a token of gratitude for their hard work.
Personal Travel Insurance: Comprehensive medical, trip cancellation, or baggage loss insurance is not covered in the package but is strongly recommended for your peace of mind during the adventure.
Unspecified Services: Any additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary, alcoholic beverages, personal souvenir purchases, or extra upgrades are not covered.
Cash for Local Purchases: We highly recommend carrying extra cash in local currency (Peruvian Soles - PEN). The remote mountain families, small trail shops, and local vendors along the canyon route do not accept credit cards for minor purchases, refreshments, or water refills.
Prices
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days — 2026-2027 Group Prices
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days pricing includes your professional bilingual guide, private transportation, admission permits, Andean guest house accommodation, and all listed meals.
Category
Price per Person
Adult
$290.00 USD
Student
$270.00 USD
Minor
$270.00 USD
Discount Policy
Minors: The minor rate applies to children aged 11 to 17 years old by presenting a valid passport copy upon booking.
University Students: Students up to 25 years old can also qualify for this special rate by sending a clear photo of a valid, current official university ID card to info@andeanmoments.com. Once verified, we will email you an exclusive discount code to complete your online reservation.
Important Safety Notice: Due to the highly demanding physical nature, steep mountain slopes, and challenging canyon switchbacks of this route, this trek is not recommended for children under 10 years old.
Example of an accepted physical student ID
Packing List
Essential
Valid Passport
Extra Cash (Peruvian Soles)
Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder
Headlamp
Power Bank
Sunblock
UV-Protection Sunglasses
Insect Repellent
Personal Care Products
Quick-Dry Towel
Trail Snacks
Clothing
Quick-Dry T-Shirts
Trekking Pants
Trekking Shorts
Trekking Socks
Warm Fleece Jacket
Waterproof Jacket
Sun Hat
Wool Hat / Beanie
Lightweight Gloves
Equipment
Hiking Boots
Sandals
Trekking Poles
Trekking Backpack (25-35L Daypack)
Travel Guide
Why Choose the Choquequirao Trek for Your Next Adventure?
If you are looking to escape the crowded tourist trails of Cusco, booking a Choquequirao trek is the ultimate choice. This route offers a pristine mountain experience that stands out sharply against mainstream destinations, making it highly recommended for true trekking enthusiasts.
Zero Crowds
Unlike other archaeological sites, the remote location ensures you can explore massive Inca plazas entirely at your own pace, often with no other tourists in sight.
Pure Physical Challenge
Conquering the deep Apurimac canyon turns this 4-day expedition into a real badge of honor for hikers worldwide.
Local Impact
By choosing a traditional Choquequirao trek, your trip directly supports indigenous mountain families who operate the rustic guest houses along the canyon switchbacks.
Official Recognition & Trip Planning
For official state documentation regarding the technical specs, geographical data, and cultural recognition of this archaeological site, you can review the official MINCETUR National Tourism Registry. Do you have any custom questions about fitness level or departure dates? Feel free to visit our Contact Us page to chat directly with our local travel experts.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
Is the Choquequirao trek physically demanding
Yes, this expedition is considered challenging due to the steep switchbacks and deep terrain drops of the Apurimac Canyon. A good physical condition and proper acclimatization are highly recommended to enjoy the route safely.
How does the duffel bag luggage restriction work
We provide a duffel bag for up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings, which will be transported by pack horses throughout the trek. You will have access to this bag at every lunch stop and guest house.
What should I carry in my daily daypack
You only need to carry a lightweight daypack (25 to 35 Liters) with daily essentials such as your original passport, water, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, camera, and personal snacks.
Where do we sleep during the 4-day trek
You will stay in comfortable, rustic Andean Guest Houses run by local families along the route. These accommodations include proper beds and warm blankets, so there is no need to carry tents or sleeping bags.
Is drinking water provided during the trek
Water for refilling your bottles is not included. However, you can purchase bottled water or hydration drinks at small local shops run by mountain communities every 3 to 4 hours along the trail. Alternatively, you may bring purification tablets.
Are trekking poles necessary for this route
They are highly recommended due to the continuous steep ascents and descents on rocky trails. If you do not bring your own, you can rent a professional, durable pair from us for $15 USD for the entire trip.
Can you accommodate vegetarian or vegan dietary restrictions
Absolutely. Our professional trekking cook prepares fresh, nutritious meals at each stop and can easily accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other medical food requirements at no extra charge. Please inform us in advance.
Why do I need to bring cash in local currency
The remote mountain families, small traditional shops, and local vendors inside the canyon do not have credit card terminals. You will need cash in Peruvian Soles (PEN) for water refills, snacks, souvenirs, or optional gratuities.
Where can I leave my extra luggage during the trek
Any heavy suitcases or personal items that you will not need on the trail can be stored safely at our main office in Cusco free of charge. Your belongings will be ready for pickup immediately upon your return.
What safety measures are taken during the expedition
Your professional guide always carries an emergency oxygen tank, a comprehensive first aid kit, and reliable radio communication devices to ensure constant contact and coordinate immediate assistance if required.
Get Ready to Explore? Consult with one of our experts who will help you with all your doubts, requirements, inquiries, and concerns.
The traverse, in the order you walk it
Cusco to the ruins, then on over Abra San Juan and Yanama Pass to Machu Picchu. The dashed line marks Cusco, 11,152 ft: only the two passes near the end clear it, and everything else stays well below.
Cusco
Cusco11,152 ft (3,399 m)Where the trip starts
Cachora9,514 ft (2,900 m)The trailhead
Capuliyoc9,564 ft (2,915 m)The rim. From here it is all downhill
Chiquisca5,906 ft (1,800 m)3,600 ft below the rim
Playa Rosalina5,020 ft (1,530 m)The Apurímac. The low point
Santa Rosa5,413 ft (1,650 m)The climb starts here
Marampata9,843 ft (3,000 m)Back above where you started
Choquequirao10,007 ft (3,050 m)The ruins
Abra San Juan13,615 ft (4,150 m)Above Maizal and the old silver mines
Yanama Pass15,289 ft (4,660 m)The true high point of the traverse
Aguas Calientes6,693 ft (2,040 m)The last night
Machu Picchu7,972 ft (2,430 m)
Cusco11,152 ft (3,399 m)Where the trip starts
Cachora9,514 ft (2,900 m)The trailhead
Capuliyoc9,564 ft (2,915 m)The rim. From here it is all downhill
Chiquisca5,906 ft (1,800 m)3,600 ft below the rim
Playa Rosalina5,020 ft (1,530 m)The Apurímac. The low point
Santa Rosa5,413 ft (1,650 m)The climb starts here
Marampata9,843 ft (3,000 m)Back above where you started
Choquequirao10,007 ft (3,050 m)The ruins
Abra San Juan13,615 ft (4,150 m)Above Maizal and the old silver mines
Yanama Pass15,289 ft (4,660 m)The true high point of the traverse
Aguas Calientes6,693 ft (2,040 m)The last night
Machu Picchu7,972 ft (2,430 m)
Cusco11,152 ft (3,399 m)Where the trip starts
Cachora9,514 ft (2,900 m)The trailhead
Capuliyoc9,564 ft (2,915 m)The rim. From here it is all downhill
Chiquisca5,906 ft (1,800 m)3,600 ft below the rim
Playa Rosalina5,020 ft (1,530 m)The Apurímac. The low point
Santa Rosa5,413 ft (1,650 m)The climb starts here
Marampata9,843 ft (3,000 m)Back above where you started
Choquequirao10,007 ft (3,050 m)The ruins
Abra San Juan13,615 ft (4,150 m)Above Maizal and the old silver mines
Yanama Pass15,289 ft (4,660 m)The true high point of the traverse
Aguas Calientes6,693 ft (2,040 m)The last night
Machu Picchu7,972 ft (2,430 m)
Cusco11,152 ft (3,399 m)Where the trip starts
Cachora9,514 ft (2,900 m)The trailhead
Capuliyoc9,564 ft (2,915 m)The rim. From here it is all downhill
Chiquisca5,906 ft (1,800 m)3,600 ft below the rim
Playa Rosalina5,020 ft (1,530 m)The Apurímac. The low point
Santa Rosa5,413 ft (1,650 m)The climb starts here
Marampata9,843 ft (3,000 m)Back above where you started
Choquequirao10,007 ft (3,050 m)The ruins
Abra San Juan13,615 ft (4,150 m)Above Maizal and the old silver mines
Yanama Pass15,289 ft (4,660 m)The true high point of the traverse
Aguas Calientes6,693 ft (2,040 m)The last night
Machu Picchu7,972 ft (2,430 m)
Cusco11,152 ft (3,399 m)Where the trip starts
Cachora9,514 ft (2,900 m)The trailhead
Capuliyoc9,564 ft (2,915 m)The rim. From here it is all downhill
Chiquisca5,906 ft (1,800 m)3,600 ft below the rim
Playa Rosalina5,020 ft (1,530 m)The Apurímac. The low point
Santa Rosa5,413 ft (1,650 m)The climb starts here
Marampata9,843 ft (3,000 m)Back above where you started
Choquequirao10,007 ft (3,050 m)The ruins
Abra San Juan13,615 ft (4,150 m)Above Maizal and the old silver mines
Yanama Pass15,289 ft (4,660 m)The true high point of the traverse
Max Altitude
3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Trip Length
4 Days
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Physical Level
Challenging
Trip Style
Trekking & Exploration
Lodging Type
Camping
Pre-Trek Briefing: A comprehensive orientation session conducted by your guide at our office in Cusco the evening before your trek at 6:00 p.m. to review the route and safety details.
Personal Hydration and Snacks: Water for refilling your bottles is not included. You can purchase bottled water and energy drinks at small local family shops every 3 to 4 hours along the route, or bring purification tablets/filters. Additional trail snacks like chocolate or energy bars are recommended.
