4D/3N on the Choquequirao Trek
4D/3N
Find the sacred citadel that is hidden between the Andes and the jungle of Cusco.
This four-day trek to Choquequirao, the last remaining Inca refuge that rises majestically above the Apurímac River canyon, is one of the most authentic and beautiful hikes in Peru. This impressive archaeological site, which is known as the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu,” is still untouched by mass tourism, making it a truly unique and magical experience.
You’ll hike through beautiful landscapes, huge mountains, and deep valleys for four days. You’ll camp under a starry sky, cross the Apurímac Gorge, and visit an Inca citadel that has kept its secrets hidden in the trees and the years.
The hike is hard, but every step is worth it. You will always be rewarded with agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, hidden enclosures, and stunning views. This route is for people who are adventurous and want to connect deeply with Andean history, nature, and culture.
Highlights
- Explore Choquequirao, an archaeological gem still under excavation
- Enjoy a trek through one of the deepest canyons in South America
- Admire Andean landscapes, cloud forests, and diverse ecosystems
- Camp in direct contact with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of tourism
- Experience a challenging route accompanied by expert guides
Level of difficulty:
Moderate to hard—great for people who like to hike and travel a lot.
Location:
In the Cusco Region, La Convención Province, you can get to Capuliyoc by road and hike to Choquequirao.
Ideal for:
People who love to explore, take pictures, or do archaeology, as well as travelers looking for different ways to get to Machu Picchu.
Tour Location
Type of Tour
Duration
Difficulty
Trip Details
- We left Cusco early (at 5:00 a.m.) for the Capuliyoc viewpoint, which is 2,900 m above sea level and the start of the hike.
- Going down with amazing views of the Apurimac Canyon and the Padreyoc mountain peak.
- Chiquisca for lunch.
- Stay in Santa Rosa for more camping (2,200 m above sea level).
- Camp out for the night.
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- The hike up to Marampata (2,900 m above sea level) has stunning views of the Andes.
- Take a short break and then go on to the Choquequirao archaeological site, which is also called "the sacred sister of Machu Picchu."
- The afternoon was spent exploring the terraces, temples, and ceremonial sites.
- Go back to Marampata to camp.
- Stay at camp overnight.
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- We went down from Marampata to Santa Rosa, crossing the Apurímac River again.
- Santa Rosa or Playa Rosalina for lunch.
- Hike up to Chiquisca, where the last camp is set up.
- Camp for the night.
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Last climb to Capuliyoc for pictures with a view of the whole area.
- Breakfast on the way.
- Take a private car back to Cusco (you'll get there around 5:00 pm).
Hiking Time: 3–4 hours
Includes: Lunch and breakfast
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc to Cusco
- Professional guide in Spanish or English
- All meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Mules and muleteers for carrying luggage
- Entrance to the Choquequirao archaeological complex
- First aid kit
- First breakfast/dinner on the last day
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Good physical condition/previous acclimatization
- Bring: sunscreen, insect repellent, flashlight, clothing for cold and warm weather, camera, water purification tablets
Why choose this tour?
Choquequirao is an off-the-beaten-track destination, with stunning landscapes and unique archaeological treasures. Ideal for those seeking an authentic experience that’s less crowded than Machu Picchu.