Peru

Choquequirao Trek - 4 Days

Known as the "Sister Machu Picchu," the Choquequirao is preferred by serious hikers who enjoy a off the beaten track adventure

Choquequirao Trek - 4 Days

Known as the "Sister Machu Picchu," the Choquequirao is preferred by serious hikers who enjoy a off the beaten track adventure

Enjoy the solitude and mystery of the region’s most difficult trek. The ancient city of Choquequirao, which is only accessible by foot, offers a chance to see unspoiled archaeological ruins and witness the elusive condors in flight. At over 2,900 meters tall, the challenging hike is sometimes called “Machu Picchu’s sister,” but remains undiscovered by most tourists who visit the region. The steep ascents and descents through the Apurimac canyon provide glimpses of contrasting landscapes dominated by snowcapped peaks, cliff sides covered in cactus, and lush rainforest vegetation.

Please Inquire if you would like to add on the Machu Picchu extension

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca

We pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and drive four hours to Cachora, the start of our hike on the edge of an expansive and deep canyon. The trek begins with a 4-hour descent, which brings us closer to the roaring Apurimic river. Hikers will immediately notice the peace and quiet of this Inca trail alternative, as well as a night sky studded with twinkling stars.

Day 2: Chiquisca – Maranpata - Choquequirao

We start the day early with a short descent along the river, followed by a three-hour uphill stretch as the sun rises over the canyon. The tough climb proves rewarding as we catch our first glimpses of the ruins. We will pause at the rural village of Maranpata, before continuing to the ruins. Upon arrival, we will explore the ancient, pre-Incan civilization, pondering how and why the ancient city was built, and in what way the Incans and later, Spaniards, used the walls and buildings. We will spend the night at a campsite just 20 minutes from the ruins.

Day 3: Choquequirao - Chiquisca

After breakfast, we will have more opportunity to explore the ruins, before we retrace our steps toward Maranpata and the Apurimac River. Not far from the river, we will set up camp for the third and final night of the trek.

Day 4: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc - Cusco

On our final day, we repeat the steep climb up the walls of the canyon and toward the pass of Capuliyoc, absorbing the stunning mountain views. The remainder of the trail travels among rolling farmlands until we reach the small town of Cachora. On the ride back to Cusco, we will stop at another archeological site to explore before arriving back at the hotel around dinner time.

Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.

Please Inquire if you would like to add on the Machu Picchu extension!

Additional Trip Info

  • Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco
  • All meals/drinks prepared by private cook (All food on the trek, which incorporates traditional Peruvian cuisine as well as modern fusion cuisine and specific dietary needs)
  • Coca tea served each morning in your tent
  • Boiled water and snacks
  • Fluent English/ Spanish speaking guide
  • All gear and camping supplies
  • Large Dining tent, table, stools, all cutlery, and kitchen tent
  • Portable toilet
  • Horseman/Pack horses to carry all of the gear
  • Duffel bag for you to pack your personal belongings into
  • Fees to access private land
  • First aid kit including oxygen tank
  • Sleeping bag (available upon request*)
  • Sleeping pad
  • Guided tour of the ruins

  • Trekking poles (Available to rent in Cusco)
  • Voluntary Tips for Guide, Driver and Cook-(Please keep in mind that tipping is common in Latin America and would be greatly appreciated)
  • Travelers Insurance/ Medical Insurance

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