From US$767 per person.
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
- The sister city of Machu Picchu: Discover the majestic and mysterious lost Incan citadel hidden deep inside the cloud forest and dramatic canyons.
- Deep canyon challenge: Conquer the Apurímac River canyon, hiking down and up through steep, scenic switchbacks with breathtaking views.
- Expert camping logistics: Rest easy at organized mountain campsites with energy-boosting local meals and horsemen managing all the heavy gear.
- Crowd-free archaeological gem: Enjoy an exclusive guided tour of massive ancient terraces and ruins with almost no other tourists around.
Looking for an authentic, challenging experience deeply connected with the living history of the Andes? The Choquequirao Trek is one of the most impressive and least crowded hikes in Peru, taking you to the legendary Inca city known as the "lost sister of Machu Picchu".
Over 4 days you will cover approximately 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) along ancient Inca trails, crossing the impressive Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in the Americas, cloud forests, Andean mountains, and landscapes of extraordinary beauty. Accompanied by a professional team, you will enjoy campsites in the heart of nature and a unique cultural and spiritual immersion experience, ideal for travelers wishing to discover one of the best trekking routes in South America.
At a glance
- Days: 4
- Highest point: 3050 m
- Price: From US$767 per person
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco, Cachora, First Campsite
Altitude: 1500 a 2950 m · Meals: Lunch and dinner included; breakfast according to hotel in Cusco · Overnight: Apurímac Valley (1650 m)
The beginning of a great expedition through the Andes Very early, between 04:30 and 05:00 a.m., we will pick you up at your hotel to begin an approximately 4-hour panoramic journey to Capuliyoc, passing through the traditional town of Cachora, the gateway to the Choquequirao Trek. After a brief informational talk we will begin the hike descending toward the impressive Apurímac Canyon, enjoying spectacular views of mountains, deep valleys, and ancient trails used since the time of the Inca Empire.
Today's hike covers approximately 14 km (8.7 miles) and lasts 6 to 7 hours, with a gradual descent from 2,915 m down to 1,500 m a.s.l., where our campsite in Chiquisca is located. Upon arrival we will enjoy a dinner prepared by our team and rest surrounded by the tranquility of the Andes under one of the most impressive skies in southern Peru.
Day 2: Ascent to Choquequirao
Altitude: 1500 a 3050 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included · Overnight: Choquequirao (3050 m)
After breakfast we will start one of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the trek: the continuous ascent to **Choquequirao**. The trail winds between mountains with increasingly wide views of the Apurímac canyon and the river in the distance.
Today's stage covers approximately 16 km (10 miles) and a 7 to 8-hour hike, until reaching the impressive archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3,050 m a.s.l.). In the afternoon we will make a first exploration of its agricultural terraces, ceremonial plazas, and temples, enjoying a unique atmosphere surrounded by nature and silence before resting at our campsite near the archaeological site.
Day 3: Exploration of Choquequirao, Descent to Second Campsite
Altitude: 1500 a 3050 m · Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included · Overnight: Apurímac Valley (2200 m)
During the morning you will continue exploring **Choquequirao** in depth: agricultural, residential, and ceremonial sectors that reveal the magnitude and complexity of this Inca city, considered the sacred sister of Machu Picchu.
After the visit we will begin the descent to our next campsite, once again following the spectacular Apurímac Canyon. The day's hike covers approximately 16 km (10 miles) over 6 to 7 hours, crossing ancestral trails, Andean forests, and natural viewpoints that offer some of the most impressive views of the entire route.
Day 4: Second Campsite, Cachora, Cusco
Altitude: 1500 a 2950 m · Meals: Breakfast and lunch included; free dinner in Cusco · Overnight: Cusco (3400 m)
On our last day we will make the final ascent back to **Cachora**, the most physically demanding section of the trek, but also one of the most rewarding. The final views of the valley and the Apurímac canyon accompany each step.
Today's hike covers approximately 16 km (10 miles) and lasts 6 to 7 hours. After lunch we will begin the return trip to Cusco, where we will arrive between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., culminating an unforgettable expedition along one of the most spectacular trekking routes in South America, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic adventure away from traditional routes.
What is included
- High-quality service and safety Pre-departure briefing, certified official bilingual guides, first aid kit, and 24/7 assistance.
- Complete camping equipment Quality tents, kitchen equipment, cook, and support staff throughout the trek.
- Meals All meals during the trek, except breakfast on day 1 and lunch and dinner on day 4.
- Transportation Shared transfer Cusco, Cachora (Day 1) and shared transfer Cachora, Cusco (Day 4).
- Choquequirao entrance Entrance ticket to the archaeological complex included in the program.
What is not included
- Sleeping bag Not included in the package; can be rented or brought personally.
- Meals not included Day 1: Breakfast. Day 4: Lunch and dinner.
- Travel insurance and personal expenses Not included. We recommend purchasing travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking activities.
- Tips for our staff Optional but customary and appreciated in Peru.
Frequently asked questions
What is Choquequirao and why is it called "the secret Machu Picchu"?
Choquequirao is an imposing Inca citadel at 3,033 m / 9,950 ft built at the same time as Machu Picchu but much less known. It can only be reached on foot (2, 3 days of trekking one way). It receives barely 1% of Machu Picchu's visitors, making it an extraordinarily intimate experience.
What is the difficulty level of the Choquequirao trek?
Very high. It is one of the most demanding treks in Peru. The trail descends 1,500 m to the Apurímac River and then climbs 1,800 m to the citadel. Between 12, 20 km are hiked per day on very steep terrain. Excellent fitness is required.
What percentage of the citadel has been excavated?
It is estimated that only 30, 40% of Choquequirao has been excavated and restored so far. Most of its terraces, palaces and temples are still covered by the jungle, adding a unique air of mystery and adventure to the visit.
What is included in the 4-day Choquequirao trek?
Includes transport from Cusco to Cachora (starting point), bilingual guide, muleteers with pack mules, all field meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), camping equipment (tent, -5°C sleeping bag, mat) and the return to Cusco.
Is there any age restriction for the Choquequirao trek?
There is no official age restriction, but due to the high physical demand it is recommended for those over 16 with excellent fitness. It is not suitable for people with heart, respiratory or knee problems. Check with us if you have any medical condition.
What is the best time for the Choquequirao trek?
May, October (dry season) is ideal: paths are dry and views are clear. November, April (rainy season) the path can be dangerous due to mud. The heat in the Apurímac canyon can be intense (up to 35°C / 95°F) in dry season, so starting early is key.
Why is Choquequirao worth it given how hard it is to reach?
Precisely because of that difficulty, Choquequirao offers what very few archaeological sites in the world can: absolute solitude, authenticity and the feeling of discovery. Furthermore, it is estimated that when the planned cable car is built, it will go from 20 to 3,000 tourists daily. Going today means experiencing it in its purest state.
What animals can be seen on the Choquequirao trek?
The Apurímac canyon is an extraordinary biodiversity corridor. On the trek it is possible to spot Andean condors (most frequent), spectacled bears, pumas (if lucky), mountain parrots, cock-of-the-rocks (Peru's national bird), monkeys and a wide variety of wild orchids.
Can Choquequirao and Machu Picchu be done in the same trip?
Yes. There is an 8, 9 day route that combines both citadels in an epic trek: it begins in Cachora (Choquequirao) and continues along the jungle route to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. It is one of the most complete and least-known treks in Peru, connecting two Inca wonders via pre-Hispanic trails.
What to bring for the 4-day Choquequirao trek?
Given the extreme demands of the trek, essential items are: rigid waterproof trekking boots (the descent to the river is very steep), trekking poles (indispensable for the knees), at least 3 liters of water per day (no water sources for much of the route), electrolytes, very strong sunscreen, light clothing for the canyon heat + warm clothing for cool nights at altitude.
What is the difference between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu? Why choose Choquequirao?
Machu Picchu is accessible by train + bus in a few hours and receives up to 4,500 visitors per day. Choquequirao can only be reached after a 4-day demanding trek and receives fewer than 50 people daily. Machu Picchu is heavily excavated and restored; Choquequirao is only 30, 40% excavated, it is larger than Machu Picchu and new areas are still being discovered. Choquequirao is called "Machu Picchu's secret sister" due to its architectural similarity. If you seek solitude, authentic adventure and the feeling of discovery, Choquequirao is incomparable. If you want Peru's iconic experience with comfortable access, Machu Picchu is the choice.
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