The Choquequirao Ultimate Challenge
The Choquequirao Trek is a great adventure along an exotic trail in the high jungle of the Andean mountains. It is very remote and offers true off-the-beaten-path hiking and camping with incredible views of canyons, valleys, mountains, the Inca Complex, and colorful farming land. This is an excellent alternative to the classic Inca trail, offering breathtaking views and variety of biodiversity in wildlife every step of the trail, Choquequirao is one of the less visited Inca complex in Cusco. Join our group in this incredible experience untouched beauty, live in scarcely visited history, and lament in the final steps of one of the world's most influential ancient culture.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
The Choquequirao Complex is one of the ancient lost Incan cities that Hiram Bingham discovered in 1909. Considered the last Inca refuge that resisted the Spanish invasion for decades, Choquequirao is located next to the canyon of the Apurimac River at an altitude of 3,050 m (10,006 ft). The complex is positioned in a strategic geographical area between Andean mountains and the edge of the jungle
This is an excellent alternative trek to see a spectacular Inca complex that is larger than Machu Picchu.
Hike Distance: 44km/ 27 miles total hike.
Considerations: Acclimatazation required
Season: April to November
Max. Altitude: 3033m/9950ft
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Cachora - Capuliyoq - Chiquisca
Embark on the best experience on the most enigmatic adventure to discover the hidden Inca citadel of Choquequiro.
Day02Chiquisca - Playa Rosalinda - Maranpata - Choquequirao
Hike through one of the deepest canyons in South America and explore the Choquequiroa Inca complex.
Day03Choquequirao - Santa Rosa - Playa Rosalinda
Learn the local traditions and immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with stunning views.
Day04Playa Rosalinda - Cachora - Cusco
Be proud to have completed the most challenging trek in Cusco. Say until next time, Choquechirao Trek.
Day 01Cusco - Cachora - Capuliyoc - Santa Rosa.
Distance: 12 km/7.4 miles
Climate: Warm and sunny
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping, Santa Rosa 2100msnm
Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
Before the first daylight we take our bus to start our adventure, pick you up in the Hotel around 5 am. Likewise, make sure you bring all your own equipment on the trek. Then we will start our journey to the village of Cachora from Cusco. 4 hours' drive to the trailhead of Cachora, continuing thereafter towards the Cunyac Bridge between the departments of Cusco and Apurimac, arriving at Cachora, 2800 masl, and Capuliyoc, 2900 masl, at Here we will meet with our horseman (mules driver), here is the first view to the Choquequirao complex still further, we starting with gentleman downhill by serpent trail over the Apurimac canyon for 4 hours, crossing the small hamlet and hut called Cocamasana and Chiquisca on the lower part of the valley, the climate is warm and sunny on the dry season is dusty, we will have lunch before the start the ascent towards Santa Rosa hamlet, lunch spot called Playa Rosalinda 1500 masl, after nap the ascent is around 2 hours till Sta Rosa 2100 masl. The first base camp, Choquequirao Trek Classic.
Lunch & Dinner MealsModerate Difficulty12km/7.4miles Walking Distance5- 6 hours Walking Time2,915 m / 9,563 ft Starting Elevation2115m / 6,839 ft Camp ElevationDay 02Santa Rosa - Marampata - Choquequirao.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping, Choquequirao 3000msnm.
Climate: Warm and windy
Distance Travelled: Approximately 8km/5.3miles
Hiking time: 5 hours
One day of complete adrenaline to climb up to the ancient city where there is the highest view of the wide landscape, after a light quake breakfast around 6:00 am, we will continue our hike up to Marampata, 2850 m.a.s.l., for around 3 hours at a slow pace. During our journey, we will observe the dense vegetation in the area. Then we will arrive in Maranpata, beside the Chunchumayo, for a refreshing and short rest. Along the way, you'll observe many orchids and colorful flowers, as well as many birds and mammals; Marampata, the beautiful base camp; a lunch spot with a top view of much further into the mountains; and the great incacomplej, called "Choquequirao City," at 3000 masl. From lunch is 2 hours hike along the Inca trail with impressive views to Choquequirao and surrounded the complex. On the afternoon recommended visit with less clouds and clear views to mountain ranges early darkness side down tents close to Choquequirao 2950 masl. Base camp.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner MealsChallenging Difficulty8km/6.2miles Walking Distance6- 7 hours Walking Time2,115m / 6,839 ft Starting Elevation3,030m / 9,940 ft Camp ElevationDay 03Choquequirao - Marampata - Chiquisca.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping, Chiquiska 1950msnm.
Climate:warm and sunny
Distance Travelled: Approximately 13km/8.1miles
Hikingtime:7-8 hours
To wake up on the Andes it is delight to following Our instinct of path finders, quit breakfast will be on the wild life in Choquequirao is prize by sunrise and fill up of gladness, We will arrive at the archaeological site in time to enjoy the impressionist views of the deep canyons and maybe the opportunity to see a Condor flying near, we will walk towards of the Choquequirao archaeologicalcomplex, which is a one-hour walk to see the Choquequirao and where our guide and mystic knowledge you feel travel around the time, after 3 hours exploring the complex we start return way back to the begin by the same trail 2 hours down cross the Apurimac river and 1 hour up until Chiquisca. base camp.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner MealsChallenging Difficulty13km/8.5miles Walking Distance7-8 hours Walking Time3,030m / 9,940 ft Starting Elevation1,950 m / 6,397 ft Camp ElevationDay 04Chiquisqa - Capuliyoc - Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Climate:Warm and sunny
DistanceTravelled: Approximately 9km/5.5miles
Hikingtime: 5 hours
Most of the day is hat and up back to the beginning, and we will return along the same route to Capuliyoc, 2800 masl., the slope back the way up, appreciate the condors and some Andean life on the route, and turn the head and share the experience on the trek. We descended on the first day, and it is a soft climb of two hours until the pass of Capuliyoc, 2915 m.During our journey, we will see exotic flora and fauna, as well as views of majestic snow-capped peaks and the Apurimac Canyon. After reaching Capuliyoc, where the climbing path ends, we will have lunch with the last views of the Apurimac valley and the Choquequirao Trek Classic; the total climbing time is about 4 hours. In the afternoon, we will drive a car back 5 hours to Cusco. Arriving around 6 p.m., passengers will be transferred to the hotel. end of the services.
Breakfast & Lunch MealsModerate Difficulty9km/5.5miles Walking Distance5 - 6 hours Walking Time1,950 m / 6,397 ft Starting Elevation2,915 m / 9,563 ft Highest ElevationAt Vidal Expeditions, we are transparent and provide specific details of what is included and excluded from our tours. We know this is very important so that you know exactly what to bring and don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your trek.
WE INCLUDE
Vidal Expeditions Team Provide
Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Choquequirao trek. During this briefing, you will receive important details about the trek. After this time, you will receive your duffle bag for your extra luggage, which will stay with our porter while you are hiking.
Professional Trekking Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation for customer service. Our tour guides have graduated with a tourism career from the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. They have also studied English at a private language institute. Through their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking, and pride in having been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our tour guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the magical last refuge of the Incas, Choquequirao.
Entrance Fees
Once we receive your details and the deposit for the tour, we will purchase all the necessary tickets for your trek. These permits will be for a specific date and will be in your name.
Horses Team
At Vidal Expeditions, we include horses who will be carrying your personal belongings in a duffle bag that we provide during this tour. This duffle bag cannot exceed 7 kg (14 lb). This weight includes the sleeping bag and mattress. You will be responsible for packing your duffle bag with your personal items (including your sleeping bag and mattress) that you will not be using during the day before breakfast. Items that are packed will not be accessible until we reach the final camp for the evening.
Transportations
Private Transport
We include all the transportation during your trek. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the Cachora Trail head. At the end of the trek, the bus returning from Cachora to Cusco will drop you off at your hotel.
Equipment
Camping equipment
Vidal Expeditions leads tours to Machu Picchu with suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of a lifetime. Our tents are Eureka or Doite pro Aconcagua for 4 people, which will be shared only with 2 people to ensure your comfort and enough space for your luggage. There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal on this tour.
Personal Duffle bag
We included a personal duffle bag for your 4-day Choquequirao Trek. You will get this duffle bag at Vidal Expeditions office during your pre-departure briefing the night before your trek. This bag will be carried by horses during the trek. You will find it in your tent every afternoon when you arrive at the campsite. It can be filled with your personal items, sleeping bag, and mattress, but the maximum allowable weight is 7 kg (17 lb). The duffle bag must be returned to our office no later than one day after your trek.
Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides of Vidal Expeditions are very well trained in First aid. They received training courses every 6 months how to assist to someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon oxygen in the case if someone requires it.
Meals
Meals
At Vidal Expeditions, we know food is such an important part of any vacation, and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial. For your trek, we include 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. We cater to all dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others—just let us know your dietary restrictions at the time of your booking. Our team is well-trained to prepare the best food you've ever had with local and organic ingredients.
Water
Vidal Expeditions will provide you with water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water will be filtered, boiled, and cooled by our chef. You must bring your own water container, bottle, or camelback that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
Snacks
Our team will provide a snack every morning before leaving each campsite, so you can enjoy it during your hike throughout the day. There will be many breaks where you can enjoy the delicious local fruits, biscuits, and caramels.
WE NOT INCLUDED
Sleeping bag
Every trekker along the Choquequirao needs a proper sleeping bag, which has to be for -15°C or 5°F. We recommend you bring your own, but if you don’t want to bring your own or don’t have one, you can rent a sleeping bag from us.
Walking Sticks/Trekking Poles
Hiking with trekking poles has its benefits—protect your knees while you are hiking downhill. Especially on the ancient Inca Trail, where there are many stairs up and down, trekking poles help you during the ascent and increase stability. If you don’t have a pair of trekking poles, you can rent them from our office.
Breakfast on the First day
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotels offer breakfast during your stay. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near Curawasi where you will be able to purchase breakfast.
Travel Insurance
We recommend buying travel insurance before leaving your country in case something happens during your visit to Peru.
Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion to Ausangate, and although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team's hard work.
INFOAt Vidal Expeditions, we focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience, and we want to provide all the details you need to know before leaving your country and starting your life experience in Peru.
What you need to pack? Important- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
FOR YOUR DUFFEL:Porters or horses will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air mat (if you bring or rent one). From our perspective, these two items weigh 3.5 kg.
- 2-3 wicking t-shirts
- 2-3 hiking pants
- 4 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Fleece
- 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Headlamp: essential
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp or flip flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside the citadel gates. But don´t worry; they have a secure storage facility. Water: We supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning's water only, as we won't have time to filter water until your first lunch.
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
PREPARING FOR YOUR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK
At Vidal Expeditions, we try to make the booking system as easy as possible for you. Once you decide to do this trek, we will send you a booking form where you need to complete all the required details that are important to book your tickets. We need a previous deposit of 50% per person. As soon as you pay it, we immediately book a spot for this tour. Once we are done with it, we will send you your invoice and a confirmation form that all the booking processes have been satisfactorily set up.
Yes, our work policy is to be in contact with our customers as long as necessary to inform them of all the details and changes that could occur after they have confirmed the reservation. Please check your email constantly, and if you have any issues, let us know so we can solve them as soon as possible.
This is one of the most incredible treks in the Andes of Cusco. The hike will transport you through the most fascinating landscapes in one of the deepest canyons in South America, Apurimac. Explore Choquequirao nowadays, well known as the site of Machu Picchu. For many people, Choquequirao could be bigger than Machu Picchu because it is still hidden by the forest and without digging.
Choquequirao archaeological site is nestled at the top of the mountain at 3033 meters, near Apurimac Canyon in the Cusco region. To get there, we need to hike through the trail that starts at Capuliyoc town. This Choquequiro trek crosses different pictureque Andean villages where people still keep alive the ancient traditions and beautiful landscapes. Without a doubt, this is a perfect trek off the beaten path.
Yes, this Choquequirao Trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Cusco; it requires a reasonable level of fitness to complete its different routes. The four-day trek is moderately challenging, with some long hikes per day (around 10 km), and it crosses Apurimac Canyon, the depest one in South America, which needs to descend until 1550 meters, then hike up to 3,033 meters, where Choquequiro Inca sites are located. However, the effort is worth it.
This trek has different routes, and it will depend on which one you are taking. The classic route takes 4 days from Cusco, and the longest route will take about 8 days from Cusco to Choquequiro, around 3 days, another 4 days from Choquequiro to Machu Picchu, and one more day to return to Cusco.
Choquequirow trek is one of the lowest hike in Cusco, however it doesn't mean it is low! In fact, you start at 3300m (10826 feet) on the first day, and by the second day (depending on what route you take) you will get to 1550 meters about sea level, then you will be back up there above 3000metres again.
Well, the answer will depend on which factors you are considering to compare both Inca sites; however, Choquequirao is hugely bigger than Machu Picchu, with more extended lands where the Incas built such a nice complex. The trek combines different landscapes, picturesque Andean communities, history, traditions, culture, and less crowded areas, which makes it totally different from Machu Picchu.
All our guides and trekking team are professional, they know how to solve any issue during your trek. Your guide will always have a first aid kit with the basic items for any issue, they will carry a oxygen tank as well in case someone need it, during the Choquequiro trek there will also be an extra emergency horse to take you to the best place where you can recover. Our team always has a radio, and they are trained for any emergencies that happen during our tours.
Definitely, it is always recommended to wear light hiking boots if possible. Ones with ankle support are extra helpful, especially for the inexperienced hiker. Because you will be climbing down so many steps created by the Incas and crossing some rivers, especially on day 2, some of them are slippery, now uneven, and at varying heights. The extra support helps prevent twisting your ankles.
Yes. Walking sticks are always helpful to trekkers, especially if it is raining along the trek. Using walking sticks can help take the pressure off your knees while doing some portions of the trek. Plus, they will help you get up the mountain as well.
Choquechirao Trek is the ultimate adventure hike in Cusco, and there are many ways to get there, from hiking through a travel company with all the logistics for you to hike on your own. Nowadays, you will find some lodges along the route.
Choquechirao is one of the huge Inca buildings in Cusco, but nowadays it is not clear how big this is. What we can say is that by visiting this complex, you will be amazed with the immense temples, large terraces, and location near the slope of Apurimac Canyon, which has breathtaking views. A hike there will definitely be an experience of a lifetime.
The weather in Choquequiro and parts of the Andes is unpredictable, even if the weather forecast says it’s sunny. We can’t trust it. It is an impossible question for us to answer. Historically, April through September is the dry season; November through February is the rainy season; and March and October are bridge months—a mixture of both. But the clouds have not followed these rules in the last few years. Prepare for sun and rain, no matter when you come. As far as temperatures go, that is consistent throughout the year. Mornings and evenings are always cold. Make sure to bring a fleece jacket for the mornings and a down jacket for the evenings. Once the sun is up, you should be comfortable hiking in short sleeves.
From: USD 480.00 per person
USD 450.00: from 4 people to more
* Additional single tent: $30USDAdditional Items
*Sleeping bag -15°C / 5°F for the entire trip: $20USD
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Vidal Expeditions. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
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Best SellerTour Price4 Days / 3 Nights
Choquequirao Trek
Price from $ 480 USD Per Person
Group Size Up to 8 People
What's it like
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days 3 Nights Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
At Vidal Expeditions we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
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Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 8 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
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Hotel: During our excursion to Machu Picchu, we offer a 3 stars hotel stay for the last night. This ensures you are well rested and ready to explore Machu Picchu.
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Bus to Machu Picchu: To enjoy Machu Picchu, we provide a round trip ticket on the bus from Aguas Calientes to the main entrance of the archaeological site.
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Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture.
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Best Camping Equipment: We have the state-of-the-art camping equipment for our excursion. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every excursion.
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Best Trekking team: At Vidal Expeditions we focus to create the best experience during our excursions. Our team that consists of tour guides, cooks, porters, horse drivers are handpicked. We train our team to offer you the best service. We take care of our team by providing them with good equipment and paying them fairly.
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