The classic 4-day Choquequirao trek is one of the most challenging and incredible treks in Cusco and Peru. In fact, it’s one of the most comprehensive alternative routes in the region, boasting rich flora and fauna, where you’ll hike through stunning landscapes and tropical scenery. The 4-day Choquequirao trek is one of the best hiking alternatives to the Inca Trail.
Here you can observe the majestic Andean condor, the only bird that flies above 5,000 meters (16,000 feet). During the trek, we’ll traverse enchanting places such as the Apurímac River canyon, cloud forests, deep valleys, and the picturesque Andes. We’ll visit the Choquequirao ruins, camp with local families, and participate in their daily activities. The classic 4-day Choquequirao trek, a complete route in the Andes of the Cusco region, is organized by Pacha Expeditions, a 100% local tour operator.
*The level of difficulty depends largely on your physical condition and acclimatization.
Overview
The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is a challenging and rewarding adventure to the remote Inca citadel of Choquequirao, often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The trek passes through stunning Andean landscapes, cloud forests, remote villages, and the spectacular Apurímac Canyon.
The highlight is exploring the impressive archaeological site of Choquequirao, known for its terraces, temples, plazas, and breathtaking mountain views.
GROUP SIZE: Please note that this is a private group tour. Since few people undertake this type of trip, we will be entirely at your disposal. We are responsible for our groups and programs, and we often share the service with other travel agencies to make this trip possible, as it is not as commercially available as the Salkantay or Inca Trail. Due to weather conditions, the recommended period for this trek is from April to December.
Useful Information Classic Choquequirao Trek.
- Start- altitude of 2800m / 9186ft.
- Higher altitude – 4780m / 15,682ft.
- Total distance – 34km / 21 miles
- Larges – day – Day 2-12 km / 6.7 miles.
- Coldest night- 1 about 0 ° C
- Meals – Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Acomodation – Cabins
- Difficulty: Moderate
Overview Day to Day
- Day 01: CUSCO- CAPULIYOC- CHIKISCA.
- Day 02: CHIKISCA - PLAYA ROSALINA - MARANPATA.
- Day 03: MARANPATA - CHOQUEQUIRAO - CHIKISCA.
- Day 04: CHIKISCA - CACHORA - CUSCO.
Itinerary
Day 01: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISCA.
Classic Choquequirao Trek 4 days, We will depart from Cusco at 6:00 a.m. and arrive in the village of Cachora at approximately 9:00 a.m., where we will enjoy breakfast (optional). We will then continue to Capuliyoc (2915 m a.s.l.) to meet our muleteer, who will load our equipment onto mules and horses. From there, we can enjoy a beautiful view of the Apurímac Valley, stretching out beneath the snow-capped peaks of Padreyoc and Wayna Cachora. We will then descend to Coca Masana (2330 m a.s.l.), where the climate becomes increasingly warmer. Finally, we will arrive at Chikisca (1750 m a.s.l.), our campsite where we will have lunch and the afternoon free.
- Meals: Lunch – Tea – Dinner.
- Camping facilities: Accommodation
- Minimum height: 1550 masl
- Maximum altitude 3100 masl
- Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
- Time: 6h about
- Difficulty: Easy
Day 02: CHIKISCA - PLAYA ROSALINA - MARANPATA.
After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our 1 hour and 30 minute downhill hike to Playa Rosalina. Here we will cross the Apurimac River and begin climbing a zigzagging path that will take us to Santa Rosa and then to Maranpata, next to the Chunchulmayo River. Here we will have our camp and lunch spot. The afternoon is free to visit the area and observe the scenery.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
- Camping facilities: Accommodation
- Minimum altitude: 1,550 masl
- Maximum altitude: 3,150 masl
- Distance: 14 km / 9 miles
- Difficulty: Medium / Hard
Day 03: MARANPATA - CHOQUEQUIRAO – CHIKISCA
We'll have an early breakfast and then begin a 2-hour hike to the Choquequirao complex, where we'll witness a beautiful sunrise. Once at the archaeological site, we'll begin a guided tour of the main areas: the agricultural terraces, the main plaza, the upper plaza, the ushnu, the llamas, etc. After the guided tour, we'll have a picnic lunch in the main plaza, enjoying the scenery. Afterward, we'll begin the return to Maranpata and continue the downhill hike to Playa Rosalina, then climb for 2 hours to Chikisca, our campsite.
- Meals: Breakfast -Lunch – Tea – Dinner.
- Camping facilities: Accommodation
- Minimum height: 1550 masl
- Maximum altitude 3100 masl
- Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Difficulty: moderate.
Day 04: CHIKISCA – CAPULIYOC – CUSCO.
The last day of our expedition. Let's take a look at the canyon through which the Apurimac River flows, and we resume the path through the canyon gorge where we have an impressive view of the canyon from the Huancalle viewpoint, considered one of the most spectacular in South America. Continuing with the ascending walk, we will arrive at Capuliyoc to have a deserved rest and to be able to observe condors flying the area. Herein in we will be waiting for our mobility to return to the city of Cusco. Finish our Classic Choquequirao trek.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch
- Distantance: 6km/ 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy / Moderate.
Includes
WHAT IS INCLUDED
- Transportation: Cusco – Cachora - Capuliyoc – Cusco.
- Professional guide:
- Entrance to Choquequirao
- Cook In charge of meal preparation
- Horsemen and horses carry cooking equipment and camping equipment
- Dufle bag for transporting 07 kilos of personal belongings of the passengers.
- Food: 3desayunos / 4almuerzos / 3 dinners
- Equipment: dining tent, kitchen tent, tables
- Extra oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- * Options Vegetarian / special diet available.
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Breakfast the first day
- Sleeping bag
- Extra Expenses (tips)
More Information
WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE.
- Original passport and student card
- Insurance card is essential
- Sleeping bag (not included)
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket
- T hat and gloves comfortable pants
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen, insect repellent
- Water purification tablets optional water (Micropur recommended)
- Toiletries
- Personal medications
- Camera and film
- Flashlight with extra batteries
OPTIONAL ITEMS TO TAKE:
- Shorts
- Walking stick
- bandages
- Sandals
- Extra money
Price & Add - ons
Group: U$: 550
Private: U$: 650
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is 02 people; one person may book a group trek if Pacha Expeditions Travel Peru, is able to join that person with additional groups.
Rentals
- Hiking poles – U$: 15 (pair)
- Sleeping bag U$.25
- Extra Horse - U$: 100
Map (Classic Choquequirao Trek)
Frequently Asked Questions – Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days?
The Choquequirao Trek is considered a challenging hike due to the steep ascents and descents through the Apurímac Canyon. A good level of fitness and some hiking experience are recommended.
How long is the Choquequirao Trek?
The trek covers approximately 62 km (38 miles) round trip over four days, depending on the itinerary and campsite locations.
What is the highest altitude on the trek?
The highest point is usually around 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) above sea level near the Choquequirao archaeological complex.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Participants should be physically prepared for long hiking days and significant elevation changes.
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Since the trek reaches elevations above 3,000 meters, some travelers may experience mild altitude symptoms. Spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek is highly recommended.
What is included in the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days?
Most tours include transportation, professional guide, camping equipment, meals during the trek, mule support for gear, and entrance fees to Choquequirao.
What should I pack for the trek?
Bring hiking boots, comfortable trekking clothes, rain gear, warm layers, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, and a small daypack.
Are there bathrooms and showers along the route?
Basic toilets are available at some campsites. Showers are generally not available during the trek.
What is the best time to hike to Choquequirao?
The dry season from April to December offers the best trekking conditions, with clearer skies and less rainfall.
How many people visit Choquequirao compared to Machu Picchu?
Choquequirao receives only a small fraction of the visitors that Machu Picchu attracts, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking a quieter and more authentic experience.
Can I see Machu Picchu during this trek?
The standard 4-day Choquequirao Trek does not include Machu Picchu. Travelers interested in visiting both sites can choose an extended Choquequirao-to-Machu Picchu trek.
Is the trek suitable for children?
Due to the demanding terrain and long hiking distances, the trek is generally recommended for teenagers and adults with good physical fitness.
Are vegetarian or special dietary meals available?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
Is this a private or group trek?
The trek can be operated as a private tour for a more personalized experience or as a small-group departure, depending on availability.
Why is Choquequirao called the sister city of Machu Picchu?
Both sites were important Inca centers with similar architectural features and ceremonial functions. Choquequirao is larger in area but remains less excavated and much less visited.
