Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days: Expedition to the Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu
The Choquequirao trek 4 days route descends into the deep Apurímac River canyon and then climbs up to Choquequirao, one of the most impressive and remote Inca citadels in Peru. Finally, you explore its plazas, temples and terraces in near solitude.
An Inca citadel only for those who arrive on foot
Summary
Trip overview
Choquequirao, known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, is an Inca citadel built high on a mountain above the Apurímac River canyon. Because there is no road access, it can only be visited on foot, so it is one of the most exclusive destinations in Peru.
The Choquequirao trek 4 days itinerary starts at Capuliyoc, from where you descend more than 1,300 meters to the Apurímac River. Then you climb the other side of the canyon to the citadel. However, the effort is rewarded with spectacular landscapes and an archaeological site that receives few visitors.
At the site, you explore its plazas, temples, canals and the famous Llama Terraces, decorated with figures in white stone. It is a demanding expedition, so it is ideal for hikers in good physical condition seeking an authentic experience. If you want more time at the citadel, the 5-day version includes a full day of exploration.
The best of this journey
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
Cusco, Capuliyoc and Chiquisca
Transfer to Capuliyoc, then the descent toward the Apurímac Canyon.
We pick you up early at your hotel and drive to Cachora, in the Apurímac region, then on to the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,915 m a.s.l.), with an impressive view of the canyon and the snow-capped peaks. From there, we begin the descent along a zigzag trail until we reach the Chiquisca campsite (1,930 m a.s.l.), in an area with a warm climate.
Day 2
Apurímac River, Marampata and Choquequirao
The most demanding climb of the route up to the citadel.
We descend to Playa Rosalina, on the banks of the Apurímac River, and then cross the bridge to begin a climb of almost 1,500 meters of elevation gain to the village of Marampata (2,850 m a.s.l.). After a well-deserved rest, we continue to the Choquequirao campsite, near the entrance to the archaeological site. Also, if time allows, we make a first visit at sunset.
Day 3
Visit to Choquequirao and return to Chiquisca
Guided tour of the citadel, then the descent into the canyon.
We spend the morning exploring Choquequirao with our guide, including the main plaza, temples, residences, canals and the Llama Terraces, decorated with figures in white stone. After lunch, we descend the same way, cross the Apurímac River and then reach the Chiquisca campsite to spend the night.
Day 4
Chiquisca, Capuliyoc and return to Cusco
Final climb to Capuliyoc and, finally, return to Cusco.
We start the climb to the Capuliyoc viewpoint early, so we take advantage of the coolest hours of the day. From Capuliyoc, we transfer to Cachora and then to Cusco, where we arrive in the evening.
Include
Included and not included
The trip includes
- Pre-trek briefing
- Hotel pickup and transportation Cusco - Capuliyoc - Cusco
- Entrance to the Choquequirao archaeological site
- Professional guide in English or Spanish
- Cook, horseman and pack horses for the equipment
- Transport of up to 5 kg of personal belongings by horse
- Double tents, sleeping mats and dining tent
- Meals during the trek as per itinerary
- Boiled water to refill bottles
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
What's not included?
- Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Trekking poles (available for rent)
- Riding or emergency horse
- Tips for guides, cook and horseman
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Important information
What to bring
- 25 to 35 liter daypack
- Sleeping bag for sub-zero temperatures
- Waterproof, broken-in hiking boots
- Thermal clothing, warm jacket and gloves
- Rain jacket or waterproof poncho
- Trekking poles with rubber tips
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat
- Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets
- Original passport
Weather
At the bottom of the canyon, the climate is hot and dry, with high temperatures at midday. In contrast, at Capuliyoc and Choquequirao the nights are cool. Therefore, bring light clothing and warm layers.
Best season
The trek operates all year. From April to November the weather is drier and the trails are in better condition; however, in the rainy season they can be slippery.
Acclimatization
The route does not exceed 3,100 meters, but we still recommend spending at least one day in Cusco before starting the trek. Also, the biggest challenge is the elevation change, not the altitude.
Recommendations
Start the climbs early to avoid the midday heat and carry enough water. Also, use insect repellent, because there are mosquitoes in the canyon area.
Accommodations
Accommodations and services
Campsites
Three nights at campsites with double mountain tents, sleeping mats and basic facilities.
Transportation
Private round-trip transportation between Cusco and the Capuliyoc viewpoint.
Meals
Meals prepared by our cook during the trek, with vegetarian options on request.
Support team
Guide, cook, horseman and pack horses that carry the camping equipment, so you only carry a daypack.
Safety
First aid kit and emergency oxygen, as well as communication with our office in Cusco.
Gallery
Photo gallery
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?
The Choquequirao trek 4 days route is one of the most demanding hikes in Cusco because of the elevation changes: you descend and climb more than 1,300 meters per day on the canyon sections. Therefore, it requires very good physical condition.
Why is it called the sacred sister of Machu Picchu?
Because of the similarity of its architecture and its ceremonial importance. Choquequirao was a significant Inca center and, today, it is one of the largest and least visited archaeological sites in the region.
Do I need a permit?
No trail permit is required as on the Inca Trail. Entrance to the archaeological site is included in the program.
Is there a riding horse option?
Yes. You can rent a riding horse for the most demanding uphill sections, so we recommend requesting it when booking.
What is the difference with the 5-day version?
The 5-day version has shorter stages and dedicates a full day to exploring Choquequirao, including remote sectors such as the Llama Terraces.
Can I customize this itinerary?
Yes. We can operate it as a private service or, alternatively, extend it to Machu Picchu as a multi-day expedition.
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