Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N
Choquequirao Trek 5 Days: A Full Day to Explore the Citadel
The Choquequirao trek 5 days route crosses the Apurímac Canyon with more balanced stages. Then you spend an entire day exploring Choquequirao, from its main plaza to the Llama Terraces, in one of the most remote Inca citadels in Peru.
Time to discover every corner of Choquequirao
Summary
Trip overview
The Choquequirao trek 5 days itinerary is the best way to get to know the sacred sister of Machu Picchu in depth. The hiking stages are shorter, so the demanding elevation changes of the Apurímac Canyon become more manageable.
You spend two nights next to the Inca citadel, which allows you to dedicate a full day to exploring its different sectors. These include the main plaza, temples, canals, the Pikiwasi sector and the Llama Terraces with their figures in white stone.
Therefore, it is an ideal expedition for lovers of archaeology, photography and nature seeking a remote, peaceful experience without crowds. If you have one day less, the 4-day version follows the same route at a faster pace.
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 and the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,915 m a.s.l.), with views of the Apurímac Canyon. Then we descend along a zigzag trail to the Chiquisca campsite (1,930 m a.s.l.), where we rest and have dinner.
Day 2
Apurímac River, Marampata and Choquequirao
River crossing, then the climb toward the citadel.
We descend to Playa Rosalina, cross the Apurímac River and then begin the climb to Marampata (2,850 m a.s.l.) with frequent breaks. Later, in the afternoon, we reach the Choquequirao campsite, near the entrance to the archaeological site, where we spend two nights.
Day 3
Full day at Choquequirao
Exploration of the main sectors of the citadel.
We spend the day exploring Choquequirao with our guide, including the main plaza, the temple sector, the elite residences, the water canals and the Pikiwasi sector. Then, in the afternoon, we descend to the Llama Terraces, decorated with llama figures in white stone, one of the most unique ensembles of Inca architecture.
Day 4
Choquequirao and Chiquisca
Descent into the canyon, then the crossing of the Apurímac River.
After breakfast, we begin the descent toward Marampata and Playa Rosalina, cross the Apurímac River and then climb to the Chiquisca campsite. Later, we have the afternoon to rest and share the last night of camping with the team.
Day 5
Chiquisca, Capuliyoc and return to Cusco
Final climb and, finally, return to Cusco.
We start the climb to Capuliyoc early to avoid the midday heat. 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; however, at Capuliyoc and Choquequirao the nights are cool. Therefore, bring light clothing for the day and warm layers for the night.
Best season
The trek operates all year. However, from April to November the weather is drier and the trails are in better condition.
Acclimatization
The route does not exceed 3,100 meters, but we still recommend spending at least one day in Cusco before the trek. Also, the main challenge is the canyon’s elevation changes.
Recommendations
Start the climbs early, carry enough water and use insect repellent. Also, at the archaeological site, stay on the marked paths to help preserve it.
Accommodations
Accommodations and services
Campsites
Four nights at campsites with double mountain tents, two of them next to the Choquequirao citadel.
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
What is the difference with the 4-day version?
The Choquequirao trek 5 days route has shorter stages and two nights next to the citadel, so it allows a full day to explore Choquequirao, including the Llama Terraces.
How difficult is the route?
It is demanding because of the elevation changes of the Apurímac Canyon, although the 5-day version spreads the effort better and is more manageable.
How many people visit Choquequirao?
It receives far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu, so it is common to explore its sectors in near solitude.
Is there a riding horse option?
Yes. You can rent a riding horse for the uphill sections, so we recommend requesting it when booking.
Do I need a permit?
No trail permit is required. Entrance to the archaeological site is included in the program.
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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