Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Scheduled departures (check available dates)
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Start time: Day 1 – 05:30 h
- Return time: Day 4 – Approx. 20:00 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: High (good physical condition required)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
Choquequirao, known as the «Cradle of Gold» and often referred to as the Lost City of the Incas, is one of Peru’s most impressive hidden treasures. Perched above the Apurímac Canyon and surrounded by the Vilcabamba mountain range, this archaeological site is considered the “spiritual sister” of Machu Picchu for its architecture and energy.
This 4-day route is ideal for adventure lovers seeking a challenging trek with pure nature, epic mountain views, and direct contact with Inca history. Few travelers make it here, which makes the Choquequirao trek a mystical, authentic experience — far from the crowds. Recent improvements in accessibility are making this destination more reachable for true explorers.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisqa (camp)
- Day 2: Chiquisqa – Rosalina – Sunchupata (camp)
- Day 3: Sunchupata – Choquequirao – Chiquisqa (camp)
- Day 4: Chiquisqa – Capuliyoc – Cusco (return)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco → Cachora → Capuliyoc → Chiquisqa
Early hotel pick-up to head to Cachora, passing through Tarawasi, Curahuasi, and the Cunyac Bridge. From Cachora, we begin our acclimatization hike with views of the Apurímac Canyon. After reaching Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,800 m.a.s.l.), we have lunch and descend to Chiquisqa (1,930 m.a.s.l.) for our first night of camping.
Day 2 – Chiquisqa → Rosalina → Santa Rosa → Sunchupata
After breakfast (05:00 a.m.), we descend to Playa Rosalina (1,550 m.a.s.l.) and cross the Apurímac River. Then begins a demanding uphill trail to Santa Rosa, where we stop for lunch. We continue through native flora to Maranpata (2,850 m.a.s.l.), enjoying dramatic canyon views. We camp at Sunchupata, one hour from Choquequirao.
Day 3 – Sunchupata → Choquequirao → Chiquisqa
We start early and hike for 1 hour to reach Choquequirao at sunrise. We enjoy a 3-hour guided tour of the site, visiting ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, temples, fountains, and sacred enclosures. Afterward, we return to Santa Rosa for lunch, descend to Playa Rosalina, and ascend to Chiquisqa for our final night of camping.
Day 4 – Chiquisqa → Capuliyoc → Cusco
After breakfast (06:00 a.m.), we hike up to Capuliyoc, with spectacular views of Mount Padreyoc. The trail continues gently to Cachora, where we have lunch. On the way back to Cusco, we make a stop at the Qonoc thermal baths for a well-deserved rest. Estimated arrival in Cusco: 20:00 h.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Choquequirao Trek?
- Pre-departure briefing
- Transport Cusco – Cachora – Cusco
- Entrance to the Choquequirao archaeological site
- Professional bilingual guide
- Cook and kitchen assistant
- Horsemen and horses to carry equipment and personal belongings
- All meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Camping equipment (tents, mats, utensils)
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Hotel drop-off in Cusco at the end of the tour
What’s Not Included?
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Entrance to Qonoc hot springs (optional)
- Tips for guides, cooks, and horsemen
- Personal expenses and additional snacks
Tips
Recommendations for Your Choquequirao Trek
- Bring a comfortable backpack (30–40 L)
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- Light clothing for daytime and warm layers for nighttime
- Waterproof jacket and rain poncho
- Sunhat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Reusable water bottle or canteen
- Personal hygiene kit and light towel
- Passport or ID
- Note: This trek requires good physical preparation and is ideal for travelers seeking a rewarding, off-the-beaten-path experience with cultural and natural highlights.
