Choquequirao Trek - 5D/4N
Overview
Embark on an extended expedition to the remote and majestic Choquequirao. By adding an extra day to the classic 4-day route, this 5-day itinerary allows for a more relaxed hiking pace and, most importantly, a full, unhurried day to explore the vast and spectacular archaeological site. Tucked deep in the Vilcabamba mountain range and accessible only by foot, Choquequirao receives a fraction of the visitors of Machu Picchu. You will have ample time to wander through the hidden terraces, the fascinating ceremonial center, and the iconic 'llamas of stone'while camping high in the cloud forest with views of the Apurimac canyon.
Day by Day Itinerary
Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquiska
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive to the Capuliyoc pass (2,900m). Here, we meet our horsemen, pack our gear, and take in the panoramic views of the Apurimac canyon. The trek begins with a long descent into the canyon through arid landscapes dotted with agave and cacti. After a picnic lunch, we continue descending until we reach our first campsite at Chiquiska, located in a warm, lower valley. • Trekking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles • Estimated Time: 5-6 hours • Starting Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft • Campsite Altitude: 1,930m / 6,332ft
Chiquiska – Playa Rosalina – Marampata
We start early to avoid the heat. We descend to Playa Rosalina (1,550m) to cross the mighty Apurimac River. From here, a steep and relentless zigzag climb awaits us up the opposite canyon wall. We hike up to Santa Rosa for a rest, and then continue climbing to Marampata. Because we have an extra day, we camp here tonight rather than pushing all the way to the ruins. Enjoy spectacular sunset views over the canyon from our campsite. • Trekking Distance: 8 km / 5 miles • Estimated Time: 5-6 hours • Highest Altitude: 2,850m / 9,350ft • Campsite Altitude: 2,850m / 9,350ft
Marampata – Choquequirao (Full Day Exploration)
After breakfast, a relatively flat, 2-hour hike brings us to the Choquequirao ruins (2,950m). Today is dedicated entirely to exploring this vast archaeological complex without rushing. Your guide will take you through the main plaza, the religious sector, and the fascinating 'llama sector'steep terraces decorated with white stones in the shape of llamas. You'll have free time to explore the hidden corners of the site, which is still largely covered by jungle. We camp at the official campsite near the ruins. • Trekking Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles (plus exploring ruins) • Estimated Time: Full day exploring • Highest Altitude: 3,100m / 10,170ft • Campsite Altitude: 2,950m / 9,678ft
Choquequirao – Playa Rosalina – Chiquiska
After a final morning view of Choquequirao, we pack up and begin our long descent back into the canyon. We hike back through Marampata and down the steep zigzag trail to the Apurimac River at Playa Rosalina. After crossing the bridge and having lunch, we hike back up the other side of the canyon to our final campsite at Chiquiska. • Trekking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles • Estimated Time: 7-8 hours • Highest Altitude: 2,950m / 9,678ft • Campsite Altitude: 1,930m / 6,332ft
Chiquiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
We wake up before dawn to tackle the final ascent out of the canyon while it is still cool. The climb takes about 4 hours to reach the Capuliyoc pass. We celebrate the completion of this epic trek and enjoy a final lunch with our team. We then say goodbye to our horsemen and board our private transport for the drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon or early evening. • Trekking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles • Estimated Time: 4-5 hours • Highest Altitude: 2,900m / 9,514ft
What is Included
- Briefing before departure at your hotel
- Private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc (trailhead)
- Professional bilingual guide specialized in Archaeology
- Chef and Assistant Cook
- Horsemen and mules to carry all camping equipment and food
- Personal allowance of 7kg carried by mules
- High-Quality 4-season tents and comfortable foam sleeping mats
- All meals during the trek (5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners)
- Official entrance tickets to the Choquequirao Archaeological Park
- Private transportation from Capuliyoc back to Cusco
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Not Included
- Sleeping bags (Available for rent)
- Trekking poles (Available for rent)
- Last day dinner
- Travel Insurance (Highly recommended for this trek)
- Tips for the trekking team
Book This Expedition
Direct operator permits • No intermediaries
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ANDES MARATHON
Official licensed direct mountaineering operator based in Cusco, Peru. We design high-altitude private adventures and glamping tours while ensuring fair wages and dignity for our native porters through the Ayni Philosophy.
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