Choquequirao Trek 5 days
540 usd
- Cusco- Cachora - Capuliyoc - Santa Rosa - Marampata - Chiquisca - Choquequirao Ruins
Choquequirao Trek 5 days
The Choquequirao Trek 5 Days is one of the most exciting adventures in Cusco, taking you through the impressive Apurímac Canyon and up to the remote Inca city of Choquequirao, known as the “sister city of Machu Picchu.” This challenging hike rewards you with breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and an authentic experience far from the crowds.
Choquequirao Trek 5 days
Summary
CUSCO – CACHORA – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISKA
CHIKISKA – SANTA ROSA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK FULL DAY
CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – CHIQUISCA
CHIKISKA– CAPULIYOC– CUSCO
Choquequirao Trek 5 days Itinerary
01
CUSCO – CACHORA – CAPULIYOC – CHIKISKA
Your adventure to Choquequirao begins early. At 5:00 am, our team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco in a private van, heading towards the picturesque town of San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 m). Here you’ll have the chance to enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast (not included, but highly recommended for its authenticity and affordable price).
After meeting the rest of our expedition crew—cooks, muleteers, and support staff—we set out on our first trekking day, which will last 7 to 8 hours. The trail unfolds through a variety of microclimates and landscapes, from fertile valleys to breathtaking mountain views, including the impressive Pedroyoc snow-capped peak. Along the way, you’ll encounter rich flora and fauna that highlight the natural diversity of the Andes.
A highlight of the day is reaching Capulichayoc Viewpoint, where you’ll witness sweeping panoramas of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, carved by the powerful Apurímac River. It’s here that we enjoy our first outdoor lunch with unforgettable views, and where we catch our very first glimpse of Choquequirao in the distance.
After a well-deserved break, we continue descending to Chiquisca (1,800 m), our first campsite. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and the serene sound of nature, we’ll settle into our tents for the night.
- Time: Approx. 5 hours of descent
- Meals: Lunch
, Dinner 
- Minimum Altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level (Chikiska)
- Maximum Altitude: 2,800 meters above sea level (Capuliyoc Pass)
- Distance Covered: 10 km from Capuliyoc to Chikiska
- Climate: Temperate and warm
02
Chikiska - Santa Rosa - Choquequirao
After breakfast 🍳, we’ll continue our journey towards Choquequirao, crossing a bridge and walking for 2 hours to the village of Santa Rosa for a well-deserved rest. Then, we’ll continue along a narrow trail for 3 more hours until we reach Marampata (2,900 m.a.s.l), where we’ll have lunch 🥙 while taking in the breathtaking views of the area. After lunch, we’ll walk for another 2 hours to our campsite for the night, just 20 minutes from the archaeological site.
- Meals: Breakfast 🍳, Lunch 🥙, Afternoon Tea 🍵, Dinner 🍛
- Accommodation: Camping ⛺
- Minimum Altitude: 1,500 meters above sea level (Playa Rosalina)
- Maximum Altitude: 2,900 meters above sea level (Choquequirao Camp)
- Time: Approx. 7 hours of walking ⏱️
- Difficulty: Challenging 💪
03
Choquequirao full day
In the morning 🌅, our guide will take you through the agricultural terraces and waterfalls, visiting each of the archaeological sectors while explaining the history and significance of the site. We’ll then return to camp for a delicious lunch 🍽️ prepared by our chef. After lunch, we’ll visit the restored llama terraces located 300 meters (1,000 feet) below the main structures, such as the House of the Inca, the Main Temple, and the Temple of Water. In the afternoon, we’ll begin our descent, visiting the House of the Priest and the Sacrifice Platforms, hoping to spot condors soaring overhead on their return flight to their nests 🦅.
- Meals: Breakfast 🍳, Lunch 🍽️, Dinner 🍛
- Accommodation: Choquequirao Camp (2,900 m.a.s.l.) ⛺
- Climate: Temperate-cold 🏔️
- Distance Covered: Approx. 8 km 🚶♂️
- Walking Time: Approx. 5 hours ⏱️
04
CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – CHIkISCA
After an early breakfast 🍳, we’ll start our return journey, which will be much easier and more relaxed, first reaching Marampata and then beginning our descent to Santa Rosa. We’ll continue to the banks of the Apurímac River (1,500 m.a.s.l), where lunch 🍴 will be waiting for us. After lunch, we’ll walk for 2 more hours until we reach Chiquisca (1,800 m.a.s.l.), where we’ll set up our final camp for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast 🍳, Lunch 🍽️, Dinner 🍛
- Accommodation: Camping in Chikisca ⛺
- Climate: Warm 🌞
- Distance Covered: Approx. 12 km 🚶♂️
- Walking Time: Approx. 6 hours ⏱️
05
CHIkISCA – CAPULIYOC – CUSCO
We’ll begin the final day with an early morning ascent ⏰ to the Capuliyoc Pass (2,800 m.a.s.l), from where we can once again enjoy magnificent views of the Apurímac Canyon and bid farewell to Choquequirao. After a well-deserved rest and a light lunch 🍽️, we’ll say goodbye to the muleteers and begin our return journey by minivan 🚐 back to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast 🍳, Lunch 🍽️
- Climate: Warm and sunny 🌞
- Distance Covered: Approx. 6 km 🚶♂️
- Walking Time: Approx. 4 hours ⏱️
Included Services
Transportation 🚐: Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc (starting point of the trek) and return from Choquequirao to Cusco.
Entrance Tickets 🎟️: Access to Choquequirao archaeological site.
Bilingual Professional Guide 🗣️: Expert guide to lead you through the trek and share insightful information.
Personal Tents ⛺: Each tent accommodates 2 people for added comfort.
Sleeping Mat 🛏️: Included inside each tent to ensure a good rest.
Camping Accommodation 🏕️: 4 nights of camping in comfortable tents.
Horses 🐴: To carry camping equipment and personal luggage (7 kg per person).
Cook 🍳: A dedicated cook who will prepare delicious meals throughout the trip.
Meals 🍽️: All meals during the trek, from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5.
First Aid Kit 🩹: For any medical emergencies during the trek.
Not Included
Breakfast 🍽️ (Day 1): Breakfast on the first day is not included.
Dinner 🍛 (Day 5): The last day’s dinner is not provided.
Trekking Poles 🥾: Trekking sticks are not included, but you may bring your own.
Sleeping Bags 🛏️: Not included, bring your own sleeping bag.
Horseback Riding 🐴: Horses are provided for carrying luggage, not for riding.
Extra Expenses 💰: Mineral water, beer, soda, etc. are not covered.
Travel Insurance 🛡️: You are responsible for arranging your own travel insurance.
Tips 💵: Tips for the guide, cook, and muleteers are not included.
“You have the option to rent any equipment you need at our office”
What should I bring on the Choquequirao Trek?
Essential items include:
- Original Passport 🛂: A must-have for your trek.
- Warm Clothes 🧥: Pack enough for 5 days. Temperatures will range from 25°C in lower areas to 5°C at higher altitudes.
- Cold Jacket 🧣: Essential for the chilly temperatures in higher regions.
- Good Hiking Shoes 👟: Sturdy, comfortable shoes are key for a safe trek.
- Extra Pair of Shoes/Sandals 👡: Comfortable footwear for when you’re not trekking.
- Wool Socks 🧦 (2-3 pairs): Warm and essential for long days on the trail.
- Long Pants 👖: For comfort and protection during the hike.
- Water Bottle 💧: Stay hydrated throughout your trek.
- Mosquito Repellent 🦟: Keep the bugs at bay.
- Hat or Cap 🧢: To protect yourself from the sun.
- Sunglasses 🕶️: Shield your eyes from the sun’s rays at high altitudes.
- Extra Money 💵 (Soles): For any additional expenses along the way.
- Standard Travel Backpack 🎒 (21 liters approx.): Compact and convenient for carrying your essentials.
- Toothbrush and Personal Toiletries 🪥: Essential for your daily hygiene.
- Sunscreen 🌞: Protect your skin from sun exposure.
- Medication 💊: If you’re on any meds, make sure to bring them and inform our team.
- Flashlight with Extra Batteries 🔦: A mining-type flashlight will be most effective.
- Toilet Paper 🧻: Always good to have on hand.
- Portable Charger 🔋: Keep your devices charged for the journey.
Choquequirao Trek Price
Price
| Description | Details |
|---|---|
| Choquequirao Trek 5 Days | Available on any date with a minimum of 2 hikers |
| Price per person | $540 USD |
| Tents Provided | Large tents for 4 people (for every 2 hikers) |
Discount
| Group Size | Discount |
|---|---|
| Group of 5 or more | $20 USD off per person – Must book together at the same time |
Extras
| Item | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping Bag | $20 USD | Clean and warm, rated to -10°C |
| Air Mattress | $20 USD | Comfortable Therm-a-Rest type |
| Trekking Poles | $15 USD | Professional, adjustable poles (pair) |
| Single Tent | $30 USD | For solo trekkers |
Added Values
| Included Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Airport Transfer | From the airport to hotel (Cusco only) |
| Duffel Bag | Included in the trekking price |
| Extra Pack Horse | Carries up to 7 kg / 14 lb of personal belongings (sleeping bag, mattress, clothes, etc.) |
| Boiled Water | Provided throughout the Choquequirao Trek |
| Oxygen Tank | Available during the trek |
| Emergency Horse | Available in case of fatigue or illness |
FAQs About Choquequirao Trek 5 days
How long is the Choquequirao Trek?
The classic trek lasts 4 days and 3 nights, though the 5-day version is the perfect option for those who want to fully experience Choquequirao with an entire day dedicated to exploring the archaeological site. 
How challenging is the Choquequirao Trek?
It’s considered a moderate to challenging trek, with demanding ascents and descents, especially between Playa Rosalina and Choquequirao. Prior hiking experience and good physical condition are recommended. 
What’s the best time to go?
The dry season from April to October is ideal, with less rain and safer trails.
Do I need a guide?
While it’s possible to trek without one, a certified guide is highly recommended for safety, proper logistics, and navigating unmarked sections of the trail. 
How many hours will I hike each day?
Expect to hike 5 to 8 hours per day, depending on the section and your group’s pace. 
What is the altitude of Choquequirao?
The archaeological site sits at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet) above sea level. 
Can I combine Choquequirao with Machu Picchu?
Yes, extended routes can connect Choquequirao with Machu Picchu via remote trails, creating a truly epic adventure. 
Practical Information
Arrival in Cusco
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Please make sure to send us your full flight details at least 15 days before arrival. Look for our Nickey Travel sign at the exit gate of the arrival terminal.
Pre-Trek Briefing
The evening before your trek, at 6:00 pm, we will hold a detailed briefing at our office in Cusco. Your guide will explain the itinerary, answer questions, and provide your duffel bag for packing.
Luggage Storage
You can safely leave your main luggage in our office or at your hotel in Cusco while you are on the trek.
How to Book
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Complete the Booking Form on our website by clicking on “Book Now”.
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Be ready with the following details for each traveler:
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Full name (as on passport)
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Gender
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Passport number
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Date of birth
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Nationality
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Deposit: A deposit of $211 USD per person is required to secure your permit. Payments can be made via VISA or PayPal.
Balance Payment
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You may pay the balance in cash (USD or soles) in our Cusco office to avoid card fees.
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If paying with PayPal or VISA online, a 5.5% service fee applies.
Date Changes & Cancellations
Once Machu Picchu tickets are issued, they cannot be changed, transferred, or refunded by the government. Deposits are non-refundable. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes.
Passport Requirement
You must carry your original passport during the trek. If you renew or change your passport after booking, you must either:
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Bring both passports (old and new), or
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Pay a $25 USD fee to update your details.
Weather
Andean weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers to adjust to quick temperature changes.
Altitude Sickness
Most travelers acclimatize well after 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Preventive steps include:
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Drinking water frequently
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Coca tea
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Oxygen (carried by our guides if needed)
Group Size
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Maximum: 10 travelers
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Average: 2–6 travelers
We specialize in small groups for a personalized experience.
Trekking & Difficulty
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A duffel bag (7 kg allowance) will be provided at the briefing. Horses will carry these, while you hike with a small daypack (30–40L).
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The trek is moderate to challenging. Good physical condition and hiking experience are recommended.
Toilets on the Trek
We provide private toilet tents with a seat, set up at each campsite – clean, sanitary, and easily accessible.
If You Cannot Finish the Trek
In case of illness or difficulty, we will assist you to the nearest town for evacuation. Oxygen is always available, and in emergencies, a helicopter can be arranged (travel insurance required).
Drop-off After the Trek
On the final day, you will be dropped off directly at your hotel in Cusco.
Tipping
Tips are optional but highly appreciated by guides, cooks, and horsemen. It is a customary way to thank the team for their effort and service.
Sustainability
Nickey Travel is a local, sustainable, and responsible tour operator. We work with local communities, respect their culture and traditions, and ensure our practices protect the environment.
Photo Gallery
Choquequirao Trek 5 days
Book now with a small deposit and finish later.
Trip Details
- Tour Type: Group
- Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
- Activity: Hike
- Group Size: 2 - 10
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Distance Trip: 50 km