Choquequirao Trek with Quechuas Expeditions

An Amazing Journey to Inca History

I’ve always wanted to explore the history of the Inca people and see incredible scenery. Finally, I found the perfect trip: the Choquequirao Trek. This hike took me through the stunning Peruvian Andes to the Inca site of Choquequirao, often called the “sister of Machu Picchu” because of its beauty and similar design. I felt so excited thinking about the real and special experience I was about to have, learning about an old civilization and enjoying amazing views.

Exploring the “Cradle of Gold”

Choquequirao, which means “cradle of gold” in the Quechua language, amazed me with its impressive buildings and beautiful natural surroundings. The farming terraces, ceremonial areas, and complex water systems showed how advanced the Incas were. Walking through its structures, I felt like I was in an ancient time, where every stone had a story to tell. If you are looking for a unique adventure that combines history, culture, and nature, the Choquequirao Trek is something you should definitely do.

My Short Choquequirao Trip: 4 Days and 3 Nights

The trip to Choquequirao was a tough but rewarding challenge for both my body and mind. I chose the shorter option: 4 days and three nights. During the hike, I walked through different kinds of landscapes, from green valleys to steep mountainsides.

As I walked, I saw unique plants and animals and met local people who still follow many old Inca traditions. Each step brought me closer to the ancient site, and all the effort was worth it when I arrived. The impressive ruins and the natural beauty around them took my breath away.

What Makes This Hike Special?

• You’ll get away from big crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience surrounded by nature.
• You’ll walk through amazing mountain scenery and see how it changes dramatically from one place to another.
• You’ll explore Choquequirao, the biggest Inca site that exists, with very few other people around.
• You’ll hike through the beautiful Apurímac area and see canyons, the powerful river, and mountains with snow on top.
• You’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time to the last days of the Inca Empire. It’s truly incredible!

My Day-by-Day Adventure

Each day on this wonderful trek, I experienced and explored the wonders of nature. As I moved forward, I learned more about the culture, the history, and the stunning environment.

Here’s a detailed account of my trip to inspire you to take part in this special experience!

Day 1: Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) | Capuliyoc (9,482 ft / 2,890 m) – Chiquisca (6,234 ft / 1,900 m) – Playa Rosalinas (4,921 ft / 1,500 m) – Santa Rosa (6,463 ft / 1,970 m)

On this first day, you’ll enjoy the incredible views of the Apurímac River and valley before reaching Santa Rosa, where you’ll camp for the night.

Day Details:

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Walking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
• Walking Time: 6-7 hours
• Starting Altitude: 2,890 m / 9,482 ft (Capuliyoc)
• Camp Altitude: 1,970 m / 6,463 ft (Santa Rosa)

My amazing journey started at 4:30 a.m. when I was picked up from where I was staying in Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) and driven in a private vehicle for five hours to Capuliyoc (9,482 ft / 2,890 m). The views of the snow-covered Salkantay and Humantay mountains along the way were spectacular. When we got to Capuliyoc, I had a tasty breakfast and met the cook and the people who would take the mules. They were part of my trekking team and made sure my things got safely to each campsite and that I had meals.

Once I started walking, I went through the beautiful scenery of the Apurímac Canyon, going down through a large valley for three hours. Along the way, I enjoyed amazing views of two huge mountains, Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina. Then, I arrived at Chiquisca (6,234 ft / 1,900 m) where I had lunch.

After eating and resting, I continued to the bottom of the valley for another hour and fifteen minutes to a place called Playa Rosalina (4,921 ft / 1,500 m). Here, I saw the fast-flowing Apurímac River, which means “God who speaks” in the Quechua language. The river has class V rapids, perfect for canoeing or rafting. Finally, I made the last two-and-a-half-hour climb to reach Santa Rosa (6,463 ft / 1,970 m), my first campsite. There, I enjoyed a delicious dinner before going to bed for a well-deserved rest.

Day 2: Santa Rosa (6,463 ft / 1,970 m) | Marampata (9,514 ft / 2,900 m) – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (10,007 ft / 3,050 m) – Marampata (9,514 ft / 2,900 m)

This morning, you’ll hike to Marampata and enjoy incredible panoramic views, then continue to Choquequirao. Remember to save some energy because you’ll return to Marampata for the night.

Day Details:

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
• Walking Time: 6 hours
• Starting Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft (Choquequirao)
• Camp Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft (Marampata)

In the morning, I had a big breakfast to give me energy for the hike. Then, I started walking around 5:30 a.m. and went uphill in a zigzag path for three hours to Marampata (9,514 ft / 2,900 m). When I got there, I was amazed by the incredible scenery and took some pictures of the canyon and the snow-capped mountains. After a short break to organize my things, I walked for another hour and thirty minutes to the Choquequirao complex (10,007 ft / 3,050 m).

That day, I had the chance to really experience the surroundings and feel the energy of this ancient place. I took my time and explored every part of the complex, which is located in a deep canyon. The stunning views were even better than I had imagined. My guide showed me around the entire site and told me about its history and other interesting stories. Choquequirao is much bigger than Machu Picchu, although experts think that only about 40% has been uncovered so far, so there’s likely much more to see. I visited plazas, temples, and impressive terraces, which made me wonder how the ancient people could have built such an amazing place on top of the mountains.

I made sure to see some of the most important parts of the complex, like the white stone llamas that were built to protect the important mountain overlooking the area known as Apu Qoriwayrachina. Choquequirao still has many mysteries, and we will probably learn more about it in the future. At noon, I took a break at this magnificent site to eat lunch. In the afternoon, I went back to my camp in Marampata to enjoy another great dinner and rest for the night. After the sun went down, I noticed that the night sky was full of stars. I thought about what they might have meant before going to sleep.

Day 3: Marampata (9,514 ft / 2,900 m) | Santa Rosa (6,463 ft / 1,970 m) – Playa Rosalinas (4,921 ft / 1,500 m) – Chiquisca (6,234 ft / 1,900 m) (Cocamasana)

You’ll leave Marampata to see more impressive landscapes and cool off in the calm waters of Playa Rosalinas. Later, you’ll arrive at the small village of Chiquisca to spend the night.

Day Details:

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.82 miles
• Walking Time: 7 hours
• Starting Altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft (Marampata)
• Camp Altitude: 1,900 m / 6,234 ft (Chiquisca)

I started the day with another big breakfast before beginning the journey back, after enjoying wonderful moments exploring Choquequirao. I walked back to Santa Rosa (6,463 ft / 1,970 m), where I stopped to visit a local family’s farm. They grew sugarcane, which they used to make Cambray, a popular local drink.

After a tasty lunch and a short break, I continued down to Playa Rosalina (4,921 ft / 1,500 m), where I cooled my feet in the calm waters of the Apurímac River before going up again. I continued on the return path, but this time, I started to climb for about an hour and fifteen minutes until I reached the warmer area of Chiquisca (6,234 ft / 1,900 m). There, I spent the night and enjoyed a delicious dinner while talking with my trekking companions about all the exciting things we had seen that day. I was very ready for bed when the time came.

Day 4: Chiquisca (6,234 ft / 1,900 m) | Capuliyoc (9,482 ft / 2,890 m) – Saywite Monolith (approx. 11,483 ft / 3,500 m) – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m)

You will walk to Capuliyoc, where you’ll say goodbye to the trekking team before going to the Saywite Monolith (approx. 11,483 ft / 3,500 m). Then, you’ll explore the Conoc hot springs to relax. In the afternoon, you will return to Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) in our private transport.

Day Details:

• Meals: Breakfast and lunch
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
• Walking Time: 4 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,483 ft

Today, I enjoyed the last breakfast of my trip while listening to the sound of the Apurímac River. Then, I started early to avoid walking in the hot sun. I took a deep breath for the last time and let nature guide me on the final part of the hike back to Capuliyoc (9,482 ft / 2,890 m).

Once there, I said goodbye to my trekking team who had been with me. After that, it was time to get on the private transport to visit the huge rock, the Saywite Monolith (approx. 11,483 ft / 3,500 m). While there, I learned about its great religious importance to the Incas and its connection to water.

After my short history lesson, I went to the Conoc hot springs and enjoyed the relaxing water to soothe my tired muscles after the long hike. I had my last lunch there before continuing in the private transport back to Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m). I made the most of my last chance to see the beautiful snow-capped mountains and took some memorable photos of the incredible scenery. I was physically tired, but I felt such a sense of accomplishment that it didn’t matter. Later, I arrived in Cusco and was taken right to my accommodation to relax and rest as much as I needed.

What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour package offers a comprehensive experience with attention to detail:

• Pre-trip Information: You’ll meet your guide and group the afternoon before the trek for an orientation at 5:00 pm at our office or your hotel.
• Experienced Guides: Our guides speak English and Spanish, are professionally trained and certified, and are chosen for their experience, responsibility, passion for exploration, and pride in sharing local culture and history. They ensure your safety and comfort throughout the hike.
• Private Camping Gear: You’ll have spacious dining and kitchen tents for comfortable meals, along with tables, chairs, and cooking equipment carried by horses.
• Portable Toilet: A portable travel toilet is included for convenience.
• Canvas Bag: You’ll receive a canvas bag to carry your belongings (up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including your sleeping bag), which will be transported by horses.
• Inflatable Mattress: For added comfort during camping.
• First-Aid: All our guides are trained in first aid, with mandatory training every February. They carry a first aid kit and oxygen for emergencies like altitude sickness or minor injuries. Evacuation from the trail and treatment at a clinic will be arranged if necessary.
• Extra Services: We provide a backpack cover and a rain poncho for your convenience.
• 24/7 Support: We offer 24-hour telephone assistance for communication and preparation before your trek.
• Satellite Phone: For emergencies, guides carry a satellite phone to call anywhere in the world from any mountain location, ensuring peace of mind.
• Tent Accommodation: You’ll stay in high-quality Eureka Timberline or Mountain Hard Wear tents (shared by two people), designed to comfortably fit four.
• Meals: The package includes four breakfasts, four lunches, and three dinners, with delicious meals prepared by our chef in the mountains. We cater to all dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost). Please inform us of any allergies or restrictions when booking and remind your guide during the briefing. Hot drinks and snacks are also provided.
• Water: Boiled, filtered, and cold water is provided from your first lunch to your last breakfast. You’ll need to bring an empty water bottle or camel bag (2-liter capacity recommended).
• Wake-up Tea: Enjoy a cup of coca tea in your tent every morning to warm you up before starting the day.
• Tea Time/Happy Hour: Every afternoon before dinner, you’ll be offered popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and hot water to relax and enjoy a snack after hiking.
• Daily Snacks: Snacks like local fruits, cookies, chocolates, and candies are provided each morning to enjoy on the trail.
• Snack Bag: You’ll receive a reusable cloth bag for your snacks to help protect the environment by avoiding plastic bags.
• Hygiene Products: A small towel and soap are provided for hand cleaning before each meal.
• Transportation:
  • Private Transport (Day 1): We’ll pick you up from your hotel in the morning and drive you to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the hike.
  • Private Transport (Day 4): After the hike, we’ll take you back to your hotel door in Cusco.
  • Pack Mules: During the trek, mules will carry all camping equipment and your allowed luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Muleteers will manage your bags and deliver them to each campsite.
• Permits and Entrance Tickets: The entrance ticket for the Choquequirao hike is included.

What You Need to Bring (Not Included)

Here are some extras and important equipment you’ll need for the trek:

• Sleeping Bag: Essential for camping. You can rent one from us if needed. Our sleeping bags are designed for temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F) and include a liner. They are cleaned after each use and have a limit of 30 uses.
  • Rental Cost: $20.00 per person
• Trekking Poles: Optional but highly recommended for rugged terrain and ascents/descents. You can rent a set from us.
  • Rental Cost: $20.00 per person
• Day 4 Dinner in Cusco: Dinner on the last day in Cusco is not included.
• Clothing and Hiking Gear: Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear for hiking in varying weather conditions.
• Travel Insurance: It’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
• Tips for Our Staff: Tipping is customary on treks in this area to show appreciation for the hard work of the guides, muleteers, and cooks. Group members often pool their tips.
• Additional Costs or Delays Beyond Our Control: Be prepared for potential extra costs or delays due to unforeseen events like landslides, bad weather, safety concerns, illnesses, changes in policies, or other force majeure situations.

Other Ways to Experience Choquequirao

At Salkantay Trekking, we offer different ways to explore the amazing site of Choquequirao. While I chose the short 4-day trip, you can extend your visit depending on how adventurous you feel.

Classic Trek to Choquequirao: 5 Days

This option is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers. You’ll go off the beaten path and avoid crowds as you hike through incredible scenery to this archaeological treasure. You can join as an individual or as a couple.

On this trek, you’ll walk along ancient Inca trails, through high mountain landscapes with glaciers, down into deep canyons where you might see condors, and through cloud forests full of life. You might also see native animals like the Andean condor and various birds, as well as native plants like orchids.

This unforgettable experience will stay with you forever. If you want to avoid crowds and visit a less-visited site, the classic trek to Choquequirao is for you.

Summary of the 5-Day Itinerary:

• Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca (Enjoy the scenery of the Apurimac River and valley. Overnight in Chiquisca.)
• Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa – Marampata (Hike to Marampata and enjoy the views before reaching Choquequirao.)
• Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex – Marampata (Spend the whole day exploring Choquequirao.)
• Day 4: Marampata – Santa Rosa – Rosalinas Beach – Chiquisca (Say goodbye to Choquequirao and head to Santa Rosa for lunch, then walk to Chiquisca camp.)
• Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Saywite Monolith – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco (Hike to Capuliyoc, visit the Saywite rock, relax in the hot springs, and return to Cusco.)

Choquequirao and Machu Picchu: 7 Days

Explore two of Cusco’s most important Inca archaeological sites: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Enjoy less crowded trails on a relaxed trek to Choquequirao, walk along ancient Inca paths, and visit other smaller archaeological sites.

Join other hikers on the way to Machu Picchu and discover more Inca secrets. See the Apurimac Canyon, the deepest canyon in the Americas, near Choquequirao. Experience different landscapes and climates as you travel through snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and warm jungles.

Summary of the 7-Day Itinerary:

• Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca (Walk through the Apurimac Valley and see the river and canyon. Camp in Chiquisca.)
• Day 2: Chiquisca – Rosalinas Beach – Santa Rosa – Marampata (Walk to the deepest part of the valley and then up to Marampata to set up camp. Enjoy the landscapes.)
• Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – Pinchaunuyoc (Wake up early to see the sunrise over Choquequirao and explore the site. Walk through the cloud forest to the Pinchaunuyoc ruins for the night.)
• Day 4: Pinchaunuyoc – Maizal Minas Victoria – Abra San Juan – Yanama (Continue trekking to the deepest part of the Blanco River valley and then climb to Abra San Juan before descending to the campsite in Yanama.)
• Day 5: Yanama – Abra Yanama – Totora – Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View) (Walk to Abra Yanama, the highest point of the route, see local farmers, and appreciate the Salkantay mountain. Rest at our exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa.)
• Day 6: Collpapampa – Playa Sahuayaco – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Trek to the jungle and then to Hydroelectric. From there, you can walk or take a train to Aguas Calientes. Have dinner in a restaurant and sleep in a hotel.)
• Day 7: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco (Explore Machu Picchu in the morning. Return around midday and take a train to Ollantaytambo, then private transport to Cusco.)

Choquequirao and Machu Picchu: 8 Days

Explore two of the most famous Inca sites: Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. First, enjoy the peaceful and magical route to Choquequirao, walking along old trails and discovering smaller archaeological sites.

Then, join other hikers on the popular route to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most famous treks. See the amazing scenery and the Apurimac Canyon, river, and valley. Walk through changing climates, making every step a new experience.

Summary of the 8-Day Itinerary:

• Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca (Walk through beautiful landscapes towards the Apurímac Valley and enjoy the canyon view. Spend the night by the river.)
• Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Marampata (A steep climb to the lunch spot. In the afternoon, walk to Marampata, explore the village, and see a beautiful sunset.)
• Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – Pinchaunuyoc (See the sunrise behind Choquequirao before exploring the site. Then, hike into the mountains to stay overnight in Pinchaunuyoc.)
• Day 4: Pinchaunuyoc – Maizal – Minas Victoria – Abra San Juan – Yanama (Climb to Abra Yanama for great views. Trek through the cloud forest and spend the night in Yanama.)
• Day 5: Yanama – Abra Yanama – Totora – Collpapampa (Mountain Sky View) (See more mountains and the Salkantay. Continue through snowy peaks and down to a warmer area to camp at our exclusive Mountain Sky View in Collpapampa.)
• Day 6: Collpapampa – Winay Pocco – La Playa – Lucmabamba (Jungle Domes) (Go deeper into the jungle and see the impressive wildlife. Relax in the Cocalmayo hot springs in the afternoon. Stay overnight in the jungle village of Lucmabamba.)
• Day 7: Lucmabamba – Llactapata – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes (Visit the Llactapata archaeological site in the morning and see Machu Picchu from a distance. Walk to Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and have free time before dinner and rest in a hotel.)
• Day 8: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco (Explore Machu Picchu on a guided tour in the morning. Have lunch in Aguas Calientes before taking the train to Ollantaytambo. Our private transport will take you to your accommodation in Cusco.)

Recommendations for Trekking to Choquequirao

Dear traveler, as you get ready for the exciting adventure of trekking to Choquequirao, you will experience amazing scenery and rich Inca history. To make sure your trip is safe and enjoyable, it’s important to prepare well.

Here are some important recommendations to guide you in getting physically ready, packing the right equipment, planning for food and water, and considering health, safety, and the environment. With these tips, you’ll be ready for the challenges of the trail and fully enjoy this unforgettable journey.

Preparation:

• Be in good physical shape: The Choquequirao Trail involves a lot of uphill and downhill walking, so it’s important to train properly before you start.
• Choose the right tour: There are different tour options available, from 4 to 8 days. Pick the one that best fits your fitness level and how much you want to spend.
• Pack correctly: Bring suitable clothing and equipment for the weather and the altitude. You’ll also need enough food and water for the trip.
• Get travel insurance: It’s essential to have travel insurance that will cover you if you have any medical emergencies.

During the Trek:

• Get used to the altitude: Spend a couple of days in Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,399 m) before starting the hike to help prevent altitude sickness.
• Walk at your own speed: Don’t feel pressured to keep up with everyone else. Walk at a pace that’s comfortable for you and take breaks when you need to.
• Stay hydrated: It’s very important to drink plenty of water during the hike, especially at higher altitudes.
• Protect yourself from the sun: The sun can be very strong at high altitudes. Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect your skin and eyes.
• Respect the environment: Please don’t leave any trash on the trail. Help keep the area as beautiful as you found it.

Dare to have a unique and rewarding experience by taking the route to Choquequirao! This challenging trek will take you through stunning landscapes and mysterious Inca ruins, and it will allow you to connect deeply with nature and yourself.

Even though it’s challenging, every step will bring you closer to the amazing hidden site, rewarding you with incredible views and a great sense of accomplishment. Take this opportunity to go on this adventure and discover the magic and mystery that Choquequirao has to offer.