The trek to Choquequirao, the sacred city few travelers know.
One of Peru's most impressive and exclusive trekking routes, to Machu Picchu's "sacred sister" — an Inca complex hidden between mountains, far from traditional tourist routes.
Choquequirao sits above the deep canyon of the Apurímac river, surrounded by untouched nature. The walk descends and climbs dramatic slopes, crosses ecosystems ranging from high Andean to tropical, and rewards you with spectacular landscapes at every stretch.
Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao receives very few visitors — making the experience much more authentic. It's the ideal adventure for those seeking real effort, silence and a deep connection with the Andes.
What makes this itinerary unique.
Choquequirao, one of the last refuges of the Inca Empire.
Apurímac canyon, one of the deepest in the Americas.
The famous llama terraces, in a white-stone mosaic.
Immersive trek through ecosystems that change daily.
Professional guide and support mules for equipment.
Exclusive experience, away from the crowds.
Day by day.
Very early departure from Cusco by tourist transport (about 4 to 5 hours) to the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,900 m), the trail's starting point, already with impressive views of the Apurímac canyon.
After lunch, we descend through ancient Andean trails to Chiquisca and then Playa Rosalina, near the Apurímac river. Dinner at the camp and rest under the starry Andean sky.
The most challenging and rewarding day. After breakfast, we tackle a steep climb of about 4 hours to the village of Marampata, with deep valley views.
We continue to the archaeological complex of Choquequirao, where the guide leads the visit through the terraces, ceremonial plazas, temples and water channels. Dinner and overnight at the camp, a few minutes from the ruins.
Detailed exploration of the citadel: ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, temples, fountains and the iconic llama terraces. The guide shares the history and spiritual significance of this Inca center.
We begin the return, descending to Playa Rosalina and climbing again to Chiquisca, where we spend the last night on the trail.
After breakfast, we tackle the final climb to Capuliyoc — one of the most demanding stages of the route — with the last panoramic views of the canyon.
Lunch in Capuliyoc before boarding the return transport to Cusco, with transfer to your hotel.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Pre-trek briefing
- Tourist transport Cusco ↔ Capuliyoc
- Professional bilingual guide
- Full board during the trek
- Mules to carry equipment (and for emergencies)
- 3 nights of basic accommodation
- Choquequirao entry
- First-aid kit and continuous support
Not included
- First-day breakfast
- Trekking poles (rental available on request)
- Additional drinks and personal expenses
- Tips for guide and support crew
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Essential packing list.
- Original passport (required)
- Small backpack (up to 25L) for trail days
- Layered clothing + windbreaker and thermal wear for the night
- Sturdy, broken-in trekking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Cap/hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Personal medication
- Cash in soles for tips and extras
Important information
- Minimum 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the trek are recommended.
- The trail requires good physical condition — preparatory walks are recommended.
- Trail accommodation is basic — the focus is the adventure.
- Intense-effort itinerary, with long climbs and descents and large altitude variation — requires good physical preparation.
An adventure for the few — plan ahead.
Choquequirao is a remote route requiring careful operations. We recommend booking well in advance to secure dates, crew and logistics — especially in the dry season (May to September), the best time for the trek.
Our team will guide you on physical preparation, acclimatization and what to expect each day. Reach us to align the best date.
Common questions about this itinerary.
It's intense. Long climbs and descents through the Apurímac canyon, with large altitude variation. Requires good physical condition and prior preparation with hikes.
It's an Inca complex from the same period, hence called "Machu Picchu's sister". The big difference is the isolation: it receives very few visitors, making the experience much more exclusive.
Yes. We recommend at least 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek.
3 nights in basic accommodation along the route. The focus is adventure and contact with nature — comfort is simple and functional.
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