Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N
PRICE FROM
$450.00 USD
price per person in group service
Cusco | Capuliyoc | Chiquisca | Santa Rosa | Marampata | Choquequirao | Cusco
Duration of the trip:
4 Days
Physical Level:
Advanced
Altitude:
3500 m.a.s.l
Group Size:
6 people
Type of Tour:
Trekking
| Overview – Choquequirao Trek 4 days
The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is one of the most challenging and rewarding hiking experiences in Peru, offering an unforgettable journey to one of the last hidden Inca cities deep in the Andes. Known as the “sacred sister city” of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao remains far less visited, giving travelers a truly authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
This trek takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon, where you will descend into one of the deepest canyons in the world and climb back up through remote Andean trails surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Along the route, you will pass traditional communities, diverse ecosystems, and spectacular viewpoints before reaching the impressive Choquequirao archaeological complex, located at over 3,000 meters above sea level.
Over 4 days, you will hike approximately 44 km across rugged terrain, combining physical challenge with rich cultural and historical discovery. Unlike more crowded routes, this experience offers solitude, connection with nature, and a deeper understanding of the Inca legacy in its purest form.
This Choquequirao trek from Cusco is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a unique alternative to Machu Picchu, featuring camping under the stars, expert local guides, and an immersive journey into one of Peru’s most remote and fascinating archaeological sites.
Detailed Itinerary – CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 4 Days / 3 Nights
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Marampata
Your adventure to one of Peru’s most remote Inca sites begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From here, we travel by private vehicle for approximately 4 hours through scenic Andean landscapes, passing traditional villages and dramatic mountain views until reaching Capuliyoc (2,900 m), the starting point of the trek.
At Capuliyoc, you will have time to enjoy breakfast (not included) while taking in your first panoramic views of the impressive Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in South America. This viewpoint offers a breathtaking introduction to the rugged terrain you will explore over the next few days.
The hike begins with a gradual but continuous descent into the canyon. Along the trail, you will witness changing ecosystems, from high Andean landscapes to warmer, semi-tropical environments. The route offers spectacular views of towering mountains, including the snow-capped Padreyoc peak.
After approximately 3–4 hours of hiking, you will arrive at Chiquisca (1,800 m), a small oasis surrounded by lush vegetation. Here, a freshly prepared lunch will be served, followed by time to relax and recharge.
In the afternoon, the trek continues downhill toward Playa Rosalina, located next to the Apurímac River. After crossing the river via a suspension bridge, the most physically demanding part of the day begins: a long and steady ascent toward Marampata (2,900 m).
This uphill section takes around 4–5 hours and passes through Santa Rosa, where you can take short breaks or optionally hire a mule (extra cost) for assistance. As you gain altitude, the views become increasingly impressive, with the canyon stretching below and the surrounding peaks creating a dramatic backdrop.
Upon arrival at Marampata, you will be rewarded with your first distant views of Choquequirao. After settling into camp, enjoy a warm dinner and a well-deserved rest under the Andean sky.
🥾 Distance: ~18 km
⛰️ Highest altitude: 2,900 m
⛰️ Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping in Marampata
Day 2: Marampata – Choquequirao Exploration – Marampata
After an early breakfast, you will begin a scenic 2-hour hike from Marampata to the archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3,050 m), often referred to as the “sacred sister city” of Machu Picchu.
This section of the trail is relatively gentle compared to the previous day, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural surroundings and anticipate the exploration ahead.
Upon arrival, your guide will lead an in-depth tour of this remarkable Inca site, which remains largely unexplored and uncrowded. You will visit its main plazas, agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and water channels, learning about its historical, cultural, and strategic importance within the Inca Empire.
One of the highlights is the famous set of terraces decorated with stone figures of llamas, a unique feature found only in Choquequirao. The site’s remote location and scale make it one of the most impressive archaeological complexes in Peru.
You will enjoy lunch in the surroundings of the site, with plenty of time to relax, take photographs, and absorb the mystical atmosphere of this hidden city.
In the afternoon, you will hike back to Marampata, where dinner will be served. As night falls, you can enjoy clear skies and a peaceful environment far from civilization.
🥾 Distance: ~8 km
⛰️ Highest altitude: 3,050 m
⛰️ Difficulty: Moderate
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping in Marampata
Day 3: Marampata – Chiquisca – Capuliyoc
After breakfast, you will begin the return journey, retracing your steps through the breathtaking landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon. The descent offers a new perspective of the terrain, allowing you to appreciate details you may have missed on the way up.
You will descend toward Playa Rosalina, cross the river once again, and continue the hike to Chiquisca, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.
Following lunch and a short rest, the trek continues with a challenging ascent back to Capuliyoc. This final uphill stretch requires effort but is incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding valleys.
Mules can be arranged here as well (optional, extra cost) for those who prefer additional support during the ascent.
Upon arrival at Capuliyoc, you will settle into your final campsite. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your trekking team, including the guide, cook, and muleteers who supported you throughout the journey.
🥾 Distance: ~16 km
⛰️ Difficulty: Challenging
🏕️ Accommodation: Camping in Capuliyoc
Day 4: Capuliyoc – Cachora – Cusco
On the final day, enjoy a more relaxed morning with breakfast at camp. Afterward, you will have the option to hike from Capuliyoc to the traditional village of Cachora, a gentle walk of approximately 2 hours through scenic countryside.
Alternatively, you may choose to transfer directly by vehicle.
After regrouping, private transportation will take you back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon, marking the end of this unforgettable trekking experience.
🥾 Distance: ~6 km (optional hike)
⛰️ Difficulty: Easy
🚐 Transport: Return to Cusco
What Is Included?
✔ Pre-trek briefing the night before departure
✔ Hotel pick-up from Cusco
✔ Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc and return
✔ Entrance ticket to Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
✔ Professional English/Spanish-speaking trekking guide
✔ Porters to carry camping equipment and food
✔ 3 nights of accommodation in organized campsites along the route
✔ Dining tent, kitchen tent, and camping equipment
✔ Sleeping mattress
✔ All meals during the trek
• 3 breakfasts
• 3 lunches
• 3 dinner
✔ Professional trekking chef
✔ Boiled and filtered drinking water during the trek
✔ First aid kit and oxygen tank
✔ Sleeping Bag
What Is Not Included?
✘ Breakfast on Day 1
✘ Lunch and dinner on Day 4
✘ Daypack 20–30 liters (rain cover included) – USD $20 for the whole trip
✘ Trekking poles rental (USD $15)
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Tips for the guide, porters, and trekking chef (optional but appreciated)
Tour Choquequirao – 4 Days / 3 Nights Trek (Prices 2025–2026)
👥 Group Service
💲 From USD $450 per person
Join a small group of travelers and embark on the incredible Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights, one of the most remote and rewarding hiking experiences in Peru.
Hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon and discover the hidden Inca city of Choquequirao, far from the crowds of Machu Picchu.
This option allows you to share the adventure with like-minded travelers while enjoying the support of experienced guides and trekking staff.
⚠ Service is subject to availability.
📅 Advance booking recommended (limited group sizes)
⭐ Private Service
💲 Price available upon request
Enjoy the Choquequirao Trek with a fully personalized experience designed around your preferences and pace.
🌟 Private Service Benefits
✔ Flexible departure date
✔ 👨🏫 Private professional guide
✔ 🥾 Personalized hiking pace
✔ 👨👩👧 Ideal for couples, families, and small groups
📲 Request your private Choquequirao trek quote via WhatsApp.
⛰ Optional Upgrades & Extra Costs
The following services are not included in the standard Choquequirao Trek package but can be added upon request:
🐎 Horse Rental (Riding Assistance)
Optional horse support, especially recommended for steep sections such as the ascent from Playa Rosalina to Marampata.
💲 Price upon request
📌 Trekking Poles Rental
Professional trekking poles to improve stability and reduce knee impact during the hike.
💲 USD $15 per person (pair for the entire trek)
💳 Payment Options
To secure your booking, we offer flexible payment options:
✔ 💻 50% deposit online to confirm your reservation
✔ 💵 Remaining balance paid in Cusco (cash recommended)
✔ 💳 Full payment by card available upon request
📩 Once we receive your booking details, we will send you a secure payment link via WhatsApp or email.
💳 Online Card Payment
✔ Online card payment available
A small processing fee of 5% applies to card payments, charged by the international payment gateway.
📋 Required Information for Booking
To confirm your reservation, please send us:
📄 Full name (as in passport)
📘 Passport number
🌎 Nationality
🎂 Date of birth
🏨 Hotel name in Cusco
📱 WhatsApp number (including country code)x
❗ Cancellation & Refund Policy – Choquequirao Trek
Due to logistics, staff coordination, and advance reservations, the following conditions apply:
⚠ Cancellation policies apply once the reservation is confirmed
⚠ Transportation and operational costs may not be refundable
⚠ Any third-party services are subject to their own policies
📅 Cancellation Policy
✔ More than 7 days before departure
Partial refund available excluding permit and ticket costs.
❌ 7 days or less before departure
No refund. All services are considered confirmed and non-refundable.
🛡 We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Packing List for Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
🧳 Main Backpack (Carried by Mules – up to 7 kg)
👕 2–3 T-shirts (preferably quick-dry)
🩳 1–2 pairs of trekking pants
🧥 Warm jacket (for cold nights)
🧦 Extra socks (important!)
🧤 Gloves, scarf, and beanie (cold mornings/nights)
🛌 Sleeping bag (can be rented)
🧼 Personal toiletries (small towel, wet wipes, toothbrush, etc.)
🔋 Portable charger / power bank
🩴 Sandals (for campsite comfort)
🎒 Daypack (You Carry During the Trek)
💧 Reusable water bottle (at least 2 liters)
🍫 Snacks (energy bars, chocolate, nuts, etc.)
🧴 Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
🕶 Sunglasses
🧢 Hat or cap for sun protection
🌧 Rain jacket or poncho
📸 Camera or smartphone
💵 Cash (small bills for extras or tips)
🥾 Essential Trekking Gear
🥾 Comfortable hiking boots (already broken in)
🥾 Trekking poles (highly recommended)
🧦 Moisture-wicking socks
🎒 Lightweight backpack (20–30L)
🩺 Health & Safety
🧴 Insect repellent
💊 Personal medication
🩹 Basic first aid kit (blister treatment, pain relief, etc.)
💧 Electrolytes or hydration salts
🧻 Toilet paper
⚠ Important Notes
🐎 Each traveler is allowed up to 7 kg carried by pack animals (including sleeping bag)
🎒 You must carry your own daypack essentials
🌡 Temperatures can vary from hot in the canyon to cold at night
🏔 The trek passes through the Apurímac Canyon, so proper gear is essential
Contact us by email to check availability, request detailed information, and receive your secure payment link. Our team will reply within a short time to assist you with your booking.
Booking
Tour Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
Starting from
$ 450.00 USD
per person
Group & private options available
Contact us on WhatsApp to check availability, private options, and confirm your booking.
BRIEF CONDITIONS
• 50% deposit required
• Secure payment link provided (+5%)
• Balance paid in Cusco
Why Choose the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights?
The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru. Unlike more crowded routes, this trek takes you deep into the Andes to discover the impressive Choquequirao, often referred to as the hidden sister city of Machu Picchu.
🏔 Explore one of Peru’s least-visited archaeological sites, far from mass tourism. Choquequirao offers a more intimate and authentic connection with Inca history and nature.
🌄 Hike through the dramatic Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, surrounded by towering mountains, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking viewpoints along the entire route.
💪This trek is ideal for adventure seekers. With steep ascents and descents, it provides a rewarding physical challenge for those looking for something more demanding than traditional routes.
.🏕Spend 3 nights camping under the stars in remote Andean landscapes. No crowds, no noise—just nature, fresh air, and an unforgettable sense of freedom.
🧭Travel with experienced guides, cooks, and muleteers who ensure your safety, comfort, and a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and history.
🌟If you’re looking for a different experience beyond the typical tourist routes, the Choquequirao trek is the perfect alternative—less crowded, more adventurous, and equally impressive.
👉 “Only a small percentage of travelers visit Choquequirao, making this trek a truly exclusive experience in Peru.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu, including trekking distance, permits, altitude, hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, guided visits to Machu Picchu, train transportation, and important travel tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure on the Inca Trail.
🏔 How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek compared to Machu Picchu hikes?
The Choquequirao Trek is significantly more challenging than popular routes to Machu Picchu. It involves steep descents and long ascents through the Apurímac Canyon, making it ideal for experienced hikers or travelers in good physical condition.
📏 How many kilometers is the Choquequirao Trek 4 days route?
The total distance is approximately 40–44 km (25–27 miles), depending on the exact itinerary and campsites used along the route.
🏛 Is Choquequirao really similar to Machu Picchu?
Yes, Choquequirao is often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu due to its architectural style and importance. However, it is much less visited and still partially uncovered, offering a more authentic and exclusive experience.
⛺ Do I need to carry all my gear during the trek?
No. Pack animals (mules) carry the majority of the equipment, including camping gear and up to 5 kg of your personal belongings. You only need to carry a small daypack with essentials.
🐎 Can I rent a horse if the trek becomes too difficult?
Yes, horses can be rented along certain sections of the route, especially during steep ascents such as the climb from the river to Marampata (additional cost applies).
🌡 What is the weather like during the Choquequirao Trek?
Weather conditions vary significantly. The canyon can be hot during the day, while nights at higher altitudes can be cold. Proper layering is essential for comfort.
🧭 What is the best time of year to do the Choquequirao Trek?
The best time is during the dry season (April to November), when trails are safer and weather conditions are more stable.
💪 Do I need prior trekking experience?
Previous hiking experience is highly recommended due to the physical demands of the trek, although it is not mandatory if you are in good shape.