Trekking To Choquequirao

Day 1: Cusco - Cachora - Rosalina - Santa Rosa

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, heading towards the village of San Pedro de Cachora, situated 4 hours from Cusco at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level.

The Choquequirao trek kicks off at Capuliyoq, offering breathtaking views of distant snow-capped peaks. Embark on a 4-hour hike where you’ll experience stunning landscapes, diverse weather, and unique flora and fauna.

During the trek, relish views of the Apurimac River as it winds through the Apurimac canyon, and catch your first glimpse of the Choquequirao ruins. Descend to Chiquisca for lunch and a brief rest, then continue downhill for 2 hours to reach Playa Rosalina at 1,800 meters above sea level.

The journey proceeds to the campsite in Santa Rosa, resting at 1,950 meters. Distance covered: 10.56 miles – Walking time: approximately 7 hours.

Day 2: Rosalina - Santa Rosa - Marampata – Choquequirao

Following breakfast, the trek ascends for 3.5 hours along the opposite side of the Apurimac Valley, reaching Marampata, a perfect spot to rest and enjoy captivating views of the valley.

The hike to Choquequirao continues to a campsite near the archaeological site of Choquequirao, situated at a high altitude of 2,800 meters. Enjoy lunch, take a guided tour of the ruins, and marvel at the sunset from the religious area of Choquequirao. Discover the connection between this site and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

The complex features various areas such as squares, temples, and platforms, and is rich in biodiversity including condors, foxes, vizcachas, bears, and pumas. The Andean flora is equally impressive, with ichu and orchids. Explore Choquequirao, an architectural gem in the Andes.

In the evening, witness the Milky Way alongside your guide. Distance covered: 5.59 miles – Walking time: approximately 8 hours, reaching a peak of 3,400 meters.

Day 3: Choquequirao - Marampata - Chiquisca

Post-breakfast, embark on a 5-hour trek downhill to Playa Rosalina, located at 1,500 meters. Bid farewell to the Inca site of Choquequirao, also known as the Cradle of Gold.

As you journey, pass through places like Marampata (2,870 meters), a quaint village with campsites and stores, and reach Santa Rosa at 1,914 meters.

Upon arriving at Playa Rosalina, rest briefly before continuing uphill for 1.5 hours to Chiquisca. Here, enjoy a delightful lunch and an overnight stay.

In the afternoon, savor a well-earned rest. Due to the favorable warm and dry climate, it’s best to overnight here before an early start the next morning. Explore the surroundings to appreciate local flora and fauna.

Distance covered: 11.18 miles – Walking time: approximately 6 hours.

Day 4: Chiquisca - Capuliyoc - Cachora - Cusco

At dawn, depart from Chiquisca, taking in the final views of the canyon. Ascend during a 4-hour hike to reach Capuliyoc, where an optional last lunch awaits at 2,885 meters.

Capuliyoc features a stunning viewpoint showcasing the journey to Choquequirao, snowcapped peaks, and the breathtaking canyon. Choquequirao, constructed in 1536 during the Inca Empire, is recognized as a National Cultural Heritage site.

Following the trek, transportation will take you back to Cusco, passing through the Andean town of Cachora. This 3-hour drive concludes with your arrival at your Cusco hotel.