Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N.
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
The Choquequirao trek is the ideal choice for those looking for a challenging hike in Peru and want a less-traveled alternative to Machu Picchu. Perched on a towering ledge high above the Apurimac River, Choquequirao – whose name in Quechua means “Cradle of Gold” – offers a fascinating insight into Incan history.
Known as Machu Picchu’s “sister,” this Incan citadel is all the more intriguing because of its isolation. Its ruins, as impressive as Machu Picchu’s (or even more so), remain partially covered by vegetation, adding an air of mystery. The best way to discover this archaeological treasure is through an unforgettable hike to Choquequirao.
The route challenges even the most experienced hikers. Our four-day trek begins in Capuliyoc, with a steep descent towards the Apurimac River. We opt for alternative campsites so you can enjoy the tour in a quieter environment with fewer walkers.
On the second day, after ascending from the Apurímac Valley, you will reach the majestic ruins of Choquequirao, where you will have the afternoon and part of the following morning to explore its impressive structures. Finally, the third day will mark the beginning of the return, following the same route by which you arrived.
If you are looking for adventure, spectacular landscapes and a deep connection with Inca history, the hike to Choquequirao is an experience you cannot miss.
Day 1: Cusco | Cachora - Capuliyoc - Chiquisca - Playa Rosalina - Santa Rosa
Your epic adventure begins at 5:00 a.m. when we pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco. From there, we will travel in our private transportation for five hours to Capuliyoc, enjoying breathtaking views of the Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped mountains along the way.
Upon arrival at Capuliyoc, a delicious breakfast awaits you before meeting the team that will accompany you on this journey—our cook and muleteer—who will ensure that your belongings reach each campsite safely and that you enjoy nourishing meals throughout the trek.
We begin the hike by descending through the majestic landscapes of the Apurímac Valley on a three-hour downhill trek. Along the way, you’ll admire the towering Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina mountains before reaching Chiquisca, where we will enjoy a revitalizing lunch.
With renewed energy, we continue the hike for another hour and twenty minutes until we reach the valley floor. Here, we will meet the mighty Apurímac River, whose Quechua name means “God that speaks.” Its powerful Class V rapids make it an ideal destination for rafting.
To end the day, we will take on the final two-hour ascent to Santa Rosa (1,970 m / 6,463 ft), our first campsite. Here, after a delicious dinner, you can relax and recharge for the next day of adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Total walking distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
Total hiking time: 7 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate – challenging
Minimum altitude: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft
Maximum altitude: 2,890 m / 9,482 ft
Campsite elevation: 1,970 m / 6,463 ft
Day 2: Santa Rosa | Marampata - Choquequirao Archaeological Complex - Marampata Camp
You will wake up early at 5:00 a.m. with a hot cup of coca tea served directly in your tent. This traditional ritual will help you acclimate to the altitude and start the day with renewed energy. As the sun rises, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast to prepare for the challenging hike ahead. Around 6:00 a.m., we begin the three-hour zigzag ascent to Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft). From this point, you will be amazed by the panoramic views of the canyon and the towering snow-capped peaks, a perfect setting for capturing unforgettable photographs.
After a brief rest and reorganization of the gear, we will continue for another hour and a half until we reach the impressive Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (3,050 m / 10,007 ft). This day will be a full immersion into the history and energy of this ancient Inca site. Take your time to explore every corner of this hidden wonder deep within the canyon.
With your guide, you will visit plazas, temples, and terraces while uncovering fascinating stories and mysteries of the Inca civilization. Choquequirao, three times larger than Machu Picchu, remains an enigma. To date, experts have uncovered only 40% of its total extension, suggesting there is still much more to discover. One of its most iconic features is the white stone llamas, carefully arranged on terraces to honor the sacred mountain Apu Qoriwayrachina.
At noon, we will take a break at this majestic site to enjoy a comforting lunch with unparalleled views.
In the afternoon, we will return to Marampata, where a delicious dinner will be waiting for you. As the sun sets behind the mountains, the night sky will light up with a breathtaking display of stars and constellations. Before sleeping, take a moment to reflect on their significance and connect with the mysticism of the ancient Incas.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Total walking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Total hiking time: 6 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate – challenging
Minimum altitude: 1,970 m / 6,463 ft
Maximum altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Campsite elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Day 3: Marampata | Santa Rosa - Playa Rosalina - Chiquisca
The day begins with another hearty breakfast before starting our return journey, after having experienced unforgettable moments in Choquequirao. We will retrace our steps along the same trail until we reach Santa Rosa (1,970 m / 6,463 ft), where we will stop to visit the agricultural estate of a local family. Here, you will learn about the sugarcane cultivation process used to produce Cambray, a traditional liquor highly popular in the area.
After enjoying a delicious lunch and a well-deserved break, we will continue the descent to Playa Rosalina (1,500 m / 4,921 ft). At this point, you will have the opportunity to refresh your feet in the cold waters of the Apurímac River before beginning the ascent.
The return hike continues with an approximately one-hour and forty-minute climb until we reach the warm town of Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,234 ft). Here, we will spend the night and enjoy a tasty dinner while sharing the day’s experiences with fellow trekkers.
After an intense day, you will be more than ready to sleep and regain energy for the final stretch of this incredible adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Total walking distance: 11 km / 6.82 miles
Total hiking time: 6 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
Minimum altitude: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft
Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Campsite elevation: 1,900 m / 6,234 ft
Day 4: Chiquisca | Cocamasana - Capuliyoc - Saywite - Conoc Hot Springs - Cusco
You will enjoy your last breakfast of the trip while listening to the roaring Apurímac River. Then, we will begin our return hike early to avoid walking under the scorching sun. Take a moment to breathe deeply and let Mother Nature guide you on this final stretch of the journey to Capuliyoc.
Upon arrival in the town, you will say farewell to your trekking team, who have accompanied you on this unforgettable adventure. From here, we will board our private vehicle and head to the colossal Saywite rock, a site of great religious importance to the Incas, centered on water worship.
After this fascinating history lesson, we will continue to the Conoc Hot Springs, where you can immerse yourself in the soothing waters and give your muscles a well-deserved rest after the intense hike. Here, you will also enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Cusco.
Take advantage of this last opportunity to admire the majestic snow-capped mountains and capture some final memorable photos of the breathtaking landscape. By this point, you may feel physically exhausted, but the satisfaction and pride of having completed this incredible adventure will make every effort worthwhile.
We will arrive in Cusco around 6:00 p.m., where we will drop you off at the door of your accommodation so you can relax and rest as much as you need.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Total walking distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Total hiking time: 4 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
Minimum altitude: 1,900 m / 6,234 ft
Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Incluye
✓ Pre-Departure Briefing
- You will meet your guide the day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation session. The meeting will take place at 6:00 p.m., and you will also receive a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kg of your personal belongings.
✓ Permits and Entrance Fees
- Entrance ticket to the Choquequirao archaeological site.
✓ Field Staff
- Professional Guides – Guide Protocols:
Our trekking guides are selected from accredited universities and specialize in trekking. They are fluent in English and have between three to ten years of experience leading treks in the region. They are highly skilled in group management under pressure and are trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of our guides come from different Andean communities and bring with them their cultural heritage. Alongside the rest of the field team, our guides will ensure that your journey is a truly unique experience. - Chefs – Chef Protocols:
Our chefs are trained in local culinary schools and are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian dishes, international cuisine, and vegetarian/vegan options. They have a deep knowledge of the nutritional properties of the meals they prepare and are highly skilled in cooking efficiently while maintaining strict hygiene and food safety standards. - Horsemen and Horses:
Our team of horsemen and their horses are essential to the success of your experience. They are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary gear along the route. The horses also carry the duffle bags with up to 7 kg of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This way, you only need to hike with a small backpack containing your daily essentials while our team transports your luggage from one campsite to the next, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek.
✓ Duffle Bag Service for Up to 7 kg
- During the briefing session, you will receive a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kg of personal belongings. Our team will transport these bags on horses throughout the trek, ensuring that you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with only a small daypack.
✓ Meals
- 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, hot chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet-style meals with soup, 2-4 main course options, and hot drinks. The main dishes include Peruvian classics such as Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and Ají de Gallina (a creamy, slightly spicy shredded chicken dish), among others. We also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, and vegetables.
- Wake-up Tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so you can stay warm before starting the day.
- Tea Time (Happy Hour): Popcorn, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Daily Snack: Fresh and dried fruits, sweet and savory cookies (chocolate, other sweets).
- Drinking Water: We provide boiled water from the first day’s lunch until the fourth day’s lunch.
- Hygiene Products: A small towel and soap will be provided so you can clean your hands before each meal.
✓ Private Camping Equipment
✓ Tents
- We use high-mountain, four-season tents designed to withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy rain and snow.
✓ Sleeping Pads
- Our inflatable Thermarest sleeping pads ensure a warm and comfortable night’s sleep on the trail.
✓ Dining Tent
- Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, provides the necessary space to enjoy meals regardless of the weather conditions.
✓ Kitchen Tent
- Fully equipped with all the necessary cooking equipment, including a gas stove and utensils for meal preparation.
✓ Transportation
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in private transportation with your group to the trek’s starting point.
- Day 4: Once the trek is completed, we will take you back to the doorstep of your hotel in Cusco.
✓ Pack Mules:
- During the trek, the pack mules will carry all the camping equipment and your permitted luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lb).
- The horsemen will be responsible for handling your duffle bag and personal items.
✓ Emergency Equipment and Remote Medical Assistance
- Radios:
Our radios have a range of 10 km and eight frequency channels to ensure communication between guides, chefs, and porters. - First Aid Kit:
We carry essential medical supplies, including: - Alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical adhesive tape, surgical gloves.
- Painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, antipyretics (fever reducers).
- Portable oxygen tank.
✓ Important
- Please note that only a medical professional can prescribe medication.
- Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatments to clients.
- All medications will be administered only with your consent and at your own risk.
- If you take prescription medication, it is recommended that you bring your own supply.
No Incluye
× Sleeping Bag
- If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They have a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency)
× Trekking Poles
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, these poles are very useful for rugged terrain, ascents, and descents. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency)
× Dinner in Cusco on Day 4
× Personal Hiking Gear and Clothing
× Travel Insurance
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase travel insurance in case of flight disruptions or unexpected health issues. Please check whether your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies become void above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
× Additional Costs
- Delays beyond management’s control (landslides, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, government policy changes, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ Tips for Your Crew
- Tipping is customary in tourism and trekking excursions. While we pay our team fair wages, an extra tip is always appreciated, especially considering the hard work they do. Generally, group participants pool their tips to distribute among the porters, chefs, and guides.
✓ Why Tipping is Important
- Recognizes workers’ efforts: It’s a way to express gratitude for good service and hospitality.
- Supports the local economy: In tourist destinations and local communities, tipping plays an important role.
- Encourages excellent service: Tips motivate the staff to continue providing outstanding support and hospitality.
- Creates positive relationships: Strengthens the bond between hikers and the supporting team.
- Shows appreciation: Tipping is a meaningful way to thank porters, cooks, and guides who work tirelessly 24/7 to make your trek comfortable and memorable.
✓ Original Passport
- If you booked the service with your old passport and later renewed it, you likely have a new passport number. Please inform us so we can update this information.
✓ Backpack
- You will need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. Choose a comfortable one with at least 30-40 liters of capacity.
✓ Water Storage
- Bring 1.5 to 2 liters of water; consider a Camelbak or a similar hydration system. Choosing a bottle that keeps your water cold is essential.
✓ Hiking Boots
- Lightweight, comfortable, and well-worn. Ensure they are not too tight or too loose and provide enough room for your toes to move freely.
✓ Headlamp
- A must-have for visibility in the early morning or late at night. It will not only light your path in the dark but also keep your hands free for other tasks. Consider brightness, weight, and comfort when choosing one.
✓ Power Bank/Battery Charger
- You should use your phone in airplane mode and carry a 20,000 mAh power bank or external battery.
✓ For Your Duffel Bag
- 2-3 moisture-wicking t-shirts
- 3-4 pairs of hiking pants
- 4 sets of underwear
- 4 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool cap for different temperatures
- Comfortable camping shoes and sturdy hiking boots
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are fine)
- Rain jacket/poncho for heavy rains
- Quick-dry towel (larger than the one provided, if preferred)
- Small soap bottle for personal hygiene
- Battery charger
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items
- Sleeping bag (rated at least -10°C for cold nights)
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect your skin
- Wet wipes for quick clean-ups
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene
- Toilet paper for personal use
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
✓ Inside Your Backpack
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided later.
- Rain gear and fleece: Stay adaptable to weather changes.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture memories.
- Music: Bring an iPhone or similar for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
- Insect repellent.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to enjoy the hot springs).
- Extra money for additional purchases and tips (recommended in soles).
- Earplugs: For a peaceful rest.
✓ Notes
- Waterproofing: Protect your belongings from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Use well-fitted, comfortable footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essentials within reach.
✓ Price per Person
- $540 USD – Adults.
- To book the Choquequirao trek, a deposit of $270 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Additional Equipment
Extra items available for rent on this trek:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD.
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD.
✓ Price Guarantee
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Therefore, before booking, please read all the important information about the tour.
✓ How to Book
- Booking the Choquequirao trek is easy. You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking platform will guide you step by step. The tour payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home currency for added convenience.
✓ Choquequirao Trek Reservation
To secure your spot on the Choquequirao trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $260 USD. This deposit ensures your place on the trek and allows us to purchase your tickets.
- Our booking platform gives you the option to pay only the deposit along with any selected add-ons, or you can choose to pay the full tour amount in advance. If you pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
- Remaining Balance Payment: If you opt to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour starts. The balance can be paid in soles or dollars in cash or by card (with an additional 5% fee). You also have the option to pay online through our website with a 5% fee.
✓ Cancellation Policy
Bestreks has the following policies regarding booking cancellations. Once a reservation is made, the acquired space and permits cannot be canceled.
- If you cancel 2 to 3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no show,” and you will be charged 100% of the total cost.
- If you decide to stop the trek for personal reasons after starting, you will automatically lose all included services. Any additional costs incurred for your return, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be at your own expense.
- Events beyond our control that make any part of the trip impossible—such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel/flight overbooking—will require alternative arrangements. If available, we will suggest alternative solutions, but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ Recommendations
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment. This ensures that your investment is protected and that you have a smooth booking experience for your Choquequirao adventure.
✓ Briefing Meeting
- All briefings take place the evening before your trip starts at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. Your guide will also provide your duffel bag. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you cannot attend, you will need to coordinate another time via email or phone.
✓ Payment of Trek Balance (in Cusco)
- If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it one day before your trek or tour; otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed. If possible, we highly appreciate payments in cash (USD or local currency) at our office in Cusco or during the briefing. You can withdraw money from various ATMs along Avenida Sol (either in USD or Peruvian soles). We also accept credit or debit card payments via IZIPAY, online or in person, but there is a 5% service charge from our payment gateway (Niubiz and IZIPAY).
✓ Customer Pickup
- Please note that pickups are available only within the city of Cusco. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a good location. Your guide or our staff will confirm your pickup time one day before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, pickup times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes. Cusco is an ancient city with many narrow, cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without vehicle access or steep inclines, making luggage transportation difficult. We strongly recommend choosing accommodation with easy access.
✓ Health
- If you have medical restrictions for any activities included in your reservation, consult your doctor regarding potential risks.
✓ Weather
- Weather in the Andes is unpredictable. The dry season in Cusco typically runs from April to October, but it can still rain in June or be sunny in December. No matter the month of your trek, be prepared with rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but the cold and humidity can make hiking uncomfortable.
Also, be prepared for four seasons in one day. The Andes have multiple microclimates, so layering is essential to adapt to temperature changes. Bring a warm jacket, as nights can be very cold.
✓ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) and Stomach Issues
If you are traveling to Cusco from sea level, we recommend arriving two days before your trek.
The two most common health issues for travelers in Cusco are:
- Altitude sickness (Soroche). Symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications like aspirin, Diamox, Sorochi Pill, or Alti Vital can help minimize symptoms. If symptoms persist, oxygen therapy is available, and our team is prepared to assist you.
- Stomach issues. Drink three to four liters of water per day to stay hydrated. Hot drinks like coca tea, soups, vegetables, and easily digestible carbs are recommended. Avoid heavy, fried foods, alcohol, and smoking.
Get at least eight hours of sleep and avoid overexertion. Keep warm with appropriate clothing. A general rule for altitude adaptation is to eat light and drink plenty of fluids.
✓ Medical Restrictions
- Clients must inform their travel agency of any medical restrictions before their trip. Examples include allergies, special diets, medications, or pre-existing conditions. If you have severe medical restrictions, consult your doctor before booking the trek. This information is crucial for us to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
✓ Water
- After our first lunch, we will provide boiled water for the rest of the trek. You must bring a water bottle to carry with you.
- We highly recommend using canteens to protect the environment, as plastic bottles often cause negative environmental impacts.
If you prefer to buy bottled water, you can do so on days one, two, and four. Alternatively, you can bring water purification tablets or a water filter, but past experiences have shown that some hikers who used these methods suffered stomach issues. We strongly recommend using the boiled water provided.
✓ Lost Items
- Please be mindful of where you leave your belongings and remember to collect everything before leaving our transport, campsites, or restaurants. You are fully responsible for your items during the tour.
Absolutely! The Choquequirao trek is one of the most impressive and challenging routes in Peru, and many travelers consider it one of the best trekking experiences in South America. Known as the “sister” of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao sits at over 3,050 meters above sea level, and the trek offers breathtaking views of mountainous landscapes and glaciers.
Additionally, the route passes through rural communities that maintain ancestral traditions, giving you the opportunity to connect with local culture. Although it is a demanding trek due to the elevation gain and terrain, the landscapes make the effort worthwhile. If you love challenges and nature in its purest form, this is an unforgettable experience.
Walking for 6 to 7 hours per day is quite common, with variations depending on your pace and terrain conditions. The most challenging days are usually days 1 and 2, especially due to the steep ascents and descents, but in the end, the effort is rewarded with stunning views.
It is essential to be well-prepared, not only in terms of equipment and physical conditioning but also for acclimatization to the altitude. Below is a breakdown of the distances you will cover each day on the classic 4-day Choquequirao trek:
- Day 1: 15 km / 9.32 miles
- Day 2: 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Day 3: 11 km / 6.82 miles
- Day 4: 8 km / 4.97 miles
The project to build a cable car connecting the town of Cachora to Marampata was not completed due to frequent landslides, and the plan was gradually abandoned. While a cable car would benefit tourism, it would also take away the trekking experience, which is significant due to the beautiful route filled with landscapes, flora, and fauna to discover.
Compared to other routes in the Cusco region, this is not considered a high-altitude trek, but it should not be underestimated. The highest point on the trek is the Choquequirao ruins at 3,050 m / 10,007 ft.
What makes this trek truly challenging is the intense elevation change. On the first day, you descend 1,500 m, and on the second day, you climb more than 1,500 m. After exploring the ruins, you must repeat the effort on the way back. Although Choquequirao’s altitude is not extreme by Cusco standards, it is still significantly high (almost twice the altitude of Denver, Colorado!).
The Choquequirao trek does not usually sell out because relatively few people take this route. However, it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible to ensure that your chosen travel agency can properly organize your trek on your preferred dates. If you wait until the last minute, they may be fully booked for other tours and not have enough staff available for the Choquequirao trek.
The Choquequirao trek is safe if you take the necessary precautions and prepare adequately. Most tourists complete the trek without serious incidents, but it is important to be aware of the risks associated with altitude and the changing terrain conditions. If you follow safety recommendations, this trek is an amazing experience.
Even the fittest individuals will find the Choquequirao trek a challenge! Anyone planning to do this trek should follow a training plan. Many older travelers successfully complete this trek, but they are in excellent shape and well-prepared.
Anyone who is not physically fit should train with the guidance of a medical and fitness professional. Preparation depends on individual abilities. The main difficulty of this trek is the steep terrain. In short, the better your physical condition, the easier and more rewarding the trek will be.
The average daily trekking time is about 6-7 hours per person. However, the total time depends on your fitness level, your group members, and their habits (e.g., enthusiastic photographers may take longer).
Our trekking guides at Choquequirao adjust the pace based on the group’s needs. Fitter groups may trek for about 8 hours on Day 3, but only a couple of hours on Day 4.
The Choquequirao trek is relatively quiet in terms of crowds, so weather conditions are the most important factor when choosing the best time to go.
- Dry season (May to October): This is the best time to trek to Choquequirao because there is minimal rainfall, making the trail safer and more comfortable. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cold nights, allowing for clear mountain views. Additionally, the trails are less slippery, and the terrain is easier to navigate.
- Rainy season (December to February): Although it is not impossible to trek during the rainy season, the conditions can be more challenging.
The most common way to reach Cusco is by taking an international flight to Lima (the capital of Peru) and then a domestic flight to Cusco. First, fly from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Lima is Peru’s main international air hub.
Once in Lima, you can take a domestic flight to Cusco, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several airlines operate this route, including LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air. If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, which takes 20 to 24 hours by road. However, flying is recommended for comfort and time savings.
If you are traveling from nearby countries like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may find direct flights to Cusco from some major cities, although they are not as frequent as flights to Lima.
At least 2-3 days in Cusco. If you arrive directly in Cusco, it is recommended to stay at least 2 days before starting the trek. During this time, rest, take it easy, and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Explore the city lightly, avoiding strenuous physical activity in the first days.
- If coming from a higher-altitude region: If you have already been in high-altitude areas of Peru (such as Arequipa, Puno, or the Sacred Valley), acclimatization may be faster. In this case, 1 day of rest in Cusco might be enough before starting the trek.
Boots that provide ankle support are highly recommended, especially for those not accustomed to long hikes or rough terrain. The steep inclines and uneven stone paths require stability, and good ankle support helps prevent twists or injuries. High-cut trekking boots are ideal for this.
Trekking poles are highly useful for hikers as they reduce stress on the knees. On mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, trekking exerts significant pressure on the knees. Poles help distribute effort, lighten the load on the legs, and reduce joint impact.
- Better stability on the Choquequirao trek: The trails are often uneven, rocky, and steep.
- Easier ascent and descent: Poles help push with your arms while climbing, easing the strain on your legs.
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