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Discover Choquequirao, the impressive lost city of the Incas, considered the sacred sister of Machu Picchu. This extraordinary four-day adventure will take you through ancient historical trails alongside breathtaking high-altitude natural landscapes. An ideal adventure for those seeking nature, history, and an authentic connection with the Inca legacy.
Why choose this experience with us?
Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 8 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.
Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address all your questions, as well as provide historical information and ensure your safety throughout the journey.
Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and cultural richness in detail.
Accommodation in exclusive camps and mountain cabins: Experience a unique getaway by resting in cozy camps surrounded by mountains and under a starry sky.
Itinerary summary:
DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC - PLAYA ROSALINA - SANTA ROSA
The experience begins in the city of Cusco with the pickup from your hotel, from where you will embark on the journey to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the hike. From there, you will traverse the first trails of this adventure until you reach the Santa Rosa campsite.
DAY 2: SANTA ROSA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
On the second day, the landscapes of Santa Rosa and Marampata will be traversed until reaching the Inca citadel of Choquequirao. The afternoon is scheduled to explore the archeological site and then return to the Marampata camp.
DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – CHIQUISCA
During this day, you can enjoy wide views of the Apurímac Canyon; it is a day with little physical effort because the route is a constant descent. At night, you will rest at the Chiquiska campsite.
DAY 4: CHIQUISCA – CAPULIYOC – CACHORA - CUSCO
The last day will begin early with a short walk to the town of Capuliyoc. Subsequently, you will embark on the return journey to Cusco by tourist transport, culminating an unforgettable experience in Choquequirao.
Technical data of the tour
Walking distance:
52 km / 32 miles
Walking time:
Approximately 24 hours.
Maximum altitude:
Choquequirao – 3,050 meters above sea level / 10,007 feet
Minimum altitude:
Playa Rosalina – 1,800 meters above sea level / 5,905 feet
Difficulty level:
Moderate to challenging
Temperature:
4 °C to 25 °C
Most notable places:
Capuliyoc: Spectacular natural viewpoint with stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon, Nevado Padreyoc, and the Andean landscapes that mark the beginning of the adventure.
Apurímac Canyon: One of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in South America, surrounded by imposing mountains, great biodiversity, and unforgettable landscapes.
Rosalina Beach: Located on the banks of the Apurímac River, considered sacred by Andean cultures, it is one of the most emblematic points of the route.
Marampata: Privileged viewpoint with stunning panoramas of the Apurímac Valley and the majestic Inca citadel of Choquequirao.
Choquequirao: The legendary lost city of the Incas, known as the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, is surrounded by incredible archeological sites and natural landscapes.
Llama Sector: One of the most iconic places in Choquequirao, where enormous figures of llamas were depicted in stone on the agricultural terraces of the mountain.
DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC - PLAYA ROSALINA - SANTA ROSA
The incredible adventure of the Choquequirao Trek begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning. After a journey of approximately 3 hours, you will arrive at Capuliyoc (2,800 meters above sea level / 9,186 feet), where the hike will begin.
Capuliyoc has a beautiful natural viewpoint where you can admire various Andean landscapes alongside the imposing Nevado Padreyoc and the deep Apurímac Canyon, considered one of the most impressive in South America.
The hike begins by descending ancient paths surrounded by a great diversity of flora and fauna.
As we progress, we will enjoy panoramic views of the valley and, if conditions permit, we will be able to catch our first distant glimpses of the citadel of Choquequirao.
The journey will continue to Chiquisca, where we will take a break to rest and enjoy a delicious lunch. Subsequently, we will descend toward Playa Rosalina (1,800 meters above sea level / 5,905 feet), located on the banks of the Apurímac River, considered sacred by Andean cultures.
Finally, we will embark on a gentle ascent to our camp in Santa Rosa (1,950 meters above sea level / 6,397 feet), where the comforting tea time, a delicious dinner, and a well-deserved rest surrounded by the tranquility of nature await us.
Walking distance:
Day 1: 17 km / 10.56 miles
Walking time:
Day 1: approximately 7 hours.
Maximum altitude:
Capuliyoc – 2,800 m a.s.l. / 9,186 feet
Minimum altitude:
Playa Rosalina – 1,800 meters above sea level / 5,905 feet
Difficulty level:
Moderate
DAY 2: SANTA ROSA – MARAMPATA – CHOQUEQUIRAO
The best moment of the excursion: exploring the majestic Inca citadel of Choquequirao.
The second day of hiking will begin after a comforting breakfast. Next, the hike will begin with a constant ascent for approximately 3 and a half hours to Marampata (2,900 meters above sea level / 9,514 feet), where we will enjoy lunch accompanied by stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon.
In the afternoon, we will continue with a gentle hike until we reach the enigmatic citadel of Choquequirao. Unlike other more crowded archeological destinations, this impressive Inca complex retains an authentic and tranquil atmosphere, allowing for a much more special connection with history and nature.
Together with the guide, the most important sectors of the archeological site will be explored, including ceremonial plazas, religious enclosures, agricultural terraces, and the famous llama sector, where enormous figures were depicted in stone on the mountain terraces, becoming one of the most emblematic symbols of Choquequirao.
After the tour, we will return to Marampata, our campsite for the night. From this privileged place, we will have the opportunity to watch a spectacular sunset over the valley and, with a bit of luck, observe the flight of the majestic Andean condor before enjoying a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Walking distance:
Day 2: 9 km / 5.59 miles
Walking time:
Day 2: approximately 8 hours.
Maximum altitude:
Choquequirao – 3,050 meters above sea level / 10,007 feet
Minimum altitude:
Santa Rosa – 1,970 meters above sea level / 6,463 feet
Difficulty level:
Difficult
DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – CHIQUISCA
From the third day, we will begin the return journey. Early in the morning, after breakfast, we will continue the hike toward Playa Rosalina (1,800 meters above sea level / 5,905 feet) where we will take a short break to rest before continuing with a gentle ascent to reach Chiquisca.
The day includes approximately 6 hours of hiking, following the same trail used days earlier and allowing us to once again admire the spectacular landscapes of the Apurímac Valley.
Upon arriving at Chiquisca (1,850 meters above sea level / 6,069 feet), a delicious lunch prepared by our team awaits us. The afternoon will be free to relax and recharge in the midst of nature. Thanks to the warm and dry climate in this area during the afternoon hours, we will be able to take advantage of the time to rest and prepare for the final day, which will start very early the next day.
Walking distance:
Day 3: 18 km / 11.18 miles
Walking time:
Day 3: approximately 6 hours.
Maximum altitude:
Marampata – 2,900 m a.s.l. / 9,514 feet
Minimum altitude:
Playa Rosalina – 1,800 meters above sea level / 5,905 feet
Difficulty level:
Difficult
DAY 4: CHIQUISCA – CAPULIYOC – CACHORA - CUSCO
The last day of the adventure starts very early, before sunrise. After breakfast, we will embark on a hike of approximately 4 hours with a constant ascent to Capuliyoc (2,900 meters above sea level / 9,517 feet), where we will enjoy the last lunch with our expedition team.
From this point, we will board the tourist transport to return to Cusco, in a journey of around 3 hours. The arrival in the city is scheduled for the afternoon, thus concluding the unforgettable adventure at Choquequirao.
Walking distance:
Day 4: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Walking time:
Day 4: approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Maximum altitude:
Capuliyoc – 2,890 m a.s.l. / 9,482 feet
Minimum altitude:
Chiquisca – 1,900 meters above sea level / 6,234 feet
Difficulty level:
Moderate
Permits and entries guaranteed:
Permits to Choquequirao:
We include the necessary permits from the start of the service to enjoy a safer and more comfortable journey.
Accompaniment and security
Pre-tour informational meeting
One day before the start, our executive will meet with you to go over all the program details and address any questions. We want you to enjoy your adventure without worries from the very first moment.
Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English)
We have a select team of guides highly trained in safety, history, culture, and tourism. Our guide will accompany you from Cusco and throughout the entire hike, providing assistance, guidance, and continuous support until the final visit to Choquequirao.
First aid kit and oxygen tank
The safety of our passengers is a priority. Our guides receive continuous training in first aid to ensure timely care in case of any eventuality on the road.
Waterproof cover for backpack
We provide you with a waterproof cover to protect your belongings from the sun, rain, or any eventuality along the way.
24/7 customer service
We are available at all times, from start to finish. We have an emergency number that you can call whenever you need it.
Accommodation:
3 nights of camping in Tents or Cabins (double or quadruple occupancy)
Day 1 and 3: We understand that a good rest is essential during the adventure. Therefore, we offer accommodation in small houses within the town, with shared and equipped rooms.
Day 2: On this day, we have comfortable shared cabins, with a capacity of 2 to 4 people.
Important: Our accommodations are shared (double or multiple occupancy). If you prefer more privacy and comfort, you can request a single room for an additional cost. We recommend arranging it with your sales executive at the time of making your reservation, subject to availability.
Meals:
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners prepared by our mountain kitchen team, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at no additional cost.
Tea Time: Every day during the hike.
Tourist transfers:
Day 1: Tourist transfer from your hotel in Cusco to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the hike to Choquequirao.
Day 4: Tourist Transport from Capuliyoc to the city of Cusco.
Transport of luggage and personal belongings (duffel bag):
You will be provided with a duffel bag to carry your belongings during the trip.
During the hike, you will not have to worry about the weight of your allowed luggage (max. 5 kg / 11 lb, including sleeping bag), as it will be transported throughout the journey by pack horses.
In all possible sections, we coordinate the handling of luggage to provide you with a more comfortable, practical, and worry-free experience.
What is not included?
Sleeping Bag.
It is important to have a sleeping bag to rest comfortably and recharge for the next day. If you don't have one, you can rent it from us.
Rental cost: 20.00 USD
Trekking poles.
Trekking poles provide greater stability and support during the hike, especially on ascents and descents. They are an excellent complement to reduce effort and enjoy the journey.
Rental cost: 15.00 USD
Water during the route:
Although we do not have a water refill service during the tour, you will have the option to purchase bottled water and various beverages at the different campsites, allowing you to stay hydrated and enjoy the adventure with complete comfort.
Horse rental (optional): For those who desire greater comfort during the trekking, there is the option to rent horses on the most demanding sections of the route.
Day 4: Rio (beach) – Capuliyoc: 65.00 USD (recommended for this section due to its greater physical demand) This service is optional and can be requested, subject to availability.
Tips: Optional
Travel insurance: Recommended for greater peace of mind in case of any eventuality.
Additional expenses beyond the agency's control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
It is recommended to plan the trip starting in March to ensure the best experience on the Choquequirao trek.
Tour price 2026
Group price: the amount indicated by your travel advisor.
Advance payment required: the amount indicated by your travel advisor.
Balance: the amount indicated by your travel advisor (Generally, it is paid in Cusco after the briefing.
Student travel discount
the amount indicated by your travel advisor
This discount applies to students aged 18 to 25, with a physical university ID, full name, photo, expiration date, and considering sending a copy of their passport at the time of booking.
ISIC cards, virtual certificates, and photos of the ID are not accepted; a copy of the ID is required at the time of booking.
Take the first step toward your adventure. Check availability with our sales executive and receive a personalized quote.
Most important things you should consider bringing to Choquequirao for 4 days
Mandatory documents
Original passport or valid identity document (mandatory to enter the Choquequirao archeological park) Valid physical student card (if you booked with the student rate) Recommended luggage Trekking backpack of 60 to 65 liters for your personal belongings.
Reusable water bottle, which you can refill at the start of the hike.
Your main luggage can stay in Cusco, at your hotel, or in our secure storage; just take what you need for the hike.
Clothing and footwear
1 pair of waterproof hiking boots with a good non-slip sole that have been used, not new.
1 pair of lightweight sandals or comfortable shoes for camping
Light and breathable clothing for trekking (preferably made of technical materials; avoid cotton).
1 waterproof jacket or rain poncho
2-3 trekking pants
1-2 thermal pants
2-3 moisture-wicking shirts
4 pairs of hiking socks
4 sets of underwear
1 hat or sun hat
Chullo and gloves for the cold nights
A special set for your photographs in Choquequirao
Bandanas that cover the face from the wind, dust, and heat
Personal items
Original passport
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Insect repellent
Personal medication
Basic personal first aid kit
Wet wipes or toilet paper
Hand sanitizer
Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars)
Cash in soles and small bills, for tips to the team, drinks, and souvenirs.
Equipment and extras
Camera or cell phone
Portable charger / power bank
Trekking poles with rubber tips
Personal flashlight for use on camping nights
Money: we suggest carrying cash and always keeping it protected inside a waterproof bag along with your personal documents.
Important considerations
We recommend acclimatizing for at least 2 days in Cusco before the hike.
Pack light: the less weight you carry, the more you will enjoy the experience.
Always keep your documents and valuables with you throughout the hike.
How far in advance is it recommended to book the 4-day Choquequirao trek?
We recommend making the reservation as early as possible, ideally 2 to 3 months before the travel date, especially during the high season (April to October) to join a better adventure group.
How long is the Choquequirao Trek?
The Choquequirao Trek lasts 4 days and 3 nights, covering approximately 52 km (round trip) from Cachora. It is a demanding route, with daily hikes of 10 to 15 km, ideal for travelers in good physical condition.
What is the difficulty level of the 4-day Choquequirao Trek?
It is considered to be of demanding to challenging level, with steep ascents and descents in the Apurímac Canyon. The hiking days are 6 to 8 hours long, recommended for trekkers with good physical fitness.
What is the maximum altitude of the Choquequirao Trek?
It reaches approximately 3,035 meters above sea level (9,957 feet) at the Choquequirao archeological complex. Although it does not exceed 4,000 meters above sea level, the trek is demanding due to the steep elevations from the Apurímac River canyon (approximately 1,500 meters above sea level).
What is the best time to do the Choquequirao Trek?
The best season is the dry season, from April to October, especially between May, June, and September, when you can enjoy more stable weather, sunny days, and better views, although the nights are cold.
Is a permit required for the Choquequirao Trek?
You don't need a special permit, just the entrance fee (approximately 60 soles) at the Capuliyoc checkpoint or at the entrance to the archeological park, which is included.
How do I know if the 4-day Choquequirao tour is for me?
The 4-day Choquequirao tour is one of the most spectacular routes, ideal for those seeking adventure, nature, and stunning landscapes along the way.
This hike is designed for travelers with an adventurous spirit, such as couples, groups of friends, and families. However, it requires good physical condition and being prepared for daily hikes of several hours on different types of terrain and altitude.
It is recommended to undergo prior preparation and have good acclimatization in Cusco at least one or two days before the start of the tour, to adapt to the altitude and fully enjoy the experience.
From what age is it recommended to travel with children and up to what age for adults on the Choquequirao Trek?
The Choquequirao Trek is a unique route, ideal for travelers seeking adventure, unique landscapes, and an unforgettable experience in the Andes.
It is recommended for children from 8 years old who are used to walking and enjoy outdoor activities. For adults, there is no maximum age, and many travelers aged 60 to 65 or older successfully complete the route, always with good physical condition, prior medical evaluation, and travel insurance.
For children and seniors, private service is recommended, as it allows for greater comfort, safety, and a more flexible pace during the tour.
From how many passengers is the tour guaranteed and how many are in the shared group for the 4-day Choquequirao Trek?
We believe that the Choquequirao Trek should be a unique experience, which is why we work with small groups of a maximum of 16 passengers with 2 guides.
Departures are guaranteed from 4 people. If you are traveling alone or are 2 or 3 people, you can also request to join a shared group, subject to availability. For more information, please consult with your sales executive or contact us at info@sakuraexpedition.com, where we will be happy to help you find the best option for your trip.
How many kilometers and hours per day are walked during the 4-day Choquequirao Trek?
The complete route covers approximately 52 km (round trip), depending on the group's pace and itinerary.
Day 1: 17 km / 10.56 miles
Day 2: 9 km / 5.59 miles
Day 3: 18 km / 11.18 miles
Day 4: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Each day includes approximately 6 to 8 hours of walking, depending on the group's pace, weather conditions, and stops along the way.
How many people fit in the Tents, Cabins?
We have campsites suitable for 2 and 4 people. If you are traveling as a couple and wish to have a tent exclusively for yourselves, please inform us at the time of booking. Individual accommodations are also available upon prior request and at an additional cost.
Is it necessary to bring trekking poles on the Choquequirao Trek 4-day?
Trekking poles are always useful for hikers and are recommended for this hike. There is a large number of stairs carved by the Incas that you will have to descend. They vary in height and are not all straight. Using trekking poles can help relieve pressure on the knees while traversing this part of the trail, and they will also be helpful on the uphill sections. For those who bring their own, make sure to have rubber tips; otherwise, the park rangers will not allow you to use them.
What should I bring to the Choquequirao Trek?
It is recommended to bring quick-drying clothes, trekking boots, a waterproof or windbreaker jacket, a lightweight backpack (5 to 8 kg), a sleeping bag, a headlamp, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The weather is variable, with intense heat during the day and cold at night.
Is the Choquequirao Trek safe?
Yes, it is a safe route in terms of personal safety, as it is little-traveled and peaceful. However, it is physically demanding due to the steep slopes, the canyon's climate, and the altitude, so good preparation is recommended, and traveling during the dry season (April to October) is advised.
What type of accommodation is used during the trekking?
During the journey, the first and third nights are spent in small houses in the town, with shared and equipped rooms. The second night is spent in rustic cabins with a capacity of 2 to 4 people.
If you want private accommodation, there is an additional cost of USD 30.00 for the 3 nights.
Can horses be rented and in which parts of the route is it recommended?
Yes, it is possible to rent horses during the Choquequirao Trek. Its use is mainly recommended on the sections of day 2 and day 4, especially on the more demanding climbs of the route.
If you want this service, you must request it in advance or coordinate it directly with your guide during the briefing, subject to availability.
Cost per horse: 65.00 USD
How do strikes or blockades affect the itinerary and what contingency plan exists?
External factors such as strikes, protests, or blockades can cause changes in the itinerary of the 4-day Choquequirao Trek. However, our team conducts constant monitoring and provides alternatives such as schedule adjustments, route changes, or rescheduling to ensure your trip.
Our priority is your safety and experience, which is why we recommend having travel insurance that covers possible unforeseen events or additional costs.
What happens if I feel unwell during the tour?
If any passenger experiences altitude sickness, exhaustion, or any other issue during the hike, our professional guide will assess the situation immediately and provide the necessary assistance. Depending on the traveler's condition and their location, appropriate actions will be coordinated to ensure their well-being and safety.
If on the first day you find that the trek has been more demanding than expected, we recommend considering the option of renting a horse for the most challenging stages of the Choquequirao Trek. This service can help reduce physical effort and enjoy the experience with greater comfort. The reference cost is 65.00 USD, subject to availability per day.
Our main objective is to act quickly and responsibly to ensure safety, well-being, and the best possible experience throughout the entire adventure.
Are there bathrooms and showers during the Choquequirao Trek days?
During the Choquequirao Trek, in some camps, you can find cold water bathrooms and showers. At certain points, it is also possible to access hot water showers, generally at an additional cost in specific towns or camps.
However, these services are not available at all campsites and their availability is limited along the route.
Every morning our staff will provide hot water for personal hygiene, offering greater comfort during the hike.
Is there cell phone or internet signal during the 4-day Choquequirao Trek?
During the Choquequirao Trek, cell phone and internet signal is very limited or nonexistent for most of the route, due to the geography of the Apurímac Canyon and the remote location of the camps.
Only at some high points or near specific localities might there be intermittent signal, but it is not guaranteed.
It is recommended to inform your family members in advance that during the trip you will not have signal.
Can I charge my electronic devices during the trek?
There are no electrical charging points during the Choquequirao Trekking. Therefore, we recommend bringing a fully charged portable battery (power bank) to keep your cell phone and camera operational.
What is the reservation process for the 4-day Choquequirao Trekking?
Step 1: Availability inquiry
Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check available dates. We will send you a personalized reservation form that each group participant must complete.
Step 2: Passenger Information
To manage the entry permits, we need the following information from each participant, as it appears in the passport:
Full name
Gender
Passport number
Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
Nationality
Without this information, it is not possible to obtain permits or tickets.
Step 3: Deposit and Confirmation
Once we receive the completed forms, we will request a deposit of US $300.00 per person, a non-refundable and non-transferable amount to proceed with the purchase of permits. We recommend booking in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
When the permits are secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.
How is the outstanding balance paid?
The outstanding balance must be paid in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) during the informational meeting in Cusco or in the days before.
Can it be canceled or rescheduled?
Once the reservation is confirmed, cancelation or refund is not allowed, as the tickets are processed immediately to secure your space. Likewise, date changes are subject to availability and the program's conditions.
We recommend reviewing the cancelation policies with your sales advisor beforehand.
Can I leave my luggage in your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Do you give tips?
Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek in the Andes. While it is true that we pay good salaries to all our team, any extra amount is always appreciated. Please note that this is not mandatory and you should never feel pressured by it.
Do you have any more questions?
If you have more questions, you can contact our sales team via WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com. We are available to help you plan your experience to Choquequirao.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco destination. We have a team of certified guides, porters, and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences.
We are distinguished by responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee excellence standards in every detail of the operation, from planning to tour execution.
With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
