Choquequirao 4 days

Discovering Choquequirao in 4 Days: A Deep Dive into Peru’s Hidden Inca Treasure

If you’re craving an adventure that combines archaeology, stunning scenery, and a good dose of physical challenge, the 4-day Choquequirao trek offered by Grupo Conde Travel might just be your ideal escape. For $670 per person, this guided tour takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the Cusco region, culminating in the chance to explore one of the most impressive yet least visited Inca sites—Choquequirao. The journey is designed for those who are comfortable with moderate to high difficulty, including camping overnight in tents and trekking several hours each day.

What we love about this trip is how it delivers a genuinely off-the-beaten-path experience. You’ll get a taste of authentic Andean life, with plenty of time to soak in panoramic views of the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped peaks like Padreyoc. Plus, the inclusion of a professional bilingual guide and a chef means you’re not only traveling with insights but also enjoying hearty, well-cooked meals in the middle of nowhere.

The one consideration to keep in mind is that this is physically demanding—long days of hiking with some steep ascents and descents, and camping rather than staying in hotels. It’s best suited for travelers in good shape who love adventure and are ready to embrace a bit of rustic camping.

This tour is perfect if you’re keen on exploring less touristy sites and want to experience the raw beauty of the Andes while learning about Inca history from knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for a memorable, physically rewarding adventure that goes beyond the typical Machu Picchu visit, this trek fits the bill.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Trek through less crowded paths to the impressive Inca site of Choquequirao.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped mountains.
• Inclusive Pricing: The price covers guides, transportation, camping gear, and most meals, offering good value.
• Physical Challenge: The trek involves 7-8 hours of walking each day, including steep descents and ascents.
• Camping Comforts: Tents, sleeping mats, and a professional chef ensure a comfortable camping experience.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From archaeological ruins to spectacular mountain scenery, it’s a well-rounded adventure.

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A Complete Guide to the 4-Day Choquequirao Trek

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is designed for travelers who want more than a typical day trip. You’re signing up for a multi-day adventure that combines physical activity, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. For those who don’t mind roughing it a bit—sleeping in tents, carrying a lightweight pack, and enduring some steep climbs—this is an excellent way to connect with Peru’s hidden Inca jewel.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Cusco to Santa Rosa Baja

The adventure begins early, with a 5 am pickup from your Cusco hotel. Expect a ride that takes you through the scenic Cusco countryside to the town of Curahuasi, where breakfast awaits next to lush fields and mountain vistas. Once fueled, the bus continues about three hours to San Pedro de Cachora, the starting point of the trek.

Here, you’ll begin your descent towards the Chikiska zone, passing through terraced fields and local villages that hint at daily Andean life. After a hearty lunch, the trek continues downhill to Rosalinas breach of the Apurimac River—the birthplace of some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll see. You’ll then climb roughly three hours to reach your first campsite, Santa Rosa Baja.

This first day involves between 7 to 8 hours of walking, so packing light and comfortable shoes are essential. We appreciated the chance to stretch our legs after the bus ride and get a taste of the rugged terrain ahead.

Day 2: Climbing to Marampata and Choosing the Summit

Day two is the most physically demanding but also the most rewarding. After an early breakfast, you’ll start ascending towards Marampata, perched at 3,000 meters above sea level. The climb offers sweeping views of the mountains and lush valleys below.

Reaching Marampata for breakfast, you’ll then push onward to the spectacular ruins of Choquequirao. Sitting at 3,350 meters, the site is often dubbed the “sister city” of Machu Picchu but remains far less visited—meaning you’ll likely enjoy a quieter experience amidst terraced hills, plazas, and Inca stonework.

Lunch is served within the site, giving you time to explore at your own pace. The sunset views from the campsite are a highlight, with the mountains glowing in golden hues. The 8 km of walking today test your endurance, but the scenery makes every step worth it.

Day 3: Retracing Our Steps and Camping at Chiquisca

The third day begins early, with breakfast at 6:30 am. You’ll retrace part of the route back to Chiquisca, passing through the same terraced landscapes and forested areas. This descent-and-ascend pattern underscores the rugged nature of Andean trekking.

Returning to Chiquisca, you’ll set up camp for your final night outdoors. The route offers a different perspective—more of the dramatic landscape and fewer travelers. It’s a good chance to reflect on what you’ve seen and what’s yet to come.

Day 4: Final Stretch to Cusco via Capuliyoc

The last day is relatively short, about three hours of walking, but packed with spectacular views. Starting at 7 am, you’ll hike up to Capuliyoc, the vantage point that offers stunning panoramic views of Choquequirao and the surrounding mountains.

From here, you’ll see the Apurimac River Canyon, the snowy peak of Padreyoc, and the remnants of the Inca city below. This is the perfect spot to take photos and savor the last moments of your adventure. The journey ends with transport back to Cusco, arriving around 3 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour includes guides, entrance to Choquequirao, transportation from Cusco to Cachora and back, camping gear (tents, sleeping mats), and meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner for three days, with vegetarian options. The professional chef preparing your meals is a notable perk, ensuring you’re well fed in remote scenery.

Not included are sleeping bags (which you need to bring or rent separately), walking sticks, and the final night’s dinner. Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last evening are also not included, so pack accordingly.

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Transportation & Logistics

The early bus ride from Cusco is well-organized, picking you up from your hotel with a transfer to the trailhead. Travel times are reasonable, but be prepared for a long day of travel and walking. The group sizes tend to be small, making the experience more intimate and manageable.

Accommodations & Camping

Camping in tents with mats means you’ll sleep under the stars or inside a tent—your choice. The provided gear keeps things simple but comfortable enough to rest after long days of trekking. The professional guide and chef are real highlights—they help ensure safety and comfort without sacrificing authenticity.

The Challenge & The Rewards

This trek is best suited for those in good physical shape who enjoy multi-day hikes. The terrain is demanding, especially with steep ascents and descents. Quotes from previous travelers emphasize the stunning views and the feeling of accomplishment: “The scenery is beyond words, and reaching Choquequirao feels like discovering a secret city.”

Many mention the well-organized logistics and the quality of the meals, which help sustain energy levels. On the flip side, some warn that the trek involves long hours and some challenging climbs, so preparation is key.

Authenticity & Cultural Value

One of the main appeals is the chance to explore Choquequirao when few travelers are around. The site itself is impressive—immense terraces, stone structures, and plazas all in a setting that feels untouched. It’s a rare opportunity to see Inca architecture in a more secluded environment than Machu Picchu.

Final Thoughts

This 4-day Choquequirao trek offers a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and scenery. It truly rewards travelers who want an immersive experience and are prepared to hike tough terrain. The combination of natural beauty, archaeological intrigue, and camping comfort makes for a memorable journey—one that leaves you with stories and photos that will last a lifetime.

For those who value authenticity over crowds and enjoy a challenge, this tour delivers on every level. It’s perfect if you’re ready to see a less-visited corner of the Inca Empire and experience the mountains as the Incas might have once seen them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag?
Yes, the tour does not include a sleeping bag, so you should bring your own or rent one separately for comfort during camping nights.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Due to the physical demands—long days of hiking, steep climbs, and camping—it’s better suited for travelers with good fitness levels who are comfortable with multi-day hikes.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, the included meals offer a vegetarian option, prepared by a professional chef to keep you energized.

What should I pack?
Bring essentials like passport, sunglasses, hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, personal medication, cash, outdoor clothing, pillow, and a travel insurance policy.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Drones, alcohol, drugs, baby carriages, and similar items are not allowed on the trek.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While the tour details don’t specify seasons, generally, the dry season from May to October offers better hiking conditions, but always check local weather forecasts.

Choosing this 4-day Choquequirao trek is about embracing the adventure and appreciating the quiet majesty of this remote Inca site. It’s a journey that rewards physical effort with unforgettable views, cultural depth, and a true sense of discovery—perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experience in Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby