4-Day Tour of Chikiska and Choquequirao with Camping

Experience the Wonders of Choquequirao on a 4-Day Trek from Cusco

This 4-day tour takes you from the bustling city of Cusco to the untouched ruins of Choquequirao, a site often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu but far less visited. For $610 per person, you’ll enjoy guided hikes, camping, all logistics covered—think transfers, entrance fees, meals, and even mules and horses to carry gear.

What we really like about this trip is how much it balances adventure and comfort. The guided nature means you won’t have to sweat the logistics or worry about getting lost in the mountains, and the included camping gear and meals make it feel more like a true expedition than just a hike. Plus, the scenery is stunning—the Apurímac canyon, the snow-capped Pádreyoc mountain, and the lush forests will leave you in awe.

One thing to keep in mind is the physical effort involved. The terrain is demanding, with some steep ascents and descents, so this is best suited for travelers in good shape who enjoy a challenge. Our guess is that this tour appeals most to those who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures and don’t mind a good hike to get to a truly special destination.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a journey that combines history, nature, and physical activity, and don’t mind camping and early mornings, this is perfect. It’s especially ideal if you want to see a less crowded side of Inca culture, far from the tourist crowds. Recent reviews highlight the skill of guides, the delicious food, and the unforgettable views, making it a compelling choice for those who value authenticity and adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit one of Peru’s least crowded Inca sites, still partially unexcavated and full of mystery.
• Guided Logistics: All details—transfers, entrance fees, meals, camping, and transport—are handled, reducing stress.
• Physical Challenge: Expect demanding walking with steep climbs, suitable for travelers with good fitness.
• Stunning Scenery: From canyon vistas to snow-capped mountains, the views are unforgettable.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides with in-depth knowledge enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: At $610, it offers a comprehensive, adventure-packed experience covering food, gear, and transport.

A Deep Dive into the 4-Day Choquequirao Trek

Day 1: From Cusco to Chikiska—Starting the Adventure

Your day begins very early with a pickup from Cusco at 4:30 am. After a 4-hour scenic drive in private transport, you’ll arrive in Cachora for breakfast. This quiet town is your gateway to the mountains, where the real adventure begins.

Next, you’ll head 1 hour to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the walk at 2900 meters. Here, you’ll gear up for the descent into the Apurímac canyon, a 3 to 4-hour trek downhill through lush landscapes until you reach Chikiska at 1883 meters.

What makes this first day stand out is the spectacular descent into the canyon—a different world from Cusco’s streets. You’ll get your first taste of Peru’s rugged terrain, and the fresh mountain air is a welcome change. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore, and you’ll spend the night either in a cozy lodging house or camping.

Day 2: Reaching the Inca Ruins of Choquequirao

The second day is the core of the trip—an early start with breakfast at 5:30 am. The day kicks off with a short descent to Rosalinas Beach at 1550 meters, where you’ll begin a challenging 3-hour ascent. The climb takes you up to Santa Rosa Baja at over 2000 meters, followed by a 3-hour trek to Marampata at 2900 meters. This small town offers panoramic canyon views and a chance to rest before exploring the ruins.

Here, you’ll spend the night in cabins overlooking the canyon—something we loved, since it combines the adventure with a touch of comfort. The highlight is visiting Choquequirao itself, which is estimated to be four times larger than Machu Picchu but remains largely unexcavated. Only about 30% has been uncovered so far, adding a layer of mystery to the site.

Our guides’ explanations of the site’s significance—“the last refuge of the Incas and cradle of gold”—add depth to the visit. You’ll walk among terraces, plazas, and ceremonial areas, with many structures still covered in bushes, making you feel as if you’re stumbling upon an untouched treasure. The guides are praised for their knowledge, bringing history alive.

Day 3: Retracing Steps and Returning to Chikiska

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll descend back down to Rosalinas Beach—an 4-hour walk through the same stunning terrain. The landscape is lush, and the views of the canyon’s depths are breathtaking. Once back at Chikiska, you’ll enjoy lunch and settle into your overnight camp or lodging.

This day offers a sense of accomplishment for completing the climb and a chance to reflect on the vastness of the landscape and the monumental effort it took to build and defend this city.

Day 4: Back to Cusco—The Final Ascent and Return

The last morning begins early again, with a 4-hour ascent from Cocamasana back to Capuliyoc. The walk is demanding but rewarding—along the way, you’ll see the snow-capped Pádreyoc mountain and panoramic canyon views.

Once at Capuliyoc, your transport awaits to take you back to Cachora for lunch, followed by a 4-hour drive back to Cusco. Expect to arrive in the evening, tired but with plenty of stories to tell.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Many reviews praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness, which significantly enhances the experience. The guides are clearly passionate and well-informed, making the history and landscape come alive. As one reviewer put it, “all the logistics were very well organized,” which is essential on a trek of this nature. The fact that meals are included—delicious and plentiful—adds real value, especially when you’re exerting yourself physically.

The stunning views of the canyon and snow-capped mountains are a recurring highlight, making the challenging walks worthwhile. Multiple reviewers mention that while the hike is demanding (“a demanding hike, it is required to have a good physique”), the effort is “completely worth it.” The feeling of arriving at Choquequirao and seeing such an enormous, largely unexcavated site is an experience many say they’d repeat.

Practical Considerations

This tour is designed for those comfortable with moderate to strenuous hikes. The early mornings, steep ascents, and long walking hours mean you should be in good physical shape. The included camping gear and accommodations are suitable for adventure travelers seeking authenticity, but not luxury.

The cost includes transport, entry tickets, meals, and gear. Optional extras like sleeping bags or trekking poles are available for purchase, which might be useful if you’re a particularly seasoned trekker or prefer your own gear.

Authenticity and Value

With only 10 travelers maximum, this tour maintains an intimate atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer small groups and personal attention. The comprehensive package means there’s no need to worry about organizing food or transport, making it a good value for money considering the level of logistics handled.

FAQ

• Is this trek suitable for beginners?
  The trek is physically demanding with steep climbs and long days, so it’s best for those with good fitness levels. If you enjoy hiking and are prepared for early starts and rugged terrain, you’ll be fine.

• Are meals included?
  Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day. The food is well-reviewed and considered delicious, adding a nice touch to the adventure.

• What equipment do I need to bring?
  While tents and basic gear are included, you might consider bringing trekking poles or your own sleeping bag for added comfort. Optional items are available for purchase if needed.

• How many people will be on the tour?
  The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which keeps the experience personal and manageable.

• What is the main challenge of this trek?
  The main challenge is the physical effort: steep climbs, descents, and high altitudes. Good fitness and preparation will make a big difference.

• Can I customize the accommodations?
  Yes, tents can be replaced with cabins or lodgings, depending on availability and your preferences.

• What if I need to cancel?
  You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, making it a low-risk option to try this adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 4-day trek to Choquequirao offers a rewarding blend of physical challenge, stunning scenery, and meaningful cultural discovery. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a less crowded, more authentic Inca site, and who are comfortable with camping and early mornings. The guided logistics and included meals make it easier to focus on the experience rather than the planning, while the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

If you’re craving an adventure that combines history, nature, and a good workout, this trek delivers. It’s a rare chance to explore a site still largely hidden from most travelers, and the reviews highlight that the effort truly pays off. Just be prepared for the physical demands—this is a journey for those who love pushing their limits for a genuinely extraordinary reward.

Ready to discover the hidden Inca treasure of Choquequirao? This tour offers an immersive, authentic experience that’s hard to match.