Exploring Choquequirao in Five Days: An Inca Adventure You’ll Never Forget

When you think of exploring Peru’s iconic Inca sites, Machu Picchu often steals the spotlight. But if you’re craving something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, the Choquequirao trek offers an unforgettable journey. For around $550 per person, this five-day adventure takes you deep into the wilderness, revealing the mysterious ruins of what some call the last Inca refuge that resisted Spanish conquest for decades. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll traverse stunning landscapes, camp beneath starry skies, and walk through history itself.

What we love most about this tour? First, the opportunity to see the diverse flora and fauna along the trail—nature buffs will be in heaven. Second, the guided tour of Choquequirao itself promises insights into the site’s history and architecture that you wouldn’t get from a quick visit. A possible consideration? The long, sometimes strenuous days of walking, which require a good level of fitness.

This adventure suits travelers who love authentic experiences—those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and eager to escape crowds. If you’re looking to truly connect with Peru’s landscape and history, this trek offers just that.

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Walk through the last stronghold of the Incas with a guided tour of the ruins.
Diverse Nature: Expect to see a rich variety of plants and animals along the trail.
Challenging but Rewarding: The trek involves several days of hiking, ascending and descending through varied terrains.
Cultural Insights: Visit archaeological sites like Saywite and Conoq baths, adding context to your journey.
Comfort & Convenience: The tour includes camping equipment, meals, and horses to carry gear.
Flexible Cancellation & Payment: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.

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An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Choquequirao Trek

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Day 1: Cusco to Cachora — The Beginning of a Journey

Your adventure kicks off early with a 04:30 pickup from a designated meeting point in Cusco. The private vehicle ride to Cachora, a small town perched at 2,800 meters above sea level, takes about three hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through changing landscapes—drier valleys, lush hills, and panoramic views that hint at the dramatic terrain you’ll traverse.

Once in Cachora, you’ll gear up for the first stretch. After some preparation, you’ll set off around 5:00 am, embarking on a 7-8 hour hike that’s both scenic and physically demanding. The route offers plenty of chances to spot local flora and fauna—birds, insects, and plants that vary with altitude and climate. The highlight? Reaching Capuliyoc viewpoint, where you get breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon—the deepest canyon in the world. Here, you’ll enjoy your first lunch while soaking in the spectacular landscape.

From there, the trail descends toward Chikiska, where you’ll set up camp for the night. The feeling of campfire camaraderie after a long day of walking often becomes a favorite memory.

Day 2: Ascending to Choquequirao

Rising early, you’ll enjoy breakfast before tackling the ascent toward Maranpata—a climb that takes about two hours. This part of the trek rewards you with lush scenery and a sense of accomplishment as you climb higher.

Your destination? The ruins of Choquequirao, an archaeological marvel often called the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. The guided tour here is the tour’s centerpiece, where expert guides like Carlos or Maria bring the stones and terraces to life, explaining their purpose and history. Expect to spend several hours exploring the site, which features terraces, plazas, and impressive stonework. You might find the site less crowded than Machu Picchu, allowing for a more intimate experience.

After the tour, you and your group will decide whether to camp nearby or spend the night at the site itself, giving you extra time to absorb the atmosphere.

Day 3: Descending to the River and Returning to Aguada

After breakfast, it’s time for a descent—a return along the same trail to the Apurimac River, crossing the suspension bridges and enjoying the raw beauty of the canyon. The trail dips into the lushness of the valley before reaching Chiquisca, where a hearty lunch awaits.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to Aguada, a small settlement at 2,600 meters, where your overnight camp awaits. This day balances walking with moments to appreciate the natural surroundings—think vibrant flora, occasional wildlife sightings, and the sound of flowing water.

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Day 4: Return to Cachora & Cultural Stops

The final trek day begins with a short two-hour walk back to Cachora. Once there, you’ll visit the Saywite archaeological group, a fascinating site featuring a carved stone complex and terraces that tell their own story of ancient engineering.

From Saywite, your journey continues to the Conoq baths, where you might indulge in a relaxing soak if time permits. The day offers a mix of cultural exploration and scenic appreciation, wrapping up your trek with a sense of achievement and connection to the land.

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Day 5: Back to Cusco

Bright and early, you’ll leave Cachora for the return trip to Cusco. Expect to arrive in the imperial city refreshed and filled with stories of your adventure, ready to share with friends or plan your next trek.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour provides excellent value considering the inclusions: bus transportation from Cusco to Cachora and back, all entrance tickets (Choquequirao, Saywite, Conoq baths), professional bilingual guides, camping gear, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner for four days), and horses to carry equipment.

However, some travelers should note that the first breakfast and last lunch aren’t included, and a sleeping bag is not provided, so you’ll want to bring or rent one. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guides are experienced at balancing safety and making sure you get the most out of each day.

The Journey’s Paces and Practicalities

This trek is suited for those who enjoy a challenging but rewarding hike. The total hiking time spans around 7-8 hours on the first day and includes some steep ascents and descents, especially on days 2 and 3. You’ll travel through diverse ecosystems—dry canyon walls, lush river valleys, and high Andean terraces—each offering unique photo opportunities.

The camping setup means you’ll need a good sleeping bag and be prepared for rustic conditions. The meals provided are basic but hearty, emphasizing local ingredients and flavors. If you’re used to such adventures, you’ll find this a fair trade for the experience and scenery.

Travel Tips

Altitude: The trek reaches over 3,000 meters; take it slow initially to avoid altitude sickness.
Physical Fitness: Some days involve significant uphill walking, so a moderate fitness level enhances enjoyment.
Weather: Be prepared for sun, rain, and cold nights—layered clothing and waterproof gear are wise.
Booking in Advance: The tour’s popularity means spots can fill up; reserve early, especially if you plan to travel during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek is perfect for adventure travelers who love nature, history, and a bit of physical challenge. If you’re eager to escape crowds and experience a lesser-known Inca site, you’ll appreciate the serenity and authenticity of Choquequirao. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with camping and long days on foot.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike camping, this might be a tougher fit. It’s best suited for those with some hiking experience and who are prepared for the physical demands.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

The five-day Choquequirao trek offers a meaningful way to connect with Peru’s Incan legacy beyond the popular Machu Picchu. For those who value history, authenticity, and natural beauty, this journey hits the right notes. You’ll walk through impressive landscapes, explore intriguing ruins, and probably find yourself mentally recharging in the quiet majesty of the mountains.

The value is undeniable—guided by knowledgeable locals, with all logistics handled—allowing you to focus on the experience. The comfort of knowing your gear, meals, and entrance fees are sorted adds peace of mind for a challenging adventure.

If you’re prepared for some demanding days and eager to uncover one of the most significant yet lesser-visited Inca sites, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While some walking experience helps, the trek involves several days of hiking with significant elevation changes. Beginners should assess their fitness level and be prepared for strenuous days.

What kind of terrain will I encounter?
Expect a mix of rocky paths, dirt trails, and some steep ascents and descents through diverse landscapes, including canyon edges and lush valleys.

Are meals provided during the trek?
Yes, the tour includes four breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners, focusing on hearty local foods. The first breakfast and last lunch are not included.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
Camping equipment is included, but you will need a sleeping bag, as it’s not provided. Check if your gear is suitable for cool mountain nights.

Can I visit Choquequirao without camping?
The tour includes options to camp at or near the site, but the itinerary is designed around camping. Special arrangements would be needed for alternative lodging.

How is the group size?
While not specified, guided tours like this typically keep groups manageable to ensure safety and a personal experience.

What is the best time of year to take this trek?
While the tour details don’t specify seasons, generally dry months from May to September are preferable for trekking.

Is there any cultural or archaeological site included?
Yes, besides Choquequirao, you’ll visit Saywite archaeological group and Conoq baths, enriching your understanding of local history.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers flexibility.

Embarking on this five-day trek to Choquequirao is about more than just seeing ruins; it’s about enjoying the landscape, uncovering hidden corners of Inca history, and experiencing the thrill of adventure. It’s a journey that will leave you with stories worth sharing—and a deeper appreciation for Peru’s rugged beauty.