Cusco: 4-Day Choquequirao Trek

Cusco: 4-Day Choquequirao Trek
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $464 per person
Supplier: Todo Turismo

A quick snapshot of the adventure
This 4-day trek takes you from the bustling city of Cusco into the rugged mountains of Peru, leading to the fascinating Inca ruins of Choquequirao. For $464, you’ll explore one of the most remote and least visited Inca sites, camping under the stars and learning about the area’s ancient past from knowledgeable guides. The tour covers about 4 days of hiking, with highlights including crossing the Apurimac River canyon, visiting the archaeological site with a guided tour, and enjoying delicious local meals prepared by your cook.

What we love most? First, the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and canyon that you’ll never forget — the views are truly breathtaking. Second, the authentic camping experience which allows you to sleep under the night sky in the Andes, far from city lights and noise.

One thing to consider is the physical demand; steep ascents and descents mean this trip suits those with a good level of fitness. If you’re comfortable with hiking and high-altitude adventures, this trek is a rewarding challenge.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just photographs — it offers a genuine connection with nature and history, alongside the camaraderie of a small group. It’s ideal for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path sites with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Remote archaeological marvel: Visit one of the least crowded, most untouched Inca sites.
• Stunning landscapes: Expect panoramic mountain and canyon vistas at every turn.
• Camping in style: Sleep in personal tents under the stars with all gear included.
• Authentic cultural experience: Enjoy traditional meals and interact with locals.
• Physical challenge: Be prepared for steep ascents and descents; good fitness required.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the 4-Day Choquequirao Trek

Day 1: From Capuliyoc to Santa Rosa Camp

We start early from the Capuliyoc Viewpoint, which offers a dramatic overview of the landscape. From here, the trail plunges down into the Chiquisca lunch spot, where a hot, hearty meal awaits — a well-earned break after the initial descent. The path then continues down to Playa Rosalinas, a peaceful spot along the river for a quick rest before tackling the ascent.

The climb to Santa Rosa Camp takes about two hours, but it’s a manageable push with rewarding views on the way. Setting up camp in the mountains, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature’s raw beauty. The guides are attentive, ensuring your camp is comfortable and the food is excellent. Expect a satisfying dinner under a canopy of stars, with the cool mountain air as your backdrop.

Day 2: Up to Choquequirao

Awaken to the aroma of coca tea, a local remedy for high-altitude mornings. After breakfast, we tackle a two-hour uphill hike to Maranpata, where the muleteers and pack animals stay. This part of the trail is steep but scenic, with vibrant plant life and occasional wildlife sightings.

At Maranpata, you’ll leave your heavy packs with the guides and continue a 2-hour climb to Choquequirao. Once at the site, your guide will offer a comprehensive explanation of the ruins, highlighting their significance and architectural features. The site is sprawling, with terraces, temples, and plazas adorning the hillside — a true testament to the ingenuity of the Incas.

You’ll have ample time to explore independently, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos. Many travelers comment on how empty and untouched the site feels — a stark contrast to more popular Inca ruins like Machu Picchu. After the exploration, a return to Maranpata for dinner and another night of camping completes the day.

Day 3: Descent and Return Journey

The third day begins with breakfast and a descent down into the Apurimac River canyon — about three hours of mainly downhill walking. This part of the trail offers stunning views of the canyon and river below. Once at the river, there’s time to relax, admire the scenery, and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch.

Post-lunch, the ascent begins toward the third camping site, located in Chiquisca. Along the way, you’ll get a chance to interact with local villagers, perhaps sampling a traditional sugar cane drink, which many reviews highlight as a memorable cultural moment. The evening is spent in camp, resting after the day’s exertions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Climb back to Capuliyoc and return to Cusco

The final day starts very early — the goal is to beat the heat and avoid the intense midday sun. The four-hour climb uphill is a challenge, but the reward is arriving at Mirador Capuliyoc, where the panoramic views of the mountains and canyon are spectacular. Here, your guide will wait with your packed lunch, and you can take in the scenery one last time.

From Capuliyoc, a vehicle will ferry you back to Cusco, arriving around 4:30 PM. This marks the end of your adventure in the high Andes, with memories of rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and star-filled nights.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour is quite comprehensive. Your cost of $464 includes all the essentials: transportation, entrance fees to Choquequirao, tents, sleeping pads, meals, a professional guide, and camping gear. The guides are fluent in English and Spanish and passionate about sharing their knowledge, which we found was a big plus.

Meals are mostly included, with vegetarians and special diets accommodated at no extra charge. You’ll also get filtered water to stay hydrated during the trek. The only notable exclusions are the initial breakfast on day one and the final lunch on day four — but these are minor and won’t significantly impact your experience.

The Value of the Price

Compared to similar multi-day treks in Peru, this price is quite reasonable, especially considering the remote nature of Choquequirao and the included camping gear, guides, and food. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds at the ruins.

The Practicalities

This trek is physically demanding. Expect steep climbs and descents, high-altitude conditions, and variable weather. Good fitness is essential, and some acclimatization in Cusco beforehand is recommended. The group size is limited to 15, which helps keep the experience intimate, but it also means you should book early.

What to bring is straightforward: comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, a camera, snacks, insect repellent, and a daypack. The tour prohibits smoking, alcohol, and littering to preserve the environment, so travelers should come prepared to respect these rules.

Authentic Experiences & Tips from Travelers

Many past travelers mention how peaceful and authentic the ruins feel — a stark contrast to the crowds of Machu Picchu. One reviewer shared that “the views are unforgettable, and the sense of being in a truly remote spot makes it worth every step.” Others appreciated the chance to interact with locals and taste traditional sugar cane drinks in Chiquisca.

A common highlight is the delicious food prepared by the cooks, which many say exceeded expectations given the remote setting. The chance to sleep under the stars in personal tents is another perk, offering a sense of adventure and closeness to nature.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek suits adventurous travelers willing to hike steep terrain and handle high altitudes. It’s ideal for those seeking less crowded, off-the-beaten-path Inca ruins** and enjoy camping and outdoor living. If you’re looking for a physically rewarding experience combined with cultural insights, this is a perfect fit.

However, if you prefer a leisurely visit or have mobility issues, this might not be the best choice. The physical demands and remote camping might be too much for some.

The Sum Up

The Cusco 4-Day Choquequirao Trek offers a rare opportunity to visit an incredible, less-visited Inca site while enjoying the stunning natural landscape of the Andes. It’s a trip that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty, with comfortable camping and expert guiding.

Travelers who value authentic experiences and are comfortable with physical effort will find this trek deeply rewarding. The views of the canyon, the ancient ruins, and the stars overhead create memories that last longer than most souvenirs.

If you’re craving a journey that’s challenging but immensely fulfilling, this trek delivers a perfect blend of adventure and discovery. Be prepared for a physically demanding but profoundly enriching experience that will leave you with stories to tell for years.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While no special experience is required, the trek involves steep ascents and descents, and high-altitude hiking, so some physical fitness and preparation are recommended.

Are vegetarian or special menus available?
Yes, vegetarian and special dietary menus are offered at no extra cost, and meals are included throughout the trek.

How many people will be in my group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, providing a more personalized and less crowded experience.

What should I pack for the trek?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and a small daypack. The tour provides tents and sleeping pads.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility impairments, or those afraid of heights.

What is the weather like?
Expect varying weather conditions, with cooler temperatures at night and potential rain. Prepare accordingly with layered clothing and rain gear.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel planning.

In short, this trek is a well-rounded adventure perfect for those craving a genuine connection with nature and history. It’s a memorable journey into the heart of the Peruvian Andes, with the reward of exploring an amazing, less-visited Inca site.

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