The Classic Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

The Classic Choquequirao Trek 5 Days offers an unforgettable journey through Peru’s rugged highlands, combining stunning natural beauty with ancient ruins. For $649 per person, this guided adventure takes you from Cusco into the depths of the Apurimac Canyon, culminating at the impressive Choquequirao—often called the “Cradle of Gold.” With a small group of no more than 12 explorers, you’ll traverse challenging yet rewarding paths, camp under star-studded skies, and soak in views that will stay with you long after.

What we love most about this trek? First, the expert guides (like Carlos and Juvenal) who bring history alive and keep spirits high despite the physical demands. Second, the delicious meals prepared daily by talented chefs, making this physically demanding experience surprisingly comfortable. The trip’s only possible downside? It’s a physically intense adventure, so you’ll want to be in good shape and prepared for long days of hiking.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate off-the-beaten-path sites and don’t mind roughing it a bit. If you’re looking for a deep dive into Inca history, stunning landscapes, and a chance to escape crowds, this trek offers all that and more. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour a standout.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Smaller group size ensures a personalized and culturally immersive journey.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect dramatic canyon views, glacier peaks, and lush vegetation.
• Historical Wonder: The impressive Choquequirao site is larger than Machu Picchu but far less crowded.
• High-Quality Support: Muleteers, porters, and a skilled chef make the physical challenge more manageable.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Well-structured days balance adventure, rest, and exploration.
• Value for Money: The price includes all essential services, site entry, camping gear, meals, and expert guides.

Exploring the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco to Capuliyoc and Chiquisca

Your adventure begins early in the morning, around 4:30 am, with a private transfer from Cusco, guided by the team’s professional guides. Traveling through rural landscapes, you’ll get a first glimpse of the towering Salkantay and Humantay glaciers. After a breakfast in Cachora, you’ll meet your muleteers and unload your gear onto the sturdy pack animals.

The real start of the trek kicks in at Capuliyoc, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Apurimac Valley. The 3-hour descent into Chiquisca introduces you to Peru’s arid mountain scenery and fruit-filled hamlets. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean Condors soaring overhead—many travelers mention spotting these majestic birds in the distance, a highlight for bird enthusiasts.

At Chiquisca, the campsite is simple but welcoming, nestled among rugged mountains. The evening offers a chance to relax with dinner and reflect on the day’s scenery, knowing tomorrow promises even more dramatic canyon vistas.

Day 2: Chiquisca to Marampata and Choquequirao

After a hearty breakfast, the day’s journey takes you up the canyon toward Marampata, a key stop with breathtaking views of the canyon’s deepest point. The 1-hour descent to Playa Rosalina is invigorating, leading into a challenging ascent. The zigzagging trail up to Marampata is steep but offers sweeping vistas of the white-glacial peaks and the Apurimac River below.

The post-lunch climb takes about three hours, ending at camp in Marampata, perched high above the canyon. Here, a sense of achievement settles in, and the sunset views are awe-inspiring—especially as the canyon turns a soft orange hue at dusk. Many reviews mention the sheer scale of the landscape, and the star-filled skies at night are a bonus.

Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao

This is the highlight of the trek—a full day dedicated to exploring the Choquequirao Inca site. Just an hour from camp, the site covers a vast area, larger than Machu Picchu, and features impressive plazas, temples, and terraces. Guides explain the history and the ongoing efforts to understand this sprawling complex, which is only around 40% uncovered.

Highlights include the white stone llamas carved into the platforms and the intricate Inca architecture. The site’s remote location in one of South America’s deepest canyons means you’re unlikely to encounter the crowds typical of Machu Picchu, giving a more personal and contemplative experience. The day often includes a picnic lunch amid ruins, with plenty of time to wander and soak in the silence of this ancient site.

Day 4: Return to Chiquisca and Cultural Encounters

The trek back begins with a descent from Marampata, offering one last breathtaking view of the canyon. The 2-hour walk through lush vegetation brings you down to Santa Rosa, where lunch awaits. Afterward, a descent to Playa Rosalina allows a refreshing dip in the cold waters of the Apurimac River—a rewarding cool-down after a long day.

Later, you’ll visit a local family’s home at Chiquisca, where you can witness traditional Andean customs and learn about daily life in the mountains. Many reviews highlight these cultural exchanges as a meaningful aspect of the trek—connecting visitors with authentic community life.

Day 5: Chiquisca to Saywite and Return to Cusco

The final day begins early, with a 4-hour uphill walk to Capuliyoc. The landscape here is marked by glacial mountains and rivers, creating a fitting finale to the adventure. At Capuliyoc, you bid farewell to your trekking team and board private transport.

The trip concludes with a visit to Saywite, an ancient sacred site featuring over 200 carved figures, a fascinating window into Inca spiritual practices. Afterwards, a relaxing stop at Conoc hot springs offers a warm soak before heading back to Cusco. Expect to arrive around 6:00 pm, tired but triumphant.

What Sets This Trek Apart?

Authenticity and Support
Unlike more crowded tourist trails, the Choquequirao trek emphasizes small-group intimacy, typically capped at 12 travelers. Guides like Carlos and Juvenal receive praise for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach—many reviews mention how they make history and local customs come alive. The support team, including muleteers, cooks, and porters, makes a physically demanding journey more manageable. The inclusion of camping gear, duffle bags, and daily meals ensures you can focus on enjoying the trek without worrying about logistics.

Breathtaking Landscapes
Every step offers stunning views, from glacier-capped peaks to lush forests and deep canyons. Many trekkers describe the canyon vistas as awe-inspiring—some compare them to the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, but with the added thrill of Inca ruins within reach. The varied ecosystems mean you’ll see different flora and fauna, including frequent bird sightings like condors.

Cultural and Historical Depth
The star of the trip, Choquequirao, is a vast and largely undiscovered archaeological treasure. Guides provide insights into its construction, purpose, and ongoing excavations, giving you a richer understanding of Inca ingenuity. Visiting the site feels like being part of a secret, shared only with a handful of other explorers.

Food and Comfort
Despite the rustic setting, the trek’s culinary offerings stand out. Many reviews highlight the deliciously prepared Peruvian meals, often with fresh local ingredients. The chef, like Rosaleo or Miguel, takes pride in making hearty, flavorful dishes that keep your energy high. The camping setup includes dining tents, tables, and chairs—making meals a social highlight each day.

Value for Money
At $649, the tour offers an all-inclusive package—from hotel pickup to site entry, camping gear, meals, and expert guides. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making the cost justified for many travelers. The experience is truly about quality, not quantity.

Practical Considerations

This trek is not for the faint of heart. The days can be long, with some stretches involving challenging ascents and descents over uneven terrain. Reviews consistently mention the physical demands, with some recommending a higher fitness level or a longer trek (like six or seven days) for a more relaxed pace. The inclusion of safety features like oxygen supplies and satellite phones adds peace of mind but doesn’t lessen the physical effort required.

It’s advisable to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to acclimate to the altitude. The tour’s meeting point is at 4:00 am, which means early mornings and a full day of activity. The maximum group size of 12 enhances safety and intimacy but also means booking well in advance—on average, travelers book about 146 days ahead.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Trek For?

This 5-day journey is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just a quick visit to Machu Picchu. If you enjoy challenging outdoor activities, immersive cultural exchanges, and uncovering less-visited archaeological sites, this trek delivers. The support and comfort provided by the team make it accessible to those in good physical condition willing to embrace a few days of rugged camping and strenuous hiking.

It’s also ideal for those who value authenticity over crowds, as Choquequirao remains relatively underexplored compared to other Inca sites. The combination of stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and local hospitality creates a memorable, meaningful experience.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
While the trek is designed for healthy, physically active travelers, it does involve long days of hiking over uneven terrain. Beginners should consider their fitness levels and possibly train beforehand.

What’s included in the price?
The $649 fee covers pre-departure briefing, guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, camping equipment, meals, site entry, and safety gear. It does not include travel insurance.

Can I handle the altitude?
Arriving in Cusco at least two days early helps your body adjust. The trek itself starts at high elevations, so being acclimated reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Are there vegetarian meal options?
Most reviews mention the chef’s skill in preparing delicious meals, but it’s advisable to specify dietary preferences during booking.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable hiking gear, rain protection, a good pair of walking shoes, and personal essentials. The tour provides a duffle bag for 7kg of your gear, and camping gear is included.

How physically demanding is the trek?
Expect long walks, some steep ascents, and descents—many reviewers describe it as challenging but rewarding. Good fitness and preparation are recommended.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Book well in advance, ideally several months ahead, especially during peak seasons. Confirmations are processed within 48 hours, pending availability.

In essence, the Classic Choquequirao Trek is more than just a hike; it’s an adventure into the soul of the Andes, filled with stunning vistas, rich history, and genuine local charm. If you’re prepared for the physical challenge, you’ll find this journey well worth the effort—opening your eyes to Peru’s hidden treasures in a way that few other experiences can match.