Your Ultimate Guide to the Choquequirao Trek:

What You Need to Know Before You Go!

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Physical Fitness and Trek Difficulty

The Choquequirao Trek is a thrilling challenge that will push your limits—but don’t worry, it’s also incredibly rewarding! Expect some steep ascents and descents, with hiking days lasting 6–8 hours. Make sure you’re in good physical shape by including cardio, strength training, and a few practice hikes in your prep routine.

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Altitude Awareness
While Choquequirao is a bit lower than Cusco, reaching altitudes of 3,050m (10,006 ft), you’ll still need time to adjust. Spend at least 2 days in Cusco or a similar high-altitude area before you start your trek. It’s all about giving your body the best chance to acclimatize!

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Packing Essentials
Your packing game needs to be on point! A good daypack (20–30L) will be your best friend for carrying your water, snacks, sunscreen, and other essentials during the hike. Be prepared for temperature swings with layers—lightweight clothing for the sunny days and warm clothes for chilly nights. Make sure your hiking boots are sturdy and broken in because you’ll be walking a lot. Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, and bring rain gear, as weather in the Andes can be unpredictable.

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Luggage Weight Limit
When it comes to luggage, pack light! You’ll be able to rely on pack animals to carry up to 7kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings, including your sleeping bag. Keep your luggage under this weight limit, or if you have extra gear, you can arrange for additional mules (with an extra fee). Less really is more when trekking!

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Water and Hydration
Staying hydrated is essential during the trek. On Day 1, you’ll need to bring at least 2 liters of water with you. After Day 1, clean, boiled water will be provided for the rest of the trek, but it’s always a good idea to carry water purification tablets as a backup.

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Meals and Dietary Needs
We’ll keep you well-fed with fresh, nourishing meals throughout the trek, with plenty of vegetarian options available. If you have any specific dietary needs or allergies, be sure to let us know when booking, and we’ll make sure everything’s covered for you.

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Weather Conditions
The dry season from April to October is the ideal time for the trek, offering sunny days and cooler nights—perfect for hiking. However, if you trek during the wet season (November to March), be prepared for muddy trails, but the lush landscapes and fewer crowds make it a unique experience. Keep in mind that temperatures can drop below freezing at night, so pack accordingly.

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Health and Safety
Your safety is our priority! Your guide will be equipped with a fully stocked first-aid kit and an emergency oxygen tank, and they’re trained to handle altitude sickness and minor injuries. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, just to be on the safe side.

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Leave No Trace
We’re all about preserving the beauty of the Andes, so please pack out all non-biodegradable waste. Be respectful of the local flora and fauna, and leave the area just as stunning as you found it. Let’s keep these mountains pristine for future trekkers!

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Tipping Culture
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s a wonderful way to show appreciation for the amazing work done by your guides, cooks, and muleteers. We suggest tipping your guide around $10–$20 per day and your cook and muleteers about $5–$10 per day. It’s also a nice touch to pool the tips and present them as a group!

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Ready to Explore Choquequirao?

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Now that you’re fully prepared, it’s time to embark on an epic adventure! With the right preparation, this trek will be an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Andes, filled with breathtaking views, rich culture, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Get Ready for the Ultimate Andean Adventure:

5 Days on the Choquequirao Trek!

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Embark on a journey through rugged canyons, towering peaks, and the ancient mysteries of Choquequirao!

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Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska
The adventure kicks off with an early pick-up from your Cusco hotel. As we drive through the breathtaking Andes, you'll be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and dramatic landscapes that set the stage for the adventure ahead. After about 4 hours of scenic driving, we’ll arrive at Capuliyoc (2,915m), the gateway to our trek.

Ready to hit the trail? We’ll stretch and prep before descending towards the Apurímac Canyon, where the roar of the river below and snow-capped peaks above create an unforgettable atmosphere. By afternoon, we’ll reach the lush and peaceful Chikiska campsite (1,900m), where a hearty dinner under the stars awaits. Rest up—the real fun is just beginning!

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Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~200m (656ft)
Ending Altitude: Chikiska (1,900m / 6,234ft)

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Day 2: Chikiska – Playa Rosalina – Marampata

Rise and shine! We’ll start the day with a nourishing breakfast and head downhill toward Playa Rosalina (1,500m), where the powerful Apurímac River flows beneath us. The real challenge? The steep ascent up to Marampata (2,850m). But don’t worry—your guide will keep spirits high with fascinating stories about the local culture and history, all while we pass mango trees, sugarcane fields, and vibrant flowers along the way.

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As we reach Marampata, the mighty Choquequirao will come into view, perched high above the canyon. We’ll camp here tonight, and as the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a spectacular sky filled with brilliant colors, before the stars put on their show!

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Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~1,350m (4,429ft)
Ending Altitude: Marampata (2,850m / 9,350ft)

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Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao

The day you’ve been waiting for! After breakfast, we’ll take a short but steep trail to the incredible Choquequirao archaeological site (3,050m). Often referred to as the “Sister of Machu Picchu,” this remote Inca city feels like it’s frozen in time, waiting for you to uncover its secrets.

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We’ll spend the entire day exploring this mystical site: from ceremonial plazas to terraced fields and the famous llama carvings. Your guide will bring the history to life, sharing stories of the Inca Empire and the mystery behind Choquequirao’s abandonment. The peace and solitude of the ruins will leave you in awe. Afterward, we’ll return to our campsite at Marampata, where the quiet majesty of the Andes will be all around you.

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Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~200m (656ft)
Ending Altitude: Choquequirao (3,050m / 10,007ft)

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Day 4: Marampata – Chikiska

Time to head back—but don’t worry, the adventure is far from over. As we descend through the canyon, we’ll pass new viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the landscape we’ve just conquered. Our first stop? Playa Rosalina for a much-needed rest and a chance to dip our toes in the cool river.

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From here, we’ll start the uphill trek back to Chikiska, where our final campsite awaits. After a rewarding dinner, we’ll share stories and enjoy the serenity of the Andes under a sky full of stars.

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Distance: ~15 km (9.3 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~1,000m (3,280ft)
Ending Altitude: Chikiska (1,900m / 6,234ft)

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Day 5: Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco

The final stretch takes us back to Capuliyoc, where it all began. The trail is easier now, but that doesn’t mean the views are any less spectacular! As we make our way to the top, take a moment to reflect on your incredible journey.

At Capuliyoc, we’ll celebrate our adventure with a final group photo and some well-earned snacks before heading back to Cusco. As the city comes into view, you’ll feel a mix of accomplishment, awe, and a touch of nostalgia. This trek is one for the books!

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Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~1,000m (3,280ft)
Ending Altitude: Capuliyoc (2,915m / 9,564ft)

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Highlights of the Trek:

• Jaw-dropping views of the mighty Apurímac Canyon

• Immersive exploration of the ancient Choquequirao archaeological site

• Challenging but rewarding climbs with unbeatable panoramas

• Quiet campsites beneath a star-filled Andean sky

• Close encounters with vibrant local flora, fauna, and mountain culture

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Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? If you need tips, have questions, or want to know more about the trek, we’re here for you every step of the way! Let’s get this journey started!