Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

After an energizing breakfast surrounded by the natural beauty of the Apurímac Valley, we begin our second day of the Choquequirao Trek with a one-hour descent to the banks of the powerful Apurímac River, located at 1,550 meters (5,117 feet). This section of the trail is surrounded by dry mountain terrain, cacti, and subtropical flora. As you descend, the roaring sound of the river grows louder, and the views become more dramatic.

Upon reaching the river, we’ll cross a suspension bridge—a memorable moment in the trek that marks the beginning of the most challenging ascent of the entire route. From this point, the trail climbs steeply in a zigzag pattern for approximately five hours toward the small farming community of Maranpata, located at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet). Although physically demanding, this climb rewards trekkers with frequent panoramic stops offering sweeping views of the canyon below, the lush hillsides, and the promise of the hidden Inca city above.

Upon arrival at Maranpata, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch with a front-row view of the spectacular Choquequirao archaeological complex, perched high in the cloud forest at 3,150 meters (10,397 feet). This lunch stop, surrounded by the Andean landscape and the calls of local birds, is one of the most scenic and peaceful moments of the journey.

After lunch, we continue hiking for about an hour on a gently undulating trail leading directly to the Choquequirao campsite. You’ll arrive at around 4:00 p.m., with time to relax, rest your legs, and enjoy a rewarding “happy hour” with hot drinks and snacks prepared by our cook.

Dinner will be served in the evening, and you’ll spend the night camping just a short walk from the mysterious and majestic ruins of Choquequirao. As the stars appear over the Andes, you’ll fall asleep surrounded by silence, anticipation, and the sacred presence of this lost Inca citadel.

Today is the highlight of the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days as we dedicate the entire day to exploring one of the most magnificent and least-visited Inca cities in Peru: Choquequirao. After a nourishing breakfast at our campsite, we begin a guided tour that will take you deep into the heart of this ancient ceremonial center, often referred to as “the sister city of Machu Picchu.”

Your expert guide will lead you through the most important and impressive sections of the Choquequirao archaeological site. You’ll visit ceremonial plazas, residential compounds, agricultural terraces, and intricate ritual fountains used by the Incas for spiritual practices. One of the highlights is the Usnu, a ceremonial platform likely used for astronomical observations and religious ceremonies.

As you explore, you’ll walk along expansive terraces carved into the mountainside, and visit the famous Llamayoc sector, where dozens of white stone llamas are inlaid into the walls—a breathtaking example of Inca symbolism and agricultural ingenuity. From every point in Choquequirao, you are surrounded by breathtaking views of the surrounding cloud forest, deep valleys, and towering Andean peaks like Padreyoc and the Vilcabamba range.

The atmosphere at Choquequirao is serene and mystical. With far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu, you’ll often find yourself alone among the ruins, allowing for a deep connection with the site and its surroundings. This is an ideal moment to reflect, take photos, and appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this remote Inca city hidden in the Andes.

After a full day of exploration and discovery, we return to our nearby campsite, located just 45 minutes from the main complex. There, you’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner under the stars and rest in the peaceful embrace of the high jungle.

After a final breakfast near the sacred Inca ruins of Choquequirao, we begin our return trek, retracing our steps back through the stunning Apurímac Valley. Today’s hike is filled with new perspectives, as we descend through changing ecosystems and climate zones that showcase the rich biodiversity of the tropical Andes.

We begin by gently hiking down from the Choquequirao area toward Maranpata, where we take a short break before continuing our descent to Santa Rosa, a well-known resting point along the trail. As we lose elevation, the air becomes warmer and the vegetation grows increasingly lush. You’ll notice a dramatic shift from highland forest to semi-jungle, with thick greenery, fruit trees, and even the occasional hummingbird fluttering past.

Our route then takes us further downhill to the banks of the Apurímac River, a powerful waterway that carved the deep canyon we’ve spent days navigating. After crossing the river once again via the same bridge, we begin a short but steady climb back up to Chiquisca campsite (1,900 m / 6,270 ft), where we’ll spend our final night under the stars.

This peaceful campsite offers a warm climate and beautiful views over the valley. You’ll have time to rest, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced—trekking through one of Peru’s most remote and culturally rich landscapes.

The final day of your unforgettable Choquequirao Trek 5 Days begins with an early breakfast at the Chiquisca campsite. Energized and ready, we set out on the last leg of the trek: a steady ascent from Chiquisca (1,900 m / 6,270 ft) back to Capuliyoc Pass (2,900 m / 9,514 ft).

This uphill trail takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and winds through a scenic section of dry Andean forest, filled with native shrubs, birdsong, and occasional glimpses of the river far below. As this is the last major climb of the journey, your guide will set a comfortable pace, with rest stops and opportunities to appreciate the changing landscape as we gain elevation.

Upon reaching Capuliyoc viewpoint, we take time to rest and savor our final panoramic view of the Apurímac Canyon—a breathtaking farewell to the dramatic geography that has accompanied us throughout this adventure. From here, you’ll see the vast expanse of the valley, the winding river, and perhaps even spot the peaks of the Vilcabamba range in the distance.

After enjoying this moment of reflection and celebration, we board our private transportation and begin the journey back to Cusco, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. We’ll drop you off at your hotel in the late afternoon, completing your incredible trek to Choquequirao, the hidden gem of the Andes.

Trekking experience is not required to complete the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days, but it is important to have a good level of physical fitness and be mentally prepared for a demanding multi-day hike. The route includes steep climbs and descents through remote Andean terrain, with significant changes in elevation that can affect unacclimatized hikers.

This trek is considered moderate to challenging, so previous experience with long hikes is helpful, though not essential. Many travelers without technical background successfully complete the trek with the help of a professional guide, proper pacing, and well-timed rest breaks.

Spending at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek is strongly recommended to acclimatize to the altitude. Doing practice hikes in your home country, especially on uneven ground, will also help you prepare. Having the right gear and a determined mindset are key factors to fully enjoying the Choquequirao adventure.

The best time to hike the Choquequirao Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. These months offer clear skies, stable weather, and better trail conditions. May, June, and July are especially ideal because the visibility is excellent, rainfall is minimal, and the scenery is at its most breathtaking, with views of snow-capped peaks and the Apurímac Canyon.

From November to March, the region experiences the rainy season. During this time, trails can become muddy and slippery, making the trek more challenging. January and February tend to see the heaviest rain. While it is still possible to hike during these months, you should be well-prepared with waterproof gear and flexible expectations.

Trekking in the dry season enhances both safety and enjoyment, allowing for better photography, easier walking conditions, and more opportunities to appreciate the remote Andean landscapes and wildlife along the trail.

The Choquequirao Trek 5 Days features breathtaking landscapes and unique archaeological sites that make it one of the most remarkable treks in Peru. One of the most impressive highlights is the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in South America, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Padreyoc and Salkantay.

The main attraction is the archaeological site of Choquequirao, an ancient Inca city built on the side of a mountain and surrounded by cloud forest. During your visit, you’ll explore ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, ritual fountains, temples, and unique structures such as the Usnu (ceremonial platform) and the Llamayoc sector, known for its white stone carvings of llamas embedded into the walls.

Another highlight is the variety of ecological zones you hike through, where you can see orchids, Andean bamboo, butterflies, hummingbirds, highland birds, and possibly the majestic Andean condor soaring overhead.

You’ll also visit the Capuliyoc viewpoint, which offers one of the best panoramic vistas of the Apurímac Valley and serves as both the starting and ending point of the trek. These unforgettable sites, combined with the trail’s isolation, create a truly authentic experience away from the crowds.

Yes, it is possible to combine the Choquequirao Trek with Machu Picchu in a single, extended adventure—one of the most breathtaking and complete trekking experiences in the Andes. This route is ideal for travelers who want to explore both Choquequirao and the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu in one unforgettable journey.

The combined trek usually lasts between 8 and 9 days and follows ancient Inca trails through the Vilcabamba mountain range. The route includes remote high-altitude passes, lush cloud forests, and little-visited archaeological sites. While it is physically more demanding than the classic 5-day trek, it offers a deeper immersion into Peru’s Inca heritage and natural beauty.

At Andes Peru Expeditions, we organize a 9-day extended trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, providing full logistics, professional guides, camping gear, transportation, entrance tickets, and personalized service throughout. Contact us for detailed itinerary options and a customized quote based on your travel plans.

During the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days, a full day is dedicated to exploring the Choquequirao archaeological site. This vast Inca complex, perched on a mountainside at over 3,000 meters above sea level, deserves an unhurried visit to fully appreciate its impressive architecture, historical significance, and stunning location.

Most groups arrive at the site in the afternoon of day two, which allows for an initial overview. The following day includes a comprehensive guided tour, where visitors explore key areas such as the ceremonial Usnu, temples, ritual fountains, agricultural terraces, and the famous Llamayoc sector, known for its stone-carved llamas embedded in the terraces.

Because of its remote location and limited number of visitors, Choquequirao offers a peaceful, immersive experience. Visitors can connect with the history and spirit of the site without the crowds found at more popular destinations.

At Andes Peru Expeditions, we ensure you have plenty of time to explore Choquequirao thoroughly, with expert interpretation provided by our professional guides. This in-depth visit is one of the most meaningful highlights of the entire trek.

Hiring a guide for the Choquequirao Trail is not mandatory, as this trek is not currently regulated by strict permits like the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is technically possible to hike the route independently. However, due to the remote nature of the trail, the challenging terrain, and limited signage, it is strongly recommended to do the trek with a professional guide.

The Choquequirao Trek passes through isolated regions with steep ascents and descents, variable weather, and high-altitude sections that can be difficult to navigate without experience. A local guide ensures not only your safety but also enhances your understanding of the Inca history, local wildlife, and geography of the area.

Hiking with a guide also allows you to focus entirely on enjoying the journey, while all logistics—such as food, campsites, equipment, and mules—are professionally managed.

At Andes Peru Expeditions, we provide certified bilingual guides with extensive trekking experience and first aid training. Our team handles all logistics, transportation, meals, and support, so you can fully enjoy this unforgettable adventure to Choquequirao.

Booking the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days is easy and can be done directly through our official website, by email, or via WhatsApp. At Andes Peru Expeditions, we offer personalized assistance to help you organize every detail of your adventure quickly and securely.

Although this trek does not require limited permits like the Inca Trail, we recommend reserving at least two to three weeks in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season from May to September. Booking early ensures availability of professional guides, transportation, camping equipment, and entry to the Choquequirao archaeological site.

To confirm your booking, you just need to send us your personal information, preferred travel dates, and an initial deposit. Our team will take care of coordinating the itinerary, answering all your questions, and providing a detailed pre-trek briefing.

Booking in advance also gives you time to physically prepare, properly acclimate in Cusco, and enjoy the trek to its fullest.