Cusco, Perú

CHOQUEQUIRAO: THE HIDDEN TREASURE OF THE ANDES

4.9(128)

Tour Description

Known by many travelers as the 'sibling' of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is an archaeological treasure nestled in the depths of the Peruvian Andes. At times, it has been favorably compared to its famous relative, even claiming superiority. What makes this site truly special is that it can only be accessed on foot; there are no railroads or roads that lead directly to Choquequirao. This makes the visit a true expedition, a journey of discovery that takes you away from routine, a personal challenge, and an escape from the bustle of the city.

The fact that Choquequirao is not as promoted as Machu Picchu adds an additional charm to the experience. Here, you can enjoy the place more peacefully, take the necessary time, and capture all the photographs you want without the crowds sometimes found at Machu Picchu.

It is important to note that the hike to Choquequirao is a challenge. It requires good physical condition and strong will, making it a route considered 'difficult.' However, the reward you will get far exceeds the effort required. To complete this journey, you must keep your mind and body in optimal conditions and be prepared for a unique experience at one of Peru's most impressive archaeological treasures.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC - CHIKISCA:

  • 05:30, Pick up from your hotel and head to the town of San Pedro de Cachora, a 4-hour journey from the imperial city of Cusco. Here, we'll enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast (not included) before heading to Huanca Calle, where our mules or horses will be waiting with all the camping equipment. After getting ready, we'll continue our hike until we reach the Capuliyoc viewpoint. Here, your guide will show you Choquequirao in the distance. During the journey, we'll enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the Padreyoc snow-capped mountain and the deep Apurímac Canyon. We'll walk approximately 3 to 4 hours until we reach Chikisca, an ideal place for lunch and overnight stay.
  • Meals: Lunch and dinner
  • Maximum Altitude: 2950 m / 9678 ft.
  • Minimum Altitude: 2100 m / 7200 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 8 km Walking Time: 4 to 5 hours

DAY 2: CHIKISCA – CHOQUEQUIRAO

  • After an energetic breakfast, we'll continue descending to Rosalina Beach to cross the Apurímac River via the bridge. Then, we'll ascend through a beautiful path surrounded by flora and fauna until we reach Santa Rosa, where we'll take a short break. Afterward, we'll climb for about 2 more hours until we reach the village of Marampata, where a delicious lunch awaits us. In the afternoon, we'll explore Marampata, learning about its history, agriculture, and daily life, enjoying a panoramic view of Choquequirao. We'll spend the night in a homestay or tent, where we'll also have a comforting dinner.
  • Meals: Lunch and dinner
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,080 m / 10,105 ft.
  • Minimum Altitude: 2100 m / 9,350 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 9 km Walking Time: 6.30 hours

DAY 3: MARAMPATA - CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA

  • This day, after a good early breakfast, we'll start our hike of approximately 2 hours. Along the way, we'll appreciate an abundance of flora, fauna, and beautiful mountain landscapes until we reach the majestic archaeological site of Choquequirao. We'll spend the entire day exploring different buildings, main areas like the main square, agricultural terraces, the famous llama terraces, and priestly houses while our guide shares the history and culture of the Incas and Quechuas. In the afternoon, after exploring all day, we'll return to our camp in Marampata for the night, take a relaxing shower, and enjoy dinner.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,080 m / 10,105 ft.
  • Minimum Altitude: 2100 m / 9,350 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 10 km Walking Time: 7 to 8 hours

DAY 4: MARAMPATA – CHIKISCA – CAPULIYOC - CUSCO

  • This day we'll wake up early to take advantage of the morning freshness and enjoy the magnificent panoramic view of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding mountains. The hike will be longer and more challenging, starting with a stop at Rosalina Beach for a short break. Then, we'll continue climbing through the Apurímac Canyon until we reach the Capuliyoc viewpoint, where our vehicle will be waiting for the return to Cusco.
  • Meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Maximum Altitude: 2950 m / 9678 ft.
  • Minimum Altitude: 1,500 m / 4,921 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 17 km Walking Time: 8 to 9 hours

Includes

  • Pre-tour briefing.
  • Pick-up from Hotel/accommodation.
  • Bus from Cusco to Cachora (Private Mini Bus).
  • Official Bilingual Tour Guide.
  • Chef.
  • Muleteers.
  • Box Lunch (2 Apples, 2 Bananas, Chocolate, Biscuit, 'Frugos' Juice, Granola Bar) 1 Mineral water and 1 Gatorade.
  • Trekking poles.
  • Rain poncho (rainy season).
  • Andean meals: 03 Breakfasts, 04 Lunches, 03 Dinners.
  • Camping equipment: 4-person tent for every 2 persons and mattress.
  • Dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, mess tent.
  • Horses for equipment, food, and 5 Kilos of passenger luggage (includes sleeping bag and mattress).
  • Entrance to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
  • Return Bus from Cachora to Cusco (Private Mini Bus).
  • First aid kit.
  • Option for vegetarian meals at no additional cost.

Does not include

  • Sleeping Bag (can be rented with us for US$20.00 per person for the entire trip).
  • Breakfast on the first day. (Should be taken at your hotel or accommodations in Cusco).
  • Extra riding horse or for any backpack.
  • Expenses not mentioned.
  • International flights from your country of origin Domestic flights, Lima – Cusco – Lima.

Recommendations

  • 1.Backpack Trekking boots must be waterproof (recommended).
  • 2.Warm clothing/Rainwear/Comfortable clothing.
  • 3.Binoculars.
  • 4.Flashlight.
  • 5.Batteries.
  • 6.Cap or hat.
  • 7.Small towel.
  • 8.Swimsuit.
  • 9.Hand sanitizers.
  • 10.Sunscreen.
  • 11.Mosquito repellent.
  • 12.Medicine or personal use items.
  • 13.Water bottle, you must drink a lot of water during the hike.
  • 14.Purifying tablets.
  • 15.Original Passport.
  • 16.Extra money for personal expenses, preferably short bills and coins.
  • 17.Photography camera or camcorder.
  • 18.Several pairs of socks.
  • 19.A sneaker or sandals to rest at the campsites.