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The Choquequirao trek 5 days program begins with a transfer from Cusco to Cachora, where the hike starts toward Capuliyoc, Chiquisca, Playa Rosalina, Santa Rosa, and Marampata, following the trail to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
This Choquequirao trek from Cusco then continues through the main camps and archaeological areas of the route.
The program includes a full day to explore Choquequirao, visiting its archaeological sectors, agricultural terraces, canals, colcas, Usnu, and the white stone llamas. After the visit, we begin the return along the same route to Cachora and finally Cusco, with four nights of camping along the trail.
Day 1
We leave Cusco between approximately 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. in our tourist transport and head to Cachora, an Andean community located at 2,800 m.a.s.l. and about 4 to 5 hours from Cusco. This is the starting point of the hike, and along the way we can see the mountains and snow-capped peaks of the Andes, including Nevado Padreyoc.
From Cachora, we take a hike of approximately 25 minutes to Capuliyoc, where we meet the muleteers and mules that will help carry the equipment. We then ascend for about two and a half hours toward the Capuliyoc pass, near the Apurímac River and at approximately 2,915 m.a.s.l. From this point, we can see the Apurímac River Canyon and the surrounding mountain landscapes.
We then begin a descent of approximately two hours to Chiquisca. Along the way, we may observe local birds and, with some luck, wildlife such as foxes and vizcachas. Upon reaching Chiquisca, we set up camp for the first night.
Walking Time for the Day: Approximately 7 hours.
Climate: Warm with mosquitoes.
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Day 2
After breakfast, we leave Chiquisca at approximately 6:00 a.m. toward Playa Rosalina, a journey of about 30 minutes. There, we cross the Apurímac River and begin the steep ascent to Santa Rosa, which takes approximately two hours.
In Santa Rosa, we take a break of about 30 minutes. We then continue ascending for approximately two and a half hours to Marampata, located at 2,850 m.a.s.l., where we have lunch. From here, we can see Choquequirao, located at 3,103 m.a.s.l. The campsite is about 20 minutes from the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
The early departure allows us to complete this part of the route before the hottest hours of the day. We spend the night at the campsite.
Walking Time for the Day: Approximately 7 hours.
Climate: Warm and cold at night.
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Day 3
We start the day at 6:00 a.m. with breakfast before beginning our exploration of Choquequirao. In the morning, we visit the lower part of the complex, where we can see agricultural terraces built on steep terrain, as well as water channels, the priest's house, and the waterfalls. We have time to take photographs and appreciate the surroundings until lunchtime.
After lunch and a short break, we continue to the upper part of Choquequirao. Here we visit its main structures, the food storehouses known as colcas, and the Usnu, associated with religious activities and offerings. We also visit the white stone llamas, oriented toward the west and described in the program as having an astronomical function.
At the end of the visit, we have time to see the sunset over the Apurímac River before returning to the campsite.
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Day 4
In the morning, we continue with a guided visit to the main sectors of the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex before beginning the return. The visit covers the hydraulic systems, the Great Complex, the Main Plaza, the religious and elite sectors, and the agricultural terraces.
After the visit, we begin the hike back toward Marampata and continue through the Apurímac Canyon until reaching Chiquisca, located at 1,930 m.a.s.l. The return section takes approximately six hours and is completed in warm weather.
Upon reaching Chiquisca, we set up camp again for the night.
Walking Time for the Day: Approximately 6 hours.
Climate: Warm.
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Day 5
After breakfast, we leave the campsite and begin the ascent toward the Capuliyoc pass. The route continues along the return trail to the pass area, where we have lunch nearby.
In the afternoon, we continue for approximately two hours to Cachora, where our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
Upon arrival in Cusco, the service with CuscoPeru.com ends.
Included
Not included
Recommendations
Availability, schedules, and service conditions are confirmed at the time of booking. View booking and cancellation policies →
See images of the landscapes, trails, and archaeological sectors that are part of this route.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the route, camping, meals, and practical information for the program.
The program starts with a transfer from Cusco to Cachora, where the trek begins at Capuliyoc. After completing the route and exploring Choquequirao, you return to Cachora and then travel back to Cusco, where the program ends.
The program includes 4 nights of camping. Campsites may change according to the guide's criteria and the group's progress.
The route includes prolonged ascents and descents, steep slopes, and sections of uneven terrain. A suitable level of physical fitness is recommended for several hours of walking on consecutive days.
Bring your passport or ID, trekking shoes with good grip, comfortable clothing, sun protection, mosquito repellent, water, snacks, a small backpack, and cash.
The program includes 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day are not included.
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