Choquequirao Trek 4 Days 3 Nights The Hidden Inca City

Departure from Cusco and arrival in Capuliyoc

We begin the Choquequirao Trek with pickup from your hotel in Cusco in private tourist transport. The journey takes approximately 3 and a half hours to the Andean village of San Pedro de Cachora (2,800 meters above sea level). .

From there, we continue by vehicle to Capuliyoc, where the hike officially begins. The scenery shifts dramatically here, marking the true start of the adventure.

Initial Hike and Andean Landscapes

The descent begins along a trail that crosses different altitude levels. Throughout the journey, you will admire the Padriyoc snow-capped peak and encounter native Andean flora and fauna.

At this viewpoint, breathtaking panoramas of the Apurímac Canyon unfold before you, recognized as one of the deepest canyons in the world. This is also where the first distant views of Choquequirao appear.

Descent to Chiquisca and Playa Rosalina

The trail continues downhill toward Chiquisca, where we stop for lunch. Afterwards, the hike resumes with a final one-hour descent to Playa Rosalina, located near the Apurímac River.

Later, a gentle uphill walk leads us to the Santa Rosa Baja campsite (1,950 meters above sea level). . There, we enjoy afternoon tea, dinner, and a well-deserved rest.

• Maximum altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
• Campsite altitude: 1,950 m / 6,397 ft
• Hiking distance: 17 km / 10.56 miles
• Duration: Approximately 7 hours
• Meals: Lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner
• Accommodation: Campsite
• Difficulty: Moderate

Ascent to Marampata

After breakfast, the day begins with a steady uphill hike of approximately 3.5 hours toward the Marampata campsite, located at 3,600 meters above sea level. .

This section is considered one of the most challenging parts of the Choquequirao Trek. However, it is equally rewarding thanks to the spectacular landscapes along the way.

Throughout the hike, you will enjoy constant views of the Apurímac Canyon, the Choquequirao mountain, and the surrounding Andean landscapes along the route.

Gradually, the environment shifts, revealing a milder climate and wide open views across the valley.

Guided Exploration of Choquequirao

After a short rest, the trail leads us to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, often referred to as the Lost City of the Incas.

Unlike other archaeological sites, this remarkable place remains peaceful and far less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.

A guided tour takes you through the most important sectors, including the main plaza, the ceremonial area, and the agricultural terraces.

One of the highlights is the famous terrace featuring white stone llama figures, a unique and symbolic expression of Inca iconography.

Return and Overnight Stay in Marampata

After the visit, we return to Marampata, where the campsite is set up for the night.

Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved rest and a breathtaking sunset facing the Andean mountains.

• Maximum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Campsite altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Hiking distance: 9 km / 5.59 miles
• Duration: Approximately 8 hours
• Weather: Warm during the day
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
• Accommodation: Campsite
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Descent to Playa Rosalina

After breakfast, the hike begins between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., taking advantage of the cooler hours of the day.

The day starts with a long descent along the same trail used earlier. Along the way, you walk through open landscapes with impressive views into the depths of the canyon.

After approximately five hours of hiking, we reach Playa Rosalina, located near the Apurímac River.

Here, a short break allows time to rest and regain energy before continuing.

Final Ascent and rest in Chiquisca

After the break, we continue with a gradual ascent of approximately 1.5 hours until we reach Chiquisca (1,850 meters above sea level) .

Upon arrival, lunch is served at the campsite, followed by time to relax and unwind.

In the afternoon, the weather is typically warm and dry, creating the perfect opportunity to rest and recover.

Además, este tiempo libre permite prepararse para la caminata del día siguiente, la cual inicia antes del amanecer.

• Maximum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft (Marampata)
• Campsite altitude: 1,850 m / 6,069 ft (Chiquisca)
• Hiking distance: 18 km / 11.18 miles
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Weather: Warm and dry during the afternoon
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
• Accommodation: Campsite
• Difficulty: Easy

Final Ascent and Farewell to the Trek

Very early in the morning, around 5:00 a.m., we leave the Chiquisca campsite and begin our hike before the first rays of sunlight appear.

After breakfast, we begin the final ascent along a demanding trail, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes.

The hike lasts approximately 4 hours until we reach Capuliyoc (2,900 meters above sea level) , the highest point of the day.

From here, we enjoy the final panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and share a farewell lunch with our expedition team.

Transfer Back to Cusco

After lunch, we board our tourist transport to begin the journey back to Cusco.

The journey takes approximately 3 hours.

Finally, we arrive in Cusco at approximately 6:00 p. m. , although arrival time may vary depending on the group’s pace and road conditions.

• Maximum Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,517 ft (Capuliyoc)
• Starting Altitude: 1,850 m / 6,069 ft (Chiquisca)
• Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• Meals: Breakfast and water provided
• Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging