Choquequirao Trekk (4 Days / 3 Nights)
Duration
4D/3N
Max Altitude
3,050 m.s.n.m
Calification
4
Group Size
8 to 12 people
Type Service
Adventure, trekking
Dificulty
Difficult
ITINERARY
Departure from Cusco
We depart early from Cusco, traveling about 4 hours by private transport to the town of Cachora. From there, we continue to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek.
Hike to Chiquisca
We begin the hike from Capuliyoc (2,900 meters), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and snow-capped mountains. The trail descends toward Chiquisca, where we’ll camp for the night. Along the way, you may see Andean flora and fauna, including soaring condors.
Ascent to Marampata
Early in the morning, we descend to Playa Rosalina (1,500 meters), crossing the Apurímac River. From there, the ascent becomes more challenging as we head to Marampata (2,850 meters). The climb is strenuous, but the incredible canyon views make the effort worthwhile.
Arrival at Choquequirao
After a well-deserved rest in Marampata, we continue our hike to Choquequirao (3,050 meters). We set up camp near the Inca citadel, where we can rest and prepare for the next day’s exploration of Choquequirao.
Full Day in Choquequirao
This day is dedicated to exploring Choquequirao, an Inca citadel spanning over 1,800 hectares. You’ll visit key sites, including agricultural terraces, temples, plazas, and terraces adorned with carved stone llamas. With fewer visitors than Machu Picchu, you’ll have the rare opportunity to enjoy the peace and mystery of this hidden gem.
Night in Marampata
After exploring Choquequirao, we return to Marampata, where we camp overnight.
Return to Capuliyoc
We start early, descending to Playa Rosalina and then ascending to Capuliyoc, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. Though it’s a long day, the return offers equally impressive views as the journey in.
Return to Cusco
From Capuliyoc, we return by private transport to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 or 7:00 p.m.
INCLUDES
- Private transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc and back
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
- Camping equipment (tents, mats, cooking equipment)
- Porters and muleteers to carry equipment and supplies
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Entrance fee to Choquequirao
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
NOT INCLUDES
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides, porters, and cooks (optional)
RECOMENDATIONS
To ensure you have the best possible experience on your Choquequirao trekk, thorough preparation is indeed key. Below, we’ve compiled essential recommendations. These cover crucial aspects like what to pack for Choquequirao, understanding local remedies for Choquequirao altitude effects, and being aware of potential challenges you might encounter during this incredible Andean adventure trek.
What to Bring: Your Choquequirao Packing List Essentials
Crafting your Choquequirao packing list carefully will significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment throughout this demanding adventure. Key Choquequirao trekk essentials include:
- Layered Trekking Clothing: Versatility is crucial. Therefore, pack warm clothing (fleece, thermals) for cold Andean nights and lighter, breathable layers for daytime hiking.
- Cold Weather Accessories: A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf are indispensable, especially for chilly mornings and higher altitude sections.
- Sun Protection: The Andean sun is strong. Consequently, include high-SPF sunscreen, quality sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself effectively during the hike.
- Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack (around 20-30 liters) is necessary for your daily essentials. For example, water, snacks, your camera, and perhaps an extra layer of clothing. Remember, our porters will carry the heavier equipment.
- Hydration & Snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle; we provide boiled or filtered water at campsites. Additionally, high-energy snacks are vital. Our blog 10 Essential Tips For An Unforgettable Trip to Cusco offers more packing ideas that could be useful for any Andean trek.
Recommended Footwear for the Trail
Proper footwear is absolutely critical. It helps you safely navigate the varied and often challenging terrain of the Choquequirao trekk:
- Trekking Boots: Waterproof trekking boots that offer good ankle support and have excellent grip are essential. The trail can be steep, rocky, and uneven in sections. So, reliable and well-broken-in footwear is a must to prevent blisters and ensure your stability.
Local Remedies for Acclimatization (Andean Altitude Tips)
Andean traditions offer natural ways to help with Choquequirao altitude adjustment:
- Coca Tea (Mate de Coca): This is widely regarded as ideal for helping prevent symptoms of altitude sickness Choquequirao. It’s often recommended before and during the hike.
- Coca or Muña Candies: Useful for maintaining energy and easing mild altitude symptoms while trekking.
Pharmaceutical Remedies (Consult Your Doctor)
Consider these for your Choquequirao trekk preparation, but always consult your doctor first:
- Acetazolamide (Diamox): Some use this for altitude sickness prevention on higher sections. However, medical consultation prior to your trip is vital.
- Pain Relievers: Basic pain relievers can manage headaches or mild muscle discomfort.
Possible Issues During Your Choquequirao Adventure (Understanding Trek Difficulty)
Being aware of potential challenges helps in your Choquequirao hike preparation:
- Altitude Sickness: Symptoms like fatigue and headaches are relatively common due to the significant Choquequirao altitude. Acclimatizing properly beforehand (for example, in Cusco), staying well-hydrated, and drinking coca tea are common local recommendations to help prevent or lessen these effects. (Cuando tengas tu blog sobre el mal de altura, ¡podemos enlazarlo aquí!)
- Extreme Fatigue: The Choquequirao trek difficulty is notable due to steep climbs. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and rest as needed.
- Dehydration: Even in cool weather, the Andean air is dry. Therefore, it’s essential to drink plenty of water consistently throughout the trek (at least 2-3 liters per day) to stay properly hydrated and aid acclimatization.
FAQ
We recommend spending 2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before the Choquequirao Trekk to reduce altitude sickness risks. The Choquequirao altitude reaches 3,050 m, so preparing ensures you enjoy this Andes adventure fully. Check 10 Essential Tips For An Unforgettable Trip to Cusco for more!
The Choquequirao Trekk difficulty is moderate to challenging, with steep ascents and descents over 62 km. We guide you through this Choquequirao Hike, perfect for fit trekkers seeking an Inca ruins trekk. Compare it with Classic Inca Trail for more options!
Yes, we help you rent sleeping bags and trekking poles in Cusco for the Choquequirao Trekk. Proper gear ensures comfort during this 4-day Choquequirao tour. First, explore Cusco City Tour to immerse in the city’s culture!
We provide nutritious Andean meals during the Choquequirao Trekk, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. Our cooks prepare fresh Choquequirao camping dishes, with vegetarian options on request. Learn more about local flavors in Andean Food: Authentic flavors not to be Missed !
We recommend booking your Choquequirao Trekk 1-2 months ahead, especially during high season (May-September). While permits aren’t limited like the Inca Trail, spots fill fast for this exclusive Choquequirao tour. See other options like Short Inca Trail !
Choquequirao sits in the Andes near Cusco, accessible via a Choquequirao Hike from Capuliyoc. We take you through stunning landscapes to this hidden gem during the Choquequirao Trekk. Discover more routes in Alternative Trekking Routes: Choquequirao !
Choquequirao is in the Santa Teresa district, La Convención province, accessible during the Choquequirao Trekk. We guide you from Cusco through Cachora to this Choquequirao ruins site. Explore its history in Inca Empire: The Golden Age of the Andes
Choquequirao, a 15th-century Inca city, was a cultural center, rediscovered in 1710. On the Choquequirao Trekk, we share its Choquequirao history as you explore its terraces. Dive deeper into its past with Inca Empire: The Golden Age of the Andes!
Choquequirao was rediscovered in 1710 by Spanish explorers, though locals knew of it earlier. During the Choquequirao Trekk, we reveal its Choquequirao history while you explore this Inca ruins trekk. Learn more in Alternative Trekking Routes: Choquequirao
The Choquequirao Trekk distance spans 62 km round-trip, from Capuliyoc to Choquequirao and back. We ensure this Choquequirao Hike is manageable with support from our team. Compare with Classic Inca Trail for other adventures!
The Choquequirao altitude peaks at 3,050 m, dropping to 1,500 m at Playa Rosalina. We guide you through this Choquequirao Trekk, ensuring safety with oxygen support. Prepare with tips from 10 Essential Tips For An Unforgettable Trip to Cusco .
The Choquequirao llamas are stone carvings on terraces, a unique Inca feature. We show you these during the Choquequirao Trekk, highlighting their cultural significance. Discover more Inca wonders in Inca Empire: The Golden Age of the Andes!
Choquequirao pronunciation is “Choh-keh-kee-raow.” We teach you this on the Choquequirao Trekk, ensuring you connect with its name and history. Explore more cultural insights with Cusco City Tour before your journey!
The Choquequirao Trekk doesn’t include Machu Picchu, but you can extend your trip. We recommend adding Short Inca Trail for a Choquequirao to Machu Picchu experience. Contact us for details!
The Choquequirao Trekk vs Inca Trail offers a quieter, more remote experience with fewer visitors. We guide you through 62 km of rugged terrain on this Choquequirao tour, unlike the busier Classic Inca Trail .
Pack layers, a hat, and sunscreen for the Choquequirao Trekk from Choquequirao Cusco. We provide camping gear, but bring a sleeping bag or rent one. Get ready with 10 Essential Tips For An Unforgettable Trip to Cusco !
The Choquequirao Trekk in Peru sees warm days (10-25°C) and cold nights (≤5°C). We don’t operate during rainy season (December-March) for safety. Learn more preparation tips in Alternative Trekking Routes: Choquequirao!
Yes, capture stunning Choquequirao photos during the Choquequirao Trekk! We guide you to terraces and viewpoints perfect for shots. Extend your adventure with Rainbow Mountain Tour (Vinicunca) for more vibrant landscapes!