Choquequirao Classic Trek 5 Days

Hike to the Last Incan Refuge: Trek to the Last Incan Fortress and Sanctuary

How about embarking on an unforgettable adventure to a place as incredible as Machu Picchu? Choquequirao is a hidden gem, rarely visited by tourists, offering a unique and unconventional trekking experience.

Our classic 5-day trek to Choquequirao is exactly that: a journey to the heart of the Andes, where history, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes come together. Join us on this epic hike to one of the most impressive Incan complexes ever built.

In Quechua, Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold.” This spectacular archaeological site rests above the roaring ApurĂ­mac River, surrounded by towering glacier peaks. If we’re lucky, we might even spot majestic condors soaring overhead.

Unlike Machu Picchu, very few tourists visit Choquequirao, making it one of Peru’s most remote and fascinating trekking routes. Despite being lesser-known, Choquequirao is three times larger than Machu Picchu! It is believed to have been one of the last strongholds of the Incas during their resistance to the Spanish invasion. Over time, the site was abandoned, allowing the dense Andean jungle to reclaim it.

Now you have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and uncover the secrets of this lost city. Are you ready for the adventure? 🚶‍♂️⛰️🔥

Location

Peru-Cusco

Duration

5 days

Altitude

3,050 m.s.n.m.

Group Size

10

Transportation

private

Difficulty

demanding

Itinerary

Lo más destacado del día: Disfruta del magnífico paisaje que te rodea.

Un día lleno de impresionantes paisajes andinos y aire fresco de montaña.

Tu viaje épico comienza a las 4:30 am cuando te recojamos en tu alojamiento en Cusco. Viajaremos de 4 a 5 horas en nuestro transporte privado de Tunqui Expeditions hasta Capuliyoc. Durante el camino, disfrutarás de espectaculares vistas de los nevados Salkantay y Humantay.

Al llegar a Cachora, visitaremos este pequeño pueblo, recorriendo sus pintorescas calles que cuentan historias de su rica cultura, tradiciones y vida cotidiana. Tras disfrutar de un nutritivo y delicioso desayuno para recargar energías, continuaremos en nuestro transporte privado hasta Capuliyoc (2890 m / 9482 pies), donde nos encontraremos con el resto de nuestro equipo de trekking de Tunqui Expeditions (cocineros, porteadores y arrieros), quienes transportarán cuidadosamente nuestras pertenencias, comida y equipo de campamento durante toda la caminata.

Tras revisar los últimos detalles, comenzaremos nuestra caminata por el Cañón del Apurímac durante aproximadamente 2 horas, principalmente en descenso, hasta llegar a nuestro lugar de almuerzo en el sector de Coca Manzana. Después del almuerzo y un breve descanso, continuaremos descendiendo en zigzag durante aproximadamente 2 horas más hasta llegar a Chiquisca (1900 m / 6234 pies), una hermosa aldea repleta de campos frutales.

Durante esta pintoresca caminata, se maravillará con el impresionante paisaje del bosque nuboso del Valle de Apurímac. Incluso podría tener la oportunidad de avistar al majestuoso cóndor andino sobrevolando, así como de disfrutar de impresionantes vistas de dos enormes nevados: Padreyoc y Qoriwayrachina. A medida que nos concentramos en caminar por el valle, la calidez, la abundante vegetación y los rítmicos sonidos del poderoso río Apurímac se hacen más perceptibles, motivándonos a continuar con el apoyo de la Madre Naturaleza.

Horas después, llegaremos al pueblo tropical de Chiquisca, un cálido y verde campamento en medio de las áridas montañas. Aquí cenaremos y pasaremos la noche.

  • Comidas: Desayuno, almuerzo y cena.
  • Alojamiento: Camping
  • Dificultad: Moderada
  • Distancia de caminata: 13 km / 8,08 mi
  • Altitud máxima: 2.890 m / 9.482 pies
  • Altitud del camping: 1.970 m / 6.463 pies

Lo más destacado del día: Sorpréndase con las vistas más espectaculares de los Andes.

Sea testigo de un impresionante atardecer en el cielo andino.

Comenzaremos el dĂ­a con una taza de mate de coca caliente y disfrutaremos de un delicioso desayuno para reponer fuerzas y mantener una actitud positiva. “Recuerda, cada dĂ­a, ten fe en ti mismo para completar la misiĂłn de alcanzar tu meta”.

Hoy continuaremos nuestra caminata cuesta arriba hasta otro campamento, llegando a Marampata (2.900 m / 9.514 pies), donde capturará fotografías impresionantes del cañón y los picos nevados circundantes.

We begin with a 1-hour and 15-minute descent to the lowest point of the valley, known as Playa Rosalinas (1,500 m / 4,921 ft). We will cross a pedestrian bridge before tackling the most challenging part of the trek—an uphill climb in zigzags. Before starting, we will take a moment to thank Mother Nature for her support in helping us ascend.

Along the way, we will make a brief stop at Santa Rosa (1,970 m / 6,463 ft), where you will enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our Tunqui Expeditions chef and team to regain energy. After lunch, we will continue ascending for approximately three more hours until we reach our Marampata campsite.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy stunning views, feel the positive energy, and appreciate the reward of reaching this spectacular location near the Choquequirao citadel. You will have time to stretch your muscles or do some light exercises while taking in the breathtaking landscapes, breathing fresh mountain air, and witnessing a mesmerizing sunset that bathes the valleys and snowy peaks in a golden glow.

As night falls, we will see a magnificent sky filled with thousands of stars, covering the landscape and lush vegetation. Then, we will have dinner before heading to bed for a restful sleep.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hiking distance: 11 km / 6.82 mi
  • Highest altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
  • Campsite altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft

Highlight of the day: Uncover the secrets of the magnificent Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.

Explore the ancient wonder of Choquequirao.

We will start the day with a delicious breakfast that will boost our energy. Then, we will dedicate the day to exploring every corner of this incredible Inca site, nestled in the mountains near the deepest canyon in South America. Imagine the breathtaking scenery surrounding you.

We will visit the most impressive sections of Choquequirao (3,050 m / 10,007 ft), and our guide will share fascinating stories about its past and why it was built.

Choquequirao is much larger than Machu Picchu, with plazas, temples, and impressive terraces that will constantly make you wonder: How did the Incas build this atop the mountains?

We will enjoy lunch at midday and have some time to rest.

Don’t miss the famous white stone llamas etched into the terraces on the mountainside. This section, known as Apu Qoriwayrachina, is believed to have had spiritual significance for the Incas. Experts estimate that only about 40% of the entire site has been uncovered, making Choquequirao a fascinating mystery that continues to reveal new secrets.

At the end of the day, we will return to our Marampata campsite (2,900 m / 9,514 ft) for a delicious dinner and well-deserved rest.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Hiking distance: 6 km / 3.73 mi
  • Highest altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
  • Campsite altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft

Highlight of the day: Enjoy a wonderful experience in an Andean community and learn more about its culture.

Relax and take in the natural beauty surrounding this incredible part of the world.

After our second-to-last delicious breakfast, we will begin our journey back from Choquequirao. We say goodbye for now to this unique site, so be sure to take one last look before heading back. First, we’ll have another opportunity to take photos of the great canyon from Marampata. Then, we will hike downhill for about two hours until we reach Santa Rosa (2,970 m / 6,463 ft), where we will have lunch. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to observe the vast variety of vegetation in this section of the trail.

After lunch, we’ll continue to Playa Rosalinas, where you can take a dip and refresh yourself in the cold waters of the Apurímac River, right in the heart of the canyon. Then, we will hike up to the Chiquisca campsite (1,900 m / 6,234 ft), located in the backyard of a local family’s home. Take advantage of this time to make new friends and learn about the Andean lifestyle, including their customs and traditions. You’ll witness firsthand the deep relationship Andean communities have with Pachamama, or as you may know her, Mother Nature.

After a delicious dinner, you’ll be able to rest peacefully in our cozy campsite and reflect on your journey so far.

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hiking distance: 11 km / 6.82 miles
  • Highest altitude: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
  • Campsite altitude: 1,900 m / 6,234 ft

Highlight of the day: Immerse yourself in the hot springs and let the warmth relax your muscles after days of hiking.

Enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs before returning to Cusco.

You’ll have your last breakfast of the trek while listening to the soothing sounds of the Apurímac River. Then, we’ll set off early to avoid walking under the intense sun. Take deep breaths one last time and let Mother Nature guide you through the final stretch of the trek back to Capuliyoc.

Once you arrive at the town, you’ll bid farewell to the Tunqui Expeditions team that has accompanied you along the way. Then, you will board our private Tunqui Expeditions transport, which will take you to the carved rock known as Saywite. Here, you’ll learn that this rock held great religious significance for the Incas and is closely associated with water. After a short historical explanation, we will head to the Conoc Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing soak to soothe your muscles after the long trek. You’ll have your final lunch here before continuing in our transport back to Cusco.

Aprovecha al máximo tu última oportunidad para admirar las impresionantes montañas nevadas y capturar fotos memorables de los increíbles paisajes. Probablemente te sientas bastante agotado, pero la inmensa satisfacción y logro hará que valga la pena. Llegaremos de regreso a Cusco alrededor de las 18:00 h y te dejaremos en la puerta de tu alojamiento para que puedas relajarte y descansar todo lo que necesites.

  • Comidas: Desayuno, almuerzo
  • Dificultad: Desafiante
  • Distancia de caminata: 8 km / 4,97 millas
  • Altitud máxima: 3.500 m / 11.483 pies

Include

  • Permisos y Boletos de Entrada
  • para la caminata a Choquequirao
  • InformaciĂłn previa a la salida
  • GuĂ­a turĂ­stico experimentado
  • BotiquĂ­n mĂ©dico o botiquĂ­n de primeros auxilios
  • Equipo de acampada privado
  • Alojamiento
  • Comida
  • Transporte
  • Extras

Not Include

  • Saco de dormir
  • Bastones de trekking
  • Cena en Cusco (DĂ­a 3)
  • Seguro de viaje
  • Consejos para nuestro personal
  • Costos adicionales o
  • Retrasos fuera de nuestro control

Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

Choquequirao ofrece una experiencia fuera de lo común, lejos de las multitudes de Machu Picchu o el Camino Inca. Es una aventura a través de paisajes andinos vírgenes, profundos cañones y antiguas ruinas incas. Además, es tres veces más grande que Machu Picchu y aún está parcialmente cubierto por una densa vegetación, lo que le da la sensación de una auténtica ciudad perdida.

La caminata se considera desafiante , ya que implica ascensos y descensos pronunciados, largas jornadas de senderismo y terreno diverso. Sin embargo, con la preparaciĂłn y aclimataciĂłn adecuadas, es una experiencia gratificante, ideal para aventureros y aficionados al senderismo.

El clásico Choquequirao Trek dura 5 días , pero también hay opciones de 4 y 8 días , esta última combinando Choquequirao con Machu Picchu para una aventura inca verdaderamente inmersiva.

Sí y no. Si bien ambos sitios comparten características arquitectónicas incas , como la agricultura en terrazas, las plazas ceremoniales y las estructuras de piedra, Choquequirao es más grande, está menos excavado y es más remoto . A diferencia de Machu Picchu, solo se puede acceder a pie, lo que lo convierte en una experiencia más exclusiva.

La caminata atraviesa diversos ecosistemas , hogar de cóndores andinos, osos de anteojos, colibríes, orquídeas y exuberantes bosques nubosos . Con suerte, ¡podría avistar cóndores sobrevolando el Cañón del Apurímac !

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