Discover the majestic "Cradle of Gold" on this unforgettable 5-day expedition to Choquequirao, one of Peru's most remote and spectacular Inca citadels. This challenging trek takes you deep into the Apurimac Canyon, descending and ascending through dramatic mountain landscapes to reach ruins that remain largely unexplored and free from crowds. Unlike its famous sister Machu Picchu, Choquequirao receives only a handful of visitors each day, offering an intimate connection with ancient Inca history. Marvel at the unique white llama terraces, explore ceremonial plazas, and experience breathtaking panoramic views from this sacred site perched at 3,050 meters. This trek is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
Trek from Cusco (3,400m) through Capuliyoc Pass (2,915m), descending to Chiquisca (1,950m) and Playa Rosalinas (1,550m), then ascending to Marampata (2,940m) and Choquequirao (3,050m), before returning via the same route.
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The Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N is classified as Challenging. You'll trek 6-8 hours daily over steep terrain, with significant elevation changes including descents of over 1,500 meters into the Apurimac Canyon and ascents back up. The highest point is 3,050m at Choquequirao. Good physical fitness and some prior trekking experience are recommended, though it's more accessible than the 8-day version.
The complete trek covers approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) over 4 days of trekking. This includes dramatic elevation changes totaling over 4,000 meters of cumulative ascent and descent. The route goes from Capuliyoc (2,915m) down to the Apurimac River (1,550m) and back up to Choquequirao (3,050m), then returns the same way.
Choquequirao is often called the "Sister City" of Machu Picchu and is believed to be even larger. Only about 30% has been excavated, giving you the chance to explore a site that feels undiscovered. Unlike Machu Picchu, which receives thousands of daily visitors, Choquequirao sees fewer than 30 visitors per day. The famous white llama terraces are unique to this site, and you'll experience the ruins in remarkable solitude.
The best time is during the dry season from April to October. May through September offers the most stable weather with minimal rainfall. However, nights can be cold at higher elevations. The rainy season (November to March) makes the trails more challenging with muddy and slippery conditions, though the landscape is greener.
This trek features 4 nights camping in high-quality 4-season tents at designated campsites along the route (Chiquisca, Marampata, and return). We provide inflatable sleeping mattresses for comfort. You can rent a sleeping bag rated to -10°C or bring your own. Campsites have basic toilet facilities.
The trek includes 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Our cook prepares fresh, nutritious meals designed to fuel your trek. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available with advance notice. Breakfast on Day 1 is not included. We also provide snacks, hot drinks, and purified water throughout the trek.
You only need to carry a daypack (20-30 liters) with your daily essentials: water, snacks, camera, rain gear, warm layer, and personal items. Our team of mules and arrieros (muleteers) transport all camping gear, cooking equipment, and your main luggage. Each participant receives a duffel bag allowance of up to 7kg for the mules to carry.
Yes, we recommend it. Arrive in Cusco at least 1-2 days before your trek starts to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400m/11,150ft). While this trek reaches a maximum of 3,050m (lower than the 8-day version), the steep terrain and strenuous activity still require good acclimatization. Consider visiting the Sacred Valley first or doing light walks in Cusco.
Basic toilet facilities are available at campsites (typically pit toilets). During the day's hike, you'll use nature (we provide a toilet tent for privacy at rest stops). We recommend bringing biodegradable wet wipes and hand sanitizer. There are no showers on the trail, but you can freshen up at streams along the way.
Cell phone signal is extremely limited on this remote trek. You may get sporadic signal at some high points, but don't count on it. There's no WiFi until you return to Cusco on Day 5. We recommend informing family and friends that you'll be off-grid for most of the trek. Bring a portable charger for your devices and consider this a digital detox opportunity!
Our guides carry comprehensive first aid kits, emergency oxygen, and satellite communication devices. In case of serious emergency, evacuation by mule to the nearest road or helicopter evacuation can be arranged (costs covered by your mandatory travel insurance). The nearest hospitals are in Cusco. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and emergency response.
If you're unable to continue due to altitude sickness, injury, or fatigue, our guides will assess the situation and help arrange the safest exit route. This typically involves returning on mule to the nearest road. Additional costs for evacuation or alternative transport are the responsibility of the participant and should be covered by travel insurance. No refunds are provided for incomplete treks.
Our shared group departures have a maximum of 12 participants to ensure a quality experience and manageable logistics. Small groups allow for better interaction with guides, more flexibility on the trail, and a more intimate experience at the remote archaeological sites. Private tours can be arranged for any group size with customized services.
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