Choquequirao trek 4 days Classic Adventure

Name: Choquequirao trek 4 days Classic Adventure
Brand: Quechuas Expeditions
SKU: 1
Price: 500.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Choquequirao Trek 4 days: A Classic Adventure (Top-Selling)

Ready for an adventure off the beaten path? Our Choquequirao Trek 4 Days takes you to one of Peru’s best-kept secrets – the stunning ruins of Choquequirao. While everyone flocks to Machu Picchu, you’ll be exploring its lesser-known sacred sister city with way fewer crowds and way more mystery.

Often referred to as the Sacred Sister City of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is shrouded in mystery, which you will uncover on this immersive guided tour. Whether you’re coming with your partner or joining a small group of fellow adventurers, get ready for an authentic Inca experience that’ll blow your mind. Trust us, this is the Peru you’ve been dreaming about!

Cusco I Cachora I Capuliyoq I Playa Rosalinda I Marampata I Choquequirao I Cusco

Duration of the trip:

4 Days / 3 Nights

Total Distance

44 km / 27.34 miles.

Physical Level:

Advanced

Altitude:

3500 m.a.s.l

Type of Tour:

Trekking, Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 Min - 10 Max

Overview of the Choquequirao trek 4 days

The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days is one of the most popular alternative trek in Cusco. Although this four-day classic route does not take you to Machu Picchu, it has gained a lot of popularity among travelers in South America.

Choquequirao, Peru, was built in the same era as Machu Picchu, also by the Inca Emperor Pachacuti. Both cities share similar architecture and are known as the “Sacred Sister Cities”.

The name Choquequirao comes from Quechua and means “Cradle of Gold”. It sits atop a hill at 3,033 meters above sea level (9,951 feet).

When the Spanish invaded Peru, the Incas abandoned the complex and moved into the jungle. Due to its remote location, high up in the Quriwayrachina mountain range, the Spanish were unable to conquer it.

Over time, the entire site became covered by thick jungle vegetation. Its existence remained unknown until 1710, when Spanish explorer Juan Arias Díaz discovered it while resting his mules after a prospecting expedition.

However, it was in the 1970s that local authorities began excavations. In fact, to this day, only one-third of the complex has been excavated and is open to visitors. Even today, when you visit Choquequirao, you may feel like you are the first to discover it.

Choquequirao trek 4 days summary

TOUR NAME: Classic Choquequirao Trek, Peru – 4 Days / 3 Nights
100% LOCAL COMPANY: Fully licensed Choquequirao Trek Tour Operator, highly recommended! Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor and YouTube to see what our passengers say about us!
GROUP SIZE: 02ppl Min (04-06 Average) – 08ppl Max. We NEVER pass our passengers to another operator. While many companies merge travelers from different agencies to form larger groups, we only organize our own groups and operate every tour exclusively with our trusted in-house team, ensuring consistency, comfort, and authenticity throughout your journey. Tours are organized for a minimum of 2 participants (average 4–6, maximum 8).
STARTING POINT: Pick-up from hotel/Airbnb in Cusco between 4:30 am and 5:00 am.
ENDING POINT: Return to Cusco with drop-off at your hotel/Airbnb at 6:30 pm.
HIKING DISTANCE: 44 km / 27.34 miles.
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. The Choquequirao Trek requires some physical preparation. We also recommend acclimatizing for at least 2 days before starting the trek.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 3,030 meters (9,951 feet).
TRANSPORTATION: Private van/bus to the Capuliyoq trailhead (for our passengers and staff). Return by bus to Cusco.
ACCOMMODATION: 03 nights camping in 4-season tents (02 people per tent). Inflatable sleeping mat included.
PORTERING/MULE SERVICE: 7 kilos / 14 pounds of extra porter service included. A duffel bag will be provided for your personal belongings (this will be carried by porters or horses).
MEALS: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 tea times + wake-up teas. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at no extra cost (upon request).
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK – 4 DAYS: Includes entrance and permits to Choquequirao.

Best time to hike to Choquequirao trek 4 days

Although Choquequirao, Peru can be visited at any time of the year, the best time to go is between March and November, during the dry season.

Hiking to Choquequirao is challenging. The trail starts with a steep descent, followed by a demanding uphill climb. Then, the route continues with another series of downhill and uphill hikes before reaching the archaeological complex. To promote tourism in Choquequirao, local authorities are planning to install a cable car from a nearby village.

During the trek, you will experience varied weather conditions. Due to the difficulty of access, only a small number of tourists visit the site each day.

However, the trek offers breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon. The region is home to several unique species of flora and fauna. Throughout the hike, you will be rewarded with spectacular landscapes of Andean valleys and villages nestled between the snow-capped peaks of the Andes. Additionally, you will have the chance to witness the famous “flight of the Andean condors.”

Important: This is a high-altitude hike. We highly recommend spending a few days in Cusco before the trek to acclimate and avoid altitude sickness.

Choquequirao Trek 4 Days: A Classic Adventure Short Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco | Capuliyoc – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa
Day 2: Santa Rosa | Marampata – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex – Marampata
Day 3: Marampata | Santa Rosa – Playa Rosalinas – Chiquisca
Day 4: Chiquisca | Capuliyoc – Saywite Monolith – Cusco

4 days Choquequirao trek highlights

Enjoy the sunrise in Choquequirao
Enjoy the scenic of the Choquequirao
Make a small ritual for the Andean gods and learn about Incan religion
Enjoy our friendly customer service and experienced top guides
Hike through the different types of landscapes and Sceneries, such as cloud forests, highlands, grassy hills, and Andean valleys
Explore Choquequirao and the surrounding area with expert and knowledgeable tour top guides

Please, Note: We can operate this trek on any day of your choice as long as we have a minimum of two trekkers. All departures are 100% GUARANTEED once your booking is confirmed.

DAY 1
Cusco - Capuliyoc - Playa Rosalinas - Santa Rosa+

DAY 2
Santa Rosa | Marampata - Choquequirao Archaeological Complex - Marampata+

Your adventure-filled day begins with a hearty breakfast, fueling you with the energy needed for the trek ahead. At 5:30 AM, you’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding three-hour ascent along a zigzagging trail to Marampata (2,900 m / 9,514 ft.).

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding snow-capped peaks, the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs. After a brief rest and some time to adjust your gear, you’ll continue hiking for another hour and a half until you reach the magnificent Choquequirao complex (3,050 m / 10,007 ft.).

Today, you’ll have ample time to fully immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of this ancient Incan site. As you explore, let the energy of this sacred place take hold of you. Your expert guide will lead you through the complex, unveiling fascinating stories and historical insights about its construction, purpose, and significance.

Did you know that Choquequirao is even larger than Machu Picchu? However, archaeologists estimate that only 40% of the site has been excavated, leaving much more to be uncovered in the future. As you wander through impressive plazas, ceremonial temples, and extensive agricultural terraces, you’ll marvel at the Incan ingenuity—how they managed to construct such an extraordinary city at the summit of these mountains.

One of the most intriguing highlights of the site is the collection of white stone llamas, meticulously carved into the terraces to honor and protect Apu Qoriwayrachina, the sacred mountain watching over the region. The mysteries of Choquequirao continue to captivate historians and explorers alike, and with future discoveries, we may uncover even more secrets hidden within its walls.

Around noon, you’ll pause at this awe-inspiring location for a well-deserved lunch, taking in the grandeur of your surroundings.

In the afternoon, you’ll make your way back to Marampata, where a delicious dinner awaits, followed by a well-earned rest. As night falls, prepare for an unforgettable celestial display—a sky filled with countless stars and constellations. Take a moment to reflect on their significance, just as the Incas once did, before settling into your tent for the night.

Summary:

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accommodations: Camp in Marampata
Lowest elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Highest Elevation: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Distance to walk: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Approximate walking time: 6 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Demanding
Sights: Choquequirao

DAY 3
Marampata | Santa Rosa - Playa Rosalinas - Chiquisca+

DAY 4
Chiquisca | Capuliyoc - Saywite Monolith - Cusco+

Choquequirao trek 4 days includes

Private tourist transportation to Capuliyoq (trailhead).
Professional bilingual guide (English – Spanish).
Guided assistance throughout the trek.
Thermarest inflatable sleeping pad for extra comfort.
Cook and assistant cook to ensure a great dining experience.
Full cooking equipment and dining utensils, including chairs and tables.
Complete meal service during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and 3 snacks, with a well-balanced and nutritious menu. Vegetarian menu option at no extra cost.

Miscellaneous:

Two-person tents (spacious 4-person capacity tents used as doubles – Kayla Doite).
Horseman and horses to carry camping equipment, food, and 7 kg of your personal belongings (sleeping bag, mat, and clothing). We never overload our horses, ensuring their well-being in the Choquequirao and Salkantay sectors.
Choquequirao entrance tickets, valid for 4 days.
Camping equipment and basic field gear for our cook and horseman.
Private transportation.
First-aid kit.
Emergency oxygen bottle.
Pre-trek briefing, at your hotel or in our office.

Choquequirao trek 4 days doesn’t include

Breakfast – Day 1
Lunch and Dinner – Day 4
Tips (optional)

Travel and Health Insurance (please bring copies): Quechuas Expeditions highly recommends purchasing trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Your pre-departure package should include insurance covering trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation, and medical expenses.

DISCOUNTS

(To apply a discount, please email us at info@quechuasexpeditions.com )

University Student Card (valid for students under 25 years old): US$20 (Send a scanned copy of your student ID at the time of booking.)
Under 17 years old: US$20 (Send a copy of the passport at the time of booking.)
Groups of 5 or more people: US$20 per person (Must book together at the same time.)

RENTALS

Goose Down Sleeping Bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip.
Trekking Poles: US$20 for the entire trip.
20 – 30 Liter Daypack (Includes rain cover): US$30 for the entire trip.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Briefing: A pre-trek briefing is included for all our trek the night before departure at 5:00 p.m. in our office. (During this meeting, you will meet your guide and receive your duffel bag.)
Storage: Most hotels offer luggage storage. If your hotel does not, you can store your bags safely with us at no additional cost. (Please let us know during the briefing if you require this service.)

This trek can be operated on any day of the year, as long as there are at least 2 trekkers. All departures are 100% GUARANTEED once your booking is confirmed.

To confirm and secure your reservation, we require at least an initial deposit and a photo of your passports.

Choquequirao trek 4 days (Prices for 2026)

Availability: Daily departures. All departures are 100% GUARANTEED! If you have booked, your trip is confirmed, and we will NOT cancel your adventure!

HOW TO BOOK?:
Send us your personal information along with a deposit of USD 200.00, and the remaining balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

GROUP SERVICE

Price per person: Group of 02 USD 650.00
Price per person: Group of 03-04 USD 550.00
Price per person: Group of 04-08 USD 500.00
(You will join a group with travelers from different countries and nationalities.)

PRIVATE SERVICE (Upon Request)

Recommended for: Honeymooners, families with children, and groups of friends. (Minimum 2 people.)

NOTE: If you are a group of 2 people, the trek will still run, even if you paid the group service price. We NEVER transfer our travelers to another agency, unlike many companies in Cusco

What you need to bring on Choquequirao trek 4 days

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

Choquequirao trek 4 days packing list:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocket knife.
Sun block
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also buy in Cusco.
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)

Clothes and accessories:

Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
A small towel and swimwear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers (Zip off)
1 pair of hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Watch or alarm clock
Flashlight (headlight recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts, or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired from us) we have goose down or synthetic sleeping bag
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band-Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Frequently Asked Questions about Choquequirao trek 4 days

1. What is the Choquequirao trek 4 days?

The Choquequirao Trek is a 4-day adventure through the Andes that leads to the stunning Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu.”

2. How many days does the trek last?

The complete journey is 4 days and 3 nights of pure Andean adventure, covering approximately 44 kilometers (27.34 miles) total.

3. What is the difficulty level of this trek?

You’ll be hiking 6–8 hours daily with steep descents and ascents, including a demanding climb down into the Apurímac Canyon and back up. The trail involves constant ups and downs. It’s perfect if you’re in good physical shape and have some multi-day trekking experience. That said, if you can handle long uphill walks and have determination, you can definitely do this!

4. What is the starting point of the trek?

We pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 4:30–5:00 AM (early start!) and drive you in our private transport to Capuliyoc, the trailhead. It’s about a 5-hour scenic drive through stunning mountain landscapes, including views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay peaks.

5. What will I see on the first day?

After breakfast in Capuliyoc (2,915m), you’ll begin a steep 3-hour descent through the breathtaking Apurímac Valley. You’ll pass through Chiquisca for lunch, then continue descending for another hour to the mighty Apurímac River (1,500m), known as the “Speaking God” in Quechua because of its powerful Class V rapids. The final push is a challenging 2-hour uphill climb to Santa Rosa camp (1,970m), where you’ll enjoy dinner and your first night under the stars. Total hiking: 6–7 hours, covering 15 km.

6. What is the highlight of the second day?

This is THE day! You’ll wake up early and climb for about 3 hours on a zigzagging trail to Marampata (2,900m), where you’ll get your first breathtaking views of the canyon. After a brief rest, you’ll continue another 1.5 hours to reach the magnificent Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (3,050m). Here’s the cool part: you’ll have plenty of time to fully explore this massive Inca city, larger than Machu Picchu but with only 40% excavated!

7. What happens on the third day?

Day 3 is the return journey. You’ll hike back down to Santa Rosa (1,970m), passing local agricultural estates where families grow sugarcane and produce Cambray, a regional liquor—great opportunity to learn about local culture! After lunch and a break, you’ll descend to Rosalinas Beach (1,500m) for a refreshing dip in the Apurímac River, then climb back up for about 1 hour 15 minutes to Chiquisca camp (1,900m).

8. What is included on the last day?

On the final day, you’ll enjoy an early breakfast at Chiquisca camp before hiking back to Capuliyoc, where you’ll say farewell to your trekking team. The journey continues by private transport with a guided visit to the impressive Saywite Monolith, followed by a scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon with drop-off at your accommodation. Breakfast, guided hiking, entrance fees, and transportation are included.

9. What is the maximum altitude reached?

The trek reaches approximately 3,050 meters (10,006 feet) at Choquequirao.

10. What is the minimum altitude?

The lowest point is around 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) near the Apurímac River.

11. Are there restrooms along the trail?

Yes, basic toilets are available at campsites and rest stops.

12. What type of guide will accompany us?

A professional, English- and Spanish-speaking trekking guide certified in first aid and mountain safety.

13. Is altitude sickness a concern?

It can affect some travelers. We recommend spending 2–3 days in Cusco to acclimatize before the trek.

14. What kind of transportation is used?

Private, comfortable vehicles for transfers between Cusco and Capuliyoc.

15. Is it possible to extend or combine this trek?

Yes, you can combine Choquequirao with Machu Picchu for a longer, more immersive adventure upon request.

Book now with us

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sara D 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend!
We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Matthew W 
 
 
 
 Verified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend
We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arianna O 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions
I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   naomiammar 
 
 
 
 Verified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it
One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   cade c 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome trek
We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lola U 
 
 
 
 Verified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team
I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Julia C. 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff
The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Emelie A 
 
 
 
 Verified Hike of a lifetime!
We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

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