4-Days Trek from Cusco to Choquequirao: Lost City Adventure
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Hike through breathtaking canyons and cloud forests to the remote Inca city of Choquequirao. Explore ancient ruins with stunning views—far from the crowds of Machu Picchu.
Highlights
- Hike to stunning views at the Capuliyoc viewpoint
- Explore the remote Inca ruins of Choquequirao
- Spot Andean condors soaring over the Apurímac Canyon
- Camp under starry skies in peaceful mountain settings
- Trek through diverse landscapes from highlands to jungle
Description
Day 1: Cusco - Cachora - Marampata
Start your adventure with an early drive from Cusco through stunning Andean scenery to the village of Cachora. On the way, visit Tarawasi, an ancient Inca ceremonial site from the time of Pachacutec, known for its beautifully carved stone terraces.
After breakfast in Cachora (2,800 m / 9,184 ft), begin your trek with a gradual climb to Abra Capuliyoc, where breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon await. From this lookout, the trail descends toward the river, with a lunch stop near Santa Rosa.
The day ends with a challenging but rewarding ascent to Marampata, your campsite for the night, offering sweeping canyon views and a glimpse of Choquequirao on the horizon.
Day 2: Marampata - Choquequirao
After an early breakfast in Marampata, the adventure continues with a scenic two-hour hike to the breathtaking Inca citadel of Choquequirao — often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu.” As the ancient terraces and temples slowly appear through the morning mist, you’ll feel the magic of this remote archaeological wonder.
Spend time exploring its vast plazas, intricate stonework, and sacred ceremonial areas while uncovering stories of the last Inca stronghold hidden deep in the Andes. As the sun dips over the Apurímac Canyon, keep an eye out for majestic Andean condors gliding overhead. End the day at a nearby campsite, enjoying a serene night beneath a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Choquequirao - Chiquisca
After breakfast, enjoy a final exploration of Choquequirao, when the morning mist gives the ruins an almost mystical glow. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean condors soaring above the Apurímac Canyon before beginning the descent toward the river below.
At Playa Rosalina, relax and refuel with lunch by the water, surrounded by breathtaking canyon views. Then, make the final ascent to Chiquisca, where a warm valley breeze and a starry night sky mark the perfect close to another unforgettable day in the Andes.
Day 4: Chiquisca - Cachora - Cusco
Start the final day with an early breakfast and gear up for the last stretch of your Choquequirao adventure. The trail climbs steadily through rugged Andean terrain, revealing ever-changing views of the Apurímac Canyon, snow-capped peaks, and the shimmering river far below.
After about four hours, reach the Capuliyoc lookout, where you’ll savor your final panoramic views and a well-earned meal with your trekking team. Then, descend to Cachora, where the trek comes to an end.
A scenic drive back to Cusco completes the journey — the perfect moment to reflect on the epic landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable memories of the Choquequirao Trek.
Includes
Professional, bilingual tour guide
3 nights in spacious personal tents with inflatable mattress
Excellent Meals (3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners). Food includes pancakes, omelettes, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking.
Dining tent
Entrance fee to Choquequirao Inca site
Round trip transportation from hotel in Cusco
Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes while hiking
Horsemen with packhorses or mules (for carring camping equipment and up to 8kg of your personal belongings)
Sanitary services
Walking Sticks for Hiking
First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
Important Information
- This is a challenging trek with steep ascents and descents. Daily hikes range from 6–10 hours.
Expect fewer crowds, basic facilities, and a true wilderness adventure.
There are no hotels—nights are spent in tents at designated campsites.
Showers and bathrooms are very basic or unavailable on parts of the route.
Includes professional guide, cooks, and mule support for gear and meals.
All meals during the trek are included, starting from Day 1.
Round-trip transport between Cusco and the trailhead is part of the tour.
Dry season (April to October) offers better weather and trail conditions.
Altitude, heat, and trail difficulty make this trek unsuitable for some travelers who do not have experience doing these kind of activities.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund