Trips to Machu Picchu
About this trip
The 5-Day Choquequirao Trek with Trips to Machu Picchu is the ultimate expedition for those seeking a profound connection with Peru’s ancient past. Often referred to as the "Sister City" of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao remains one of the most remote and rewarding archaeological sites in the Andes. This trek is meticulously designed for adventure seekers who want to trade the crowds of the Inca Trail for the raw, untouched beauty of the Apurímac Canyon.
What Sets This Trek Apart
True Andean Isolation: Traverse rugged mountain passes far from the tourist circuit to discover a site only accessible by foot.
The "Cradle of Gold": Spend an entire day exploring the sprawling terraces, ceremonial plazas, and sacred temples of Choquequirao, learning the secrets of Inca engineering from our expert guides.
Breathtaking Geography: Experience the dramatic contrast between snow-capped peaks and the vertiginous depths of the Apurímac Canyon—one of the deepest in the world.
A Physical Triumph: This is a challenging multi-day trek that rewards your effort with unparalleled solitude and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1-2: The Descent & Ascent: Journey from Cusco to Cachora to begin a dramatic descent into the Apurímac Canyon before climbing through lush microclimates toward the "Lost City."
- Day 3: Immersive Exploration: A full-day guided tour of the Choquequirao citadel, including the famous "Llama Terraces" and the sacred Hanan sector.
- Day 4-5: The Return Journey: Retrace your steps through the canyon with fresh perspectives, celebrating your journey with a scenic return to Cusco.
Why Book With Trips to Machu Picchu?
As local experts, we provide professional logistics, high-quality camping equipment, and seasoned guides who bring history to life. For travelers seeking an alternative to the crowded trails of Cusco, this 5-day tour offers the perfect blend of physical challenge, cultural depth, and natural serenity.
What’s included
Briefing
Pre-departure briefing
Hotel Pick up
Collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transport.
Entrance Ticket
Choquequirao
Personal tents
2 people in each 4-people-capacity tent, to allow for higher comfort and a safe keeping of backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure an excellent performance in field. kailas tent or north face tent
Mattress
One inflatable sleeping pad per person
Dining tent
Dining tent with tables and chairs
Kitchen tent
Toilet tent
Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities
Tour guide
English speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of over 10 people)
Chef
Chef and cooking equipment
Horses and Mules
to carry tents, food and cooking equipment.
Meals
Meals (04B, 04L, 04D + daily morning snack + daily tea service except last day). Vegetarian or special menus are available at no extra cost
Water
Filtered boiled water from lunch time on 1st day onwards
Soap
Bio-degradable personal hand soaps
Detergents
Bio-degradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff
Train Ticket
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition, Vistadome, upon request +US$80)
First-aid kit
First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
Others
hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time if requested with enough time ahead
What’s not included
Breakfast
Breakfast on the first day
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bag US$20
Walking sticks
Walking sticks US$15
Personal Tent
Personal Tent US$60
$950
Itinerary
The 5-Day Choquequirao Trek offers a rare chance to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the serene, awe-inspiring beauty of the Andes. Choquequirao, your ultimate destination, is often called the "Sister City" of Machu Picchu but remains far more remote and untouched. These ancient ruins stand as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization, perched dramatically above the deepest canyon in South America.
Join Trips to Machu Picchu for an unforgettable adventure. Book now and create lasting memories on this extraordinary journey through the heart of the Andes.
5-Day Choquequirao Trek: The Ultimate Andean Expedition
DAY 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
Our journey begins at 6:00 AM with a private drive from Cusco to Cachora, a traditional Andean community. After meeting our expert horsemen and preparing our gear, we begin the trek.
The Hike: We start with a 2.5-hour ascent toward Abra Capuliyoc (2,750m / 9,020ft). From this spectacular vantage point, enjoy breathtaking views of the Apurímac River Canyon and the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The Descent: We then descend for 2 hours into the heart of the canyon to Chiquisca, where we set up our first camp.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
DAY 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
To beat the midday canyon heat, we depart at 6:00 AM.
The Challenge: We descend to the canyon floor at Playa Rosalina, cross the Apurímac River, and begin a challenging 2-hour zigzag ascent to Santa Rosa. Here, we take a well-earned break; you may even try Cambray, a local sugar cane extract.
The Reward: We continue our climb for another 2.5 hours to our lunch spot in Marampata. The final 2-hour stretch leads us to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (3,103m / 10,178ft). We’ll set up camp at the site, giving you time to explore the terraces as the sun sets—keep an eye out for Andean Condors soaring above the canyon.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
DAY 3: Choquequirao Exploration (Full Day)
Today is dedicated entirely to uncovering the mysteries of Choquequirao.
In-Depth Tour: We will enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the site, including the Hanan (high) and Urin (lower) sectors.
Hidden Gems: Explore the famous "Llama Terraces" and areas still partially covered by lush vegetation, awaiting restoration. You will have the full day to reflect, photograph, and soak in the spiritual energy of this massive Inca citadel without the crowds.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
DAY 4: Choquequirao – Santa Rosa – Chiquisca
After a final morning at the ruins, we begin our return journey.
The Trail: We retrace our steps toward Santa Rosa for lunch, then continue our descent for 2 hours until we reach Playa Rosalina (1,450m / 4,756ft).
Relaxation: If time permits, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the Apurímac River.
Final Night: The day ends with a final uphill walk to our last campsite at Chiquisca.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
DAY 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cachora – Cusco
On our final day, we rise at 5:00 AM to tackle the final ascent in the cool morning air.
The Final Climb: We begin a demanding 4 to 5-hour steady uphill climb back to the Capuliyoc Pass (2,850m / 9,350ft). Take a moment to look back at the canyon—a final view of the incredible terrain you’ve conquered.
Return to Cusco: Our private transport will meet us at the Capuliyoc viewpoint by late morning. From there, we begin the drive back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast.
Location
Your Organizer
Trips to Machu Picchu
Trips to Machu Picchu by Manu Explorers Peru specializes in authentic tours to one of the world’s wonders. Our offerings include the Classic Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, and Choquequirao treks, alongside the high-adventure Inca Jungle Trek and scenic train tours to Machu Picchu. Looking for more adventure? We also provide expert-guided jungle expeditions to the Manu National Park Reserved Zone.
