Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca

The Choquequirao Trek departs from Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. in a tourist transport, towards the Andean community of Cachora, at 2800 meters above sea level. After a walk of approximately 25 minutes to Capuliyoc, where muleteers and mules meet, a two and a half hour ascent begins towards the Capuliyoc Pass, near the Apurímac River. From this point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Apurimac River canyon and mountain landscapes. Then, we descend for two hours to Chiquisca, spotting birds and possibly foxes, vizcachas and pumas. Chiquisca serves as an initial camp for travelers making the trek to Choquequirao, where camp is set up for the night.

Walking time during the day: approximately 4 hours.
Climate: Warm with mosquitoes.

Camping night in Chiquisca.

Day 2: Chiquisca – Rosalina Beach – Choquequirao

After a revitalizing breakfast in Chiquisca, we began our walk at 6:00 a.m. approximately towards Playa Rosalina, a short 30 minute drive. Crossing the Apurimac River, we face the steep climb to Santa Rosa, which lasts approximately 2 hours. Starting early is key to avoid the intense heat and make the walk more bearable.

Once in Santa Rosa, we took a 30-minute break before continuing our ascent towards Marampata, a two and a half hour journey. In Marampata, located at 2850 meters above sea level, we stop for lunch and enjoy spectacular views of Choquequirao, known as the sister of Machu Picchu and located 3103 meters above sea level. Our camp will be just 20 minutes from the Choquequirao Archaeological Center

Walking time during the day: approximately 7 hours.
Climate: Warm and cold at night.

Camping night.

Day 3: Full Day CHOQUEQUIRAO

On this day, we start at 6 am with breakfast before exploring Choquequirao. In the morning, we visited the lower part, observing agricultural terraces in a challenging terrain, accompanied by cliffs and water channels. We explored the priest’s house, waterfalls and captured the surroundings in photographs. After lunch, we headed to the upper part of Choquequirao to explore its impressive buildings and warehouses (colcas), as well as the USNU (religious and offering center).

We visited the priest’s house and the white stone llamas with astronomical function. We waited for the magical sunset over the Apurímac River before returning to camp, concluding a day full of exploration and admiration.

Camping night.

Day 4: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MARAMPATA – ROSALINA BEACH – CHIQUISCA.

In the morning, we embark on a guided tour of the notable Choquequirao Archaeological Center, recognized as the “Sister Citadel of Machu Picchu.” Built in the 15th century in the canyon of the Apurimac River, Choquequirao goes beyond its administrative and religious function, representing Inca wisdom. Guided by an expert, we explore this citadel where only 30% of the ruins are currently discovered and restored, anticipating that it will become an attraction comparable to Machu Picchu in the future.
The experience includes exploration of advanced hydraulic systems, the Grand Complex, the Main Plaza, religious and elite areas, and extensive agricultural terraces. Afterwards, a hike back to Marampata and through the Apurímac canyon culminates at our camp in Chiquisca, at 1930 meters, lasting approximately 6 hours in warm weather. The day concludes with a night of camping in Chiquisca.

Walking time during the day: approximately 6 hours.
Warm weather.

Camping night in Chiquisca.

Day 5: CHIQUISCA – CAPULIYOQ – CUSCO

We leave the camp after breakfast to begin the approximate two to three hour ascent to CHIKISCCA (Chiquisca), and then make our way back to the Capuliyoc pass, near which we have our lunch. As evening falls, we begin our two-hour return journey to Cachora. There, a transport is waiting for us to take us back to Cusco.