Embark on an unforgettable 3-day Choquequirao trek with Luan Travel Peru. Ancient history, stunning landscapes, and challenging treks merge into a life-changing adventure. The Choquequirao trek in Peru promises an off-the-beaten-path experience.
It rivals even the famed Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. As we traverse through lush valleys, steep mountain passes, and the deep Apurimac Canyon, you will feel immersed in the untouched beauty of the Andes.
Our journey begins with a descent toward the Apurimac River. It is nestled between towering peaks at 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level. Crossing this mighty river marks the start of our adventure into the high-altitude wilderness. The ruins of Choquequirao rests here at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet).
Known as the “Cradle of Gold,” Choquequirao is a remote Inca site. It shares a mysterious connection with Machu Picchu. Exploring its terraces, plazas, and ceremonial structures will take you back in time to the era of the Incas. It will offer a glimpse of their architectural brilliance and spiritual devotion.
This guided tour offers a perfect blend of physical challenge and cultural exploration. Each day of hiking presents new discoveries as we pass through changing ecosystems. The journey involves both ascents and descents, making it a physically demanding yet deeply rewarding trek.
The dry season, from April to October, offers the best conditions for hiking, with clear skies and fewer rain showers. However, the high season attracts more trekkers, so we advise booking in advance for the best experience.
Camping under the starry Andean sky will provide much-needed rest between the long days of hiking. We will carry all the essential camping equipment, including comfortable tents and a cozy sleeping bag, ensuring you stay warm and rested throughout the night. Our experienced guides will lead the way. They will help you acclimate to the altitude and offering fascinating insights into the landscapes, flora, and fauna we encounter.
The final stretch of the trek rewards our efforts as we reach the Choquequirao archaeological site. From here, adventurers with extra time may consider extending the adventure from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu. You will be linking two of the most iconic Inca ruins through another remote trail.
However, for those focusing solely on the 3-day itinerary, the ruins of Choquequirao are the perfect climax to the journey. The awe-inspiring views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks will be etched in your memory long after the trek ends.
A well-prepared packing list will ensure you are ready to tackle the rugged terrain. Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and sun protection are essential, given the high-altitude conditions. We will guide you every step of the way, ensuring your safety and comfort during the trek. With our support, even this challenging journey will feel achievable.
Join us on this unique Choquequirao hiking adventure and experience the magic of one of the most remote Inca sites in Peru. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or a deeper connection with Andean culture, the 3-day Choquequirao trek will leave you enriched and inspired. At Luan Travel Peru, we believe that every step you take toward Choquequirao is not just a hike. It’s a journey through history.
The Choquequirao trek in Peru offers a physically demanding yet highly rewarding adventure through remote Andean landscapes. You can expect long days of hiking across varied terrain, with steep ascents and descents leading through lush valleys, rugged cliffs, and the stunning Apurimac Canyon. Along the way, the altitude will challenge your endurance, but our experienced guides will help you acclimate while sharing insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and history. Nights will be spent camping under starry skies, providing much-needed rest in cozy sleeping bags inside comfortable tents.
Reaching the Choquequirao archaeological site is the highlight of the trek, offering a rare glimpse into one of the least-visited Inca ruins in Peru. The site’s terraces, plazas, and ceremonial areas showcase the architectural brilliance of the Incas, with panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. For adventurers with extra time, the journey can be extended toward Machu Picchu, following another remote and scenic trail. Whether you take the extended route or stick to the three-day itinerary, this trek promises an unforgettable experience filled with history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
We will start the first day of the 3-day Choquequirao trek with an early morning departure from Cusco. We will be heading toward Capuliyoc. The scenic drive will take about four hours, passing through traditional villages and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Once we reach Capuliyoc, sitting at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet) above sea level, we will begin the trek. After meeting our guides, porters, and mules, we will start descending toward the Apurimac Canyon.
The path will lead us through changing landscapes, with lush vegetation and steep cliffs coming into view. As we descend, the temperature will rise, and you will notice the shift from high-altitude grasslands to warmer, semi-arid terrain. After a few hours of steady hiking, we will reach Santa Rosa, located at 2,100 meters (6,889 feet). We will pause here to enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
After resting, we will continue toward Marampata. It is a small settlement perched at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet) with stunning views of the Apurimac River winding far below. This section involves a steady ascent.
This makes it a bit more demanding, but the rewarding scenery will make every step worthwhile. Along the way, you will see native plants, terraced fields, and the occasional sight of local farmers tending their crops.
As the day draws to a close, we will set up camp at Marampata. Here, we will enjoy a hearty meal prepared by our team and take in the tranquility of the Andean night. The views from the campsite will give us a glimpse of the journey ahead. You will have the ruins of Choquequirao visible in the distance, waiting to be explored the next day.
We will wake up early to begin the second day of the Choquequirao trek. We will set out from Marampata with the ruins just a few hours away. The morning light will illuminate the surrounding mountains as we make our way along the narrow trail.
The hike to Choquequirao will take around two hours. Every step bringing us closer to this remote Inca site perched at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet). As we approach, the terraces and ceremonial platforms will start to emerge from the mist, offering a sense of the grandeur that awaits.
Once we arrive, our guide will lead us through the ruins of Choquequirao. We will explore its intricate terraces, plazas, and temples, discovering the cultural and architectural significance of this hidden gem.
Known as the “Cradle of Gold,” Choquequirao holds many mysteries, and fewer tourists make the trek here compared to Machu Picchu. The serenity and scale of the site will make the effort feel worthwhile. After taking time to immerse ourselves in the history and beauty of Choquequirao, we will enjoy lunch surrounded by breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon.
In the afternoon, we will begin our descent toward Chquisqa, located at 1,850 meters (6,070 feet). The return hike will feel lighter as we descend through the same landscapes we climbed the day before. As we wind our way back down the canyon, the warmth of the lower elevations will greet us. The trail will once again pass through Santa Rosa, where we can rest briefly before continuing.
We will arrive at Chquisqa by late afternoon, setting up camp in this peaceful spot nestled amidst lush vegetation. A well-earned dinner will help us recharge after this long day of hiking. As the night falls, the clear skies will reveal countless stars, allowing us to relax and reflect on the incredible journey so far. The second day of our Choquequirao trek will leave us with a deeper appreciation for Peru’s rich history and the beauty of its remote landscapes.
We will begin the final day of the Choquequirao trek early, departing from Chquisqa as the first light touches the canyon walls. The cool morning air will energize us as we ascend steadily toward Capuliyoc. This section will be challenging, with steep switchbacks testing our endurance. However, the rewarding views of the Apurimac Canyon and surrounding mountains will make the effort worthwhile.
As we climb, the landscape will gradually change. The lush vegetation of the lower canyon will give way to the dry, rugged terrain of higher altitudes. We will pause along the way to take in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a few moments of rest.
After about four hours of steady hiking, we will reach Capuliyoc, sitting at 2,900 meters (9,514 feet). Here, we will take a final break, reflecting on the incredible journey we have completed.
At Capuliyoc, our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. During the drive, we will pass through scenic Andean villages. This will offer one last look at the landscapes that have been our home for the past three days. We expect to arrive in Cusco by late afternoon, just in time to unwind and savor the memories of our trek.
The 3-day Choquequirao trek will leave us with a deep appreciation for Peru’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This journey will challenge us physically, reward us with unmatched scenery, and immerse us in the legacy of the ancient Incas.
The trek is considered challenging due to the steep ascents and descents, high-altitude conditions, and long hiking days. It requires a good fitness level and prior trekking experience is recommended, but our guides will support you throughout the journey.
The highest point is at the Choquequirao archaeological site, which sits at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet). Proper acclimatization in Cusco before the trek will help minimize the effects of high altitude.
The dry season, from April to October, is the best time for this trek. During these months, the weather is more stable, with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making the hike more enjoyable.
We will camp each night along the trail. Our team will provide high-quality tents, sleeping bags, and other essential camping equipment to ensure your comfort.
Visitors to the Sacred Valley can explore ancient Inca ruins, walk along agricultural terraces, and visit traditional markets. You can also engage with local Quechua communities, enjoy stunning mountain scenery, and taste traditional Andean cuisine. Adventure activities like hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting are also popular in the valley.
You can expect to hike between 6 to 8 hours each day, with some sections being more strenuous due to steep ascents and descents. We will take breaks along the way to rest and enjoy the scenery.
You should bring sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, and a personal water bottle. We will provide a detailed packing list before the trek to help you prepare.
Yes, the trek is safe when done with an experienced operator like Luan Travel Peru. Our guides are trained to handle emergencies, and we carry first-aid kits and oxygen for high-altitude situations.
Yes, it is possible to extend the trek from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu. This extended trek takes about seven additional days, offering a unique way to visit both iconic Inca sites. If you’re interested, let us know, and we will help arrange it.
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