TREK TO CHOQUEQUIRAO

The Ultimate 4-Day Expedition

Prepare yourself for an exciting 4-day trek to Choquequirao, often called the ‘Cradle of Gold.’ While Machu Picchu tends to steal the spotlight, Choquequirao is just as magnificent. This journey with Kallpa Travel takes you on a deep exploration into the core of the Andes, meandering through vibrant cloud forests, traversing turbulent rivers like the Apurímac River canyon, and climbing up challenging mountain paths. Is this the grand finale? The breathtaking remains of Choquequirao. By embracing this age-old trail, you will fully engage with the enigmatic allure and historical significance of the Inca civilization, making it a noteworthy Peru trekking experience.

During your journey, anticipate witnessing awe-inspiring landscapes and coming across various unique natural environments. Our team of experts from Kallpa Travel will assist you in uncovering the mysteries of this mysterious location, including its terraces, temples, and plazas. Please keep in mind that this expedition is not merely a regular hike but rather an exploration into the abundant cultural and natural heritage of Peru and a notable Inca trail alternative. Are you prepared to go back in time and discover the hidden gems of Choquequirao?

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Day 1	Cusco – Capuliyoc to San Rosa.
Day 2	San Rosa to Marampata – Choquequirao.
Day 3	Marampata to Cocamasana.
Day 4	Cocamasana – Capuliyoc to Cusco.

DAY 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc to San Rosa

Our trek to Choquequirao kicks off at 5:00 am, whisking us away from Cusco in private transportation. The 4-hour journey to the Choquequirao trailhead treats us to panoramic vistas of the awe-inspiring Andean landscapes, perfect for Peru trekking enthusiasts. Picture-perfect moments abound as we arrive at Capuliyoc (2,850 meters / 9,350 feet), where our team awaits with horses and mules, all geared up for the epic trek ahead of us.

As we zigzag along the trail, the Apurímac River canyon reveals itself in all its glory, offering stunning views for those seeking Inca trail alternatives. Breathtaking views accompany us until we reach Chiquisca—a well-deserved lunch oasis. Post-feast, we continue our descent, following a lush, green, and sweltering hiking trail. The mountainside unfurls more jaw-dropping vistas of the Apurímac River below. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna as we cross a bridge and make our way down to Santa Rosa, our cozy campsite for the night.

DAY 2: San Rosa to Marampata – Choquequirao

After enjoying breakfast at our campsite, we will begin our journey to Marampata, the point where we will enjoy our lunch and spend our second night of camping. Today is probably the most difficult day of the hike. To arrive at Choquequirao, we have to return to the opposite side of the Apurímac Valley, which involves a climb of some 800 m / 2624 ft. over a distance of 14 km / 8.7 miles, through hot and humid conditions. This section of the trek is tough-going, but the views, combined with impressive flora and fauna, make it all worthwhile. We’ll traverse a picturesque stream, providing a welcome respite from the heat, before ascending to the summit of the mountain. Here, a delectable lunch awaits, accompanied by a breathtaking vista of the entire Apurímac canyon.

Post-lunch, our expedition progresses towards Choquequirao, often hailed as the “Sister City of Machu Picchu” and a notable Choquequirao hiking guide. Here, we’ll delve into the mesmerizing realm of Inca ruins, exploring its central plaza, revered temples, and awe-inspiring terraces clinging to the precipice. Choquequirao’s archaeological marvels offer profound insights into Inca history and architectural prowess. Following our exploration, we’ll retreat to our campsite in Marampata, where we’ll nestle under the stars or bask beneath the glow of a full moon.

DAY 3: Marampata to Cocamasana

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on our return journey, heading toward our next campsite nestled deep within the Apurimac Canyon, ideal for those seeking a Choquequirao hiking guide. The promise of an awe-inspiring vista awaits us, a canvas of natural wonders that will leave us breathless. To ensure we’re well-prepared for this leg of the trek, we’ve stocked up on ample water. Our trusty hiking sticks, like loyal companions, will aid us in negotiating the steep descent toward the Apurimac River below. As we reach the riverbank, we pause for a moment of serenity amidst the rugged beauty, ideal for those looking for Inca trail alternatives. The water’s gentle murmur accompanies our reflections. But our adventure doesn’t end here. With renewed energy, we begin our ascent along a winding path that leads us toward our awaiting campsite. Each step takes us closer to the heart of the Andes, where the mountains whisper secrets and the air holds the promise of more discoveries.

DAY 4: Cocamasana – Capuliyoc to Cusco

As the sun rises painting the Andean peaks with warm hues, we embark on the last leg of the trek to Choquequirao, the best Apurímac River canyon with the Inca trail alternatives. The air is crisp, carrying a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. Our seasoned legs, now accustomed to the rugged terrain, propel us upward—a challenging uphill stretch that tests our resolve. Capuliyoc, perched at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet), awaits us like a steadfast friend. Here, we bid farewell to our muleteers, their weathered faces etched with the wisdom of countless treks. Their mules and horses, having carried our gear and provisions, seem to nod in acknowledgment as if saying, “Until next time.”

As we step onto our private transport, the engine’s hum replaces the rhythmic clip-clop of hooves. The winding road back to Cusco unfolds before us—a tapestry of memories woven from each step taken, each vista absorbed. But before we leave, we pause. The canyon is the Apurímac River’s masterpiece that stretches out below, making it a perfect Apurímac River canyon. Its depths hold secrets and whisper tales of ancient civilizations and echo the footsteps of countless explorers. We frame this majestic backdrop in our cameras, capturing not just pixels but emotions and the exhilaration of conquering trails, the camaraderie forged around campfires, and the quiet moments when nature whispers its secrets.

Our transport eases into motion, winding through valleys and past villages where life unfolds in a slower rhythm. We glance back, glimpsing the distant silhouette of Choquequirao, the terraces, temples, and plazas that have become part of our souls. The sun dips lower, casting long shadows across the landscape. Back in Cusco, our hotel welcomes us. We unpack dusty boots, sort through photos, and share stories over pisco sours. The ache in our muscles is a badge of honor and a reminder that we have ventured beyond our comfort zones, into the heart of Peru’s rugged beauty with Kallpa Travel. In the quiet of that night, we drift to sleep, our dreams filled with llamas grazing on ancient terraces, condors soaring above cliffs, and the distant call of adventure. Choquequirao has etched its mark on our hearts, and we carry it with us as a treasure trove of memories.

Included:

Professional English-Spanish-Quechua speaking guide
Briefing before the start of the Choquequirao Trek
Private transport to the start of the trek
Cook to prepare your meals
Admission fees
Wrangler with horses
Emergenccy horse
Toilet Tent with biodegradable bag in toilet
Camping equipment: double tents, sleeping pad, kitchen/dining tents, tables, stools, and all kitchen
All meals on the itinerary (B= Breakfast L= Lunch, D= Dinner). Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free meals on request at no extra cost.
Transport at the end of the trek to your hotel in Cusco
First-aid kit and oxygen