This five-day journey offers the most complete and well-paced way to experience Choquequirao, one of the largest and least-visited archaeological sites in the Andes.
Unlike the shorter express version, this itinerary allows for a more gradual pace and a full day exploring the citadel, creating a deeper connection with both the landscape and the history of the Inca civilization.
The route follows a dramatic path into the Apurímac Canyon, crossing extreme terrain defined by long descents, sustained climbs, and constantly changing ecosystems.
It’s a trek designed for travelers who want a true Andean expedition without rushing the experience, balancing physical challenge with meaningful time at one of Peru’s most remarkable sites.
From the dry canyon walls to the hidden terraces of Choquequirao, this journey delivers a raw and immersive trekking experience far from the traditional routes.
We depart Cusco early in the morning, traveling through the Andean highlands toward Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek.
From the viewpoint, the vast scale of the Apurímac Canyon opens below, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
The Experience
The trail begins with a long descent along exposed switchbacks, gradually moving from high-altitude terrain into warmer canyon conditions.
The landscape shifts quickly, from open ridgelines to dry vegetation and steep canyon walls.
After passing small settlements like Chiquisca, we continue toward the canyon floor near the Apurímac River before reaching Playa Rosalinas, our first campsite.
The Night
Arrive at camp where tents are already prepared. Enjoy a warm meal surrounded by the towering canyon walls.
Today is the key ascent toward the citadel.
The Experience
The day begins with a steep climb from the canyon floor toward Santa Rosa, followed by a continued ascent to Marampata ridge.
As you gain elevation, the environment becomes greener and more expansive, with increasing views across the canyon.
From Marampata, the trail levels out as we approach Choquequirao (3,050 m), revealed gradually across the mountainside.
In the afternoon, enjoy your first guided exploration of the site, discovering its main plazas, terraces, and ceremonial structures.
The Stay
Return to camp near Marampata, where sunset over the canyon creates one of the most memorable moments of the trek.
Today is dedicated entirely to the archaeological site.
The Experience
With no need to rush, we return to Choquequirao for a deeper exploration of its vast complex.
Spanning a large area and still partially excavated, the site reveals new details with every section visited, from ceremonial platforms and water channels to the famous llama terraces carved into the mountainside.
Your guide will provide deeper insight into the history, symbolism, and ongoing restoration of the site, where only a portion has been uncovered to date.
The extended time allows you to experience Choquequirao in a way few travelers do: quietly, without crowds, and fully immersed in its scale.
The Stay
Return to camp for a final night in this remote environment, surrounded by mountains and silence.
We begin the return journey through the canyon.
The Experience
The day starts with a gradual descent from Marampata before transitioning into a long and demanding downhill section toward the Apurímac River.
The landscape shifts once again, from green mountain slopes to dry canyon terrain.
After crossing the river, the route continues with a steady ascent toward Chiquisca, where we spend our final night in the canyon.
This day combines both technical descent and sustained climbing, a true test of endurance.
The Night
Camp surrounded by vegetation and warmer temperatures, reflecting the lower elevation of the canyon.
The final day completes the ascent out of the canyon.
The Experience
We hike steadily uphill toward Capuliyoc, retracing the final section of the trail.
This climb offers a final opportunity to appreciate the scale of the canyon, now from a completely different perspective after days inside it.
Reaching the top marks the completion of the expedition.
After a well-deserved lunch, we return by private transport to Cusco.
The Return
Arrival in Cusco in the evening, closing one of the most rewarding trekking experiences in Peru.
Transportation & Logistics
Access & Discovery
Accommodations & Mountain Dining
Porterage & Safety
This is a challenging 5-day trek, but with a more gradual pace compared to the 4-day version.
The route still includes steep ascents and descents, but the additional day allows for better distribution of distances and more recovery time along the way.
Good physical condition and prior trekking experience are strongly recommended. This is a demanding trek, but more accessible for those looking for a slightly less intense pace.
You’ll be trekking through remote and varied terrain, so packing efficiently is key:
Your main duffel is carried by the support team, so you’ll hike with just your daily essentials.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This ensures a better-paced experience, more personalized support, and improved safety in remote conditions.
Although the trek includes lower-altitude sections, acclimatization is still important.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting. This helps your body adjust and improves overall comfort during the trek.
Hydration, proper rest, and light meals beforehand are strongly recommended.
Yes, you can hire a private porter for additional support.
While your main duffel is already carried by the support team, a private porter can help reduce the weight of your daypack or carry extra personal items.
This is a great option if you want to maintain a more comfortable and steady pace throughout the trek.
Yes, Sky Dome Camps operates fully legally and with all required permits.
As part of the Sam Travel Corporation, we comply with all official regulations to operate trekking routes in the region. Our team combines extensive experience in remote expeditions with a strong focus on safety, logistics, and high-quality service.
This ensures a reliable and well-organized experience from start to finish.
YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE.
Guest Reviews
Real experiences from travelers who slept under the Andean sky
I never thought I could sleep in a luxury bed while staring at the Milky Way through a transparent dome. The Salkantay glacier right in front of you at sunrise — absolutely unreal. Worth every penny.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky DomeWe did the full Salkantay Trek and stayed at the dome on night two. After a hard day of hiking, coming back to a real bed, hot shower and that view of the mountain? Nothing compares to that.
SkyDomeCamps - Salkantay TrekI have camped across Patagonia and Nepal but nothing matched this. The dome is warm, beautifully designed and the silence at 4,600m is something else entirely. I woke up at 3am just to stare at the stars.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky Dome
