Choquequirao Classic Trek: 5 Days

Day 1 | Capuliyoc – Apurímac Canyon – Playa Rosalinas Camp

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.

• Distance: Approx. 14 km
• Camp Altitude: ~1,900 m
• Terrain: Long descent

Day 2 | Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao

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.

• Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
• Max Altitude: 3,050 m
• Activity: Trekking + guided visit

Day 3 | Full Exploration of Choquequirao

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.

• Activity: In-depth cultural exploration
• Distance: Minimal (exploration day)
• Max Altitude: 3,050 m

Day 4 | Marampata – Apurímac River – Chiquisca Camp

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.

• Distance: Approx. 16–18 km
• Lowest Altitude: ~1,550 m
• Terrain: Steep descent + ascent

Day 5 | Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Return to Cusco

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.

• Distance: Approx. 8 km
• Activity: Final ascent + return transfer
• Return to Cusco: Evening arrival