Choquequirao Trek: 4 Days

Day 1 | Capuliyoc – Apurímac Canyon – Santa Rosa 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 scale of the Apurímac Canyon immediately sets the tone, one of the deepest canyons in the Andes.

The Experience

The trail begins with a long descent along switchbacks carved into the canyon walls.

As you descend, the landscape shifts from high-altitude viewpoints to warmer, drier terrain closer to the river.

After lunch near Chiquisca, we continue down toward the canyon floor before beginning the first major ascent of the expedition.

The climb to Santa Rosa camp is steady and demanding, a clear introduction to the physical nature of the trek.

The Night

Settle into camp surrounded by steep canyon walls, with the sound of the river far below and a sky full of stars above.

• Distance: Approx. 12–13 km
• Camp Altitude: ~1,900–2,000 m
• Terrain: Long descent + steep ascent

Day 2 | Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao

Today we reach the highlight of the expedition.

The Experience

The morning begins with a sustained uphill hike toward Marampata, a ridge offering the first panoramic views of Choquequirao across the valley.

From here, the trail becomes more gradual as we approach the archaeological site.

Arriving at Choquequirao (3,050 m) reveals a vast complex of terraces, temples, and ceremonial spaces spread across the mountainside.

Often referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” the site remains largely uncrowded and partially unexplored.

In the afternoon, your guide will lead a detailed exploration of the citadel, including its agricultural terraces, ceremonial platforms, and unique llama carvings.

The Stay

Return to camp near Marampata, where sunset views over the canyon provide one of the most memorable moments of the trek.

• Distance: Approx. 6–8 km
• Max Altitude: 3,050 m
• Activity: Guided exploration of Choquequirao

Day 3 | Choquequirao – Apurímac River – Cocamasana

After an early breakfast, we begin the return journey, a demanding but rewarding day.

The Experience

The trail descends once again toward the Apurímac River, retracing the dramatic canyon route.

This section highlights the scale of the landscape, with steep switchbacks and changing vegetation zones.

After reaching the river, the trek shifts immediately into a sustained ascent toward Cocamasana camp.

This climb is physically intense but offers increasingly wide views of the canyon as you gain elevation.

The Night

Arrive at camp for a well-earned rest, with time to recover and reflect on the journey so far.

• Distance: Approx. 14–16 km
• Lowest Altitude: ~1,550 m
• Terrain: Steep descent + long ascent

Day 4 | Cocamasana – Capuliyoc – Return to Cusco

The final day completes the ascent out of the canyon.

The Experience

We hike uphill toward Capuliyoc Pass, following the same ridgeline that marked the beginning of the trek.

Reaching the top offers a final panoramic view of the Apurímac Canyon, now from a completely different perspective after experiencing it from within.

After time to rest and take in the landscape, we continue to Cachora, where a well-deserved lunch awaits.

Before returning to Cusco, we visit the archaeological site of Saywite, known for its intricate carved stone believed to represent Inca hydraulic systems.

The Return

Private transport takes us back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

• Activity: Trekking + cultural visit
• Max Altitude: ~2,850 m
• Return to Cusco: Evening arrival