This four-day expedition is the most direct and physically demanding way to reach Choquequirao, one of the largest and least-visited Inca archaeological sites in Peru.
Unlike longer itineraries, this route condenses the journey into a powerful out-and-back experience, descending deep into the Apurímac Canyon and climbing back out after exploring the remote citadel.
It’s a trek defined by extreme geography, sustained elevation changes, and total immersion in raw Andean landscapes.
Designed for travelers with strong fitness and limited time, this itinerary delivers the essence of Choquequirao in its purest form: challenging, remote, and incredibly rewarding.
From the canyon’s dry, sun-exposed slopes to the hidden terraces of Choquequirao, this journey reveals one of the last truly uncrowded trekking routes in the Andes.
The route follows a steep descent into the Apurímac Canyon before climbing to Choquequirao, often described as a “hidden gem” with far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Transportation & Logistics
Access & Discovery
Accommodations & Mountain Dining
Porterage & Safety
This is a challenging 4-day trek with steep terrain and long hiking days.
The route involves significant ascents and descents, often on narrow mountain trails, with limited flat sections. Despite being shorter in duration, the intensity makes it physically demanding.
Good physical condition and prior trekking experience are strongly recommended. This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a rewarding and less crowded alternative to Machu Picchu routes.
You’ll be trekking through varied terrain and conditions, so packing efficiently is essential:
Your main duffel is carried by the support team, allowing you to hike with just your daily essentials.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This ensures better pacing on a demanding route, more personalized support, and a more controlled experience in remote conditions.
Although this trek reaches lower altitudes than some other routes, acclimatization is still important.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting. This will help your body adjust and improve your overall performance 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.
Given the steep and demanding nature of this trek, this is a highly recommended option for added comfort.
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 brings extensive experience in remote expeditions, with a strong focus on safety, logistics, and high-quality service.
This ensures a reliable and well-organized experience on one of Peru’s most demanding routes.
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
