9 Days Adventure
Medium
12 people
Cusco - Perú
Starting from the impressive Inca city of Choquequirao — often called the sister citadel of Machu Picchu — this 9-day Choquequirao Trek Peru offers the perfect combination of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
This challenging and rewarding trek provides deep insight into the lives of the last Incas while showcasing spectacular views of deep valleys, high mountain passes, and snow-capped peaks along the way. Choquequirao remains one of Peru’s least-visited major archaeological sites — while thousands of travelers reach Machu Picchu every day, only a small fraction ever make it to Choquequirao, so much of the trail is still yours alone.
The name Choquequirao means «Cradle of Gold.» As you travel through this remote region, you’ll pass through an area rich in ancient history, once known for its silver and gold mines, stretching all the way to Yanama.
The Choquequirao Trek Peru route is an excellent alternative way to reach Machu Picchu, taking you through dramatic Andean mountains and pristine valleys far from the crowds of the Classic Inca Trail. If you’d rather hike the traditional Inca Trail instead, our Classic 4-Day Inca Trail follows the original Inca stonework straight to the Sun Gate. Our Choquequirao campsites are carefully selected to maximize comfort and immerse you in the powerful beauty of nature — and, like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is part of Peru’s broader network of protected Inca heritage recognized by UNESCO.
Every day of the Choquequirao Trek Peru offers unforgettable scenery and a true connection with the Andes. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience — remote, demanding, and unlike anything else on Peru’s more crowded routes.
We’ll meet you one day before your trek begins, at your hotel in Cusco, for a personal pre-trek briefing. Your guide will walk you through what to pack, how to prepare physically for the altitude and terrain, and what to expect each day on the trail — answering any questions you have before you set out. Our goal is for you to begin your Choquequirao Trek Peru adventure confident, well-prepared, and ready for the days ahead.
Your Choquequirao Trek Peru adventure begins with a 4-hour drive by tourist bus from Cusco to the community of Cachora. From Cachora, you’ll continue to Capuliyoc — the starting point of the trek toward the Apurímac Valley.
The trail leads downhill along a zigzag route, with wonderful views over the Padriyoc mountains and a rich diversity of plants and birds all the way toward Choquequirao. After about an hour and a half, you’ll stop for lunch above the Apurímac River at the famous Chikisca.
From there, you’ll continue descending to reach the Apurímac River, also known as Playa Rosalinda. After crossing a bridge, you’ll climb for about 2 hours along a zigzag path to reach your campsite in Rosaspata Baja, with a breathtaking view over the Apurímac Valley.
Day 1 Trek Details:
