Trek to Choquequirao 4 days

Trek to Choquequirao 4 Days Review: An Authentic Inca Adventure

This four-day trek to Choquequirao offers a rewarding journey to one of the last remaining Inca sites, often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu.” It’s not just a walk through beautiful scenery; it’s a challenge reserved for those who crave authentic exploration and a taste of remote Peruvian wilderness. From exploring ancient ruins to experiencing local culture, this tour packs a punch for adventurous spirits eager to go beyond the beaten path.

One thing that stands out about this experience is how well it balances roughing it with comfort. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the tough sections more manageable. The food is surprisingly good considering the rustic setting, and the views are genuinely spectacular, especially when overlooking the Apurímac River canyon. However, keep in mind that this trek is strenuous and involves several challenging ascents and descents, so it’s best suited for fit travelers comfortable with physical exertion.

If you love historical sites, stunning landscapes, and don’t mind a physically demanding journey, this trek is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal if you’re craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure that offers much more than just sightseeing — it’s a real immersion into Peru’s wilderness and ancient history. Now, let’s break down what you can expect on this four-day journey.

Key Points

• Challenging but Rewarding: A strenuous trek suitable for fit adventurers who want to experience remote Inca ruins.
• Authentic Cultural Interaction: Opportunity to interact with locals and taste regional drinks like sugar cane liquor.
• Expert Guides & Good Food: Guides like Hernán and cooks ensure you are well cared for throughout the trek.
• Spectacular Views: Expect breathtaking vistas of mountains, valleys, and the impressive Apurímac Canyon.
• Comfort in Simplicity: Personal tents, biodegradable toilets, and well-organized camp facilities make the camping experience comfortable despite the rugged environment.
• Flexible Payment & Small Groups: Book now, pay later, with small groups limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Adventure

Day 1: Cusco to Santa Rosa — The Start of the Challenge

Your day begins early, with a 5 am pickup in Cusco, setting the tone for an adventure that won’t wait. After a three-hour drive to Curawasi, you’ll stop for breakfast, fueling up for the journey ahead. The next leg takes about an hour to the Capuliyoc Viewpoint, where the real descent begins.

From here, you’ll start descending for approximately three hours toward Chiquisca. This part of the trek is beautiful but demanding—expect rugged paths and varied terrain. The cooks will be ready with a hearty lunch, which you’ll enjoy by the river at Playa Rosalinas, a perfect spot to rest and soak in the scenery. After lunch, the path turns uphill again for about two hours to the Santa Rosa camp, where you’ll set up tents, share stories over dinner, and get a good night’s sleep.

What makes this day special? The transition from the bustling city of Cusco to the tranquil river valleys sets the mood for the entire trip—an immersion into Peru’s natural beauty and ancient routes.

Day 2: The Heart of the Trek — Choquequirao & Mysterious Ruins

Waking up early, you’ll start with a hot coca tea before breakfast, preparing for the day’s biggest highlight: visiting Choquequirao. After a two-hour uphill walk to Maranpata, your guides, like Hernán, will start setting up for lunch while you explore the site. The walk into Choquequirao is about 30 minutes, but the experience is much longer in terms of history and awe.

The archaeological site is full of terraces, ceremonial plazas, warehouses, and houses—truly a hidden gem for archaeology enthusiasts. Your guide will explain the significance of every stone, helping you appreciate why Choquequirao remains more mysterious than its popular neighbor, Machu Picchu. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own, take photos, and soak in the tranquility away from crowds.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Maranpata for dinner, sharing stories of the day’s discoveries. The camp’s remote setting adds to the sense of adventure and discovery.

Why you’ll love it: The guides’ local knowledge brings the ruins alive, giving you a deeper understanding of Inca history, while the peaceful atmosphere makes it feel like your own private archaeological site.

Day 3: Descent to the Apurímac River & Return Route

This day is all about contrasting landscapes. After breakfast, you’ll descend roughly three hours to reach the Apurímac River canyon, a stunning natural marvel. Here, you’ll spend some time relaxing by the river, appreciating the raw power of nature.

A delicious lunch prepared by the chefs is followed by a two-hour climb to Chiquisca, where you can interact with locals and try regional sugar cane drinks. This section offers a taste of local life, far from tourist hotspots. The camp in Chiquisca feels welcoming, and it’s a chance to experience the simplicity and warmth of rural Peru.

Authentic moments: Several reviews mention the friendliness of the local guides and the chance to taste traditional drinks, making this part of the trek feel especially genuine.

Day 4: The Final Ascent — Back to the Viewpoint & Cusco

The last day kicks off at dawn, with a four-hour uphill walk back to Mirador Capuliyoc. The early start is worth it, as you’ll avoid the heat of midday and enjoy the sunrise over the mountains. Once at the viewpoint, you can relax, breathe in the scenery, and enjoy a well-earned lunch.

From there, it’s a car ride back to Cusco, arriving around 4:30 pm. Reflecting on the journey, it’s clear that this trek is not just about reaching a destination but about the experience—challenging, scenic, and deeply rewarding.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour’s value is quite good at $364 per person, especially considering the logistics involved. Included are transport, entrance fees, personal tents (for two people), inflatable sleeping mats, a canvas bag for belongings, and all meals (except breakfast on day one and the last lunch). The guides, chef, and support staff ensure you’re well looked after, with vegetarian options available.

The small group size—limited to 15—means personalized attention and a more intimate experience. The professional English-speaking guide (like Hernán, who many reviews praise) adds clarity and depth to the journey.

However, the physical challenge cannot be overstated. The route involves steep ascents and descents, and the trek is classified as one of the hardest in Cusco. If you’re not used to hiking or have mobility issues, this might be tough.

The accommodation is rustic camping, with biodegradable toilets and camp facilities. Don’t expect luxury, but the setup is comfortable enough for an outdoor adventure, and the experience of camping under the stars adds to the charm.

Authenticity & Unique Experiences

One of the main draws of this trek is its remote setting. You’re not just visiting a famous site; you’re living part of the route that the Incas themselves might have walked. The chance to interact with local communities in Chiquisca and try regional sugar cane drinks provides an authentic cultural touch. Several reviewers mention how friendly and welcoming the locals are, which enriches the overall experience.

The guides’ expertise is evident, often sharing stories and insights that elevate the visit beyond simple sightseeing. The fact that they’re bilingual helps non-Spanish speakers appreciate the history and significance of each site.

The meals deserve a special mention; despite the remote location, the chef prepares tasty, filling food, including vegetarian options, which is a thoughtful touch for diverse dietary needs.

Practical Tips for Future Trekkers

• Be prepared for strenuous activity—this trek isn’t for the faint-hearted. Good physical condition is recommended.
• Carry comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes and layered clothing for variable weather.
• Bring personal essentials like a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle (water is refilled with filtered boiled water).
• The early start on day 4 means packing your gear the night before to save time in the morning.
• Respect the environment and local communities by following eco-friendly practices and avoiding littering.
• Make sure you’re comfortable with camping and outdoor living for a seamless experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Trek For?

This four-day Choquequirao trek offers a true adventure for those craving a physical challenge combined with cultural discovery. If you’re a fit traveler willing to push your limits, you’ll find this journey incredibly rewarding. It’s perfect for history buffs and nature lovers who appreciate quiet, off-the-beaten-path sites. The experience is also a great choice for travelers who want to escape crowds and enjoy Peru’s rugged beauty.

While it demands effort, the stunning vistas, welcoming guides, and sense of accomplishment make it well worth it. The inclusion of expert local guides, tasty meals, and camping facilities ensure you’re supported throughout this demanding but memorable trek.

If you’re looking for a more secluded, authentic, and physically engaging adventure in Peru, this trek to Choquequirao fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No, this trek is considered one of the hardest in Cusco and involves significant uphill and downhill sections. It’s best suited for those with good physical fitness and hiking experience.

What’s included in the price?
The $364 fee covers transport, entrance fees, personal tents for two, inflatable sleeping mats, a canvas bag for belongings, meals, a professional guide, chef, support staff, and support animals.

Are vegetarian or special diets available?
Yes, vegetarian and other special menus are provided at no extra cost.

What should I pack?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal essentials, and a water bottle (water is provided during the trek).

How many people are in the group?
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?
No, personal tents and inflatable mats are provided as part of the tour package.

What is the best time to do this trek?
While the exact starting times vary, it’s advisable to check availability and consider weather conditions in the Cusco region.

Can I join this trek if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, the tour features an English-speaking guide, making communication easy for non-Spanish speakers.

In summary, this 4-day Choquequirao trek offers a challenging but deeply rewarding journey into the heart of Inca history and Peruvian wilderness. With expert guides, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a perfect choice for adventurers eager to go beyond the typical tourist trail and truly connect with Peru’s rugged beauty.