Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca

Into the Apurímac Canyon

We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 AM and drive to Capuliyoc (2,900m), where you enjoy your first panoramic views of the dramatic Apurímac Canyon.

The trail descends in zig-zag fashion into the canyon, gradually increasing in temperature as you lose altitude. The scenery shifts from high Andean landscapes to a warmer, drier canyon environment.

You arrive at Chiquisca (1,900m), an oasis surrounded by fruit trees such as chirimoyas. Here we set up camp and rest for the night.

Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles (Downhill)
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Camping at Chiquisca (Warm climate)

Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata

The Great Ascent

After breakfast, we descend slightly to Playa Rosalina (1,550m) to cross the Apurímac River. From here begins the most physically demanding section of the trek: the steep ascent to Marampata (2,850m).

This long uphill hike requires steady pacing. We take regular breaks while enjoying increasingly impressive views of the canyon and the snow-capped peaks beyond.

Upon reaching Marampata, we enjoy lunch with a direct panoramic view of the Choquequirao ruins across the gorge.

Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles (Steep Uphill)
Difficulty: Hard
Accommodation: Camping at Marampata (Epic views of the ruins)

Day 3: Full Day Exploration of Choquequirao

The Lost City Revealed

Today is the highlight of the 5-day expedition.

We hike from Marampata to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex and dedicate the entire day to exploration.

In the morning, we visit:

• The Main Plaza

• The Usno (Ceremonial Platform)

• Upper temples and residential sectors

In the afternoon, we descend to Sector VIII, the famous Llama Terraces — agricultural terraces decorated with white stone llama figures built into the walls. We also explore the Ritual Baths and lesser-visited sectors that most 4-day groups do not have time to reach.

We aim to camp at the Choquequirao campsite (subject to seasonal water availability) or return to Marampata for the night.

Activity: Full archaeological exploration
Difficulty: Moderate (Exploration day)
Accommodation: Camping at Choquequirao Campsite or Marampata

Day 4: Choquequirao – Playa Rosalina – Chiquisca

The Canyon Descent

After breakfast near the ruins, we begin our return journey. We descend back toward Playa Rosalina, crossing the Apurímac River once more.

The downhill section can be demanding on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended.

From the river, we ascend slightly to Chiquisca for our final camping night in the canyon.

Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (Downhill impact)
Accommodation: Camping at Chiquisca

Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco

The Final Push

We wake up early for the final ascent out of the canyon toward Capuliyoc. This steady uphill climb is challenging but rewarding.

At the top, we enjoy a farewell lunch with spectacular views of the Padreyoc snow peak and the canyon we have just conquered.

We then board our private transport back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.

Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 miles (Uphill)
Difficulty: Moderate
Return: Private van to Cusco