Trekking in Choquequirao

The impressive Inca citadel of Choquequirao is an important point for adventure tourism and extreme sports. Trekking in this area will allow you to discover various tourist attractions that you will never forget.

Photo: samtravelperu

The Inca citadel of Choquequirao is located in the Apurímac canyon, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters above sea level. It is located in the province of La Convención, department of Cusco. It is known as the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu” due to its resemblance in design and ceremonial architecture.

Where it takes place

The route starts from the town of Cachora, which is accessed by leaving Cusco on the road towards Abancay. The adventure begins here, eventually reaching the citadel of Choquequirao.

Route

First Day: Cusco - Cachora - Playa Rosalina

It starts early in the morning from Cusco by car to Cachora. From this point, located at over 3,400 meters above sea level, the trek begins. In the first stretch, you can appreciate beautiful Andean landscapes, passing by the Mirador de Capuliyoq, where you can see the Choquequirao citadel in the distance. Then, the path continues downhill to Playa Rosalina where the first camp is set up. This place is located at about 1,500 meters above sea level. This first stretch covers a distance of 18 kilometers, completed in 7 to 8 hours.

Second Day: Playa Rosalina - Santa Rosa - Marampata - Choquequirao

On this second day, the path ascends to Santa Rosa, located at 2,100 meters above sea level. Then, the journey continues passing through Marampampa, until reaching the destination Choquequirao at 3,035 meters above sea level. This is the second campsite. This is the most demanding day as most of the path is uphill, lasting between 6 to 7 hours, covering a total of 13 kilometers.

Third Day: Choquequirao - Chiquisqa

This is the day to explore the impressive Choquequirao citadel, then the return journey begins. You reach the town of Chiquisqa, where the third camp is set up. This is the simplest day of walking, downhill, covering 14 kilometers in 5 to 6 hours.

Fourth Day: Chiquisqa - Cachora - Cusco

Finally, on the fourth day of adventure, the return journey to Cachora begins, following the same route as the first day. The trek lasts between 5 to 6 hours.

Photo: iletours

Level

This trek is suitable for individuals with an intermediate level in this sport, requiring a good physical condition.

Distance

This adventure covers a distance of 60 kilometers.

Time

This journey lasts for 4 days and 3 nights.

Season

The best season to trek to Choquequirao is between April and November. It is a dry season with favorable weather for this adventure.

Video: Inka Jungle Tour

What to bring

• Sleeping bag.
• Trekking shoes.
• Backpack with necessary personal items.
• Multi-tool knife.
• Altitude sickness pills.
• Antivenom serum.
• Water purification tablets.
• Bottled water.
• Warm jacket.
• First aid kit.
• Trekking poles.

Recommendations

Experience this great adventure by hiring a specialized tourism agency to provide this service. Prices range from 300 to 500 dollars, depending on the packages, inclusions, etc.