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Embark on an incredible 5 day choquequirao trek to the mystical and mysterious Inca ruins of Choquequirao. Located in the seclusion of the cloud forest at the top of the Apurimac Valley in the Cusco region, this off-the-beaten-path hike is an alternative to the Inca Trail. Dubbed the “twin sister of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is believed to be the legendary last city of the Incas and is larger. This challenging but rewarding experience will take you through rugged farmland and the deep Apurimac Canyon, where you may even spot a few condors soaring through the skies. Arrive at the majestic “Cradle of Gold” and explore the lost city of the Incas. This incredible trek to Choquequirao Trek 5 days is indeed for the more fit and experienced hikers since it’s harder to reach compared to Machu Picchu. However, it’s worth every penny because you’ll experience a whole package of microclimates and the extraordinary scenery Peru has to offer.

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a drive from Cusco to Capuliyoc, a scenic lookout point offering breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon. After a brief stop, we begin our descent along a winding trail, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning mountain landscapes. Along the way, we might spot native wildlife, including condors soaring above the canyon.
After approximately four hours of hiking, we reach Playa Rosalina (1,550 m/5,085 ft), where we set up camp for the night near the riverbank. Here, we enjoy a well-deserved dinner under the starry Andean sky.
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After a hearty breakfast, we begin the most challenging climb of the trek. We ascend through lush cloud forests and terraced farmlands, passing small villages where local farmers cultivate maize and other crops. The views become more dramatic as we gain altitude, revealing the depths of the canyon below.
After approximately five hours of hiking, we arrive at Marampata (2,850 m/9,350 ft), a peaceful Andean village overlooking the Choquequirao ruins. We settle into our campsite and enjoy a well-earned rest while admiring the breathtaking sunset over the valley.
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Today, we embark on a short hike toward the main attraction: the Choquequirao archaeological site (3,050 m/10,006 ft). Known as the “Cradle of Gold,” this ancient Incan city remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism, providing an intimate exploration experience.
We spend the day discovering Choquequirao’s terraces, temples, and ceremonial platforms. Our guide will share insights into its historical significance and the similarities with Machu Picchu. After a full day of exploration, we set up camp near the site, allowing us to experience its mystique under the moonlight.
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We wake up early to witness the sunrise over Choquequirao before beginning our descent back to Marampata. The morning hike provides one last opportunity to admire the spectacular canyon views. After reaching Marampata, we continue downhill toward Playa Rosalina, retracing our steps through the lush valley.
Upon arrival at our riverside campsite, we enjoy a final evening in the wilderness, reminiscing about the incredible journey we’ve undertaken.
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Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Our last day begins with an early breakfast before tackling the final ascent back to Capuliyoc. The trail offers stunning farewell views of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding peaks. Once we reach Capuliyoc, we enjoy a well-deserved break before taking our private transport back to Cusco, where our adventure concludes.
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This immersive journey to Choquequirao is perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Incluyed treks
Not Included trek 5 days to Choquequirao
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2026 through January 2027. All prices quoted are in $USD
Important: Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need for extra Porter hire!). Discounts:
As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator, we provide you with a duffle bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra horse who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing.
Choquequirao Trek is a multi-day trekking route, the most popular are 5 and 4 days, which leads to the ancient Inca ruins of Choquequirao, in Cusco, Peru. Along the route, there are several lodging options, from campsites to rustic lodges. Here are some of the main types of accommodation you can find along the Choquequirao route:
In general, the type of accommodation you choose will depend on your budget, your preferences and the tour company you are traveling with. Be sure to look for options in advance and book early, especially in high season
Food is an important factor when planning a multi-day trek like Choquequirao. You will need to make sure that you have enough energy to sustain you throughout the trip, and that you are able to stay hydrated and nourished along the way.
Be aware of dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to let your guide or lodge hosts know in advance. They may be able to accommodate your needs, but it is always best to be proactive.
Physical Preparation:
The Choquequirao Trek 5 days is a demanding hike that requires good physical condition. We recommend training with cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and regular hikes to build endurance.
Altitude Considerations:
The trek reaches elevations of over 3,000 m (10,000 ft), so acclimatization is essential. Spend at least two days in Cusco before the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before your hike.
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This trail is 64 kilometers long, starts at an altitude of 2,900 meters and reaches a summit of 3,050 meters. Although there is only one trail to follow, it can be divided into a four-day trip. Here is the most used route, and also the possibility of 3 and 5 days.
Hiking the Choquequirao Trek without a guide is a great option if you are looking to save money and enjoy the thrill of hiking alone. The Classic Route of the trail is very well marked, so you will never get lost. You can move at your own pace and enjoy the scenery.
Although you also have the option to do it with a travel agency to go safer and also learn more about the Inca culture and gastronomy.
Trekking is the only way to access the ancient Inca settlement of Choquequirao. You can hire a guide and some pack mules in the village of cachora to transport additional supplies. To reach the archaeological site you need two days of complete trekking, and the total trek takes four days. and the most relaxing and ideal is 5 days.
Choquequirao is an ancient site nestled in the Vilcabamba mountain range in southern Peru. Travelers must endure a two-day hike to reach the site from the town of cachora and are rewarded with a more well-preserved, remote, and expansive site than Machu Picchu. it will be totally worth it.
To visit the Inca archaeological site of Choquequirao located in Peru’s Cusco region,
you will need the following: Travel documents (valid passport and visa depending on nationality), Physical fitness (the hike is strenuous and involves steep ascents and descents), Hiking permit (can be acquired from Ministry of Culture in Cusco or authorized tour operator), Experienced guide (can be hired through a tour operator or found in Cusco or Cachora town), Trekking equipment (tent, sleeping bag, warm clothes, good footwear – can be rented or brought on your own; food and bedding can be found along the trek), Acclimatization (spend a few days in Cusco to adjust to the high altitude).
Research and plan ahead for this remote and difficult destination.
The best time to hike Choquequirao in Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. At this time, the weather is usually sunny and dry, with low humidity and almost no rain. The dry season also coincides with Peru’s peak tourist season, so the trail can be quite crowded at this time.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit Choquequirao in the April or October seasons, when the weather is still relatively dry but there are fewer tourists on the trail. However, you should be aware that the weather can be unpredictable and there is a possibility of rain during these months.
It is not recommended to visit Choquequirao during the rainy season, from December to March, as heavy rains can make the trail muddy, slippery, and difficult to walk. In addition, the trail may be closed during this time for safety reasons.
Choquequirao is located in the Andes Mountains in Peru, and the area is home to a great variety of animal species. Some of the animals that can be found in Choquequirao and its surroundings are:
The Choquequirao is 3050 masl , located between the jungle and highland. Choquequirao trek days 5 days will see diferent constructions such as the terraces of the llamas , the main temple , the platform of ceremonies, the water fountains , the storagefood , inca house
It has been estimated that Choquequirao was built around 1536, likely by Inca Pachacutec, with his son Tupac Inca Yupanqui being the one who had it constructed. This Inca site has striking similarities to Machu Picchu, leading to speculation that it was founded by Pachacutec.
Choquequirao is situated in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at an elevation of about 3,050 meters (10,010 feet). It typically has a mild and temperate climate with daily temperatures usually around 20°C (68°F). At night, the temperature drops to about 5°C (41°F). The rainy season in Choquequirao usually runs from November to March with January and February being the rainiest months. There can be heavy downpours and sometimes flooding during this season. From April to October is the dry season with June to August being the coolest and driest. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and cool, making it a great time for outdoor activities. Before planning a trip to C
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Posted on Karla Nayeli FVerified La mejor agencia para realizar viajes. si estas buscando una publicación para que te confirme que esta agencia NO es un fraude, aquí esta.Viajamos con Go treck peru, por 8 días, en todo momento estuvo al pendiente de nosotros, todo lo que nos mandaron se cumplió al pie de la letra y al final de nuestro viaje nos despidieron con un regalito. Realmente nos vamos muy satisfechos de a verlos contratado valió totalmente el costo.La comida ExcelenteLos lugares para dormir: De lujoLa atención y explicación de cada lugar: excelenteNo toco el clima con un poco de lluvia, pero aun así estuvo increíble los paisajes.Por cierto, Puma es un excelente guía, Mi futuro esposo decidió declararse en este viaje y el nos ayudó en todo momento, también le pedimos apoyo porque era el cumpleaños de mi novio y el Chef nos hizo un pastel casero!!!La verdad que la experiencia fue de lo más increíble y todo de lujo.Posted on Mario LVerified Increíble experiencia Hice la caminata de Salkantay a Machu Picchu y tuve a Puma como guía, honestamente un 5 / 5 recto. Es uno de los guías más divertidos que he conocido y mantuvo a todo el grupo riendo durante todo el viaje. Al mismo tiempo, es increíblemente apasionado por su cultura y compartió tanto conocimiento e historia con nosotros en el camino. Se nota que realmente se preocupa por lo que hace. Recomendaría Puma a absolutamente cualquiera que haga esta excursión. Hizo que la experiencia fuera inolvidable.Posted on Jonathan WVerified Lo más destacado de mi viaje a Perú - El Salkantay Trek con Puma fue realmente especial! Hice el Salkantay Trek de 5 días, y fue una experiencia inolvidable! Nuestro guía, Puma, fue absolutamente increíble: conocedor, apasionado y profundamente conectado con la historia y las tradiciones de la región. Fue más allá para asegurarse de que todos en nuestro grupo estuvieran cómodos, especialmente mi mamá, ajustando el ritmo para que nadie se quedara atrás e incluso ofreciéndose a llevar su mochila en algunas de las secciones más empinadas. Todo el viaje estuvo lleno de paisajes impresionantes, fascinantes perspectivas de la cultura inca y peruana, y gran camaradería dentro de nuestro grupo de 8 personas. El entusiasmo y el cuidado de Puma realmente hicieron que el viaje fuera especial. Recomiendo encarecidamente esta experiencia a cualquier persona que ama el senderismo y quiere ir en una aventura con un guía que realmente va más allá!Posted on Niklas SVerified Caminata de 5 días ¡Puma es la mejor guía! Él es realmente cariñoso y también muy divertido! Tuve un viaje increíble con él! También por supuesto vistas increíbles, naturaleza y aves ; )Posted on SarahVerified Valle Sagrado y Camino Inca Corto Increíble Valle Sagrado y Camino Inca Corto con Tomás como guía. Él estaba muy bien informado e hizo el viaje especial. Desde el punto de reserva a través de WhatsApp con Kwanele, la comunicación fue excelente. Sin duda recomendaría esta empresa.Posted on Kayleigh VVerified El mejor momento con Puma en el salkantay de 5 días! Tuve un gran viaje de 5 días Salkantay con Puma. Sinceramente uno de los mejores guías que he tenido en una caminata (haber hecho el circuito de Annapurna, W - trek, etc). ¿Por qué? Porque está muy atento y bien preparado, organizado con la información que necesita a medida que comienza esta aventura - y se actualiza un par de veces a lo largo del día sobre qué esperar y qué traer, etc. Serio cuando es necesario, y apasionado por la historia, la naturaleza y la cultura, lo que hace que el viaje sea tan interesante. ¡Pero! Luego también flexibilidad y humor, un tipo feliz al que le gusta mucho su trabajo y le gusta asegurarse de que lo pasamos bien. 5 / 5 seguro. Todo fue increíble y tuvimos lluvia, nieve, partes difíciles en la caminata, pero eso no importaba que fuera impresionante y, por supuesto, nuestro postre era un Macchu Picchu soleado y eso es un placer tan especial siempre, pero aún más después de trabajar hasta allí durante unos días. Puma es increíble, así que sin duda reservar con él si usted está buscando un viaje bien organizado, interesante y divertido!Posted on JoostVerified Ga dit doen!! Ik had niet beter kunnen wensen! Allereerst mijn tourguide: Puma. Wat een geweldige gast is dat. Direct een vriend voor het leven erbij. Optimisme ten top, de rust zelfde en enorm enthousiast over zijn werk. Echt een geweldig mens. Dikke aanrader!De wandelingen beginnen erg vroeg en kunnen lang en uitdagend zijn maar dat hoort bij de trek. Met een voldaan gevoel naar bed in de avond! Het ontbijt, de lunch en avondeten waren voortreffelijk; er waren telkens 3 koks mee welke heel vriendelijk zijn en echt geweldig kookten. Enorm genoten van alles. Er was altijd meer dan genoeg.De accomodaties zijn belachelijk goed. Super luxe en misschien wel té goed. Toch ervaarde ik als een beloning op een zware dag wandelen en hiken. Het is een toeristische tocht maar niet over toeristisch: precies goed. De organisatie heeft alles geregeld, letterlijk van begin tot eind. Alles was inclusief. Het kan een prijzige tour zijn, maar wat mij betreft was het elke euro/soles waard.Puma thank you so much Wayki❤️Posted on ALLAN DVerified Trekking de 7 dias até Machu Picchu Tive uma experiência excelente com Puma na minha caminhada até Machu Picchu. Além de ser extremamente preciso com as informações e horários, Puma também é muito divertido e conhecedor dos caminhos, além de ser visivelmente respeitado pela população local. Ele é um ser humano diferenciado. Foi um prazer ter tido essa experiência, recomendo a GoTreks para todos que desejam conhecer mais sobre a história do PeruPosted on Jessica SVerified Increíble experiencia! Hicimos el camino inca de 2 días con Puma como guía. Todo estaba perfectamente organizado - a partir de la información en nuestro hotel, el viaje a la estación de tren, toda la información sobre Machu Picchu, el hotel, el almuerzo, la cena y, por último, pero no menos importante, la caminata en sí! Nos divertimos mucho durante estos 2 días! Puma siempre fue súper amable, atento y también muy divertido. Disfrutamos de cada minuto y recomendaría absolutamente hacer este tour con GoTreks!Posted on H MVerified Son los mejores!! Cada detalle fue perfecto, toda la logística de los viajes; muy acertado. Mi esposo y yo disfrutamos de un sueño; que gracias a: Puma, Nilo, Elvis, Junior y john , se hizo realidad. 💯 recomendados!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
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