1. 4-Day Itinerary: For Adventurers with Limited Time
Ideal for: Travelers in good physical condition with only a few days available but seeking an intense experience.
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
- Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata
- Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
- Day 4: Marampata – Capuliyoc – Cusco
Features:
- Approximate total distance: 62 km
- Steep elevation gain, especially during the ascent to Marampata
- Accommodation in campsites
Description
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
The adventure begins with a drive from Cusco to the Capuliyoc viewpoint (2,900 m.a.s.l.), where the trek starts. From here, you descend along a scenic trail with breathtaking views of the Apurímac Canyon. After several hours of hiking and a steep descent, you reach the camp at Chiquisca, surrounded by warm weather and subtropical vegetation.
Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Marampata
The day begins early with a descent to Playa Rosalina, by the banks of the Apurímac River. Then a demanding ascent to Marampata (2,900 m.a.s.l.) begins, where campsites are set up. From here, you get your first impressive views of Choquequirao. The afternoon is free to rest and acclimate.
Day 3: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
This is the most anticipated day of the trip. You head towards the archaeological complex of Choquequirao, known as the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu.” You’ll explore the site calmly, enjoying its Inca architecture, terraces, temples, and spectacular views. Afterwards, you return to Marampata for the night.
Day 4: Marampata – Capuliyoc – Cusco
The day starts with a descent to Playa Rosalina and a final climb to Capuliyoc. There, transportation awaits to take you back to Cusco, closing this intense yet unforgettable experience connecting you with the deep history and nature of Peru.
Recommended for: People with trekking experience and good physical endurance.
2. 5-Day Itinerary: For Explorers Seeking a Deeper Experience
Ideal for: Travelers who want to explore Choquequirao at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Santa Rosa
- Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
- Day 3: Full exploration of Choquequirao
- Day 4: Marampata – Chiquisca
- Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
Features:
- Allows a more detailed visit to the archaeological complex
- Less time pressure compared to the 4-day itinerary
Description
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Santa Rosa
The day starts with a vehicle transfer from Cusco to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. From there, the descent begins toward Chiquisca and then to Santa Rosa, a challenging but beautiful section through the Apurímac Canyon. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and a warm climate ideal for trekking. Overnight camp at Santa Rosa.
Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao
The ascent to Marampata begins, where the landscape shifts to denser vegetation and stunning mountain views. After a short rest, the hike continues toward the Choquequirao archaeological complex, arriving in the afternoon for a first visit. Overnight near the ruins or in Marampata.
Day 3: Full Exploration of Choquequirao
A full day to explore Choquequirao, a hidden gem of the Inca Empire. Known for its size, ceremonial architecture, and low visitor numbers, it offers an intimate and magical experience. You’ll explore terraces, temples, ceremonial fountains, and residential areas, all surrounded by imposing mountains and a jungle setting.
Day 4: Marampata – Chiquisca
After a final glimpse of Choquequirao, the return begins with a descent from Marampata to Playa Rosalina and then to Chiquisca. The descent is demanding but rewards you with spectacular landscapes and a warm camp environment.
Day 5: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
On the last day of the expedition, you ascend from Chiquisca to Capuliyoc, where transportation back to Cusco awaits. A final trek that tests your endurance and concludes an unforgettable journey full of history, effort, and natural beauty.
Recommended for: Travelers who want to balance adventure with time for cultural exploration.
3. 7-Day Itinerary: For History and Nature Lovers
Ideal for: Travelers interested in connecting Choquequirao with other archaeological sites and experiencing Andean biodiversity.
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
- Day 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
- Day 3: Exploration of Choquequirao
- Day 4: Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal
- Day 5: Maizal – Yanama
- Day 6: Yanama – Lucmabamba
- Day 7: Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
Features:
Includes varied landscapes: cloud forest, valleys, and mountains.
Opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna.
Description
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
The journey begins with a transfer from Cusco to Capuliyoc. From there, descend through a spectacular canyon to Chiquisca, where you’ll camp surrounded by a subtropical environment and majestic views of the Apurímac Canyon.
Day 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
After crossing the Apurímac River, a challenging ascent begins toward Marampata, a resting point with direct views of Choquequirao. From there, continue toward the ruins for a first visit to the archaeological site. Overnight near Choquequirao.
Day 3: Exploration of Choquequirao
A full day dedicated to exploring Choquequirao, known as Machu Picchu’s “hidden brother.” This vast and mystical Inca complex features agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, and a unique energy in an almost untouched environment. Free afternoon to rest or keep exploring.
Day 4: Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal
The route becomes more demanding and remote. You descend into the deep, isolated valley of Río Blanco, then begin a steep climb through cloud forest to the camp at Maizal, a magical spot amid lush mountains.
Day 5: Maizal – Yanama
The day starts with a climb toward Victoria Pass, one of the highest points of the trek. Along the way, you’ll see ancient Inca mines and impressive views of glaciers and ravines. The trail then descends to Yanama, a small Andean village where you’ll spend the night.
Day 6: Yanama – Lucmabamba
A vehicle transfer takes you through the Yanama Pass down to Lucmabamba in the high jungle. Here the scenery changes dramatically, from high mountains to lush tropical vegetation, with coffee plantations, fruits, and rich biodiversity.
Day 7: Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
Final day of hiking along an original Inca Trail to the archaeological site of Llactapata, where you’ll get a distant view of Machu Picchu. Then, descend to the train station to reach Aguas Calientes, and finally return to Cusco by train, wrapping up an unforgettable Andean journey.
Recommended for: Nature and history lovers seeking a complete experience.
4. 9-Day Itinerary: For Adventurers Seeking the Full Experience
Ideal for: Travelers who want to combine a visit to Choquequirao with Machu Picchu, following ancient Inca trails.
- Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
- Day 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
- Day 3: Exploration of Choquequirao
- Day 4: Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal
- Day 5: Maizal – Yanama
- Day 6: Yanama – Totora
- Day 7: Totora – Lucmabamba
- Day 8: Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
- Day 9: Visit Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Features:
- Approximate total distance: 75 km
- Connection between two of Peru’s most important archaeological sites
- Immersive experience along the Inca Trail network (Qhapaq Ñan)
Description
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
Early departure from Cusco heading to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. Descend through the Apurímac Canyon until reaching Chiquisca, where you’ll spend the first night surrounded by a warm environment and spectacular scenery.
Day 2: Chiquisca – Marampata – Choquequirao
After crossing the Apurímac River, a challenging ascent leads you to Marampata, with increasingly impressive views. From there, continue toward the majestic archaeological site of Choquequirao, camping near the ruins.
Day 3: Exploration of Choquequirao
A full day to calmly explore Choquequirao, known for its grandeur, ceremonial architecture, and mystical atmosphere. Few tourists visit, allowing for a more intimate connection with this sacred site.
Day 4: Choquequirao – Río Blanco – Maizal
Descend into the remote, steep valley of Río Blanco, crossing cloud forest and rarely traveled areas. Then, ascend to Maizal, a magical campsite surrounded by jungle and mountains.
Day 5: Maizal – Yanama
The trek continues uphill to Victoria Pass, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and ancient Inca trails. Descend afterward to the peaceful village of Yanama, located at the foot of snowy peaks.
Day 6: Yanama – Totora
Continue the trail through deep valleys and mountains until reaching Totora, an Andean community surrounded by lush nature. Here, the landscape begins transitioning toward the cloud forest.
Day 7: Totora – Lucmabamba
Descend into the warm valley of Lucmabamba, a region rich in vegetation and coffee plantations. Here you can enjoy a cultural experience with local coffee growers before heading toward Machu Picchu.
Day 8: Lucmabamba – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes
Walk along part of the original Inca Trail until reaching Hidroelectrica, then either board the train or continue on foot to Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu. Overnight at a hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 9: Visit Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
End the adventure with a guided tour of the mystical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Later, return to Cusco by train, heart filled with unforgettable memories.
Recommended for: Adventurers in good physical condition and with time available for an in-depth experience.
General Tips for All Itineraries
- Best time to travel: Between April and October (dry season)
- Physical preparation: Do prior hikes and cardiovascular exercises
- Essential gear: Trekking boots, waterproof clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and trekking poles
- Altitude: Choquequirao is located over 3,000 meters above sea level; it is advisable to acclimate in Cusco beforehand
- Guides and agencies: Hiring a specialized trekking guide can greatly enrich your experience