Choquequirao is often called the "sister of Machu Picchu" — a vast, terraced Inca city perched high above the Apurímac Canyon. What makes it special is also what makes it hard: it can only be reached on foot, by a trail that plunges into one of the deepest canyons in the Americas and climbs steeply out the other side. If you are wondering how difficult the Choquequirao Trek really is, here is an honest breakdown and how to prepare.

The short answer: challenging but achievable

The Choquequirao Trek is genuinely demanding — most operators rate it strenuous. The difficulty comes not from extreme altitude, but from massive elevation changes: you descend roughly 1,500 metres into the Apurímac Canyon and then climb a similar amount back up to reach the ruins, often in heat. With the right training, pacing and support, fit and determined hikers complete it and find it hugely rewarding. The reward is solitude — far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu.

What makes it hard

Relentless ups and downs. The classic 4-day out-and-back route drops from around 3,000 m at Capuliyoc down to the Apurímac River near 1,500 m, then climbs back up to Choquequirao at about 3,050 m. You repeat much of this on the return. These are long, steep gradients on exposed switchbacks.

Heat at the canyon bottom. Unlike high cold treks, the lower canyon can be hot and dry, which adds to fatigue. Hydration and an early start matter.

Remoteness. There are no roads, shops or quick exits. You are committed once you begin, supported by your guide, cook and pack animals.

Trail surface. The path is well-trodden but narrow and dusty, with loose sections on the steep descents that test the knees.

How it compares to other treks

Choquequirao is often considered tougher underfoot than the classic Inca Trail because of the sheer vertical relief, even though its highest point is lower. It is less about altitude sickness and more about sustained leg and cardiovascular effort. Many trekkers who have done both say Choquequirao was physically harder but uniquely rewarding for its emptiness and grandeur.

How to prepare

Train your legs and cardio. In the weeks before, build up hill walking, stair climbing and longer day hikes. Downhill strength matters as much as uphill — practice descents to prepare your knees.

Acclimatize in Cusco. Although the trek dips low, you start high, so spend two to three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley first.

Use trekking poles. They dramatically reduce strain on the knees during the long descents and help on the climbs.

Hydrate and start early. Carry plenty of water, drink steadily, and take advantage of cooler morning hours for the big climbs.

Pack light but smart. Pack animals usually carry the main gear; keep your daypack light with water, snacks, sun protection and layers.

What you will see

The effort buys you something extraordinary: a sprawling Inca complex of plazas, temples, aqueducts and the famous llama terraces, often with the site nearly to yourself. The canyon scenery on the way — soaring walls, the rushing Apurímac, and condors overhead — is a spectacle in its own right.

Frequently asked questions

How many days is the Choquequirao Trek? The classic route is typically 4 days out-and-back from Cachora. Longer 5 to 8-day itineraries continue on toward Machu Picchu.

Is Choquequirao harder than the Inca Trail? Many find it physically harder due to the huge canyon descents and climbs, though it has less extreme altitude. Both are very achievable for prepared, fit hikers.

Do I need to be very fit? You need good fitness and especially strong legs for the descents and climbs. With a few weeks of hill training and trekking poles, determined beginners with solid fitness can do it.

Is there altitude sickness on the Choquequirao Trek? Altitude is moderate compared with some treks, but you still start high, so acclimatize in Cusco first and pace yourself.

Ready for the road less travelled?

Choquequirao rewards trekkers who train for its canyon and respect its remoteness with one of the most awe-inspiring and uncrowded Inca experiences in Peru. Prepare your legs, pack smart and go with a team that knows the canyon. Explore our guided Choquequirao treks, and we will handle the logistics, pack animals and route so you can focus on the climb and the wonder waiting at the top.