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Xtreme Tourbulencia > Choquequirao Trek > The Short Choquequirao Route 4 Days & 3 Nights

The Short Choquequirao Route 4 Days & 3 Nights

If you enjoy physically hard experiences, unspoiled environment, and the mystery of ancient civilizations, the Short Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days & 3 Nights is the perfect retreat. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you deep into the Andes, away from the popular tourist routes, to the lost Inca capital of Choquequirao, which can only be reached by climbing over tough mountain terrain.

Choquequirao, also known as Machu Picchu’s sister, translates to “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua. Set high above the Apurímac River and encircled by snowcapped hills, this vast archeological monument is three times larger than Machu Picchu and equally stunning—yet few people get to see it.

With ancient terraces, temples, and ceremonial plazas continuously being discovered, discovering this hidden jewel is like entering a lost universe.


This strenuous hike rewards your efforts with breathtaking mountain vistas, tranquil pathways, and a strong link to Inca heritage. Whether you’re an expert trekker or just seeking for a unique alternative to the Inca Trail, the Choquequirao path provides an authentic and remarkable adventure through Peru’s holy landscapes.

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Map Choquequirao trek 4 days
group size
GROUP SIZE 8 Pax
duration
DURATION 4 Days / 3 Nights
dificulty
DIFFICULTY Moderate
atitude
ALTITUDE 3,030 m / 99,409 ft
temporada
SEASON All year

Summary

Hike toward the Last Sanctuary of the Inca

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa

  • 04:30 am – Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and drive to Capuliyoc (3,000 m) with panoramic views of the Andes.
  • 08:30 am – Breakfast at Capuliyoc and meet your trekking team (cook & muleteer).
  • 09:30 am – Begin the downhill trek into the Apurímac Canyon, passing Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina.
  • 12:30 pm – Arrive at Chiquisca for a delicious lunch and short rest.
  • 02:00 pm – Continue descending to the Apurímac River (1,500 m), known as “Speaking God.”
  • 03:15 pm – Cross the river and begin an uphill climb to Santa Rosa.
  • 05:15 pm – Arrive at Santa Rosa campsite (1,970 m), dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata

  • 05:30 am – Early breakfast and begin a steep 3-hour ascent to Marampata (2,900 m).
  • 08:30 am – Rest, hydrate, and prepare for the next stretch.
  • 10:00 am – Hike to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (3,050 m).
  • 11:30 am – 02:30 pm – Full guided tour of Choquequirao; visit terraces, temples, plazas, and the sacred white stone llamas.
  • 12:30 pm – Picnic lunch at the ruins with breathtaking views.
  • 02:30 pm – Begin return hike to Marampata.
  • 04:00 pm – Arrive at camp, dinner, and stargazing in the remote Andes.

Day 3: Marampata – Santa Rosa – Rosalinas – Chiquisca

  • 06:00 am – Breakfast and begin the descent back to Santa Rosa.
  • 09:00 am – Short cultural stop at a local sugar cane farm; learn about Cambray liquor production.
  • 11:00 am – Trek down to Rosalinas Beach (1,500 m); optional river foot soak.
  • 12:30 pm – Lunch along the Apurímac River.
  • 02:00 pm – Begin uphill hike to Chiquisca (1,900 m).
  • 03:30 pm – Arrive at campsite, rest and dinner with scenic canyon views.

Day 4: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Saywite Monolith – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco

  • 05:30 am – Light breakfast and early start to avoid the midday heat.
  • 07:30 am – Arrive at Capuliyoc viewpoint; final photos and farewell to trekking team.
  • 08:00 am – Private transport to Saywite Monolith, a spiritual Inca stone carving.
  • 10:00 am – Visit and guided explanation of Inca water rituals and sacred sites.
  • 11:30 am – Travel to Conoc Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
  • 01:00 pm – Lunch by the hot springs.
  • 02:30 pm – Begin return trip to Cusco.
  • 06:00 pm – Arrival and hotel drop-off in Cusco.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalinas – Santa Rosa

Your memorable tour begins with a 4:30 a.m. pickup from your Cusco hotel.Settle in for a scenic five-hour drive to capuliyoc, where majestic views of the salkantay and humantay snow-capped peaks set the tone for your adventure.

After a hearty breakfast and introductions to your trekking crew your cook and horseman—you’ll hit the trail for a 3-hour downhill hike into the spectacular Apurímac Canyon. Marvel at towering peaks like Padreyoc and Qoriwayrachina before stopping for lunch in Chiquisca.

In the afternoon, continue to the roaring Apurímac River, whose Quechua name means “Talking God,” then ascend for about two hours to reach Santa Rosa (1,970 m), your first campsite. Enjoy a nourishing dinner before resting under the Andean sky.

Day 2Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao Archaeological Complex – Marampata

Fuel up with breakfast before tackling a 3h  zigzag climb to Marampata (2,900 m), where panoramic canyon views and snowy peaks reward your effort. After a short rest, trek another 90 minutes to the awe-inspiring choquequirao ruins (3,050 m), often called the “sister city of Machu Picchu.”

You’ll explore vast stone terraces, ceremonial plazas, and temples that tell the story of a civilization still shrouded in mystery. Only 40% of this massive complex has been uncovered, making your visit a rare and sacred experience.

Discover highlights like the white stone llama carvings facing sacred mountain Apu Qoriwayrachina, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ruins. In the afternoon, return to your camp at marampata for dinner and a peaceful night beneath a sky bursting with stars.

Day 3Marampata – Santa Rosa – Playa Rosalinas – Chiquisca

After breakfast, start your return via the canyon, retracing your travels to Santa Rosa.Along the way, stop at a local farm to learn about the production of Cambray, a traditional sugarcane liquor. Enjoy lunch and some well-earned rest before descending to Rosalinas Beach (1,500 m), where you can cool your feet in the river’s glacial waters.

From there, begin a steady uphill trek for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until you reach Chiquisca (1,900 m). Unwind over dinner and swap stories with your fellow trekkers after another rewarding day on the trail.

Day 4Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Saywite Monolith – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco

Start the day early to beat the sun on your final climb to Capuliyoc. After bidding farewell to your trekking team, hop aboard private transport and head to the Saywite Monolith, an ancient Inca ceremonial rock believed to represent the world in miniature and used for water rituals.

Then, relax your tired muscles in the soothing thermal pools at Conoc Hot Springs. After a final lunch with mountain views, you’ll return to Cusco, Arrive at 6:00 p.m. You will be physically exhausted but profoundly gratified after completing one of Peru’s most spectacular hikes.

Inclusions

Includes

  • Private transportation from the hotel to the village of Capuliyoc
  • High quality camping equipment (We use professional tents such as Doite, Himalaya Model, extra light / 4.5kgs and Doite, Cima 4 Model / 4.5kgs; both are spacious for 2 passengers. Mats, dining tent with table and chairs, toilet service tent)
  • Meals during the excursion (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and snacks / Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free option)
  • Professional guide English and Spanish (French/German with additional cost)
  • Cook and kitchen equipment
  • Muleteer and mules, for our camping equipment and personal equipment of the client (7Kgs, per person)
  • Emergency horse
  • Entrance to the archeological site of Choquequirao
  • Return transportation from Capuliyoc to Cusco
  • First aid kit and oxygen.

Excludes

  • Sleeping bag (If you do not have one, we offer one for USD 20)
  • First breakfast and last lunch.

Travel Info

Briefings

All briefings are done at our office at 7:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team. Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.

Pickups

Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through.

They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off.

Huaynapicchu/Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.

Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM.

Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.

Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.

Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.

Machu Picchu Entrance Times

ENTRY SCHEDULE

Entry time to Machupicchu (*) Grace period during months of regular visitor demand (**) Grace period during months of high visitor demand (from June 1 to
October 15 and December 30 and 31) (**)
06:00 am Until 06:30 am Until 06:45 am
07:00 am Until 07:30 am Until 07:45 am
08:00 am Until 08:30 am Until 08:45 am
09:00 am Until 09:30 am Until 09:45 am
10:00 am Until 10:30 am Until 10:45 am
11:00 am Until 11:30 am Until 11:45 am
12:00 pm Until 12:30 pm Until 12:45 pm
01:00 pm Until 01:30 pm Until 01:45 pm
02:00 pm Until 02:30 pm Until 02:45 pm
03:00 pm Until 03:30 pm Until 03:45 pm

* Entry time at the main gate of the Inca city of Machupicchu.

** Entry at the control points of Machupicchu, Waynapicchu, and
Huchuypicchu mountains does not have a grace period.

Health Concerns

You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions.

Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

Group Tours

Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.

Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

Strikes

Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.

Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

Lost Items

You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc.

Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

Tips

Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below.

For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip.

Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.

Weather

Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.

No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

Altitude Sickness

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs.

Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea.

Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea.

If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.

Getting To Cusco

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic.

Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

Packing List

What Do I Need To Bring?

  • Backpack, sleeping bag.
  • Clothing for hot and cold weather.
  • Waterproof jacket, fleece, pants and trekking shoes.
  • Polo shirts, rain poncho, hat and scarf.
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent and disinfectant alcohol gel.
  • Water bottle and purification tablet.
  • Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag).
  • Flashlight and batteries.
  • Small snack selected such as a chocolate bar and dried fruit.
  • Pajama pants (01)
  • Original passport
  • Extra money in soles

Hotels

Our Hotels

To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.

Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.

Check out our hotels

FAQs

What is the Short Choquequirao Route 4 Days & 3 Nights trek?

The Short Choquequirao Route is an incredible 4-day trekking adventure through the Peruvian Andes to reach the ancient Inca citadel of Choquequirao. Often called “Machu Picchu’s sister city,” this archaeological wonder remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism, offering an authentic and pristine wilderness experience. The trek covers approximately 44 kilometers (27 miles) through stunning landscapes including the dramatic Apurimac Canyon, one of Peru’s deepest canyons.

Why is Choquequirao called the "sister city" of Machu Picchu?

Choquequirao earned this nickname because it shares similar architectural features and construction techniques with Machu Picchu, but it’s actually three times larger. Built during the reign of Inca Tupac Inca Yupanqui in the 15th century, this remarkable site served as the last refuge of the Inca resistance against Spanish conquistadors. Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao can only be reached on foot, making it a truly exclusive destination for adventurous travelers.

What makes this trek special compared to other Peru hiking routes?

The Choquequirao trek offers unparalleled solitude and authenticity. While Machu Picchu receives thousands of visitors daily, Choquequirao sees fewer than 20 visitors per day. You’ll experience untouched Inca ruins, diverse ecosystems from cloud forest to high-altitude terrain, and spectacular views of snow-capped Andean peaks. The challenging terrain and remote location create an intimate connection with Peru’s ancient history and natural beauty.

How difficult is the Choquequirao trek 4 days?

The Choquequirao trek is considered challenging to difficult, rating a Level 3 on most trekking scales. The difficulty comes from significant elevation changes rather than high altitude. You’ll descend approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) on day one, then climb back up 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) on day two. The trail involves steep switchbacks, rocky terrain, and multiple river crossings through the Apurimac Canyon.

What fitness level is required for this Peru adventure trek?

Excellent physical fitness is essential for the Choquequirao hiking experience. We recommend regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training focusing on legs and core, and practice hikes with a loaded backpack for at least 2-3 months before departure. Previous multi-day trekking experience is highly recommended, especially in mountainous terrain. The trek involves 6-8 hours of hiking daily with challenging ascents and descents.

Do I need prior high-altitude trekking experience?

While the Choquequirao trail doesn’t reach extreme altitudes (maximum 3,050 meters/10,000 feet), acclimatization is still important. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before your trek to adjust to the altitude. Previous trekking experience at moderate altitudes is beneficial but not mandatory if you’re in excellent physical condition.

What is the detailed Choquequirao 4-day itinerary?

Day 1 (Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chikiska): Early morning departure from Cusco to Capuliyoc (2,950m). Begin 4-hour descent through spectacular Apurimac Canyon scenery to Chikiska camp (1,950m). Hiking time: 6-7 hours.

Day 2 (Chikiska – Choquequirao): Cross the Apurimac River and begin the challenging ascent to Choquequirao (3,050m). Navigate steep switchbacks and changing ecosystems. Hiking time: 7-8 hours.

Day 3 (Choquequirao Exploration – Chikiska): Full day exploring the magnificent Choquequirao archaeological site. Discover ancient terraces, ceremonial plazas, and residential areas. Afternoon descent back to Chikiska. Hiking time: 6-7 hours.

Day 4 (Chikiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco): Final ascent out of the canyon to Capuliyoc, then return to Cusco. Arrive in Cusco by early evening. Hiking time: 5-6 hours.

What are the main highlights of the Choquequirao trekking route?

The trek offers incredible diversity: panoramic views of snow-capped Andean peaks including Salkantay and Humantay, the dramatic Apurimac Canyon landscape, diverse flora and fauna including potential Andean condor sightings, pristine Inca ruins with intricate stone terraces, and the unique llama-shaped terraces visible only from specific viewpoints within the site.

Where do we camp during the Choquequirao camping trek?

Camping occurs at designated sites along the trail. Primary camps include Chikiska (1,950m) beside the Apurimac River, offering fresh water and relatively flat terrain, and Choquequirao camp (3,050m) near the archaeological site with spectacular mountain views. All camps provide basic facilities with stunning natural settings.

Best Time to Trek and Weather

When is the best time for the Choquequirao trek Peru?

The optimal trekking season runs from May through September during Peru’s dry season. These months offer the most stable weather conditions, clear mountain views, and minimal rainfall. July and August are peak season with the driest conditions but also the most visitors. June and September provide excellent weather with fewer crowds.

What weather conditions should I expect?

Weather varies dramatically by elevation and time of day. Daytime temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F) in lower elevations to 10-15°C (50-59°F) at higher camps. Nighttime temperatures can drop to 0-5°C (32-41°F), especially at Choquequirao camp. Expect strong UV radiation due to high altitude and clear skies.

Can I trek during the rainy season?

Trekking during rainy season (November-March) is possible but challenging. Trails become muddy and slippery, river crossings may be dangerous, and mountain views are often obscured by clouds. If you choose to trek during this period, expect daily afternoon showers and pack appropriate rain gear.

What should I pack for the Choquequirao trek?

Essential items include: quality trekking boots with good ankle support, moisture-wicking clothing layers, warm sleeping bag rated to -5°C (23°F), waterproof rain jacket and pants, trekking poles for stability on steep terrain, sun hat and sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, personal first aid kit, water purification tablets, headlamp with extra batteries, and quick-dry towel.

Do I need special equipment for this Peru trekking adventure?

While basic trekking gear suffices, certain items are crucial for comfort and safety. Trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep descents and ascents. A quality sleeping bag is essential as nights can be very cold. Proper hiking boots with good tread are necessary for rocky and potentially wet terrain. Water purification tablets or a filtration system are important for treating river water.

What clothing should I bring for different weather conditions?

Layer system is key: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jacket), waterproof outer shell, hiking pants and shorts, warm hat and sun hat, warm gloves and liner gloves, hiking socks (wool or synthetic), and comfortable camp shoes. Avoid cotton materials as they stay wet and cold.

How much does the Choquequirao trek cost?

Prices vary significantly based on service level and group size. Budget group tours typically cost $200-400 per person, while premium private tours range from $600-1,200 per person. Costs include professional guide, porters, camping equipment, meals, and transportation. Private tours offer more personalized service and flexible scheduling.

What's included in typical Choquequirao tour packages?

Standard packages include: professional English-speaking guide, porters to carry group equipment, all camping gear (tents, sleeping mats, cooking equipment), all meals during the trek, transportation from Cusco to trailhead and return, and entrance fees to Choquequirao archaeological site. Some packages also include hotel pickup/drop-off and pre-trek briefing.

How far in advance should I book my Choquequirao trek?

Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (June-August) to ensure availability. During shoulder seasons, 1-2 weeks advance booking is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings may be possible but limit your options for preferred dates and tour operators.

What is the booking process and payment requirements?

Most operators require a deposit of $100-200 per person to secure your booking, with the balance paid in Cusco before departure. Payments can typically be made via credit card, bank transfer, or cash. Confirm cancellation policies and travel insurance requirements when booking.

What health precautions should I take?

Consult your doctor about vaccinations and medications at least 6 weeks before travel. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever (if coming from infected areas). Bring prescription medications in original containers, plus extra supplies. Consider altitude sickness medication if you’re sensitive to elevation changes.

Is travel insurance necessary for the Choquequirao trek?

Travel insurance is highly recommended and required by some operators. Choose coverage that includes adventure activities, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation. The remote location and challenging terrain make evacuation expensive and complex. Ensure your policy covers activities up to 4,000 meters elevation.

What safety measures are in place during the trek?

Reputable operators provide experienced guides trained in first aid and emergency procedures, satellite communication devices for emergencies, comprehensive safety briefings before departure, and detailed risk assessments. Guides monitor weather conditions and can modify itineraries for safety reasons.

How do I prepare for altitude and prevent altitude sickness?

Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before your trek to acclimatize naturally. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, and take it easy during your first days. Consider coca tea, a traditional remedy for altitude symptoms. Ascend gradually and listen to your body. Seek immediate medical attention for severe altitude sickness symptoms.

What type of food is provided during the trek?

Meals typically include hearty, high-energy foods suitable for trekking. Breakfast often features porridge, eggs, bread, and fruit. Lunches are usually packed meals with sandwiches, snacks, and fruit. Dinners include soup, main course (chicken, beef, or vegetarian options), and dessert. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

How is water handled during the Choquequirao trek?

Water is available from natural sources along the trail, but must be purified before drinking. Most operators provide boiled water at meals. Bring water purification tablets or a filtration system for refilling bottles. The Apurimac River provides abundant water sources, but always purify before consumption.

Can vegetarian and special diets be accommodated?

Most operators can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with advance notice. Inform your operator of dietary restrictions when booking. In remote areas, options may be limited, so consider bringing supplementary snacks that meet your dietary needs.

What is the historical importance of Choquequirao?

Choquequirao represents the last stronghold of Inca resistance against Spanish colonization. Built in the 15th century, it served as a royal estate and ceremonial center. After the Spanish conquest, it became a refuge for Inca nobility and their followers. The site contains over 180 terraces, residential areas, ceremonial plazas, and water management systems showcasing advanced Inca engineering.

What can I expect to see at the Choquequirao archaeological site?

The site spans multiple levels and sectors, including the main plaza surrounded by important buildings, residential areas with stone houses, ceremonial platforms and temples, extensive agricultural terraces, the famous llama-shaped terraces, and sophisticated water management systems. Only about 40% of the site has been excavated, leaving much mystery and discovery potential.

How does Choquequirao compare to other Inca sites?

Choquequirao is three times larger than Machu Picchu and considered equally impressive architecturally. Unlike other Inca sites, it remains largely unrestored, providing a more authentic archaeological experience. The remote location and difficult access have preserved its pristine condition and sense of discovery.

What wildlife might I encounter during the trek?

The diverse ecosystems support various wildlife including Andean condors soaring over the canyon, spectacled bears in cloud forest areas, vizcachas (chinchilla-like rodents), various hummingbird species, and numerous bird species. You might also see llamas and alpacas in higher elevations. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed but add excitement to the adventure.

What are the different ecosystems I'll experience?

The trek traverses multiple ecological zones: high-altitude grasslands near the starting point, cloud forest with orchids and bromeliads, dry forest with cacti and thorny vegetation in the canyon, and riverside vegetation along the Apurimac River. This diversity creates constantly changing scenery and unique photographic opportunities.

How can I minimize my environmental impact?

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, use established campsites, respect wildlife by maintaining distance, stay on designated trails, and minimize campfire impacts. Choose operators committed to sustainable tourism practices. Bring reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics.

How should I physically prepare for the Choquequirao trek?

Begin training 3-4 months before your trek with a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and practice hikes. Focus on building leg strength, core stability, and endurance. Gradually increase hiking distance and difficulty, eventually carrying a loaded backpack. Stair climbing and hill walking are excellent preparation exercises.

What training schedule do you recommend?

Months 3-4: Build base fitness with 30-45 minutes of cardio 4-5 times per week, plus basic strength training.

Months 2-3: Add practice hikes with gradually increasing distance and elevation gain. Include overnight camping trips.

Month 1: Focus on trek-specific training with long hikes carrying full pack weight. Maintain fitness but allow for recovery.

Final weeks: Taper training intensity while maintaining fitness. Focus on equipment testing and final preparations.

Should I do practice hikes before the trek?

Absolutely! Practice hikes help build fitness, test equipment, and identify potential issues. Start with day hikes and progress to overnight backpacking trips. Practice on terrain similar to what you’ll encounter in Peru, including steep ascents and descents. This preparation significantly improves your trek experience and success rate.

How do I get to the Choquequirao trailhead?

The trek begins at Capuliyoc, approximately 4 hours by road from Cusco. Most tour operators provide transportation as part of their package. The journey follows the scenic route through Limatambo and Cachora villages, offering beautiful Andean scenery and cultural experiences.

What happens if weather conditions prevent the trek?

Experienced operators monitor weather conditions and may modify itineraries or postpone departures for safety reasons. Alternative activities in Cusco include city tours, Sacred Valley excursions, or other trekking routes. Most operators offer flexibility for rescheduling within reason, though policies vary.

Can I extend my trek or combine it with other activities?

Yes! Popular extensions include combining Choquequirao with Machu Picchu (7-9 days), adding extra days for more thorough site exploration, or including cultural experiences in local communities. Discuss options with your operator when booking, as extended treks require additional planning and permits.

Is the Choquequirao trek suitable for beginners?

The Choquequirao trek is challenging and not recommended for complete beginners. However, motivated individuals in excellent physical condition with some hiking experience can succeed with proper preparation. Consider doing easier multi-day treks first to build experience and confidence.

How many people typically do this trek?

Group sizes vary but typically range from 2-12 people. Smaller groups offer more personalized attention and flexibility, while larger groups may be more economical. Private treks are available for those seeking complete customization and privacy.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?

Accommodation is camping throughout the trek. High-quality tents are provided by operators, with sleeping mats for comfort. Campsites have basic facilities including designated areas for cooking and waste disposal. Some locations offer spectacular views but no modern amenities.

Can I hire additional porters or pack animals?

Additional porters can usually be arranged for personal gear, though this increases costs. Mules or horses are sometimes available for certain sections of the trail, particularly for those with physical limitations. Discuss these options when booking, as availability varies by season and operator.

What should I do if I can't complete the trek?

If you cannot continue due to injury or illness, your guide will assess the situation and arrange evacuation if necessary. This may involve hiking back to the trailhead, arranging mule transport, or in severe cases, helicopter evacuation. Travel insurance is crucial for covering evacuation costs.

How do I choose the right tour operator?

Research operators thoroughly, reading recent reviews and checking safety records. Look for operators with experienced guides, proper equipment, sustainable practices, and clear communication. Don’t choose based solely on price, as quality and safety vary significantly between operators.

What's the best way to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek?

Spend 2-3 days in Cusco before your trek, staying active but not overexerting. Take easy walks around the city, visit nearby sites like Sacsayhuamán, and stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Coca tea is a traditional remedy that many find helpful for altitude adjustment.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Short Choquequirao Route 4 Days & 3 Nights trek. The combination of challenging terrain, pristine archaeological sites, and incredible natural beauty makes this one of Peru’s most rewarding trekking experiences for well-prepared adventurers.

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