Choquequirao Trek – 4 Days

This trek is one of the most demanding and exciting hikes in Peru. It leads to an ancient Inca city hidden at over 3,000 meters (9,843 ft) in altitude, surrounded by deep canyons, snow-capped peaks, and extreme landscapes. Unlike Machu Picchu, this place is rarely visited, which makes it feel more authentic and mysterious. Many travelers choose it for the adventure, the isolation, and the connection to Inca history without the crowds. It’s a journey for those seeking a challenge, not just tourism.

A 4-day trek starts early in the village of Cachora, about 4 hours from Cusco. The first day is intense: you descend 1,500 meters (4,921 ft) on a steep trail down to the Apurímac River, where you camp. The second day involves a tough climb up to the Santa Rosa campsite, passing through arid zones and viewpoints. On the third day, you reach the ruins, explore all morning, and camp nearby. The fourth day you return along the same path, which is demanding, especially the final ascent. In total, you walk about 60 km (37 miles) round trip.

Choquequirao is in the Cusco region, but far from the tourist center. It’s south of the Apurímac River, on a hard-to-access hill. To get there, you first take transportation from Cusco to Cachora, a small Andean village. The hike begins from there. There are no roads or trains that go directly. All access is on foot, which helps preserve the site and keeps the number of visitors low.

The difficulty is high. There are no Inca stairs or flat paths: it’s constant uphill and downhill, with very steep sections, especially the descent to Capuliyoc and the climb back up from the river. You walk between 6 and 8 hours daily, with altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 3,085 meters (4,921 to 10,121 ft). You need good physical condition, but you don’t need to be an athlete. The most important thing is to be well-acclimatized to the altitude and maintain a steady pace. If you can walk for several hours with a backpack, you can do it.

The weather changes a lot in just a few days. In Cachora and the high areas, it’s cold at night (0–8°C / 32–46°F) and sunny during the day. As you descend to the Apurímac River, the weather becomes hot and dry, with temperatures up to 30°C (86°F). In the Choquequirao area, it’s temperate, with breezes and clouds that come in at dawn. The dry season (May to October) is ideal: clear days and firm trails. In the summer (November to April) there are showers, but the landscape is greener.

Bring layered clothing: a technical t-shirt, a warm fleece, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable pants. Wear well-broken-in hiking boots because the path is slippery. In your backpack (30–40 liters), include: water (2 liters), snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a flashlight, toilet paper, a personal first-aid kit, and documents. We also recommend trekking poles, a sleeping bag (some rent them), and a camera. You don’t need to bring tents or food if you go with a tour.

Choquequirao means “cradle of gold” in Quechua. There are several theories about its meaning: some believe it alludes to the gold the Incas hid there, others that it refers to the color of the hill at sunset. Although it’s not known for certain, many researchers think it was an administrative or religious center, perhaps a refuge for the last Inca, Manco Inca, during the resistance against the Spaniards.

Although local communities always knew of its existence, it was a Peruvian explorer, Juan Arias Dávila, who officially reported it in 1710. For centuries, it was forgotten. It wasn’t until the 1970s that archaeologists began to study it. Even today, only 30% of the site has been excavated. Its isolation protected it from looting but has also delayed its tourist development.

Upon arrival, you’ll see an Inca city built on stepped terraces, with a shape that many say represents twin llamas. It has agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, water fountains, and viewpoints overlooking the canyon. One of the most impressive areas is the “Llamas and their Young” sector, a set of precisely carved stones. Everything is surrounded by mountains and clouds. Although it’s not as complete as Machu Picchu, its isolation gives it a magical air.

Choquequirao is an ideal alternative if you didn’t get a spot on the Inca Trail or are looking for something more intense and less touristy. It doesn’t require an official permit, has fewer visitors (only 200-300 per day), and offers a more raw and authentic experience. Although you don’t end up at Machu Picchu, many combine both destinations afterward. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer adventure over comfort.

The best time is from May to October, the dry season. The trails are firm, there’s less risk of landslides, and the views are clear. This is when most people go, so you need to book in advance. From November to April, there is more rain, especially in the lower part of the route, but the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists. Avoid local fairs or religious events, as Cachora can get crowded.

On the trek, you’ll see a great variety of flora and fauna. In the high areas, there is ichu (Andean grass), cacti, and wildflowers. In the low jungle, there are palm trees, ferns, and tropical plants. Among the animals, it’s common to see condors flying over the canyon, Andean foxes, vizcachas (like mountain rabbits), and howler monkeys in the Santa Rosa area. There are also colorful birds like the cock-of-the-rock, though they are hard to spot.

Yes, it is possible to do the trek without a guide, as it doesn’t require an official permit like the Inca Trail. But it’s not recommended for beginners. The trail isn’t always marked, there are risky areas, and there’s no cell phone signal. If you go alone, you must bring a map, compass, GPS, complete camping equipment, and enough food. Most travelers prefer to go with an agency for safety, support, and comfort.

The main difference is the pace. The 4-day trek is more intense, with long days and little time to rest. The 5-day trek adds an extra day, which allows you to climb more slowly, explore the ruins more, or even visit nearby areas like Marampata or the Chiquisca viewpoint. It’s ideal if you want to reduce the effort or have less experience with long hikes.