Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

Overview – Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

The Choquequirao Trek 5 Day is a unique experience in the pristine Andes of southern Peru. Located at the confluence of the Rio Apurimac and Rio Chunchumayo in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, it is called the “Lost Sister of Machu Picchu” due to the fact that it is one of the least-visited but most impressive Inca sites. This trek provides five days of incredible hiking through deep canyons, cloud forests, and high-altitude trails in environments characterized either breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, or stunning silence of the pristine Andes.

Explore the Hidden Sister City of Machu Picchu at a Relaxed Pace

The 5-day Choquequirao Trek is different from the shorter version in that it allows you a whole day for the exploration of this archaeological complex. You can visit various areas of the site and enjoy the famous Llama Terraces. You would also learn some amazing details about the history of the Inca civilization and take in the lovely atmosphere of Choquequirao.

You will be charmed by the scenery and the biodiversity of the region and enjoy some stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon throughout the hike.

Tour Highlights

• Spend a full day exploring the magnificent Inca city of Choquequirao.
• Hike through the breathtaking Apurímac Canyon.
• Visit the famous Llama Terraces and ceremonial sectors.
• Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery with very few other visitors.
• Experience diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and native vegetation.
• Camp in beautiful locations surrounded by the Andes.
• Learn about Inca history with experienced local guides.
• Perfect for experienced hikers looking for a true adventure.

Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Itinerary

Included/Not Included

• Included

  • A briefing at your hotel (6 p.m.) the night before you depart
  • Pick up from your hotel and private van transportation to the trailhead
  • Professional English speaking tour guide
  • Professional trekking chef
  • Porters, horsemen
  • Horses to carry the camping equipment, food, and your personal belongings (up to 8 kg)
  • Meals, breakfast, snacks, happy hours, dinner
  • Camping equipment, sleeping tents, foam mats, dining tents, kitchen tents, chairs, dishes and more
  • Entrance fee to Choquekiraw
  • First-aid kit
  • Private, portable toilets
  • Drinking water three times a day
  • Emergency horse to ride in case you feel tired
  • Taxes included

How Much Does the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days Cost?

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu

The Choquequirao Trek 5 Days is a journey into one of the most untouched corners of the Peruvian Andes. Often known as the “Lost Sister of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao rewards travelers willing to go a little further with vast Inca ruins, dramatic canyon scenery, and a sense of real isolation that’s increasingly rare. This trek is for people who want an authentic adventure far from the crowds where nature, history, and the rhythm of the mountains take the lead, supported by experienced local guides and thoughtful service from Uros Expeditions.

Places You Will Visit

Starting in Cusco, the route heads to the Capuliyoc viewpoint, where the scale of the Apurímac Canyon first hits you. From there, the trail winds through warm canyon terrain and greener pockets of cloud forest, with nights spent at camps such as Chikiska and Marampata. The highlight is, of course, Choquequirao, an impressive Inca complex set high above the canyon. Along the way, you also pass areas like Santa Rosa and La Playa, adding a local, off-the-beaten-path feel to the journey.

Altitude Information

Altitude is part of the experience on this route—not only because of how high you go, but because of how much you descend and climb back up. Cusco sits at about 3,399 m / 11,152 ft, while the trail drops toward the river and reaches Chikiska (1,800 m / 5,905 ft). After that, you climb again to higher areas like Marampata and Choquequirao, which is around 3,050 m / 10,007 ft. These elevation changes are demanding, but they are also what make the views and landscapes feel so rewarding.

Difficulty Level

This trek is considered challenging and best suited for travelers who enjoy full hiking days and feel comfortable with steep ascents and descents. There is no technical climbing, but the combination of distance, canyon heat, and elevation gain requires good fitness and a steady pace. If you’re prepared, the payoff is huge: a quieter trail, a stronger sense of achievement, and one of the most impressive Inca sites in the Andes.

Best Time to Travel

The best months for the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days are during the dry season, from April to October, when the trail is usually in better condition and the views are clearer. The rainy season, from November to March, brings greener scenery and fewer visitors, but rain can make the route more demanding especially in the wettest weeks.

Important Notes

This is a fully supported camping trek, with no hotels along the route once the hike begins. Days can feel warm in the canyon, while nights higher up can be noticeably colder, so packing for changing conditions is important. Choquequirao remains one of Peru’s least-visited major Inca sites, and that remoteness is a big part of its magic. With professional guidance, well-organized camps, and attentive support from Uros Expeditions, the experience feels both adventurous and comfortably looked after.

choquequirao Faq's