Starts at
Starts at
Trip Overview
The Short Choquequirao Trek is a four-day route for travelers who want a hard Andean walk, a deep canyon, remote camps, and one of the largest Inca sites in Peru without adding Machu Picchu to the itinerary.
Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua. The site rises above the Apurimac River, surrounded by mountains, deep valleys, terraces, and long stone traces of the Inca world. Unlike Machu Picchu, there is no train or bus to the entrance. You reach Choquequirao by walking, and that makes the arrival feel earned.
This trek is short in days, but not easy. The route includes steep descents, hot canyon sections, long climbs, dusty switchbacks, and strong sun exposure. The trail asks for stamina, patience, and a good walking rhythm.
With Machu Picchu Gol Travel, the trek is arranged with professional guides, camp logistics, mule support, cooked meals, safety equipment, duffle transport, and return transport to Cusco.
This is a strong choice for travelers who want a challenging route, fewer people on the trail, and a deeper look at Inca history beyond the usual paths.
Tour at a Glance
Ends at
Ends at
Duration
Duration
From
US$ 100
Deposit
6%
Travel staff
Local Guide
Transport
by Bus
Accommodation
Accomodation
Departures
Daily Departures
Season
All year
Meals
1B, 1L, 1D
Physical level
Easy
Max altitude
15,090 feet (4,600 meters)
Sites to visit
Cusco, Soraypampa
Day by Day Schedule
Day highlight: The first descent into the Apurimac Canyon and the strong start of the Choquequirao route.
The day begins before sunrise with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. The road trip to Capuliyoc takes several hours, crossing rural Andean areas with views of mountains such as Salkantay and Humantay when weather allows.
At Capuliyoc, breakfast is served before meeting the trekking team. Your guide, cook, and horseman help prepare the final details before the walk begins.
The route starts with wide views over the Apurimac Canyon. From this point, the trail descends for several hours through dry, exposed terrain. The path is dusty, rocky in some sections, and can become very hot under the sun.
The descent reaches Chiquisca, where lunch is served. After resting, the walk continues deeper into the canyon toward the Apurimac River area. The river is powerful and loud, and the lower valley feels warmer than Cusco.
The final section reaches Santa Rosa, where camp is set for the first night. Dinner is served at camp, and the group rests after a long first day of downhill walking and canyon heat.
Technical details
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Camp
- Highest altitude: Capuliyoc, approx. 2,890 m / 9,482 ft
- Camp altitude: Santa Rosa, approx. 1,970 m / 6,463 ft
- Walking distance: Approx. 15 km / 9.32 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 6 to 7 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Trail type: Dry canyon trail, long descent, dusty switchbacks, exposed sun, rocky sections
- Transport: Tourist transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc
Day highlight: Reaching Choquequirao and walking through one of the largest Inca sites in Peru.
The second day begins early with a strong breakfast. The route climbs from Santa Rosa toward Marampata, a rural settlement with one of the best views toward Choquequirao and the surrounding canyon.
This climb is demanding. The trail rises in switchbacks, and the heat can make the ascent feel harder. The ground is mostly dirt, with stones and dry sections. The guide will set a steady rhythm so the group can manage the climb without rushing.
After reaching Marampata, there is time to rest, organize gear, and continue toward Choquequirao. The trail from Marampata to the complex takes around 1.5 hours, depending on pace.
At Choquequirao, your guide leads the group through the most important sectors of the site. You may see plazas, temples, terraces, ceremonial spaces, and the famous white stone llamas built into the terraces. These figures are among the most striking details of the complex.
Choquequirao is much larger than most travelers expect, and a large part of the area remains under research and recovery. The site feels remote because every visitor must arrive on foot.
Lunch is served during the day near the route or site, depending on the operation and weather. In the afternoon, the group returns to Marampata for dinner and the second night at camp.
Technical details
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Camp
- Highest altitude: Choquequirao, approx. 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
- Camp altitude: Marampata, approx. 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
- Walking distance: Approx. 10 km / 6.21 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 6 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trail type: Steep uphill switchbacks, dirt paths, dry exposed sections, archaeological paths
- Key places: Marampata, Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
Day highlight: Returning through the canyon and learning about Cambray, a traditional sugar cane liquor from the area.
After breakfast, the group begins the return route from Marampata. The trail descends toward Santa Rosa, following the same canyon paths used on the way up.
At Santa Rosa, the group may stop near a local family farm where sugar cane is grown and used to make Cambray, a traditional liquor from the area. This stop gives a closer look at rural work in the canyon and how local families use the land.
After lunch and rest, the route continues down toward Playa Rosalinas, near the Apurimac River. This is a good moment to cool off your feet in the cold river water if conditions allow and the guide confirms it is safe.
From the river area, the trail climbs again toward Chiquisca. This final climb can feel hard because of the heat and the accumulated fatigue from the previous days. The ascent is shorter than other parts of the trek, but the canyon temperature can make it demanding.
The group reaches Chiquisca for dinner and the final night in camp.
Technical details
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Camp
- Highest altitude: Marampata area, approx. 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
- Lowest altitude: Playa Rosalinas, approx. 1,500 m / 4,921 ft
- Camp altitude: Chiquisca, approx. 1,900 m / 6,234 ft
- Walking distance: Approx. 11 km / 6.82 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 7 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Trail type: Long descent, river area, hot canyon trail, final uphill section
- Key places: Santa Rosa, Playa Rosalinas, Chiquisca
Day highlight: Finishing the final climb and resting at Conoc Hot Springs before returning to Cusco.
The final day starts early to avoid the strongest sun on the climb back to Capuliyoc. After breakfast, the group begins the last uphill section out of the canyon.
This climb is demanding because the body is already tired from previous days. The trail rises steadily through dry ground and open canyon views. Slow walking, hydration, and sun protection are important.
At Capuliyoc, the trekking part ends, and the group says goodbye to the local trekking team. From here, the route continues by tourist transport toward the Saywite Monolith, a large carved stone linked to Inca water symbolism and ceremonial use.
After the Saywite stop, the group continues to Conoc Hot Springs. This is a good way to rest your legs after several days of canyon walking. Lunch is served during the day, depending on the operation schedule.
In the afternoon, the return drive to Cusco begins. Drop-off is usually at your hotel or a nearby accessible point, depending on street access.
Technical details
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Highest altitude: Approx. 3,500 m / 11,483 ft
- Walking distance: Approx. 8 km / 4.97 mi
- Walking time: Approx. 4 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trail type: Uphill canyon trail, dry exposed path, rocky and dusty sections
- Transport: Tourist transport from Capuliyoc to Saywite, Conoc, and Cusco
- Key places: Capuliyoc, Saywite Monolith, Conoc Hot Springs
Inclusions
What’s Included
Permits and Entrance Tickets
- Entrance ticket for the Choquequirao trekking route
- Route coordination before departure
Guide and Safety
- Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
- Pre-departure briefing in Cusco
- First aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- Basic altitude and trail support
- Satellite phone or emergency communication support, depending on operation
- Route management according to weather and safety conditions
- 24/7 customer support before the trek
Camping and Trekking Equipment
- Dining tent
- Kitchen tent
- Tables and chairs
- Cooking equipment
- Portable travel toilet
- Inflatable mattress
- Backpack cover
- Duffle bag for personal belongings, maximum 5 kg / 11 lb
- Mule support for camp equipment and allowed luggage
Accommodation
- 3 nights in tents
- Shared tents in standard service
- Camps located along the Choquequirao trekking route
- Camp support team during the trek
Meals
- 4 breakfasts
- 4 lunches
- 3 dinners
- Hot drinks at camp
- Wake-up tea in the morning
- Tea time before dinner
- Daily snacks during the route
- Boiled and treated water during the trek
- Cloth snack bag to reduce plastic waste
- Handwashing items before meals
- Vegetarian, vegan, and special meal requests with advance notice
Transport
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Tourist transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc
- Return tourist transport from Capuliyoc, Saywite, and Conoc to Cusco
- Duffle bag transport during trekking days, maximum 5 kg / 11 lb
What’s Not Included
- Trekking poles
- Dinner in Cusco on Day 4
- Personal hiking clothing and gear
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide, cook, muleteers, drivers, and support team
- Extra drinks or personal purchases
- Extra costs caused by weather, road problems, strikes, illness, landslides, government decisions, or force majeure
Recommendations
Months before the trek
- Train with uphill walks, long descents, stairs, and multi-hour hikes.
- Break in your hiking boots before arriving in Peru.
- Buy travel insurance that covers trekking and remote routes.
- Tell our reservations team about allergies, food restrictions, medical conditions, or special needs.
- Consider private service if you are traveling with children, older travelers, photographers, or anyone who may need a slower pace.
A few days before the trek
- Arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek.
- Keep your first days in Cusco light so your body can adjust to altitude.
- Drink water often.
- Avoid heavy alcohol before the trek.
- Attend the briefing and ask practical questions.
- Pack for both heat and cold. The canyon can be hot, while early mornings may be cool.
- Keep passport, money, medication, and valuables in your daypack.
- Pack your duffle carefully. The maximum allowed weight is 5 kg / 11 lb.
During the trek
- Walk at your own safe rhythm.
- Do not rush on canyon descents or steep climbs.
- Use trekking poles on long descents and uneven ground.
- Keep sun protection close during canyon sections.
- Keep rain gear close, especially from November to March.
- Respect local communities, muleteers, animals, farms, water sources, and camps.
- Ask before taking close photos of local residents.
- Do not leave trash on the route.
- Carry small soles for drinks, bathrooms, snacks, or local purchases.
- Tell your guide immediately if you feel dizzy, weak, short of breath, overheated, or unwell.
- Stay mentally ready for heat, steep trail sections, dust, insects, tired legs, and long climbs.
More Tour Information
- Tour name: Short Choquequirao Trek
- Duration: 4 days and 3 nights
- Starting point: Cusco
- Ending point: Cusco
- Main route: Cusco, Capuliyoc, Chiquisca, Playa Rosalinas, Santa Rosa, Marampata, Choquequirao, Playa Rosalinas, Chiquisca, Capuliyoc, Saywite Monolith, Conoc Hot Springs, Cusco
- Accommodation: Camps
- Maximum altitude: Approx. 3,050 m / 10,007 ft at Choquequirao
- Total walking distance: Approx. 44 km / 27.3 mi
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Group size: Up to 12 travelers
- Meals included: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners
- Guide: Professional English and Spanish-speaking guide
- Duffle bag: Included, maximum 5 kg / 11 lb
- Transport: Tourist transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc and return transport to Cusco
- Best for: Strong hikers who want a shorter but demanding trek to Choquequirao
- Recommended acclimatization: 2 to 3 days in Cusco before the trek
- Best season: April to October for drier trail conditions
- Rainy season: Mainly November to March
- Not operated: February, due to rainy season and trail maintenance
- Walk one of the best short trekking routes to Choquequirao, a major Inca site above the Apurimac Canyon.
- Reach a route that can only be accessed on foot, giving the trip a more remote feeling.
- Cross changing terrain: dry canyon trails, steep switchbacks, warm valleys, mountain viewpoints, and rural paths.
- See the Apurimac River below, with wide canyon walls and strong valley views.
- Spend time at Choquequirao with your guide and learn about its terraces, plazas, temples, and stone llama figures.
- Walk through areas connected to Santa Rosa, Marampata, Playa Rosalinas, Chiquisca, Capuliyoc, Saywite, and Conoc.
- Learn about local sugar cane production and Cambray, a traditional liquor from the area.
- Finish the trek with a stop at the Saywite Monolith and time at Conoc Hot Springs.
- Travel with Machu Picchu Gol Travel, a Cusco-based team focused on safe logistics, local guides, mountain food, and organized trekking support.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is usually from hotels located in Cusco city. Some streets in the historic center are narrow, steep, or closed to vehicles. If your hotel or Airbnb has difficult access, we may coordinate a nearby meeting point.
The exact pickup time is confirmed during the briefing. Traffic and access conditions in Cusco can cause small variations.
Luggage storage
You can leave your main luggage at your hotel or at our office while you are on the trek. Bring only what you need for the route.
Do not leave valuables inside stored luggage. Passport, money, cards, cameras, medication, and electronics should stay with you.
Duffle bag
You will receive a duffle bag before the trek. Mules will carry your allowed luggage together with camp equipment and food supplies.
The standard weight limit is 5 kg / 11 lb. You will not have access to the duffle during the walking day because the mule team moves ahead to prepare the next camp.
Carry daily essentials in your own daypack: passport, jacket, rain gear, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, medication, and personal items.
Payment conditions
A deposit is required to secure guide service, transport, camp logistics, mule support, meals, equipment, and route coordination.
The remaining balance should be paid before the trek according to the instructions from our reservations team. Cash payments in Cusco may avoid online transaction fees. Card or online payments may include gateway fees.
These conditions exist because camps, food supplies, guides, cooks, muleteers, equipment, and transport must be arranged before departure.
Return to Cusco
After the final hike to Capuliyoc, the group continues by tourist transport to the Saywite Monolith and Conoc Hot Springs before returning to Cusco.
Drop-off is usually at your hotel or at a nearby accessible point if your accommodation is located on a street without vehicle access.
Availability
This tour does not include Machu Picchu, so it is usually more flexible than tours that require Machu Picchu tickets.
Even so, booking in advance is recommended to secure guide availability, muleteers, camp equipment, meals, transport, and entrance coordination. In some cases, reservations may be accepted with short notice, depending on operation capacity.
For last-minute bookings, please contact the reservations team of Machu Picchu Gol Travel directly. We will do our best to organize the trek, but acceptance is not guaranteed.
This itinerary is usually operated from March through January. February is not offered due to rainy season and trail maintenance.
Accommodation
Camps on the Choquequirao Route
This trek uses camps along the Choquequirao route. These are not hotel nights. Camps are placed near rural and canyon areas, depending on the day’s route.
Camp service includes tents, dining space, kitchen equipment, portable toilet support, sleeping mats, and meals prepared during the route.
Nights can be cool, while the canyon can be hot during the day. Travelers should pack layers for changing conditions.
Transport Included
- Tourist transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc
- Return tourist transport from Capuliyoc, Saywite, and Conoc to Cusco
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Hotel or nearby drop-off in Cusco
- Mule transport for allowed duffle weight and camp gear
Transport times may vary due to traffic, weather, road conditions, strikes, landslides, or local events.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The highest point of this route is around 3,050 m / 10,007 ft at Choquequirao, and the route begins from Cusco, which is already at high altitude.
Spending 2 or 3 days in Cusco before the trek helps your body adjust. Drink water, avoid alcohol, eat light, and rest well before departure.
Possible altitude symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or loss of appetite. If symptoms appear during the trek, inform your guide right away.
Terrain During the Route
The route combines several types of terrain:
- Dry canyon trails
- Long zigzag descents
- Steep uphill climbs
- River-side sections
- Dusty paths
- Rocky ground
- Rural trails
- Mud in rainy months
Trekking poles are strongly recommended because of the long descents and steep climbs.
Flora and Fauna on the Route
The Choquequirao route crosses dry canyon, rural farming areas, and higher Andean sections.
Depending on altitude and season, travelers may see cactus, dry shrubs, fruit trees, sugar cane, native plants, and vegetation near water sources.
Wildlife may include condors, hummingbirds, highland birds, insects, butterflies, horses, mules, and farm animals along rural sectors.
Climate
The Apurimac Canyon can be hot and dry during the day. Early mornings and nights may be cooler, especially at higher camps.
Rain is more common from November to March. The drier season from April to October usually offers better visibility, but sun exposure can be strong in the canyon.
Travelers should prepare for heat, sun, cold mornings, rain, dust, insects, and changing mountain weather.
Saywite Monolith
The Saywite Monolith is a large carved stone linked to Inca water symbolism, land planning, and ceremonial use. The carving includes channels and figures that have been interpreted as part of an Inca relationship with water, mountains, and agriculture.
This stop gives the final day an added historical layer before returning to Cusco.
Conoc Hot Springs
Conoc Hot Springs are included as a rest stop after the hiking route. The warm water helps relax tired legs after several days of canyon walking.
Bring a bathing suit, towel, sandals, and small cash for any extra services or personal purchases.
Travel Restrictions
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru and may interrupt some tours. Roads can be blocked, and transport services may be affected. When this happens, we will try to keep your trip as close as possible to the original plan, even if this means leaving earlier than scheduled.
In some cases, tours may be changed or canceled. Any change will be coordinated by our operations team. Safety comes first, and decisions will be made to protect travelers and staff.
Lost objects
Please check your belongings whenever leaving transport, camps, dining tents, restaurants, hot springs, or rest areas. You are responsible for your personal items during the tour.
Keep passport, money, cards, medication, electronics, and cameras with you at all times.
Health and physical condition
The Short Choquequirao Trek is a challenging route. It includes long descents, steep climbs, canyon heat, dusty terrain, camp nights, and a total walking distance of around 44 km / 27.3 mi.
Travelers should be in good physical condition. Older travelers, people with heart conditions, respiratory issues, recent injuries, pregnancy, or other medical concerns should speak with their doctor before booking.
Heat exhaustion, dehydration, knee pain, blisters, fatigue, and altitude discomfort can affect travelers on this route. Arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek helps reduce altitude risk.
Enquire Now
Ready to book the Short Choquequirao Trek 4 Days with Machu Picchu Gol Travel?
Send us your travel date, number of travelers, hotel location in Cusco, and any special request. Our reservations team will check guide assignment, mule support, camp logistics, meals, transport, and route availability for your trek.
Essential documents and money
- Original valid passport
- Travel insurance information
- Cash in Peruvian soles
- Credit or debit card
- Copy of passport saved offline
- Emergency contact information
Clothing
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Light shoes or sandals for camp
- Trekking pants
- Thermal pants
- Shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Rain poncho
- Warm gloves
- Sun hat
- Wool hat
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Trekking socks
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sleepwear for camp nights
Personal gear
- Medium daypack, 15 to 25 liters
- Sleeping bag, if not renting
- Trekking poles, if not renting
- Water bottle or CamelBak, 2-liter capacity recommended
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Power bank
- Camera and charger
- Small dry bag or plastic bags for wet clothes
- Snacks such as energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, or candies
- Towel
- Bathing suit for Conoc Hot Springs
Health and personal care
- Personal medication
- Sunblock, SPF 50 or higher
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Personal hygiene items
- Hand sanitizer
- Blister care
- Small personal first aid items
- Electrolytes or hydration salts
- Altitude medication, only if approved by your doctor
Special requirements
Travelers with special requirements must inform our reservations team in advance. This includes mobility aids, medical equipment, professional photo or video equipment, service animals, special diet tools, or any condition that may affect the route.
Machu Picchu Gol Travel is a Cusco-based travel agency operating treks and tours in Cusco and across Peru. Our service focuses on safe logistics, trained local guides, fair work with local teams, and careful support before and during the route.
The Short Choquequirao route passes through areas linked to Capuliyoc, Chiquisca, Playa Rosalinas, Santa Rosa, Marampata, Choquequirao, Saywite, and Conoc. These places include rural families, muleteers, cooks, drivers, guides, and people who work with trekking routes and local farming.
Our commitment is to run the route with respect for these communities and the land around them. Tourism in the Choquequirao area should support local work, protect the trail, and reduce damage to camps, water sources, and archaeological spaces.
For this trek, equipment matters. The route includes heat, sun, steep descents, long climbs, dry canyon terrain, camp nights, and remote trail sections. We organize camp equipment, dining and kitchen tents, duffle transport, mule support, safety items, and clear route planning.
Food is also essential. A challenging trek requires warm meals, hot drinks, snacks, and enough energy for long walking days. Our kitchen team prepares mountain meals with attention to hygiene and dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and special meal requests can be arranged with advance notice.
Traveling with Machu Picchu Gol Travel means walking with a local team that understands the canyon, the trail, the camps, the weather, and the details that help a demanding short route run properly.
Require More Information
Contact Us
Let our local experts help you choose the perfect Peruvian adventure.
Traveler Reviews
