4 Day Choquequirao Trek Peru’s Epic”Other” Lost City

Trekking along the lonely trails of the Choquequirao trek must have been how Hiram Bingham felt when he first laid eyes upon the ruins of Machu Picchu in 1911. The Archaeological Park of Choquequirao is still a hidden gem in Peru and the park sees usually less than 15 visitors a day.

The Choquequirao ruins lay hidden in the mountains and are only accessible by a two-day out-and-back trek. The two-day Choquequirao trek is challenging and changes in elevation through the mountains and spans across the Apurimac River Valley.

The trek starts in the small village of Cachora or there’s a possibility to take a taxi to the trailhead in Capuliyoc. Tickets for the Choquequirao Inca site can be purchased at Capuliyoc, where the official trail of the Choquequirao trek begins.

The trek to Choquequirao twists throughout the unique biosphere of the Apurimac Valley and has a few tiny pueblos along the way to camp or sleep at.

In this guide, find out how to reach the trailhead from Cusco, tips for trekking to the Choquequirao ruins, my Choquequirao trek map, and what to see at the Choquequirao Archaeological Park.

This hiking guide will be most beneficial for those looking to hike the Choquequirao trek without a guide.

Here’s how to discover the riches of the Cradle of Gold, the stunning Choquequirao Inca site.

Table of Contents

Disclosure: This is part of my Hikes & Adventures series, which means these treks can be strenuous and challenging. These are my experiences and I am not an expert. Please have all the proper equipment, verify the weather conditions, use professional resources, do your own research, be mindful of constantly changing trail conditions, and take into consideration your own physical abilities and/or limitations. These guides are for entertainment purposes only. Please see my full disclosure for more information here.

• Choquequirao Trek Map & Trek Overview
• Choquequirao Trek Tips & FAQS
• Choquequirao Trek Packing List Tips
• How to Get to Cachora Peru
• Where to Sleep Before the Choquequirao Trek
• Choquequirao Trek Schedule
• Discover the Choquequirao Archaeological Park
• The Future of Choquequirao
• Leaving Choquequirao
• Cost of Hiking the Choquequirao Trek Independently
• Is the Choquequirao Trek Worth it?
• More Cusco Travel Ideas & Cusco Treks
• Choquequirao Trek | Discover the “Other” Lost Inca City

Choquequirao Trek Map

Overview of the Choquequirao Trek

• Out & Back Trail from Cachora Village or Capuliyoc Trailhead
• Choquequirao Trek Distances One-Way:
  • Cachora to Choquequirao Archaeological Park: 18 Miles (29 KM)
  • Capuliyoc to Choquequirao: 13.4 Miles (21.5 KM)
  • Out & Back Trail: 36 miles round trip + Exploration of Choquequirao ruins
• Difficulty: Challenging, for the steep ascents and descents
• Duration: 3 – 5 Days, dependent on route and abilities
• Altitude: The elevation gains on the Choquequirao trek have one major descent and ascent
  • Capuliyoc Mirador altitude 9,745 ft (2970 m)
  • Crossing the Apurimac River via Playa Rosaina Bridge 4840 ft (1475 m)
  • Choquequirao ruins sit at an elevation of 10,017 ft (3050 m)
• Choquequirao Trail Markers: Look for official blue signs with white lettering
  • Signposts are in kilometers
  • There are no trail markings, but sporadic signage
  • There is only one path to follow! Do not leave the trail

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

Suggested Trekking Itineraries for Choquequirao Trek

There are many ways to hike to Choquequirao. This guide loosely follows this itinerary.

• Day 1 | Depart Cusco to Cachora
• Day 2 | Cachora -Santa Rosa Baja
• Day 3 | Santa Rosa Baja to Choquequirao ruins and sleep onsite
• Day 4 | Explore Choquequirao Archaeological Site more in-depth and sleep in Marampata
• Day 5 | Marampata to Cachora for Cusco

There are other possibilities of course. Here’s an option if you don’t have a tent.

• Day 1 | Depart Cusco to Capuliyoc to sleep at Choquequirao Wasi
• Day 2 | Capuliyoc -Marampata | Sleep in Marampata
• Day 3 | Marampata to Choquequirao Site & return to sleep in Chiquisca
• Day 4 | Chiquisca to Capuliyoc and return to Cusco

Choquequirao Trek Tips & FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Choquequirao trek.

How to Get to Choquequirao Ruins?

The only way for now to reach Choquequirao Archaeological Park is by foot. Most people choose to break the trek the Choquequirao over 2 days. After exploring the site, most hikers follow the same route back to Cachora to return to Cusco.

When is the Best Time to Hike the Choquequirao Trek?

The Choquequirao trek is different from most high-altitude treks in Peru as it sits close to the jungle, making the climate more subtropical. Due to the subtropical climate, Choquequirao sits in a unique biosphere in a cloud forest.

As this sacred site is located in the Peruvian highlands, there are still two very distinct seasons, rainy and dry. Usually, the best months for trekking in Cusco are during the dry season between the months of May to October. Depending on the season, shoulder months can be a nice time to trek to Choquequirao, too.

During the dry season, there is less rain. However, during the dry season in Peru, the nights are cooler. On the other hand, the rainy season brings cloudy conditions with rain almost every day. It is quite common for mudslides and rockslides to occur.

It is not common for the Choquequirao trek to shut down during the rainy season due to unsafe hiking conditions (rockslides). Always check the official government website for current trail closures and updates.

I hiked the Choquequirao trek in early December and had light rain every day, but the cloud cover made for enjoyable temperatures without the intense heat from the sun.

What is the Altitude of the Choquequirao Trek Like?

The actual site of Choquequirao sits higher than Machu Picchu and hovers around the altitude of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Locations	Elevation
Waqrapukara Ruins	13,580 Feet (4,150 m)
Cusco City	11,152 Feet (3,400 m)
Choquequirao Ruins	10,017 Feet (3050 m)
Sacred Valley	9,400 Feet (2,865 m)
Machu Picchu	7,972 Feet (2,430 m)

The trek is quite straightforward, but what makes the Choquequirao trek tougher than most is the steep descent into the Apurimac Valley and then ascending back up again.

Starting from the Capuliyoc Mirador the trail descends down to the Playa Rosalinas Bridge almost 5,000 ft (1500 m). From there the climb is steep up to the village of Marampata which is found at an elevation of 9,575 (2918 m).

The change in elevation is one of the hardest challenges of the Choquequirao trek.

Safety Notes for Hiking the Choquequirao Trek

Like most of the treks near Cusco, it’s important to never hike alone. Make sure to always hike with a buddy and if you can’t find one, the Hike Club Cusco Facebook is a great place to start searching for one.

It’s important to be properly acclimated for the Choquequirao trek. Spend at least a few days in Cusco to see how your body reacts. Carrying coca leaves and sipping on coca tea is a great way to help alleviate the symptoms. Altitude sickness can be deadly, so never underestimate the power of the mountains and listen to your body.

Always stay on the trail and leave no trace. There is only one pathway, so it’s hard to get lost unless you leave the trail. Always take into consideration your physical abilities and limitations.

The Choquequirao trek is challenging but is one of the most incredible treks in Peru.

Organized Choquequirao Trek Tours

While this guide focuses on hiking to Choquequirao without a guide, there are many guided Choquequirao Trek Tour options. The trek is beautiful and becoming more popular. Many hikers depart from Cusco using organized tours.

If worried or questioning the many risk factors of the Choquequirao trek, such as the altitude, intensity of the route, carrying the proper gear, or your physical capabilities, always opt for a guided tour.

This is a highly-rated Choquequirao trek run by the company TreXperience.

Choquequirao Wasi is a guesthouse found near the Capuliyoc trailhead. Run by a local guide, they also provide trekking information and support.

Popular Choquequirao Tours from Cusco

Do I Need a Tent for the Choquequirao Trek?

Well, that depends. There are many simple guesthouses found in a few places along the way and in Marampata. Many of these accommodations provide food, too, but it will be a little more expensive.

One of the highlights for me was camping at the Choquequirao campground. The camping is included with the price of the Choquequirao entrance ticket of 60 PEN ($16.50 USD).

Personally, I loved carrying my Nemo tent, but it’s not necessary anymore. Camping also provided more flexibility where I could stay along the route.

Choquequirao Trek Packing List

For the Choquequirao trek, it’s no longer necessary to carry a tent. However, I carried and loved my lightweight Nemo tent.

Durable high-ankle hiking boots are necessary for the steep ascent and descent of the hiking trail. Salomons are excellent. As I hiked the Choqeuquirao trek at the start of the rainy season, GORE-TEX is the best. Trekking Poles are also highly recommended for elevation gains and drops.

I camped and did not sleep in guesthouses, so I carried a lighter Sleeping Bag (a 50° Sleeping Bag), and a sleeping pad. A light liner or sleeping bag may also come in handy at the guesthouses.

Water can be scarce along the way and I used my Water Filter Kit quite a bit. There are small tiendas at the trailhead and Marapata village but the water is costly. There are water sources before Choququirao and at the site, but I always used the water filter. To save on plastic use, I carry a lightweight Hydra Flask water bottle.

Portable Battery Packs are essential for devices. Many places have solar panels and charge money to use them. Be mindful that on a cloudy day, you may be out of luck. I always download an offline map and use my phone for pictures.

Carry a Headlamp and a well-stocked First-Aid Kit with at least one Emergency Blanket per person and some coca leaves for altitude sickness. Bug spray is a must for the jungle-like climate. Sunscreen and sun protection go a long way.

For clothing, it’s alright to pack light as the afternoon heat will dry out clothes. I brought a lightweight clothesline to help dry clothes when the sun peaked out. Try to avoid hiking in the afternoon heat, as the sun can be quite brutal and there is not much shade coverage along the trail. At night the temps can drop, so bring something warm.

A lightweight rain jacket comes in handy along with a rain cover for your backpack, especially during the shoulder season and the rainy season.

If you want to save money, a Cooking Stove with enough fuel and supplies for at least 3 days is essential. There are meal options and snacks in Marampata.

🥾 My Complete Peru Packing List for Multi-Day Treks

How to Get to Cachora Peru

It’s possible to reach Cachora from Cusco via public transportation or a private driver. Independently, the Choquequirao is quite straightforward and easy to reach

Of course, there are Choquequirao trek tours that leave from Cusco.

It’s best to sleep in Cachora or near the trailhead at Choquequirao Wasi due to bus times. Sleeping in Cachora allows for an early morning departure for the Choquequirao trek to avoid the strong afternoon sun.

Cusco to Cachora Via Public Transportation | Bus and Collectivos

There are buses and collectivos that can get you near Cachora

Cusco to Cachora Bus

The public bus departs Cusco from the main terminal and drops at Ramal de Cachora.

 🚌 Cusco to Ramal de Cachora | Departure: Terminal Terrestre Cusco | Bus companies: Brede, Sanchez, Palomino | Departure Times: 6:00 & 13:00, but verify at Bus Terminal | Average Fare: 25 PEN ($6.75 USD) | Duration: 4 hours

Collectivos to Cachora

There are shared cars that are smaller than the typical shared vans. These cars depart from Autos Abancay and will need to be filled before they depart. As the car is smaller, it’s typically faster than the buses and departs throughout the day.

 🚌 Cusco to Ramal de Cachora | Departure: Autos Abancay | Departure when full | Average Fare: 50 PEN ($6.75 USD) | Duration: 3.5 hours

Ramal de Cachora to Cachora

Upon arrival into Ramal del Cachora, either walk the 9 miles into Cachora or take a taxi. Taxis conveniently and eagerly wait at Ramal de Cachora to take locals and trekkers alike into Cachora.

Taxi prices are negotiable. We managed to barter 30 PEN in total for 2 people.

  Ramal de Cachora to Cachora Taxi | Duration: 25 minutes

Note that taxis can take you to the trailhead from Ramal de Cachora for a higher fare. Prices to the Capuliyoc trailhead range from 80 to 100 PEN.

The taxi to Cachora is worth it since the next few days of hiking are pretty intense. The hiking path is on a shared gravel road with passing vehicles.

Private Drivers from Cusco to Cachora

Private drivers come with a hefty fare. This option may be better for those in large groups to help split the cost. A private driver is great for those not looking to deal with the hassle of public transportation. If using public transportation, try to negotiate the fare to the trailhead.

Usually, 5 people can fit comfortably in a tax, sometimes more.

One-way cost of a private driver | 300 PEN ($82 USD)

Where to Sleep Before the Choquequirao Trek

It is advisable to sleep in either Cachora or at the Capuliyoc trailhead before starting the trek. This allows an early departure for the Choquequirao trek.

The village is tiny and although there are a few guesthouses, in the off-season most are shut down. Always verify that places are accepting guests.

Where to Sleep in Cachora

➜ CasaNostra Choquequirao is a nice guesthouse located on the outskirts of town. CasaNostra has nice private and shared rooms. Find a small restaurant downstairs with an open common space with incredible views.

The beds are comfy and the rooms are spacious. There are lots of plug-ins for devices (make sure to charge up everything before departing). The showers are clean and hot. The staff is friendly and willing to help answer any last-minute questions.

Find the trail that leads to the Capuliyoc trailhead out the back door.

Breakfast is included in the room price. They offer an early service at 6:00, so you can be out the door before 7:00.

☛ Before departing Cusco, verify that CasaNostra Choquequirao is accepting guests

More Guesthouses in Cachora

✔ Casa de Salcantay Hostal, Choquequirao

✔ Lodging Llaqta Wasi

✔ Choquequirao Guest House

✔ Inka Dream Choquequirao

✔ Los Tres Balcones Hostel

Where to Sleep in Capuliyoc

Steps away from the Choquequirao trek trailhead find the popular accommodation of Choquequirao Wasi. This locally run guesthouse rents out cabins and also doubles as a tour company.

They also sell food onsite and are located next to a small tienda. Wi-Fi and hot showers are available for a small fee.

Choquequirao Trek Schedule

Here’s a detailed daily trek schedule for hiking to Choquequirao.

Choquequirao Trek Day 1 | Cachora to Santa Rosa Baja

On Day 1, if you slept in Cachora, hike or take a taxi to the trailhead in Capuliyoc. Try to leave as early as possible.

Those who choose to hike to the trailhead, try to push through to Santa Rosa Baja. Those who took a taxi to the Choquequirao trailhead or slept at Choquequirao Wasi may opt to sleep in Santa Rosa Alta or even Marampata.

Those without a tent can find lodging options in Marampata. Plan for a long day.

Cachora to Capuliyoc Choquequirao Trailhead

Reach the trailhead in Capuliyoc by walking the mostly flat path or opt for a quick taxi ride

By Foot

  🥾 Cachora to Capuliyoc Walk | Distance: 6.5 miles | Duration: 2.5 hours | Flat and well-marked but time consuming

By Taxi

If you don’t want to walk, hire a taxi from Cachora to Capuliyoc

Cachora to Capuliyoc Taxi | Average Cost: 40 – 50 PEN | Duration: less than 30 minutes

Purchase Tickets to Choquequirao Archaeological Park in Capuliyoc

Upon arrival to Capuliyoc, purchase tickets for Choquequirao Archaeological Park. This point is the actual trailhead of the Choquequirao trek.

Tickets for the Choquequirao Archaeological Park can be purchased from the small building right before the trailhead entrance. The park officers will take your passport information and add you to the small roster of those currently hiking.

If you arrive here before it’s open, continue on the trail. It’s possible to buy tickets at the park.

Choquequirao Entrancee Fee: 60 PEN ($16.25 USD) | Ticket Office Hours: 8:00 -16:00

We actually didn’t get our tickets punched until we were exiting the park on the last day. There were only 4 people on the admission roster before us for the entire day!

The Official Trailhead of the Choquequirao Trek

There are a few little tiendas near the trailhead offering last-minute snacks, drinks, and a bathroom break! It’s also possible to hire horses and guides here. Use your judgment when making this decision.

Shortly after admission into the park, there is the stunning Mirador de Capuliyoc. The signage at Mirador de Capuliyoc reads 21.5 KM (13.35 miles) to Choquequirao Archaeological Park.

Leave the Mirador de Capuliyoc and start the downhill trek. There are many beautiful viewpoints, some even with covered benches. Before Playa Rosalinas there is one small campsite, Chiquisca, which also serves up some meals. This is a popular place to grab some food and sleep on the return trip.

There were a few friendly locals hanging out drinking chicha who were willing to share.

Expect a mostly downhill trek with stunning views until arrival at Playa Rosalinas. This is the spot right before the river crossing and before the uphill trek.

  🥾 Capuliyoc to Playa Rosalinas | Distance: 6.25 miles

Playa Rosalinas has an unfinished campsite and it appeared to not be open. There was no sale of food or drinks (in December 2019). In Playa Rosalinas there is a facility that appears abandoned with no drinks or food options.

After Playa Rosalinas, cross the river with the new bridge. Prepare to start the steep uphill climb to Santa Rosa Baja.

The Playa Rosalinas to Santa Rosa Baja

There is little shade coverage on the trek uphill to Santa Rosa Baja. It’s a steep 2-mile climb up, so make sure to be prepared for a grueling trek.

  🥾 Playa Rosalinas to Santa Rosa Baja | Distance: 2 miles | Duration: at least 1.5 hours

There are two options to camp right before Santa Rosa Baja.

• Mama Eufemia’s & Campamento Santa Rosa Baja

Camping in Santa Rosa Baja

We set up camp at Mama Eufemia’s. Mama Eufemia’s offers food, but we opted to cook our own. They also sell snacks and beverages. There are a few beds here in rooms, but they are scarce. Don’t plan on sleeping here without a tent unless you have verified a bed.

The view was incredible from our campsite. We set up quickly and like almost every night we encountered, it rained hard during the night.

Let me put this in the most simple of terms: these campsites are extremely basic. Don’t expect a toilet seat, hot water, toilet paper, or charging points for devices.

Mama Eufemia’s Camping | Camping Fee: 5 PEN | Electronic Charging Fee: 5 PEN | Food and Snacks available for purchase | Basic Facilities

Overview Choquequirao Trek Day 1

• Cachora to Santa Rosa Baja
• Distance: 17.25 miles (walked from Cachora to park entrance at Capuliyoc)
• Schedule: Left Cachora @ 7:00 with arrival time in Santa Rose Baja @ 17:00
• Highlights:
  • Mirador de Capuliyoc
  • Incredible viewpoints along the river
  • Exceptional views from the campsite at Mama Eufemia’s in Santa Rosa Baja

Choquequirao Trek Day 2 | Santa Rosa Baja to Choquequirao

From Santa Rosa Baja, it’s only a little over a 5-mile hike to the Choquequirao Archaeological Park! The day starts with a climb but then flattens out after the hub village of Marampata.

There are only camping options available at the park. For those hiking the Choquequirao Trek without a tent, you will have to spend the night back in Marampata.

Marampata is a great place to stock up on dry goods, snacks, and last-minute supplies.

There really are no time restraints to leave Santa Rosa Baja extremely early. Just keep in mind, the earlier you depart the more time you have to explore the massive Choquequirao ruins.

The next village uphill is Santa Rosa Alta. The village is only 20 minutes or so from Santa Rosa Baja, but it’s pretty steep. There are a few unmanned campsites, but they all appear to be closed.

Santa Rosa Alta to Marampata

After Santa Rosa Alta is the Uchuhuerta Waterfall. This is a great place to refill water bottles and take a break after that steep ascent. There is a bench just a little way up the path.

The next highlight will be the cute village of Marampata.

  🥾 Uchuhuerta Waterfall to Marampata | Distance: 2.2 miles | Duration: less than 1.5 hours

Marampata

In the village of Marampata, find plenty of tiendas selling last-minute snacks and food stalls before Choquequirao. 

In the actual village, look for the first tienda. There is a woman selling coffee and tea who lets you charge devices for free with solar panels! Their family is so nice and is a great place to take a break. Savor the incredible views from the bench right out front.

Many of the tiendas also have campsites and rooms. There are a few simple guesthouses in Marampata, so without a tent sleep here. Many of the guesthouses run around 50 – 75 PEN per night. Meals are an additional fee. Currently, there are about 8 lodging options in Marampata.

Marampata to Choquequirao Campsite

The next leg of the hike is mostly flat and leads to the Choquequirao Archaeological Park. After leaving Marampata, be prepared to see those first vistas of the lower terraces (House of the Waterfall) that line the steep mountainside of Choquequirao.

Soon, there will be a nice bridge to cross. This is a great option to refill water, savor the views, and take a quick break before reaching the site.

Next, arrive at the Choquequirao campsite. There is a little hut that sells some food items, but nothing substantial. It’s important that you carry enough food or stock up from Marampata. No one in the hut checked our tickets, but make sure to carry them with you.

  🥾 Marampata to Choquequirao Ruins | Distance: 2.25 miles | Duration: less than 1.5 hours

Camping at Choquequirao Campsite

Once you arrive at the campsite, set up your tent and explore the ruins. A mid-day arrival means there is plenty of time to explore the ruins with no people! We saw 2 people the whole day.

There are a few terraces where you can set up camp. We came on the shoulder of the rainy season, so our biggest challenge was finding an area that was not too saturated with mud.

• Camping at Choquequirao is included with the purchase of the Choquequirao entrance ticket
• These facilities are nice in comparison. Find cold showers, changing areas, toilets, and a separate sink area for dishes. Drinking water was available via spigot, but we filtered it.
• There is a small hut where there is a limited selection of food for purchase.

☛ Reminder |The Choquequirao Archaeological Park closes at 17:00. We actually got “locked in,” even though we were at the gates before 17:00.

Overview Choquequirao Trek Day 2

• Santa Rosa Baja to Choquequirao Archaeological Park
• Distance: 5.25 miles
• Schedule: Left Mama Eufemia’s @ 8:15 with arrival at Choquequirao Campsite @ 13:00
• Highlights:
  • Uchuhuerta Waterfall
  • The adorable village of Marampata
  • Incredible viewpoints of the lower terraces of Choquequirao
  • Exploring the ruins at Choquequirao Archaeological Park

Discover the Choquequirao Archaeological Park

The Choquequirao Archaeological Park is massive! It really is quite possible to spend at least two or three days exploring it all.

Choquequirao translates to Cradle of Gold in the local Quechua language.

The most magical thing about these Inca ruins is to experience them with no other visitors. Unlike Machu Picchu, there are no guards here constantly blowing whistles and regulating every single movement. Exploring Choquequirao is special and one of the most incredible Inca ruins in Peru.

If arriving mid-day at this sacred site, head up to the park to explore Pikiwasi, House of the Priest, and Usnu for some incredible views. Next, head down to the Plaza Principal. These 4 sites should take up the majority of the afternoon.

The park closes at 17:00.

☛ Travel Tip | Those sleeping in Marampata will want to sleep there the night before and visit in the morning. Most visitors spend about 3 hours exploring the many sites of Choquequirao.

More Things to See at Choquequirao Ruins

If camping at Choquequirao explore more of the park in the morning. The empty Plaza Principal leads to unique Llama Terraces. The long stairwell winds down the hillside, but the fog was thick, we had zero visibility of the terraces.

Although the fog was heavy, you can appreciate the enormity of these massive terraces. One bummer is we missed the massive pictures of the stone llamas made from white stones. The Llama terrace is quite impressive on a clear day.

• The viewpoint of the terraces is .5 miles downhill from the Plaza Principal
• Plan on 30 minutes to reach the bottom (one-way)

After the Lama Terraces, come back to the Plaza Principal to explore the section above it: the Q’olq’as. This is a small section but offers incredible views of the ruins from a different angle. These ruins are scattered on top of the mountain along with the upper sector of the park. Gawk at those spectacular views of the valley. It really is something really special.

When it’s clear, it’s possible to see sections of the terraces below.

Visiting these 3 areas took around 2.5 hours exploring. We could have spent so much more time here, but the fog was a big factor.

If you have more time, consider adding these things to see at Choquequirao.

Choquequirao Optional Add on Abra Choquequirao

Due to the fact that we were continuing on to Machu Picchu, we came across one of the most incredible viewpoints. If you have two days at Choquequirao, don’t miss the Abra Choquequirao viewpoint.

This incredible photo opp sits at 10,735 feet and is worth the extra effort. This is actually a pass, but here’s how to reach it.

1. Exit the Choquequirao Park at the main entrance.
2. There is a gate and to the right of it is a sign for Yanama
3. Start the steep 1.25-mile climb from the start of the new trailhead of the Inca Trail.
4. Reach the Abra Choquequirao (marked with a blue and white sign)
5. Plan on over an hour to reach the viewoint (It’s STEEP)

This was my favorite view of Choquequirao

More Things to See at Choquequirao

The House of the Waterfall ruins that you gaze upon on the trek into Choquequirao can also be visited.

• The House of the Waterfall terraces is .5 miles downhill from the Choquequirao campsite.
• Plan on 30 30-minute downhill trek one way, but you’ll have to climb up to return to the site

If we had had an extra cushion day, we could have stayed an extra day to explore these fascinating ruins.

Note on Choquequirao Entrance Ticket

It was not until we left the Archaeological Park and were going to pack up our gear that we finally ran into a man verifying tickets. The ticket for the park is good for 5 days (time to travel to and from) and ticket control was pretty lenient. When we purchased the ticket, they told us not to worry about when it was punched and how many days we stayed at the park.

The Future of Choquequirao

Choquequirao and the Choquequirao trek will become more popular in the future. In fact, National Geographic has named it one of the most Amazing Places to Travel in 2023.

As for now, the only way to get to this sacred site is to hike for two days on the Choquequirao trek trail. This still deters many visitors with less than 20 visitors arriving each day.

There have been plans approved for a cable car to Choquequirao. Once that happens these ruins will no longer be the tranquil and serene place that they currently are.

This has already started happening to the Kuelap Fortress in Northern Peru. Tourism has exploded with the addition of a cable car. There are also talks of building a cable car to Huchuy Qosqo in the Sacred Valley.

Rumor has it, that the cable car will take visitors less than 20 minutes to arrive at Choquequirao. What makes visiting Choquequirao so special is being alone with these ancient structures that were part of the mighty Inca empire. The ruins complement the powerful mountains, waterfalls, and landscapes here. Walking in silence and alone is part of the magic.

While the jungle has reclaimed a majority of the structures, Choquequirao is easily a highlight on a trip to Peru.

Leaving Choquequirao

After exploring Choquequirao, return to Cachora via the out-and-back Choquequirao trek trail. The trail is the same one you hiked in, so return on your leisure.

Most visitors stop at Marampata for lunch on return and then sleep at Chiquisca for the night.

Once at Capuliyoc, Choquequirao Wasi can help arrange transportation back to Cusco or reach the main road for collectives and buses back to Cusco. The guesthouses in Cachora can also help with the logistics of returning to Cusco.

More Helpful Tips for Return Trek to Cachora

• Guesthouses
  • There are plenty of guest houses in Marampata
  • Playa Rosalinas guesthouse seems to be permanently shut and abandoned
  • There is a guesthouse at Chiquisca, Llamayoq Wasi
  • Capuliyoc is home toChoquequirao Wasi
• Campsites along the Choquequirao Trek
  • Choquequirao Ruins
  • Marampata
  • Santa Rosa Alta (Abandonded)
  • Santa Rosa Baja
  • Chiquisca
  • Between Capuliyoc and Cachora
• Many of the campsites have snacks and some serve food
• There are plenty of places to camp with no facilities along the Choquequirao trek, along staying at a guesthouse supports the local economy

The Choquequirao trek round trip takes 4-6 days depending on hiking abilities, what you want to see, weather, and other factors

The Trail to Machu Picchu

From Choquequirao, it’s possible to continue all the way to the Lost City itself of Machu Picchu. From Choquequirao, it’s an additional 5 to 6 days trek to Machu Picchu, the most famous landmark in Peru.

Seriously, the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is one of the most epic hikes in Peru, but it’s remote, isolated, and only for advanced trekkers.

Those continuing to Machu Picchu should carry a tent in case any of the guest houses are closed

☛ The Complete Hiking Guide for the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek

Leave Choquequirao by following an Old Inca trail. Pass by the incredible viewpoint of Abra Choquequirao and continue to the Pinchaunuyoc ruins. I can almost guarantee you will only pass donkeys and have this place to yourself.

After that, cross the rushing White River.

 ⁉️ Important Safety Notice | Be mindful that during the Cusco rainy season, from November to April, it may not be possible to cross the river, as the river may be too high. January is usually the wettest month in the Cusco Region. Check-in with the Choquequirao gatekeepers to verify if the river is impassable, or has dangerous conditions. If the river is too high the trek to Machu Picchu is impossible.

The next few days include intense mountain passes at 13,615 and 15,289 feet respectively. The scenery includes glacial mountain peaks, lush valleys, and waterfalls.

Pass through the authentic village of Yanama and sleep there. The next day, sleep in Totora.

There were days when we didn’t encounter a single person. From leaving Choquequirao to arriving at Collpapampa we did not see one single person on the trail.

After Totora, meet up with the Salkantay trail in the village of Collpapampa. Follow the Salkantay trail all the way to the hydroelectric plant station and continue alongside the railroad tracks for an uneventful 5 miles before reaching Aguas Calientes.

Aguas Calientes, or MachuPicchu Pueblo, is the gateway to Machu Picchu.

⁉️ This trek is extremely challenging and remote and requires a lot of planning and trekking skills.

If you have any doubts or concerns about this trek, always use a guide.

There are some guided tour options if looking to hike from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu online. Additionally, check in at Cusco and Cachora about hiring local guides.

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek Map & Overview

This is a brief overview of the Cachora to Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu.

• Cachora to Machu Picchu: +/- 78 miles
• Duration: The Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu takes at least 8 days with day 9 for exploring Machu Picchu
• Difficulty: Extremely Difficult due to altitude, remoteness, extreme ascents and descents, and not seeing people for days
• Book Machu Picchu Tickets in advance
• Camping Gear and Advanced Trekking Skills are a must

Estimated Cost of Choquequirao Trek Independently

So, how much does it cost to hike the Choquequirao trek independently? I continued on to Machu Picchu, so this is a rough estimate.

I’ve doubled camping fees and bus fares for out-and-back pricing and kept my actual prices (although some fares have changed along with the exchange rate).

Choquequirao Trek Expenses	PEN (S/)	USD($)
Food & Snacks (4 days, split between 2 people)	S/60	$17.25
One Large Propane Fuel Tank	S/40	$11.75
Bus & (Taxi, 2 person split) to Cachora	S/18.25	$5.25
CasaNostra Choquequirao (1 Night, dinner, drinks & upgraded breakfast)	S/60	$17.25
Campsite to Choquequirao	S/5	$1.50
Choquequirao Archaeological Park Entrance Ticket	S/60	$17.25
Campsite from Choquequirao	S/5	$1.50
Basic night at CasaNostra Choquequirao before Cusco	S/35	$10.25
Dinner in Cachora from a local mama	S/8	$2.25
Bus & (Taxi, 2 person split) to Cusco	S/18.25	$5.25
Choquequirao Trek Out & Back Total	S/309.50	$89.50

In my initial costs, I carried a 4-day supply of food, which helped keep my costs low. I also carried a tent, which reduced my accommodation fees by quite a bit.

Is the Choquequirao Trek Worth it?

Yes, absolutely! The Choquequirao trek is worth the effort. While Machu Picchu is incredible to see and experience, Choquequirao is just as special without all the people.

The hiking trail is a challenge but is stunning, diverse, and full of life. Maybe this is why the city was named the Cradle of Gold.

With a cable car in the works, make sure to visit Choquequirao before it’s too late! The only way to reach this site, for now, is the Choquequirao trek.

The most incredible thing about exploring the Choquequirao site is that you are sharing this experience with barely anyone. With few visitors each day, visiting Choquequirao feels like stepping back in time.

Whether you hike to Choquequirao without a tour or join an organized tour, the Choquequirao trek is most definitely a highlight on a trip to Peru.

Choquequirao Trek | Discover the “Other” Lost City

In short, the Choquequirao Trek has the ultimate reward of discovering what feels to be a true lost Inca city. The only way for now to access this stunning Inca site in Peru is to take the two-day trek to Choquequirao.

Reach the Choquequirao trek from Cusco via the small village of Cachora. The Choquequirao trek is an out-and-back trail. This hiking guide includes highlights of the trail, where to stay, and things to see at Choquequirao.

After exploring this “hidden city,” head back to Cachora or take the advanced Old Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Hike to Choquequirao before it becomes a major tourist destination in Peru! The Choquequirao trek is most definitely worth the hike.

Have you visited the lost city of Choquequirao? Are there any updates to add to this Choququierao trek guide? Let me know in the comments below!

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