Choquequirao Trek: 3 Days to the Sister of Machu Picchu

Choquequirao Trek: 3 Days to the Sister of Machu Picchu

Choquequirao is an ancient archaeological site located in the Apurímac region of Peru. Known as the “sister of Machu Picchu,” this Inca complex sits at approximately 3,050 meters above sea level, surrounded by impressive mountains and valleys. It was an important agricultural and administrative center during the Inca Empire, though its access is far more remote and less crowded than Machu Picchu. Choquequirao is characterized by its terraces, temples, and fascinating architecture.

If trekking is part of your lifestyle, this tour is for you. Choquequirao was one of the last Inca refuges, situated in the middle of a canyon more than 2,000 meters deep and surrounded by the Vilcabamba mountain range with snow-capped peaks at 5,000 meters. This is one of the most thrilling challenges available, requiring solid preparation — but the reward is the enormous satisfaction of completing it in three intense days of hiking.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Marampata

Meet your guide the night before departure for a welcome briefing. Early morning pick-up from your hotel (3:30–4:00 a.m.) and a 4-hour drive through several villages. Breakfast at Capuliyoc (2,800 m), the end of the road. Begin hiking to a viewpoint with spectacular views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the Apurímac River canyon. Descend 2.5 hours via zigzag path to Chiquisca (1,800 m) for a traditional lunch. Continue descending 50 minutes to Playa Rosalina bridge (1,500 m) — the lowest point. Cross the bridge and ascend 2.5 hours to Santa Rosa, then 3 more hours to Marampata (2,900 m). Arrival ~7:30 p.m. Overnight.

Distance: 16 km | Hiking time: ~6 hrs | Climate: warm and sunny

Day 2: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata

Wake up at 5:00 a.m. for breakfast and begin hiking to the Choquequirao archaeological site. Explore the terraces, temples, and structural remains of this remarkable Inca complex with your guide. The site offers impressive views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Return to Marampata for overnight.

Day 3: Marampata – Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco

Wake up at 7:00 a.m. for breakfast. Descend 2.5 hours to Playa Rosalina bridge (1,500 m), then climb 50 minutes to Chiquisca (1,800 m) for a rest and lunch. Return via the same route to Capuliyoc (2,800 m) — a tough section in the afternoon heat. Transport awaits for the 4-hour return drive to Cusco.

What Is Included

• Informational talk the evening before the trek
• Transport Cusco–Capuliyoc and return
• Professional bilingual guide
• All meals for 3 days
• First aid kit
• Pack horses (max. 7 kg per person)
• Overnight accommodation at a guesthouse in Marampata

Not Included

• First breakfast and last dinner
• Trekking poles | Choquequirao entry tickets
• Riding horse | Rain ponchos | Extra drinks
• Expenses not mentioned in the itinerary

Packing Recommendations

• Passport (very important) | Warm layers for variable temperatures | Thermal underwear, gloves, scarf, wool hat
• Headlamp with extra batteries | Cold-weather jacket | Trekking boots and one extra pair of shoes
• 2–3 pairs of wool socks | Long trousers | Water bottle | Camera | Insect repellent
• Hat or cap | Sunglasses | Rain jacket or plastic poncho | Extra cash in soles
• Standard travel backpack (~21 litres) | Toothbrush and personal toiletries | Sunscreen