The Short High Choquequirao 3 days
Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights – An Unforgettable Adventure in the Andes
A Challenging and Rewarding Trekking Experience
The Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights is an ideal adventure for travelers with an adventurous spirit and good physical condition. Throughout the journey, you will cross demanding trails, steep ascents, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Every effort is worth it once you arrive at Choquequirao, an impressive Inca citadel surrounded by mountains, nature, and absolute tranquility. More than just a hike, this experience allows you to disconnect from the modern world and connect with the ancestral history of Peru.
Physical Preparation for the Trek
To fully enjoy the adventure, it is recommended to do aerobic exercises before the trip, such as hiking, trekking, light jogging, or climbing stairs. Staying hydrated and getting proper rest are also very important.
Due to the altitude, it is advisable to spend a few days in Cusco before the trek for better acclimatization.
Unmatched Landscapes of the Peruvian Andes
Along the route, you will enjoy incredible views of the Apurímac Canyon, snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and diverse Andean ecosystems. You may also observe native flora and fauna of the region, including Andean birds and, with some luck, the majestic Andean condor.
Choquequirao: The Lost Citadel of the Incas
Choquequirao is one of the most fascinating archaeological complexes in Peru. Its agricultural terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, and famous terraces decorated with llama figures showcase the extraordinary engineering of the Inca civilization.
Unlike other more crowded destinations, Choquequirao preserves an authentic, mysterious, and little-explored atmosphere.
Cultural and Spiritual Connection
Many travelers consider this trek a unique spiritual experience. The energy of the mountains, the silence of the Andes, and the grandeur of the Inca constructions create a special connection with nature and the culture of the ancient Tahuantinsuyo Empire.
Live the Adventure of Choquequirao
The Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights is an unforgettable experience for those who wish to discover one of the most impressive and least explored archaeological treasures in Peru. A perfect expedition for lovers of adventure, history, and the unique landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
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Complete Itinerary – Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights
If you are looking for an unforgettable adventure filled with history, mountains, and nature, the Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights will be an experience you will remember for a lifetime.
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Marampata
The adventure of the Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights begins one day before the hike with an informative briefing led by our professional guide. During this meeting, you will receive important recommendations about the route, weather, altitude, and everything you need to fully enjoy this incredible expedition through the Peruvian Andes.
The following day, very early in the morning between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin our journey by private transportation to the district of Capuliyoc. During the approximately four-hour drive, we will pass through beautiful Andean landscapes, traditional villages, and spectacular mountain scenery.
Upon arrival at Capuliyoc (2,800 m.a.s.l.), we will enjoy a nutritious breakfast while admiring one of the most breathtaking views of the trek. From this panoramic point, you will be able to see the impressive Vilcabamba mountain range, massive glaciers, the majestic Apurímac Canyon, and the route that will lead us to the citadel of Choquequirao.
After breakfast, we will begin the hike descending along an ancient zigzagging trail surrounded by Andean vegetation and spectacular natural landscapes. After approximately two and a half hours of hiking, we will reach the small village of Chiquisca (1,800 m.a.s.l.), where we will enjoy a delicious traditional lunch prepared by our team.
We will then continue descending for about 50 more minutes until we arrive at the famous Playa Rosalina Bridge (1,500 m.a.s.l.), considered the lowest point of the entire trek. Here, we will cross the Apurímac River, whose waters mark the beginning of the most challenging ascent of the day.
From this point onward, we begin a demanding climb toward Santa Rosa and later to Marampata. Along the ascent, we will walk through trails surrounded by lush vegetation, impressive canyon views, and unique Andean landscapes. After several hours of hiking, we will finally reach Marampata (2,900 m.a.s.l.), our campsite for the first night.
Upon arrival, around 7:30 p.m., you will have time to rest and enjoy a hot dinner beneath one of the most stunning night skies in the Andean region.
Day 1 Summary
Hiking Distance: 16 km
Approximate Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,900 m.a.s.l.
Weather: Warm and sunny during the day, cool at night
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Day 2: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
The second day will be one of the most exciting parts of the expedition. You will wake up surrounded by the tranquility of the Andes and the natural sounds of birds inhabiting this mountainous region.
After enjoying a delicious breakfast accompanied by traditional hot coca tea, we will begin our hike toward the impressive Inca citadel of Choquequirao (3,050 m.a.s.l.). The journey takes approximately two hours and offers spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding mountains.
As we advance along the trail, our guide will share fascinating stories about Inca culture, the strategic importance of Choquequirao, and the mystery that still surrounds this ancient city. Many historians believe that Choquequirao was one of the last strongholds of Inca resistance during the Spanish conquest.
Upon arriving at the archaeological complex, you will have enough time to explore its ceremonial sectors, main plazas, agricultural terraces, and ancient water channels built with extraordinary Inca engineering.
One of the most remarkable attractions is the famous Llama Terraces, enormous agricultural terraces decorated with llama figures created from white stones embedded into the terraces. This sector is considered unique within Inca architecture.
Around midday, we will take a break to enjoy lunch surrounded by unforgettable natural scenery.
In the afternoon, we will continue exploring other important sectors of the archaeological site, including:
- The Astronomer’s House
- Ceremonial plazas
- Agricultural terraces
- Hydraulic water channels
- Pacchayoc Waterfall
If weather conditions are favorable and we are lucky, we may also witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor over the Apurímac Canyon — a truly unforgettable experience.
Finally, we will hike back to Marampata, arriving around 7:00 p.m. to enjoy dinner and rest after a day full of history, adventure, and spectacular scenery.
Day 2 Summary
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m.a.s.l.
Weather: Mild during the day and cold at night
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 3: Marampata – Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
On our final day of adventure, we will wake up very early, around 5:00 a.m., to enjoy breakfast and prepare for the return journey to Cusco.
The hike begins with a descent of approximately two and a half hours back to Playa Rosalina Bridge, where we will cross the Apurímac River once again before starting the ascent toward Chiquisca.
After about 50 minutes of uphill hiking, we will arrive at Chiquisca, an ideal place to rest, recover energy, and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our team.
We will then continue the final ascent to Capuliyoc. This section is often considered one of the most demanding due to the heat and steep incline of the trail; however, the breathtaking canyon views and the satisfaction of completing the trek make every step worthwhile.
Upon arrival in Capuliyoc, we will have time to relax and enjoy our final lunch with panoramic views of the Andes before boarding our private transportation back to the city of Cusco.
The return trip takes approximately four hours, arriving in Cusco at night with unforgettable memories of one of the best trekking adventures in Peru.
Day 3 Summary
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Approximate Distance: 16 km
Weather: Warm and dry
Difficulty Level: Challenging
Why Choose the Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights?
The Choquequirao Trek is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes, far away from crowded tourist routes. This adventure combines:
Inca history and archaeology
Stunning natural scenery
Spectacular landscapes
Rewarding physical challenges
Cultural and spiritual connection
Unique experiences in Peru
ITINERARIO DETALLADO:
The Short High Choquequirao 3 days
The Short High Choquequirao 3 days/– An Unforgettable Adventure to the Lost Citadel of the Incas
Journey to the Choquequirao Tour: Discover one of Peru’s most impressive archaeological destinations with the exciting Choquequirao Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights, a unique experience that combines adventure, nature, history, and Andean culture in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. This challenging trek takes you along ancient Inca trails, through deep canyons and breathtaking mountain landscapes, until you reach the majestic citadel of Choquequirao, known as the “Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu.”
Located high in the mountains of the Vilcabamba mountain range, the stunning citadel of Choquequirao remains wrapped in mystery and surrounded by lush nature. Unlike more crowded tourist destinations, this archaeological site offers an authentic, peaceful, and deeply spiritual experience, ideal for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the hidden legacy of the Incas far from the crowds.
Details of the The Short High Choquequirao 3 days
Activities: Hiking / Trekking
Difficulty Level: 5 – High (good physical condition and health required)
Terrain: Steep slopes, dirt roads, hiking trails, and ancient Inca paths with very steep ascents and descents; narrow and uneven trails with high difficulty.
Altitude: Includes ascents and descents of up to 800 meters above sea level. Recommended for people in good physical condition.
Maximum Altitude: 3,106 m.a.s.l. / 10,190 ft
Accommodation & Meals: Rural lodges in the area
Total Hiking Distance: Approximately 42 km / 26 miles
Tourism Type: Trekking, hiking, ecotourism
Departure Days: Any day from April to November (dry season)
Tour Starts: Cusco
Tour Ends: Cusco, with drop-off at your hotel (must be centrally located and accessible)
Overview of the The Short High Choquequirao 3 days
Choquequirao, whose name in Quechua means “Cradle of Gold,” is considered one of the most important archaeological complexes in Peru. Many travelers describe it as a more mystical and less explored version of Machu Picchu due to its vast size and remote location among cloud-covered mountains.
Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca – Marampata
Departure early in the morning from Cusco to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the trek. Descend toward Chiquisca and cross the Apurímac River at Playa Rosalina. Then, begin the challenging ascent to Marampata, where we will
spend the night surrounded by stunning Andean scenery.
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Distance: 16 km
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 2: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
After breakfast, we hike to the majestic Inca citadel of Choquequirao. We will explore ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, Inca water channels, and the famous llama terraces. After the guided tour, we return to Marampata for dinner and overnight stay.
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,050 m.a.s.l.
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Marampata – Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
We begin our return journey descending toward Playa Rosalina and Chiquisca. Then, we complete the final ascent to Capuliyoc, where private transportation will take us back to Cusco.
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Distance: 16 km
Difficulty: Challenging
Why Choose This Trek?
The Choquequirao Trek is the perfect adventure for travelers seeking Inca history, nature, spectacular landscapes, and an authentic experience far away from mass tourism in Peru.
Servicios Incluidos:
The Choquequirao Tour Includes
- Informational briefing the night before the trek to review the itinerary, meet your guide, and answer any questions.
- Transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc and back.
- Professional bilingual guide.
- Meals during the 3-day trek.
- First aid kit.
- Pack horses carrying up to 7 kg per person.
- Overnight stay in a local guesthouse in Marampata.
Not Included
- First breakfast and last dinner.
- Trekking poles.
- Entrance tickets to Choquequirao.
- Riding horse.
- Rain ponchos.
- Extra beverages.
- Expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommends Bringing
- Passport (very important).
- Warm clothing: layers for varying temperatures, especially at night. Thermal clothing, gloves, scarves,
- wool socks, wool hat for cold nights, and hiking shirts.
- Headlamp or miner-style flashlight (extra batteries recommended).
- Warm jacket.
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes.
- One extra pair of shoes.
- 2–3 pairs of wool socks.
- One pair of long pants.
- Water bottle.
- Camera.
Mosquito repellent. - Hat or cap.
- Sunglasses.
- Rain jacket or plastic poncho.
- Extra cash (Peruvian soles).
- Standard travel backpack (approximately 21 liters).
- Toothbrush and personal hygiene items.
- Sunscreen.
Preparación para el Viaje
Te recomendamos llevar una mochila pequeña (máximo 5kg para el tren), bloqueador solar, repelente de mosquitos y ropa ligera en capas.
- Lleva tu pasaporte original (indispensable para entrar a Machu Picchu).
- Cambia algo de dinero a Soles (moneda local) para compras pequeñas.
- Reserva con al menos 2 meses de anticipación.
