Choquequirao Trek 5 and 4 Days

Itinerary

Short Itinerary

• Day 1: Cusco → Limatambo → Cachora → trek to Playa Rosalina (1 550m / 5084ft)
• Day 2: Playa Rosalina → Choquequirao visit (3 055 m / 10020ft)
• Day 3: Choquequirao → Raqaypata (2 330 m /7642ft)
• Day 4: Raqaypata → Coca Masana (2 330 m / 7642ft)
• Day 5: Coca Masana → Cachora → return to Cusco via Tarawasi & Saywite

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Limatambo – Kachora – Playa Rosalina

We begin our journey with an early departure from Cusco at 4:00 a.m., arriving in the town of Cachora around 8:00 a.m., where we enjoy breakfast. Here, we meet our horsemen and organize our equipment onto the mules and horses.

From Cachora, we set off on a 2-hour hike to Capuliyoc (2,915 m), where we are rewarded with our first spectacular views of the Apurímac Valley far below and the snow-capped peaks of Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora.

From this viewpoint, we begin a downhill hike toward Coca Masana (2,330 m), where the climate becomes noticeably warmer and the vegetation starts to change, marking our transition into a new ecological zone.

Finally we arrive at Playa Rosalina (Rosalina beach) at 1550 m beside the Apurimac River where we set up our camp and spend the night.

The approximate hike time is 10 hours.

Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Choquequirao

Day 2 is considered the most challenging day of the five-day trek. After an early breakfast, we begin our hike, and after approximately 5 hours we arrive at Raqaypata, located near the Chunchullmayo River, where we enjoy lunch followed by a well-deserved rest.

Along the trail, we encounter a rich variety of orchids, wildflowers, and Andean birdlife, making the journey especially rewarding.

From Raqaypata, we continue for another 2-hour hike to reach Choquequirao (3,035 m). If weather and timing allow, we may enjoy a stunning sunset and, with a bit of luck, spot the Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the world.

We spend the night camping just outside the impressive ruins of Choquequirao.

Day 3: Choquequirao – Raqaypata

After an early breakfast, we begin our exploration of the majestic Inca ruins of Choquequirao. Our guide will provide detailed explanations about the history, significance, and mysteries of this remarkable archaeological site.

We explore the three levels of excavated ruins, where we can admire Inca houses, agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas, and other key structures that once formed this important Inca settlement. Choquequirao is known as “The Last Refuge of the Incas,” a name that appears in the oldest known report attributed to Juan Arias Díaz, one of the first explorers to document the area in 1710.

In the late afternoon, we begin our return trek, heading back along the trail to Raqaypata, where we set up camp and spend the night.

Day 4: Raqaypata – Coca Masana

Right after breakfast, we continue our return trek with a steep descent toward the Apurímac River, where we stop for lunch. Along the way, we will once again enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and the stunning Andean landscape.
In the afternoon, we begin a challenging 4-hour uphill hike to our final campsite at Coca Masana (2,330 m / 7,644 ft). Upon arrival, we settle in for the night and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Day 5: Coca Masana – Cachora – Cusco

After breakfast, we begin the final 3-hour uphill hike to Capuliyoc (2,915 m / 9,564 ft). From here, the trail becomes fairly flat as we continue toward the village of Cachora.
Upon arrival, we say goodbye to our horsemen and return back to Cusco. Along the way, we stop to visit the archaeological site of Tarawasi and the White Stone of Saywite, where we will enjoy our final lunch.
A scenic 4-hour drive then brings us back to Cusco.

Tour Package Details

Inclusions:

• Private Transportation: Our vans are brand new, fully authorized for tourist use, and equipped with essential safety features, including a first aid kit and an oxygen tank.
• Professional Tour Guide: Our tour guides bring over fifteen years of experience. Their extensive knowledge ensures that every aspect of the journey is carefully planned, providing travelers with a deeply enriching experience. Driven by their passion for the region, they are dedicated to sharing the beauty and history of this breathtaking destination.
• First Aid Kit: Our guides are always equipped with a comprehensive first aid kit to address any potential emergencies that may arise during the trip. This includes treatments for altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, and other minor ailments, ensuring prompt and appropriate care for all participants.
• Oxygen Tank: Our guides carry an oxygen tank at all times. This precaution ensures the safety and comfort of our visitors, providing immediate assistance if needed.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We pick you up from your hotel reception and at the end of the tour we drop you off at the hotel.
• Briefing: One day prior to your trip, the guide will meet you at the hotel to give you detailed information and answer any questions you may have.
• Customer Service: We offer you an emergency phone number available 24 hours a day to facilitate seamless communication with the Inka Expeditions team.
• Entrance tickets to Choquequirao
• Great cook
• Complete Camping gear (2-person tents, mattresses
• Dining tent
• Kitchen tent
• Full board meals (4 B, 4 L, 3 D; vegetarian option)
• Horses & muleteers for equipment (+ emergency horse)
• Boiled & hot water, hot drinks, first aid/oxygen

What is not included:

• Sleeping bag. (rent available)
• Walking stick. (rent available)
• Inflatable mattress (rent available)
• Tips (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Snacks

What to bring:

• Hiking boot: This is recommended, as the trail is dusty, grassy and slippery sections.
• Day back packs: to carry your personal items, snacks and mineral water.
• Waterproof Pants (Optional): Useful during the rainy season (December to March).
• Warm Jacket: Temperature at the summit is cold, so a warm clothes is advisable.
• Rain Jacket and Rain poncho: Recommended all year around because the weather is very unpredictable.
• Wool Hat
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Extra Money: Bring cash and small coins for purchasing snacks or drinks from local vendors along the way.
• Gloves
• Basic Medications: Under prescription of your doctor (for headaches and altitude sickness).
• Portable Charger

Prices

Private Service

This is a private tour organized exclusively for you and your family. It includes private transportation and a professional tour guide to provide you with the best experience and a personal touch.

DEPARTURES: From March to January depending on your request.

Price Table – Private Service 2026(US$)

Booking Information

Choose in the Calendar the date of when you would like to start this Tour -select the month, year and the day, (Starting Date). Fill in your details as requested, and details of the people traveling with you, once you have finished and sent us your reservation, you are registered to pay a booking deposit of US$ 300 + 6% through paypal. Once we receive your payment, we will confirm the tour in your email and send you the rest of the details.

Booking deposite required – Online payments.

You must pay a booking deposit of US$ 300+6% per person through Paypal.

FINAL PAYMENT: The remaining balance of the tour must be paid in cash upon arrival in Cusco.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. You must inform us of any medical conditions, physical limitations, or allergies at the time of booking. Participants must be in good physical health to undertake this trek. If you have any doubts regarding your fitness level, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor prior to travel.
Passengers over the age of 70 are required to present a current medical certificate confirming their fitness to participate, as the Choquequirao Trek reaches altitudes of up to 3,055 meters above sea level. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days in advance to properly acclimatize to the altitude.

2. If you wish to leave the group or campsite for independent walks at any time, you must inform your tour guide in advance. For safety reasons, participants are not permitted to separate from the group without prior notice.
If you experience any issues or concerns regarding the service, please notify your tour guide immediately so that any situation can be addressed and resolved as quickly as possible.

3. Each passenger is permitted up to 8 kilograms of personal belongings to be carried by the horses. We will provide a duffle bag for your sleeping bag, mattress, and personal clothing. Please ensure that your items do not exceed the stated weight limit.

4. If you become ill or injured during the trek and are unable to continue, a porter and mule will be provided to escort you to the nearest point with emergency assistance access. Any additional medical expenses, including helicopter evacuation or specialized medical treatment, are the sole responsibility of the passenger.
No refunds will be issued in the event of illness or inability to complete the trek. However, we will provide written certification of illness if required for your travel insurance claim.

5. Our company will take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our clients, employing qualified and experienced staff at all times. We accept responsibility for the actions of our employees. However, we cannot be held liable for events beyond our control, unavoidable circumstances, or improper acts committed by clients or third parties.
Passengers are fully responsible for their personal belongings and any rented equipment throughout the duration of the tour.

6. Our agency is not responsible for additional expenses arising from unfavorable weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, or loss of personal property. We strongly recommend that all clients obtain comprehensive travel insurance to cover such events.
We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

CANCELLATION PENALTIES

• A.- Cancellation of the tour once you have paid a deposit and received a confirmation incurs in the loss of the booking deposit. (US$ 300.00) per person. Non-refundable booking deposit.
• B.- Cancellation of tour within 45 days to 31 days before departure incurs a loss of 70% of total tour cost…
• C.- Cancellation of tour within 30 days to 8 days before departure incurs a loss of 80% of total tour cost…
• D.- Cancellation of tour within 7 days – 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of 90% of total tour cost…
• E.- Cancellation of tour within 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of total tour cost…

Why Choose This Trekking With Inka Expeditions?

With Inka Expeditions, your trekking to Choquequirao will be an unforgettable experience led by an expert local tour guide who will share all his knowledge of this Inca sites and also about the flora and fauna of this region. Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience, led by professional tour guides fully trained in first aid.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Choquequirao trek:

1.-How do I prepare for the altitude sickness on this trekking?

For this Inca Trail to Choquequirao, it is recommended to acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Cusco before this tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

2.-How difficult is this Trekking?

This trekking to Choquequirao is considered moderately difficult, so we recommend to bring hiking boots.

3.-Is it safe to travel to Choquequirao during the wet season?

Yes, it is safe but during the wet season (November to March) the trail can be slippery, so it is recommended to bring waterproof hiking boots and rain poncho. The dry season (April to october) is ideal for this trek because we have clear views but the weather is always unpredictable in the Andes.