Choquequirao is often called Machu Picchu's sister, and for a good reason: it is a large Inca complex of terraces, plazas and ceremonial buildings set high above a spectacular canyon. The difference is the crowd. To get there you must walk, so most days you will share the site with very few other people.
What Makes It Special
The site sits on a ridge above the Apurímac River canyon. Only part of it has been cleared and restored, which gives it a feeling of discovery. Among its highlights are the terraces decorated with white stone llama figures and the large central plazas.
Who This Trek Is For — and Who It Isn't
✅ Good Fit If You...
- Want solitude and an authentic sense of discovery
- Are fit and enjoy long hiking days
- Have visited or plan to visit Machu Picchu
- Are comfortable camping
❌ Consider Salkantay or Lares If You...
- Want a shorter or easier trek
- Have knee or joint problems with steep descents
- Want to end at Machu Picchu this week
- Prefer comfort over remoteness
The Route
The trek starts near the village of Cachora and follows a trail that drops steeply into the Apurímac canyon before climbing again toward the site. You spend time at Choquequirao itself, then return by the same general route.
- 1Cusco to the Canyon
Drive to the trailhead and walk down toward the Apurímac River, with a first camp near the canyon.
- 2Climb to Choquequirao
A long ascent from the river to the ruins area, with camp near the site.
- 3Explore the Ruins
A full morning exploring the terraces and plazas with your guide, then the walk back down toward the canyon.
- 4Climb Out and Return
The final climb out of the canyon, then transfer back to Cusco.
Difficulty & Conditions
The distance is not the problem; the elevation change is. You will descend and climb well over a thousand meters on each side of the canyon, so strong knees and good boots matter. The dry season is the most comfortable time. Compare it with the Salkantay trek and the Inca Trail, and use our packing list to prepare.
What's Included
4 Days / 3 Nights — From $700 per person
- Chefs
- 4 days / 3 nights camping
- Meals (4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Entrance ticket to Choquequirao
- Professional guide
- Private transportation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Choquequirao?
A large Inca archaeological site in the Vilcabamba mountains above the Apurímac canyon, often compared with Machu Picchu because of its scale and setting.
How hard is the Choquequirao trek?
It is considered challenging. The trail descends deep into the Apurímac canyon and climbs back out, so expect long ascents and descents over several days.
How many people visit Choquequirao?
Far fewer than Machu Picchu. The site can only be reached on foot, which keeps numbers low.
Can I combine it with Machu Picchu?
Longer itineraries connect Choquequirao to Machu Picchu. Our standard trek is a 4-day round trip from Cusco. Ask us if you want a longer route.
Is it better than Machu Picchu?
They are different. Choquequirao offers solitude and effort. Machu Picchu offers the iconic view. Many travelers do both.