Choquequirao Trek
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
NZD
$3,110
|
Days
4
|
Nights
3
|
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
NZD
$3,110
|
Days
4
|
Nights
3
|

Introduction
Choquequirao, a name that translates to ‘Cradle of Gold’, is a mystical 500 year old Inca city.
The extensive ruins, three times the size of Machu Picchu, are located in the saddle of a high Andean ridge at 3030 metres, so a good level of fitness is required to complete the 64 Km return trek. It is thought that the Inca Emperor Pachacuti, responsible for commissioning Machu Picchu, founded Choquequirao before his son Tupaq Inka Yupanki extended and remodelled it.
The trek along some extraordinarily scenic stretches of Inca pathways provides a unique alternative to the much busier Inca Trail and compliments a visit to Machu Picchu. Restoration of Choquequirao began in the 1970s, and although the site is not as well-known as Machu Picchu, you will find a very similar structure and architecture albeit on a larger scale. A visit to these incredible ruins is well worth the effort!
Itinerary
Day 1 : Cuzco > Cachora > Rosalina Beach
Early today will be met at your hotel in Cuzco and transferred three hours by road to the Cachora district where you begin your trek as you head towards Capuliloq. As you hike, enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the dramatic Amurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in Peru. Descend the mountain on a steep switchback trail to Cocamasama Pass, before continuing onto your overnight campsite at Rosalina Beach near Parsarela Bridge.
Distance travelled: 22 km
Maximum elevation: 3100 mm
Minimum elevation: 1560 mm
Trekking time: Approximately 8 hours
Day 2 : Rosalina Beach > Choquequirao
After an early wakeup and breakfast, begin today’s challenging hike. Ascend through sugar plantations to Marampata at 2911 metres, and from here you will witness a series of huge terraces used by Inca and pre-Inca civilizations for agricultural purposes. There is a chance you may see condors, or if extremely fortunate, the rare Andean bear that is endemic to this area. Continue to the site of Choquequirao and stay in a camp situated not far from the ruins.
Distance travelled: 10 km
Maximum elevation: 3300 mm
Minimum elevation: 1560 m
Trekking time: Approximately 8 hours
Day 3 : Choquequirao
Enjoy an extensive guided tour of these fantastic ruins. It has been more than 100 years since the discoverer of Machu Picchu, explorer Hiram Bingham also discovered the existence of Choquequirao. Extensive archaeological studies over the years have divided the site into 12 sections. These ruins, which are much more extensive than Machu Picchu, are still in the process of being excavated. Because of its remote location, Choquequirao sees very few visitors, and you feel a certain privilege to be able to explore this hidden Inca gem. After exploring the ruins return to your camp for a chance to relax.
Day 4 : Choquequirao > Rosalina Beach
You will start the day with an early breakfast and then begin the hike back to Rosalinda Beach, situated at 1478 meters. As you walk, enjoy the surrounding landscape and nature including a wide variety of flowers and wildlife along the trail.
Distance travelled: 16 km
Maximum elevation: 2200 m
Minimum elevation: 1560 m
Trekking time: Approximately 8 hours
Day 5 : Rosalina Beach > Cachora > Cuzco
Hike to Cachora and on arrival, transportation will pick you up to take you back to your hotel in Cuzco where your arrangements end.
Distance travelled: 16 km
Maximum elevation: 3100 m
Minimum elevation: 1560 m
Trekking time: Approximately 5 hours
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Pricing
Pricing (per person), NZD
TYPE |
TWIN from |
SINGLE from |
EXTRA from |
---|---|---|---|
2025 |
|||
1 Mar – 30 Nov |
NZ$3,110 |
NZ$5,945 |
|
2025
1 Mar – 30 Nov
Twin: from $3110
Single: from $ 5945
Departs
Daily, March to November |
Included
- Tailor-made journey
- 4-nights’ tent accommodation
- All meals (B, L, D) during your trek including morning & afternoon tea, and snacks daily
- Filtered and boiled water
- Private transfers as per the itineary
- English-speaking certified hiking guide
- Support staff including porters and cooks
- Camping equipment including duffle bag, inflatable mat, and sleeping bag
- Entrance fee to Choquequirao
- First aid kit and oxygen
Not Included
- Daypack, headlamp, trekking pole(s), and water bottle
- Gratuities
Important Notes
- We recommend a minimum 2-night stay in Cuzco prior to your trek to acclimatise to the altitude
- This trek is not available during the rainy season from December to February
- Luggage is restricted to 7 kg in the provided duffle bag
Please refer to World Journeys terms & conditions