CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 3 DAYS

3 Days from US $ 260.00

Overview

Choquequirao Trek 3 Days: Discover the Lost Inca City

The Choquequirao Trek 3 Days is one of the top treks in Cusco, letting you explore the lost city of the Incas.

What is the Choquequirao Trek?

The Choquequirao Trek 3 Days takes you to another Machu Picchu, but even more interesting and bigger! Right now, only 40% of Choquequirao can be seen because the rest is still covered by plants and time. Choquequirao is thought to be the last Inca refuge before the Spanish came. The location is amazing, perched above the Apurimac River Canyon. To get there, you’ll have to trek through the mountains and cross the canyon on foot—no other choice. These 3 days of hiking give you the chance to visit Choquequirao all day. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the Inca site from morning until evening and enjoy a delicious lunch by the archaeological park.

Why Choquequirao?

Embark on an extraordinary journey to the fascinating ruins of Choquequirao, often called “the hidden Machu Picchu.” Over three days, you’ll immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Apurimac River Canyon, known as one of the most impressive sites in South America. This adventure is led by a team of experienced local guides who are passionate about showing you the historic site and the natural beauty around it.

Tour Highlights

  • Choquequirao 3-Day Lodge Trekking: This tour takes you off the beaten path through lesser-known trails in the Andes. After each exciting day, you’ll relax at the famous Choquequirao Sanctuary Lodge.
  • Unique Adventure: Explore one of the world’s few hidden gems in tourism. With its unmatched peace and beauty, the 3-day Choquequirao Trek is the perfect choice for avid explorers.

Note: Make sure you have the necessary permits and arrange everything needed for the trek. It’s important to be ready for the physical demands and take safety precautions.

Trip Details

  • Starting Point: Cusco at your hotel
  • Ending Point: Cusco at your hotel
  • Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
  • Trip Style: Guided and portered tour
  • Activities: Archaeological visits, cultural experiences, ecological exploration, hiking, and camping
  • Departure Dates: Any day
  • Total Trekking Distance: 42 km / 26 mi
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,170 ft
  • Accommodations: 2-night camp
  • Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 3 DAYS
3 Days from
$260.00
per person

Max Altitude
3300msnm
Trip Length
Group Size
10 People
Physical Level
Challenging
Trip Style
Classic Tour
Location
Cusco - Peru
Tour Type
Hiking
Meals
3 B, 3 D, 4 L
Departures
Daily Departures
LODGING TYPE
Not Included

SELECT YOUR TRAVEL DATE

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco ― Capulioc ― Marampata at Choquequirao Sanctuary Lodge

We’ll kick off the day by picking you up from your hotel between 3:30 AM and 4:00 AM in our company van. After leaving Cusco, our first stop is the town of Cachora, which takes about 3.5 hours. Along the way, we’ll make a quick 30 to 45-minute stop for breakfast.

After breakfast, we’ll continue to Capulioc, the starting point for our trek to Marampata at the Choquequirao Sanctuary Lodge. The trek includes a 2.5-hour descent covering 7 km until we reach Chiquisca for lunch. After a nice lunch and a short break, we’ll keep walking for about 4.5 hours and 8 km towards Marampata. This part can be tough with its challenging terrain, but reaching Marampata is totally worth it! Finally, we’ll arrive at our private lodge where a delicious dinner awaits us, and we’ll spend the night.

  • Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6.5 to 7 hours
  • Climate: Hot during the day and warm at night
  • Accommodation: Lodge at Choquequirao Sanctuary Lodge
  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft (Marampata)
  • Minimum Altitude: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft (Playa Rosalinas)

Day 2: Marampata ― Choquequirao ― Marampata

After a yummy buffet breakfast, we’ll set off on a trek to the amazing Archaeological Complex of Choquequirao. This trek lasts about 2 hours, and we’ll explore areas like the Llamas Sector, Ceremonial Usno, and the Religious Zone. Choquequirao is often called the sister of Machu Picchu because they look so similar. It’s located 1,500 meters above the Apurimac Canyon, and only a third of this huge site has been discovered so far—archaeologists are still finding cool stuff every time they explore.

When we get to Choquequirao, we’ll enjoy a lovely picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning scenery. After lunch, we’ll head down to Pajchayoc to see the beautiful Pajchayoc Waterfall. Then, we’ll make our way back to Marampata where a well-deserved dinner awaits us. Finally, we’ll relax at our private lodge for the night, thinking about all the awesome things we saw today.

  • Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5.5 to 6 hours
  • Climate: Hot during the day and warm at night
  • Accommodation: Lodge at Choquequirao Sanctuary Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,106 m / 10,190 ft (Choquequirao)
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft (Marampata)

Day 3: Marampata ― Capulioc ― Cusco

As the sun starts to rise around 5:00 AM, we’ll begin our descent towards Chikisca. We’ll grab a small snack along the way to keep our energy up. By 7:00 AM, we’ll reach Chikisca where a hearty breakfast is waiting for us. This is a great time to recharge before our final hike.

After breakfast, we’ll start our last trek, walking back to Capulioc. It’s a bit emotional as we say goodbye to this amazing adventure. Once we reach Capulioc, we’ll gather for a nice aperitif, cherishing all the memories we made.

To wrap things up, we’ll be transported back to the lively city of Cusco in our private vehicle. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the incredible moments and achievements of the past few days as we return to the comfort of the city.

  • Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
  • Hiking Time: 6.5 to 7 hours
  • Climate: Hot during the day and warm at night
  • Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco)
  • Shuttle to Cusco: Approximately 4 hours from Capulioc
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,850 m / 9,350 ft (Marampata)
  • Minimum Altitude: 1,475 m / 4,839 ft (Playa Rosalinas)

Inclusions

Included

  • Pre-Trek Briefing: The night before we start, we’ll have a meeting to go over the itinerary, meet your guide(s), and answer any questions you might have. It’s a great way to get ready and feel comfortable before the trek begins.
  • Private Transport to Starting Point: We’ll handle all the transportation to the trek’s starting point, so you don’t have to worry about getting there yourself.
  • Personal Porter: Each of you gets a personal porter to carry your overnight gear, up to 5kg. This way, you can hike light and enjoy the journey more.
  • Dry Bag for Gear: Your overnight gear will be kept safe in a dry bag, so it stays dry and dust-free on the trail.
  • English-Speaking Professional Guide: Our experienced guides speak English and know all the best spots. They’ll make sure you have an awesome and safe trek.
  • Full Meals: Enjoy 3 meals a day, plus tea time every afternoon and snacks on the trail. We’ve got all your hunger covered!
  • First-Aid Kit with Emergency Oxygen Tank: Your safety is super important. We provide a first-aid kit that includes an emergency oxygen tank, just in case you need it.
  • Dining and Cooking Tents: We set up dining and cooking tents with tables and stools, so you can eat comfortably while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Dietary Needs: Got specific food preferences? No problem! We can cater to any dietary needs, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or something else.
  • Horsemen and Horses: To make things easier, we use horsemen and horses to carry tents, food, and cooking equipment. This helps lighten your load and keeps the trek smooth.
  • Hot Water for Hand Washing: Every morning and evening, we provide hot water for you to wash your hands. It’s a nice little comfort while you’re out in nature.
  • Boiled Water for Bottles: We’ll make sure your water bottles are filled with boiled water every morning and afternoon, so you always have clean water to stay hydrated.

No Included

  • Day 1: Breakfast.
  • Day 3: Dinner.
  • Walking sticks (USD $ 10.00 – 2 walking sticks)

What to Bring

Clothing:

  1. Moisture-wicking shirts (long and short sleeves)
  2. Quick-drying hiking pants and shorts
  3. Fleece jacket or lightweight down jacket
  4. Waterproof and windproof jacket (preferably a breathable fabric)
  5. Warm hat and sun hat or cap
  6. Underwear and thermal base layers
  7. Hiking socks (moisture-wicking and quick-drying)
  8. Swimsuit (if you plan to swim in any rivers or streams)

Footwear:

  1. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support
  2. Lightweight sandals or flip-flops for resting at the campsites

Accessories:

  1. Sunglasses with UV protection
  2. Trekking poles (optional but helpful for steep ascents and descents)
  3. Gloves or mittens (for cold early mornings and evenings)

Gear:

  1. Daypack (25-35 liters) with a rain cover
  2. Water bottles or hydration system (2-3 liters capacity)
  3. Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  4. Camera or smartphone with portable charger and extra batteries
  5. Dry bags or plastic bags to keep belongings dry in case of rain

Personal items:

  1. High SPF sunscreen
  2. Insect repellent
  3. Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes, etc.)
  4. Travel-size quick-dry towel
  5. Biodegradable soap
  6. Hand sanitizer
  7. Personal first aid kit (band-aids, blister care, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, etc.)
  8. Any necessary prescription medications

Documents:

  1. Valid passport
  2. Travel insurance information
  3. Emergency contact information
  4. Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, etc.) in case of loss or damage

Snacks:

  1. High-energy snacks such as granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate

Please note that packing light is essential, as you will need to carry your belongings throughout the trek. Keep in mind that weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers and be prepared for various temperatures and conditions.

Prices

1) GROUP SERVICE (per person — single price)

Service Price (USD per person)
Choquequirao Trek 3D (group share) $480

Group service — short description and characteristics: This group price is a typical market rate for a 3-day Choquequirao lodge trek with shared departures. Group service normally includes: shared guide, shared porter/mule support (as provided by the operator), lodge accommodation at Marampata (nights 1–2), meals as listed in the itinerary, shared vehicle transfers Cusco ↔ trailhead, and basic emergency support. Group departures lower the per-person cost by sharing staff, transport and lodge space.


2) PRIVATE SERVICE — ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICES (per person by group size)

Number of people (private) Price (USD per person, all-inclusive)
1 person (solo private) $700
2 people $440
3 people $360
4 people $320
5 people $300
6 people $280
7 people $270
8 people $260

Private service — short description and advantages: All-inclusive private prices cover private vehicle transfers Cusco ↔ trailhead, a dedicated professional guide, all meals listed in the itinerary, lodge accommodation at Marampata (nights 1–2), entrance fees where included by the operator, private allocation of muleteers/porters as described by the company, and exclusive emergency support. Advantages of private service include schedule flexibility, personalized guiding pace, exclusive lodging and transport, and greater privacy and comfort; per-person cost declines as party size increases. Representative private pricing is based on common market practices and operator rate structures.


3) UPGRADE OPTIONS (list; price and why it matters)

  • Extra pack horse / cargo horse for personal luggage$60–$160 (flat fee for the trip).
    Importance: reduces what trekkers must carry on steep descents/ascents, increasing comfort and conserving energy during long hiking days.
  • 0Extra porter (additional porter for personal gear)$25–$50 per porter / per day or $100–$180 (flat trip package) depending on operator.
    Importance: keeps your daypack light and reduces fatigue; recommended for travelers with limited carrying capacity or heavy equipment
  • Luxury camping / glamping upgrade (when offered instead of lodge or basic camp)$200–$600 extra per person (trip).
    Importance: upgraded tents, thicker mattresses and elevated dining increase comfort for guests seeking higher standards.
  • Sleeping bag rental (5-season) / sleeping mat rental$15–$40 each (flat).
    Importance: ensures adequate warmth and hygiene if you do not bring appropriate gear.
  • Walking poles rental$8–$20 (flat).
    Importance: improves stability on steep and uneven terrain and reduces knee strain.
  • Private chef / upgraded meal menu (gourmet or special diets)$60–$150 extra per person (trip).
    Importance: better meal variety and accommodation of strict dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies).
  • Reserved horseback assistance / emergency mule for a section$60–$150 (flat or daily).
    Importance: helpful for participants who may need mounted assistance for difficult sections or as a guaranteed emergency option.
  • Extra porter specifically for camera or scientific gear$30–$80 (trip).
    Importance: protects expensive equipment and allows photographers/researchers to move freely.
  • Operator-assisted travel/rescue insurance arrangementprice varies; usually purchased separately.
    Importance: strongly recommended to cover evacuation, medical, or logistical emergencies in remote terrain.

4) TYPICAL DISCOUNTS & MARKET PRACTICES

  • Group discount example: operators commonly offer modest group discounts (for example, $20–$50 off per person for larger groups or early bookings).
  • Private surcharge / scaling: some companies charge a private surcharge (e.g., ≈ +$100 per person for solo/private arrangements) or publish private rates that decline per person as group size grows.

(All prices shown are in USD and are representative market values synthesized from current operator listings and advertised add-ons for the Choquequirao 3-day lodge itinerary.)

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