Choquequirao (which in Quechua means “Cradle of Gold”) was built in the late 15th century by the ninth ruler of the empire, the Inca Pachacuti, and expanded by his son Tupac Inca Yupanqui. Both cities share refined imperial architecture, with agricultural terraces, religious temples, water channels, and elite residential sectors. However, while Machu Picchu was quickly abandoned after the arrival of the Spanish, Choquequirao served as one of the last checkpoints and refuges for the Incas of Vilcabamba led by Manco Inca during the resistance against the colonizers. Visiting its ruins means walking through the corridors of one of the greatest fortresses of resistance in the Americas.
What makes this trail legendary is its extreme geography. The trek begins in the village of Cachora (2,850 m) and continues to the Capuliyoc Lookout. From there, an unrelenting descent of 1,400 meters begins down to Playa Rosalina (1,500 m), crossing the Apurímac River. The heat of the canyon and the presence of insects require extra care.
The following day, the journey demands a continuous ascent of 1,500 meters to the Marampata campsite (2,850 m) and the Choquequirao citadel (3,033 m). This abrupt transition of microclimates, going from the semi-arid, hot climate of the canyon floor to the subtropical cloud forest at the top, is a test of physical endurance, but it rewards the hiker with some of the most dramatic views of the entire Vilcabamba mountain range, including the imposing snow-capped Padreyoc peak.
Currently, only 30% of the Choquequirao archaeological complex is free of vegetation and restored. The rest remains under the dense Andean forest, guarding secrets that archaeologists continue to unearth year after year. Among the most impressive highlights are the Sector de las Llamas del Sol (agricultural terraces decorated with white stone mosaics in the shape of llamas), the Ushnu (ceremonial platform at the top of the hill), and the Hanan sector (upper residential area). Since there are government projects for the construction of a cable car in the future, taking this hike now guarantees you the privilege of experiencing the citadel in its most mystical, untouched, and silent state.
Due to the physical demands of the Choquequirao Trek, safety and planning are fundamental:
Mandatory Acclimatization: We recommend spending at least 3 days in Cusco (or doing the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu tour beforehand) to ensure your body is adapted to the altitude.
Use of Trekking Poles: The steep descents and ascents put a lot of pressure on the knees. Trekking poles are highly recommended to provide stability and distribute body weight.
Sun and Insect Protection: The heat in the Apurímac Canyon is intense. Bring strong repellent (especially for “manta blanca” sandflies), high-SPF sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Cash: Bring Peruvian Soles in cash for personal expenses along the route (such as buying water, extra snacks, or optional rental of riding horses in local communities).
The Choquequirao Trek is the true definition of an Andean expedition. Known as the “sacred sister” of Machu Picchu due to its architectural and locational similarities, this imperial citadel guards a precious secret: it can only be accessed via an intense two-day hike. With no roads or trains, Choquequirao remains protected from mass tourism, offering the few who accept the challenge a unique opportunity to explore monumental ruins in almost complete solitude.
At Tayra Tours, we handle all the heavy logistics so you can focus on personal achievement and contemplating the landscape. Our 4-day expedition includes private transportation from Cusco to Cachora, expert guides in Andean history, professional mountain chefs, and muleteers with mules to carry all camping equipment. Get ready to descend into the heart of the Apurímac Canyon and ascend the slopes that reveal the last refuge of the Inca resistance.
Experience one of the most famous treks of Peru! Recommended for family trips, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. The Choquequirao ruins were most likely built during the reign of the Inca king, Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. They are considered to be the last bastion of resistance and refuge of the Sons of the Sun, who fled from the city of Cusco when it was under siege in 1535.
