The Choquequirao trek is a trail that leads to Machu Picchu… but that's not all! Indeed, before serving as a springboard to the famous Inca citadel, Choquequirao (or "the cradle of gold") is also a wonderful hiking route that leads to its own fortress… Benefits, challenges, and itinerary suggestions: discover our tips for a successful ascent of the Choquequirao Pass!

Why Trek to Choquequirao?

Discover Machu Picchu's Lesser-Known Sister

Built in the 15th century at 3,100 meters above sea level, the Choquequirao citadel once served as a lookout over the Apurimac Valley… On site, you can admire the remains of temples, fountains, and numerous other monuments—spread across several dozen hectares.

Nestled in the heart of the jungle, the city has yet to reveal all its secrets. In fact, only 30% of its complex is believed to have been discovered to date! Among the principal sites:

● Haucaypata (the main plaza of the city, surrounded by temples and dwellings).

● Colcas and Kallankas (buildings that served respectively as storehouses and dormitories),

● The terraces (Choquequirao has more than 100, including one renowned for its walls adorned with pictorial artworks depicting llamas),

● The Inca cemetery (where 17 mummies were discovered),

● The Ushnu (a kind of administrative building from the Inca era).

Trek Away from the Crowds

The Machu Picchu citadel and Choquequirao are equally beautiful. The main difference is accessibility. While the former can be reached by trek and train, the latter can only be accessed on foot!

While a cable car project has been discussed, for now, the Choquequirao citadel is accessible only by hiking.

Is the Choquequirao Ascent Difficult (and How to Prepare)?

The Choquequirao trek is quite challenging. While it presents no danger, it demands good physical fitness (and determination). Even if you've chosen to be there, once on the trail, fatigue can take over. In those moments? Open your eyes and admire the landscapes around you, to nourish yourself with their beauty—and keep going!

Understanding Altitude Sickness

For a successful ascent, it's essential to practice mountain hiking beforehand, to prepare your body for the effort, but also to better understand soroche (the famous "altitude sickness") caused by high elevation.

Typically, soroche occurs around 2,400 meters elevation—remember, the Choquequirao and Machu Picchu sites are respectively located at 3,100 m and 2,430 m above sea level!

To acclimate your body to high altitude, it's recommended to acclimatize your system. To do this? Stay in a high-altitude city for 48 hours before starting the ascent. Some cities (such as Huaraz) are located at over 3,000 meters!

To recognize the warning signs of "altitude sickness," note that it manifests through headaches, accelerated heart rate, and dyspnea (breathing difficulties).

Pack Properly

To succeed on the Choquequirao trek, it's also necessary to pack well. Here's a list of essentials to bring—adjust according to the trek duration and season:

● Good hiking boots,

● Trekking poles,

● Sunglasses,

● Sunscreen (high SPF),

● A poncho,

● Multiple pairs of socks,

● A cap,

● A water bottle,

● Granola bars

● Spare shoes for the evening,

● Layered clothing (to adapt to weather changes),

● Insect repellent,

● A microfiber towel,

● A swimsuit in case you stop at a hot spring (at Cocalmayo or Agua Calientes, for example),

● Waterproof protection for cameras and smartphones (in case of rain),

● A waterproof backpack,

● A first aid kit (if you're traveling solo).

If you opt for a trek without an agency, you'll also need to bring your camping equipment (sleeping bag, flashlight, meals tailored to the trek duration, etc.).

To avoid overloading yourself, note that it's possible to rent equipment in the city of Cusco (approximately €5/day for a complete camping kit).

Which Trail to Choose for the Choquequirao Trek?

Because its access is only on foot, the Choquequirao archaeological site is much less touristy than Machu Picchu—but also more challenging. There are several routes (ranging from 4 to 9 days).

If you're planning to use it as a trek to Machu Picchu, you'll need to complete a fairly long hike. If you only want to reach "the cradle of gold," you can choose a shorter trek. Here are 3 itinerary suggestions to help you decide.

TREK 1: 8 Days (to Machu Picchu City)

Day 1 (6 hours): From Cusco to Chiquisca

Early departure from the city of Cusco, heading toward the village of Cachora (located at over 2,000 m elevation) where it's possible to find muleteers. Then, head to the Capuliyoc overlook (2,800 m) in 3 hours of hiking.

If you want to ease into the trek—and conserve energy for this first day—it's possible to take a taxi from Cachora to the base of the overlook (about 1 km away). The excursion continues to Chiquisca—a campsite in the descent of the Apurimac Canyon. First night in the mountains.

Day 2 (7 hours): From Chiquisca to Choquequirao

After breakfast, head toward Playa Rosalina, then the village of Marampata. Along the way, you'll see the Rio Apurimac (Peru's major river). At the end of the route, arrival at Choquequirao.

Day 3 (6 hours): From the Choquequirao Site to Rio Blanco

Early morning departure to the Choquequirao citadel for a visit to this timeless city, with its temples, fountains, and cultural remains. Then? Ascend the Choquequirao Pass (which peaks at 3,270 m), then descend to the small Rio Blanco Canyon (1,900 m) to spend the night.

Day 4 (9 hours): From Rio Blanco to Yanama

Day 4 is a big hiking day. After a very early wake-up, head out for long hours of trekking toward Maizal (3,000 m). Once there, lunch break. Then onward for the rest of the expedition… This time? Heading toward San Juan Pass (and its stunning panoramic views of the valley!). End the day in the tiny village of Yanama.

Day 5 (8 hours): From Yanama to Totora Pampa

Depart from the village toward Yanama Pass—located at 4,670 m elevation! During the hike, keep your eyes open: you'll likely spot condors, as well as the snow-capped Salkantay Peak… After a beautiful day's hike, reach Totora Pampa Valley to join the campsite.

Day 6 (7 hours): From Totora Pampa to Lucmabamba

After these first five days of hiking, take a short break in Totora Pampa Valley to enjoy the local community (and its Andean people) and admire the coffee plantations and endemic wildlife. Then? Depart for Lucmabamba (passing through the village of Wiñaypoco).

Day 7 (6 hours): From Lucmabamba to Aguas Calientes

After a good night's sleep, set out to join a section of the Inca Trail trek (to the Llactapata archaeological site and its lush surroundings). After some rest, head to the Hidroelectrica train station (to board a train toward Aguas Calientes: the main gateway to finally reach Machu Picchu!

Day 8 (7 hours): From Aguas Calientes to Cusco

After a night in Aguas Calientes, head out to discover the treasures of Machu Picchu. After spending several hours on the site, depart for Cusco in the afternoon (arriving in the evening).

TREK 2: 5 Days (to Choquequirao City)

An 8-day trek might seem long… If that's the case, consider instead a 5-day circuit to the Choquequirao site—without pushing on to Machu Picchu (which, remember, is accessible by train). Here's a sample itinerary:

Days 1 and 2: From Capuliyoc to Choquequirao:

From the village of Capuliyoc (standing at over 2,000 m elevation), depart for two days of hiking through nature, specifically the Apurimac Canyon. During your trek, you'll make stops at the Chiquisca, Santa Rosa, and Marampata campsites. By the end of the second day, you'll get your first glimpse of the Choquequirao peak.

Day 3: Visit to Choquequirao Site

At last, the long-awaited moment has arrived: exploring the Choquequirao citadel! For several hours, you'll discover the monuments and terraces of this ancient Inca city, as well as the most beautiful spots overlooking the surrounding nature…

Days 4 and 5: Return to Abra Capuliyoc.

The last two days of the trek are dedicated to the return. You'll take the same path as on the way out, with a few breaks, before making the final kilometers toward Abra Capuliyoc.

When Is the Best Time to Trek Choquequirao?

The best time to trek Choquequirao is between May and October (during the dry season). Depending on the itinerary you choose, you may end up crossing the Apurimac Canyon: note that it can be stifling hot in this area in strong sun!

Conversely, the least recommended period is the rainy season (between November and March). While it's possible to complete the ascent during this time, the itinerary may be altered due to landslides. For safety, a guided ascent is recommended during this period.

Choquequirao Trek: With or Without a Guide?

If you decide to trek through an agency, the ascent will cost you (on average):

● €500/person for the Choquequirao trek alone.

● €1,150/person for the Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu

This price typically includes:

● round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead,

● site entrance fees,

● accommodation (personal 4 or 2-person tent),

● meals,

● mules (for baggage transport),

● first aid kit (with oxygen bottles).

Essential for some, very expensive for others: the decision to use an agency or not for this trek depends mainly on each person's experience and preferences. The main advantage of a guided visit is that you won't have to worry about logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Climb Machu Picchu?

Climbing Machu Picchu is quite demanding. While its difficulty level is considered moderate, this trek requires good physical fitness and regular hiking practice. Located at over 3,000 meters elevation, Machu Picchu also requires acclimatization to high altitude—to avoid "altitude sickness"!

Where Does the Salkantay Trek Start?

The Salkantay trek usually departs by bus from the village of Mollepata (and very early in the morning). Once there (after an hour's drive), the hiking begins with 5 hours of trekking to the Huayracpampa Lake campsite.

Why Visit Machu Picchu?

Exploring Machu Picchu is a unique experience. More than just a climb, this Peruvian Andes mountain is home to the ancient Inca city of the same name—built in the 15th century! This prestigious archaeological site (UNESCO World Heritage) is also located in the heart of lush landscape, at over 2,400 meters elevation.

Which Trek Should You Choose for Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu can be reached via different trails. The five most renowned are: the Inca Trail trek (4 days of hiking, though a 2-day shorter version also exists); the Salkantay trek (5 days, fairly difficult trail); the Lares trek (4 days, fairly easy and less touristy) and the Salkantay adventure trek (a sport-oriented route combining hiking, mountain biking, and/or rafting).

Audrey Denjean