The mysterious and breathtaking Inca citadel of Choquequirao is hidden within the dramatic landscapes of the Vilcabamba mountain range, overlooking the majestic Apurímac Canyon. For centuries it remained covered by dense cloud forest. Historians believe it was one of the last strongholds of the rebellious Incas of Vilcabamba, making it a site filled with history, mysticism, and raw natural beauty — far from the crowds.
Guaranteed Departure. Check out the trip schedule below.
We depart from Cusco heading north toward Abancay. We will cross Antapampa, enjoying impressive views of the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay. We will pass through Curawasi and visit the Sayhuite stone, an ancient carved map of the Inca Empire. We will arrive at Capuliyoc (2,911 m.a.s.l.), the starting point of our trek, offering spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon. We will have lunch in Chiquisca (1,893 m.a.s.l.) and then descend to Playa Rosalina (1,478 m.a.s.l.), where we will set up camp for the night. (Meals included: Lunch and dinner) • Total distance: 10.8 km (6 miles). • Average hiking time: 6 hours.
After breakfast, we will cross the Apurímac River and begin a challenging ascent toward Marampata (2,911 m.a.s.l.), where we will enjoy lunch with panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, we will continue toward the hanging valley that shelters Choquequirao. We will camp near the archaeological site, surrounded by an impressive natural setting. (Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) • Total distance: 10.6 km (6 miles). • Average hiking time: 8 hours.
We will explore the different sectors of Choquequirao (3,066 m.a.s.l.), including agricultural terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas. We will enjoy lunch at the site and, if we are lucky, we may observe the majestic flight of the condor over the canyon. In the afternoon, we will descend to Santa Rosa Baja (2,073 m.a.s.l.) for dinner and overnight. (Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) • Total distance: 9.6 km (5 miles). • Average hiking time: 4 hours.
We will have an early breakfast and descend once again into the Apurímac River valley. We will then ascend toward Chiquisca for lunch and continue to Cocamasana (2,330 m.a.s.l.), a small Andean village where we will camp for the night. (Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner) • Total distance: 8.6 km (5 miles). • Average hiking time: 8 hours.
After breakfast, we will begin the final hike back to Capuliyoc (2,911 m.a.s.l.), where our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. (Meals included: Breakfast and box lunch) • Total distance: 4.8 km (2 miles). • Average hiking time: 3 hours.