How long does the daily walk last?

The hike to Choquequirao, known as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” is a unique adventure that combines physical challenge, untouched nature, and Incan heritage. This citadel, located on a deep canyon of the Apurímac River, was built by the Incas to take advantage of the mountain’s topography and protect its terraces and structures from erosion. Choquequirao remains partially unexplored, making it a mysterious and majestic site surrounded by Andean landscapes that seem frozen in time.

The 4-day, 3-night trek allows travelers to walk demanding trails, alternating between descents and ascents that lead through valleys, cloud forests, and spectacular viewpoints. Each day combines physical challenge, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration, providing a complete experience where nature and history merge with every step.

Day 1: Capulilloc – Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa

The first day starts early in the morning from Capulilloc, filling trekkers with anticipation and energy. From the very first step, the trail enters mountain paths with steep descents, surrounded by Andean flora, shrubs, and wildflowers that contrast with the canyon cliffs.

5:30 – 7:30 a.m.: First descent section

• • Walk on dirt and stone trails, paying attention to every step.

  • View Padreyoc and Wayna peaks and the depth of the Apurímac Valley.

  • Breathing remains steady as the body adapts to altitude and uneven terrain.

7:30 – 9:00 a.m.: Path to Chiquisca

• • Easier trails allow a steady pace.

  • Appreciate Andean vegetation, rivers, and local birds.

  • The canyon becomes more impressive as you advance, motivating each step.

9:00 – 11:00 a.m.: Descent to Playa Rosalina

• • Enter the deepest part of the valley, with narrow and cobbled trails.

  • The Apurímac River accompanies the route, and vegetation becomes more lush and humid.

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Ascent to Santa Rosa

• • Challenging slopes for two hours that test endurance.

  • Panoramic views of the valley and cliffs reward effort and create a sense of achievement.

The Day 1 hike lasts approximately 7–8 effective hours. It is intense but allows for total immersion in Andean nature, preparing trekkers for the following days.

 Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao

The second day combines intense trekking and archaeological exploration. From Santa Rosa, the trail climbs to Marampata and then to the Choquequirao citadel, surrounded by spectacular canyon and cloud forest views.

6:30 – 9:00 a.m.: Trek to Marampata

• • Gradual ascent with open views of the valley and Apurímac River.

  • Vegetation changes to cloud forest, with flowers and endemic birds.

  • Every step combines physical effort with landscape appreciation.

9:00 – 10:30 a.m.: Ascent to Choquequirao

• • Steeper section where terraces and andenes begin to appear.

  • The citadel gradually reveals itself, motivating each step of the climb.

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: Guided tour of the citadel

• • Slow walk through plazas, workshops, the Usno, and Incan terraces.

  • Learn about the history and architecture while walking on precisely carved stones.

  • Even though the pace is slow, uneven terrain requires concentration and care.

12:00 – 1:30 p.m.: Descent to Marampata

• • Return walk to the campsite, with spectacular views and reflection on the magnitude of the place.

The full day of effective trekking lasts 5–7 hours, balancing physical effort, enjoyment of landscapes, and cultural exploration. Each hour involves breathing pure mountain air, feeling muscles working, and connecting with Incan history. At the end, trekkers experience a mix of fatigue and deep satisfaction, having reached one of the trek’s highlights.

Day 3: Choquequirao – Chiquisca

6:30 – 9:30 a.m.: Descent from Choquequirao to Playa Rosalina

• • Narrow, cobbled trails require constant attention.

  • Pass through lush vegetation with orchids, ferns, and birds accompanying the path.

  • Every canyon and river view rewards the effort.

10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.: Ascent to Chiquisca

• • Prolonged climb with continuous slopes demanding physical endurance.

  • Cliffs, natural terraces, and the vast valley generate a sense of adventure and growing achievement.

Today’s hike lasts 6–8 hours, combining descent and ascent, and is one of the most demanding. Each step creates an intense connection with nature and Inca history, and reaching the Chiquisca campsite brings profound satisfaction: the trek has demanded endurance, concentration, and perseverance, and has rewarded hikers with landscapes that will remain etched in their memories.

Day 4: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cachora

The final day is shorter but emotionally significant, allowing trekkers to say goodbye to the Andean landscapes and the Apurímac Canyon.

6:30 – 8:30 a.m.: Ascent to Capuliyoc

• • Moderate climb with final panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding Andes.

  • Each step creates a feeling of closing a cycle, walking the last meters with memories of previous days.

8:30 – 11:00 a.m.: Descent to San Pedro de Cachora

• • Final section, easier and flatter, allowing for a relaxed pace.

The last day’s hike lasts 4–5 effective hours, being the shortest but equally meaningful. Trekkers feel a mix of fatigue, pride, and gratitude, having completed the route. The valley, canyon, and Andean vegetation accompany the final steps, consolidating the tour experience as an unforgettable adventure combining nature, history, and physical challenge.

 Summary of daily trekking durations:

• Day 1: 7–8 hours

• Day 2: 5–7 hours

• Day 3: 6–8 hours

• Day 4: 4–5 hours

The Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N is more than a hike: it is a comprehensive experience, where each day combines physical effort, stunning landscapes, and cultural exploration. Trekkers traverse demanding trails, admire the majesty of the Apurímac Canyon, and discover Choquequirao in all its splendor, living each step as an intense and deeply rewarding adventure.