Choquequirao budget traveler 4 days in Andean huts

We will begin this journey with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 5:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. The route unfolds through the scenic valleys of Pampa de Anta and Limatambo, transitioning into the Apurímac region and continuing toward Curahuasi, offering sweeping views of the Andes along the way.

Our first stop will be the Saywite Archaeological Park, located approximately three and a half hours from Cusco. Here, you will explore an impressive carved ceremonial stone featuring miniature representations of Inca constructions, along with other nearby sacred sites. Afterward, we continue toward Cachora and Capuliyoc, where a delicious lunch awaits, paired with panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and the snow-capped Padreyoc peak.

In the afternoon, we begin our descent, approximately three hours, passing various scenic viewpoints, including Cocamasana, until reaching Chiquisca, where dinner will be served and you will spend the night in a local rural guesthouse. (Andean Huts)

Meals included: Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 16.5 km / 10 miles
Difficulty: Challenging

We start the day early with a nourishing breakfast before tackling one of the most challenging yet rewarding sections of the trek. From Chiquisca, we descend for approximately one hour along a steep, scenic trail until reaching Playa Rosalina (1,200 m / 3,937 ft), where the Apurímac River roars through lush canyon walls.

After crossing the suspension bridge, we begin the demanding ascent to Santa Rosa, a 1.5–2 hour climb along continuous switchbacks. We aim to complete this stretch in the cooler morning hours to ensure a more comfortable hike. Once at Santa Rosa, we pause to rest, hydrate, and recover.

The trail then continues upward for another 2–2.5 hours toward the village of Marampata (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), where the landscape opens up to sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding peaks. Upon arrival, we enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and have the afternoon free to relax, explore, or take in a stunning Andean sunset.

After ascending nearly 1,500 meters in total, we settle into a local guesthouse run by an Andean family. Dinner will be served before a peaceful overnight stay in this remote mountain community.

Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Difficulty: Challenging

We start early to make the most of this extraordinary day. After breakfast and final preparations, we begin the hike toward Choquequirao, a remote and majestic Inca citadel perched high above the Apurímac Canyon. The approach takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering sweeping mountain views as the morning light illuminates the valley.

Upon arrival, we enjoy a fully guided, in-depth visit to the archaeological complex, often called the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu.” Unlike more crowded destinations, Choquequirao remains largely untouched by mass tourism, allowing for a profound and immersive connection with Inca history.

Throughout the tour, we will explore its most significant sectors, including ceremonial plazas, temples, ritual platforms, hydraulic systems, and extensive agricultural terraces. Depending on group pace and energy, we may also descend to the lower terraces to admire the iconic stone-carved llama figures, an exceptional artistic representation tied to traditional Inca trade routes.

To maximize time at the site, we will enjoy a packed lunch on the trail, allowing us to remain immersed in the archaeological landscape.

In the late afternoon, we begin the return hike to Marampata, where a warm, homemade dinner awaits. We spend the night in a local family-run lodge, surrounded by the tranquility of the Andes after a day deeply rooted in history and natural beauty.

Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities
Minimum Altitude: 1,550m/5,117ft
Maximum Altitude: 1,990m/6,270ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Challenging

We begin the final day before sunrise, preparing for the most demanding section of the trek. Guided by headlamps or early daylight, we descend for approximately two hours along a steep trail to reach Santa Rosa, where a traditional highland breakfast awaits to restore our energy.

We continue downhill for another 1.5 hours toward the Apurímac River, retracing part of our initial route. Here, we take a well-deserved break to rest, hydrate, and capture the dramatic scenery of the canyon and its lush surroundings.

From the river, the trail transitions into a challenging uphill climb to Chiquisca, where we enjoy a scenic and well-earned lunch. Afterward, we make the final ascent, approximately three hours, toward Capuliyoc, following a gentler incline with several natural viewpoints offering impressive farewell vistas of the Apurímac Canyon.

Upon arrival at Capuliyoc (2,915 m / 9,560 ft), we conclude our journey with group photos and a final celebration before boarding our private transportation back to Cusco via Cachora. Arrival to the city is expected around 10:00 p.m., with drop-off at your hotel, ending the trek fulfilled, accomplished, and surrounded by unforgettable memories of the Andes.

Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch
Minimum Altitude: 1,990m/6,270ft
Maximum Altitude: 2,850m/9,407ft
Distance: 8 km / 4.4 miles
Difficulty: Challenging