Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek 5 Days

Luxury Trek Style

Overview – Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek 5 Days

The Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek 5 Days is an exclusive five-day journey into one of the most remote and powerful landscapes of the Andes, following ancient Inca pathways to the remarkable archaeological site of Choquequirao, often referred to as the sister city of Machu Picchu.

Still largely hidden beneath the mountains and only partially excavated, Choquequirao is believed to have been an important ceremonial center and final refuge during the Spanish conquest. Unlike Machu Picchu, the site receives very few visitors, allowing travelers to experience its immense scale, history, and mystery in near solitude, surrounded by pristine nature and silence.

This private trek leads deep into the dramatic Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, carved over millions of years by the Apurímac River. Considered sacred by the Inca, the canyon’s vast dimensions, rugged terrain, and sweeping views create one of Peru’s most awe-inspiring trekking environments. Along the route, travelers pass through highland landscapes, cloud forests, and remote valleys rich in biodiversity and cultural significance.

Throughout the journey, comfort is carefully integrated into the adventure. Guests enjoy a refined luxury glamping experience, with fully equipped camps offering comfortable beds, warm linens, hot showers, wellness massages, and gourmet meals prepared by a private trekking chef. Each day balances meaningful exploration with moments of rest and reflection, ensuring an exceptional level of service without detracting from the authenticity of the route.

Designed as a private Choquequirao trek through the Apurímac Canyon, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Peru’s Inca heritage, dramatic landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path exploration. It offers a rare opportunity to discover one of the most important Inca sites in the Andes while enjoying a seamless blend of adventure, exclusivity, and comfort.

  • 5 Days / 4 Nights
  • Private Trek Experience
  • Fully Supported & Secure
  • Year-Round

Journey Highlights

  • Explore Choquequirao, the hidden sister city of Machu Picchu, a vast and partially excavated Inca site preserved by its remote location and sense of solitude.
  • Trek through the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, following ancient Inca pathways across dramatic and sacred Andean landscapes.
  • Experience a private luxury glamping trek, with comfortable camps featuring proper beds, warm linens, hot showers, wellness massages, and personalized service.
  • Enjoy gourmet meals in remote settings, freshly prepared by a private trekking chef and served with panoramic mountain and canyon views.
  • Discover diverse Andean ecosystems, from highland terrain to cloud forests, rich in native flora, birdlife, and wildlife.
  • Travel with expert private guides and full support, ensuring a seamless, immersive, and worry-free trekking experience.

What is and isn't included

What’s Included

  • 4 nights of luxury glamping accommodation
  • Professional English-speaking expert guide
  • Full private trekking support team, including porters, trekking chef, assistant chef, waiter, masseuse, and private driver
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Hiking poles
  • All private overland transportation throughout the journey
  • All entrance fees and required permits
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle for high-altitude safety
  • All applicable Peruvian taxes (IGV) included

What’s Not Included

  • Accommodation before or after the trek (can be arranged upon request)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses, such as souvenirs, laundry, or additional beverages
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Gratuities

Suggestions for glamping trails

Important Information

  • Trail Conditions & Weather
    The Choquequirao trek crosses remote Andean terrain with steep ascents and descents, particularly within the Apurímac Canyon. Trail conditions may vary depending on the season and weather. The rainy season, typically from November to March, can bring occasional route changes or delays, while the dry season from April to October offers clearer conditions and cooler nights.
  • Hiking Difficulty & Altitude
    This trek involves moderate to challenging hiking, with significant elevation changes and sustained uphill sections. Proper acclimatization in Cusco prior to departure is strongly recommended. Travelers with concerns about altitude should consult their physician before the trek.
  • Optional Extensions & Customization
    Additional days, alternative routes, or extended exploration—such as continuing on to Machu Picchu—can be arranged upon request. Customization options and detailed pricing are available through your travel advisor.

Itinerary – Day by Day

Day 1: First Steps on the Choquequirao Inca Trail

After an early breakfast at your hotel in Cusco, your private guide will meet you and accompany you on a scenic drive to Saywite, the starting point of the trek. This important Inca ceremonial site is known for its massive carved monolith, stone channels, and water systems used in ritual ceremonies that connected the earth with the cosmos. Your guide will explain the spiritual and historical significance of the site, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

From Saywite, continue to Capuliyoc, where you will enjoy a freshly prepared gourmet lunch with panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon and snow-capped peaks such as Padreyoc. Take time to relax, absorb the dramatic scenery, and prepare for your first hike.

The trail then descends into the canyon, gradually transitioning into a warmer and greener environment as you make your way to Chiquiska, your first campsite. Upon arrival, your luxury glamping camp awaits, offering a hot shower, an essential oil massage, and a gourmet dinner served in your private dining tent. Spend the evening resting beneath the Andean sky as you prepare for the days ahead.

Route: Cusco – Saywite – Chiquiska
Meals: Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum Elevation: Saywite – 3,630 m / 11,910 ft
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

Day 2: Into the Canyon – Chiquiska to Choquequirao

Wake up to the sounds of the canyon as your guide welcomes you with a warm cup of coffee or traditional coca tea. After breakfast, begin your descent toward the Apurímac River, a vital lifeline of the region and an important route within the ancient Inca trail network.

Pause at Playa Rosalina, a peaceful riverside spot, before starting the steady ascent toward Santa Rosa. Along the way, enjoy sweeping canyon views and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including hummingbirds and Andean bird species.

At Marampata, enjoy a gourmet lunch accompanied by panoramic views of the distant Choquequirao citadel perched high on the mountainside. After lunch, continue along the trail to reach your luxury campsite near Choquequirao. The evening is spent unwinding with a hot shower, a relaxing massage, and a carefully prepared dinner. As night falls, enjoy remarkable stargazing in the clear Andean skies.

Route: Chiquiska – Choquequirao Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum Elevation: Choquequirao campsite – 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

Day 3: Ancient Inca Sites & Andean Wonders

Today is dedicated to exploring the ancient city of Choquequirao. After a nourishing breakfast, head out with your guide to discover the site’s expansive terraces, ceremonial temples, astronomical features, and breathtaking viewpoints. Learn about the importance of Choquequirao within the Inca Empire and its role as a ceremonial and strategic center.

After your guided visit, enjoy a leisurely gourmet lunch before setting off on an afternoon hike to Pacchayoc Waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation and Andean birdlife, this serene location offers a peaceful contrast to the stone structures of the citadel and is ideal for photography and quiet reflection.

Return to your campsite in the late afternoon to relax with a hot shower, a rejuvenating massage, and a gourmet dinner. Spend the evening enjoying the stillness of the mountains and another peaceful night under the stars.

Route: Choquequirao Campsite – Choquequirao – Pacchayoc– Choquequirao Campsite
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum Elevation: Choquequirao archaeological site – 3,100 m / 10,171 ft
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

Day 4: Return Through the Majestic Apurímac Canyon

After breakfast, begin your return journey through the Apurímac Canyon, retracing the trail through some of the most dramatic landscapes of the trek. Hike toward Marampata, enjoying expansive views of rugged canyon walls, distant snow-capped peaks, and highland vegetation.

Continue descending toward Santa Rosa, observing the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remote region. At Playa Rosalina, stop for a gourmet lunch prepared by your trekking chef and enjoy a refreshing passionfruit juice by the river.

In the afternoon, make the final ascent back to Chiquiska, where your luxury glamping camp awaits. End the day with a hot shower, a relaxing massage, and a gourmet dinner served under the stars, reflecting on your journey through this remarkable Andean landscape.

Route: Choquequirao Campsite – Marampata – Chiquiska
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum Elevation: Choquequirao campsite – 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

 

Day 5: Machu Picchu Exploration & Return to Cusco

Wake early to witness a beautiful sunrise over the Apurímac Canyon as golden light illuminates the surrounding cliffs. After breakfast, begin the final ascent toward Capuliyoc, taking in sweeping views of Padreyoc Peak and the canyon below.

At Capuliyoc, enjoy a final gourmet lunch and take time to reflect on the journey, celebrating the effort and shared experience with your trekking team and guides. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon, where your Choquequirao adventure comes to a memorable close.

Route: Chiquiska – Capuliyoc – Cusco
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch
Maximum Elevation: Capuliyoc – 2,956 m / 9,698 ft

 

Ready to Explore Choquequirao in Comfort and Privacy?

Embark on the Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek 5 Days, a private journey through the dramatic Apurímac Canyon, combining remote Inca heritage with refined luxury glamping. Travel at your own pace, guided by experts, and enjoy personalized service every step of the way.

Contact our travel specialists today to begin planning your private Choquequirao experience and receive a tailored itinerary designed around your travel style.

 

    Frequently Asked Questions – Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek 5 Days

    1. How difficult is the Choquequirao Trek?

    The Choquequirao trek is designed for travelers with moderate hiking experience. Some days include significant elevation changes and sustained uphill sections, but the pace is private and adjustable. Expert guides provide support and regular rest stops, while luxury glamping, hot showers, and massage services help ensure comfort after each day of hiking.

    2. What is included in the glamping experience?

    The glamping experience includes spacious and comfortable tents equipped with proper beds, duvets, pillows, and robes. Camps also feature hot showers, private bathroom facilities, and attentive service from the trekking team. Each evening, guests enjoy gourmet dinners and the opportunity to stargaze in the pristine Andean night sky.

    3. Is this trek suitable for solo travelers or families?

    Yes. This trek is fully customizable and suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small private groups. With private guides and flexible pacing, the experience is designed to be safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers.

    4. What should I pack for the trek?

    Travelers should pack layered clothing for changing mountain weather, sturdy hiking shoes, a daypack, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Essential trekking equipment such as sleeping bags and walking sticks is provided. A detailed packing list will be shared after booking.

    5. Why should I choose the Choquequirao Royal Inca Trek?

    This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper and more immersive experience in Peru’s Inca heritage, far from the crowds. Choquequirao, often called the sister city of Machu Picchu, offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the largest and most mysterious Inca sites in near solitude. Combined with the dramatic landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon, rich biodiversity, and a private luxury glamping experience, this journey offers an authentic and unforgettable Andean adventure.

    We were featured in

    9 travellers are considering this tour right now!