Choquequirau Trek

Choquequirau sits in the saddle of a high Andean ridge, 3,000 m above sea level and 1,500 m above the roaring waters of the Apurimac River. Ringed by spectacular snow-capped peaks and flanked by plunging, thickly forested slopes, the city is an inspiring example of an elite Inca ceremonial center, dedicated to the worship of the mountain gods, the river and the elements of nature.

Departing from Cusco in the early morning, we take a spectacular drive across the farmlands of the Anta Plateau, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Andes before hiking into the Apurimac River Canyon where we camp.

Today we descend to the Apurimac River before hiking out of the valley, past sugar cane plantations, upland meadows and the cool shadows of native cloud forest to our camp site close to the remote Inca ceremonial site of Choquequirau.

We spend the entire day exploring this stunning Inca settlement and once again camp close to the ruins. We then retrace our steps, back down to the Apurimac River Canyon and our final night under canvas before hiking to the trailhead where our transport will be waiting to drive us to Cusco.

Trip information

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Included

Transfers, ground transport, guide and camp staff (inc cook), entrance fees, camping equipment (except sleeping bag).

Is it for you?

This is a moderately challenging trek. You need to be relatively fit bearing in mind the altitude you will be at (over 3,000 m). We strongly recommend you spend 2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatise.

Best time

Between April and October (dry season).

Getting there

This trip departs from Cusco.

Weather and highlights

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- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Heavy rain
- Heavy rain
- Heavy rain
- Cloudy
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Sunny
- Cloudy
- Rain
- Heavy rain

Min Temp

- 7
- 7
- 7
- 4
- 2
- 1
- -1
- 1
- 4
- 6
- 6
- 7

Max Temp

- 20
- 21
- 21
- 22
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- 22

Magnificent Inca fortress
Beautiful Andean scenery
Excellent trekking

Itinerary

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Duration: 5 days

Day 1:
Early morning drive from Cusco to Cachora then hike to Chiquisca. (L, D)
Day 2:
Full day hike, crossing the Apurimac River and arriving in the late afternoon at Choquequirau. (FB)
Day 3:
Spend the day exploring the extensive Inca ruins. (FB)
Day 4:
Begin the return hike, descending to the Apurimac River then climbing to Chiquisca. (FB)
Day 5:
Hike to Cachora. Return to Cusco by private vehicle. (B, L)

Pricing guidelines for Peru

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We hope the following will give you a rough idea of costs. These are quoted per person based on twin share for two people, without international flights but including internal flights. We’ve used good standard accommodation throughout. There are nearly always ways to spend more money than we’ve suggested (!), but these prices show a good and realistic range for each type of trip.

International flights will add from about £750 to £1000 depending on the season and route (unless the airlines have special offers). Peru combines very well with Ecuador (including the Galapagos Island), but can also be linked with Brazil.

For a specific personal quote based on any tailor made itinerary you have in mind, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you.

Example tripPrice per person
2 weeks highlights of Peru using good quality accommodationBetween £2200 and £3000
2 week holiday based in top end hotelsFrom around £4000+
9 day trip, such as Cusco & the Inca TrailBetween £1300 and £1600
18 days Peru & Galapagos (this can be very variable due to Galapagos yacht prices)Between £3750 and £6500

Peru