From Cusco: 5-Day Choquequirao Trek via Huanipaca Route & Sayhuite
Journey through the heart of the Andes on a 5-day trek to Choquequirao, experiencing untouched natural beauty and ancient mysteries on the less-traveled Huanipaca route.
From Cusco: 5-Day Choquequirao Trek via Huanipaca Route & Sayhuite
Be transported into a realm where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes converge on the 4-Day Classic Choquequirao Adventure. This trek is an invitation to experience the grandeur of the Andes and uncover the hidden wonders of Choquequirao, often referred to as Machu Picchu’s mysterious ‘sister’. Your journey through these sacred lands promises a blend of adventure and cultural immersion, with every step offering a new perspective on the rich heritage of the Inca civilization. As you navigate through the varying terrains, from lush cloud forests to rugged mountain trails, you’ll witness the extraordinary biodiversity of the region, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Apurimac River.
Venture beyond the beaten path and immerse yourself in the enigmatic beauty of Choquequirao. This lesser-known archaeological site, shrouded in the mystique of the Incan empire, offers a unique opportunity to explore expansive terraces and intricate stonework that have withstood the test of time. Unlike the more traveled paths to Machu Picchu, Choquequirao stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Inca, inviting you to unravel its secrets. Each day’s trek brings new discoveries and challenges, balanced with moments of reflection and awe under the vast Andean sky. Our expertly designed itinerary not only challenges your physical limits but also enriches your understanding of Inca history, making this more than just a trek—it’s a journey through the heart of an ancient empire.
Please Note:
Please note that our 5-Day Choquequirao Trek adapts its route to align with seasonal weather conditions. During the dry months from May to October, the trek follows its primary Huanipaca path, offering the full breadth of its scenic and historical richness. However, in the rainy season, for your safety and to avoid potential landslides, we switch to a safer, classic route. This alternative path still promises a complete and enriching 5-day experience, ensuring that your adventure through the Andes remains both safe and memorable, no matter the season. For more details on the classic route, visit our dedicated page: 5-Day In-Depth Choquequirao Exploration.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 4:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Capuliyoc Viewpoint, Apurimac River, Marampata Camp, Choquequirao, Saywite |
Journey from Cusco to Playa Rosalinas via Capuliyoc and Chiquiska
Your adventure commences with an early morning departure from Cusco at 4:00 am. Our comfortable transportation will whisk you away on a picturesque 4.5-hour drive to Capuliyoc. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our expert team of horsemen and well-trained horses, who will be your steadfast companions, carrying up to 6 kg of your gear throughout the trek.
The trek begins with a descent from Capuliyoc to Chiquiska, a 3-hour journey offering breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon. After a satisfying lunch in Chiquiska, we’ll continue descending for another hour to reach our camp at Playa Rosalinas. Here, you can unwind as our team sets up camp, and enjoy a special tea time with popcorn, coca tea, and other delightful treats. A delicious dinner under the stars will mark the end of this exhilarating day.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 4 hours, 8.5 km
Ascending from Playa Rosalinas to Marampata
Greet the new day with our special coca tea, followed by a nourishing breakfast. Prepare for an exciting ascent as we head towards Choquequirao, starting with a 100m pedestrian bridge crossing. The 3-hour hike to Santa Rosa is both challenging and rewarding, with ample opportunities to rest and rejuvenate.
Post Santa Rosa, a refreshing stop at a nearby orchard allows you to cool off with pristine mountain waters. Continuing for another 2 hours, we’ll arrive at Marampata, where a delectable lunch spread will be waiting. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. As evening sets in, gather for a hearty dinner, gearing up for another day of adventure.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 14 km
Important Notice:
As of 2022, camping on Choquequirao terraces is prohibited to protect this heritage site. We adhere to these rules and have selected Marampata, a beautiful and nearby location, as our new camping site. This change ensures an authentic experience while respecting the site’s integrity. We’re committed to offering a memorable journey while preserving Choquequirao’s legacy.
Unveiling the Mysteries of Choquequirao
Awaken to another beautiful day on the trail with our signature coca tea, setting the tone for a day filled with discovery and wonder. After a hearty breakfast, we set out to delve into the heart of the Choquequirao Inca site. Our experienced guides will lead you through this less-explored marvel, sharing insights into its rich history and impressive architecture.
As we explore the sprawling ruins, a highlight awaits – the iconic white stone llamas, masterfully etched into the mountain. Midday calls for a relaxing picnic lunch amidst the ruins, allowing you time to absorb the serene ambiance of this ancient site.
The afternoon journey takes us back to our base at Marampata. Here, another delicious dinner under the stars awaits, along with the tranquility of a night spent in the embrace of the Andes.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 2-3 hours, 4 km
Trekking from Marampata to Hacienda San Ignacio
Your day begins with an early breakfast, fueling you for the trek ahead. Today’s route first leads us back towards Choquequirao, followed by a descent towards the shimmering Apurimac River, culminating at Playa San Ignacio.
The ascent to Hacienda de San Ignacio is a journey filled with picturesque views of the Apurimac Canyon. Upon arrival, our culinary team will be ready with a mouthwatering lunch to replenish your energy. The afternoon adventure includes a short hike to the San Ignacio Waterfall – a refreshing treat in this serene setting.
As evening approaches, join us for a special “happy hour” before indulging in a delightful dinner. This peaceful evening at our base camp offers a chance to reflect on the day’s journey and prepare for the final leg of our trek.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 11 km
Farewell to the Trails and Unveiling the Sayhuite Mystery
The final day of our trek dawns with the promise of more adventures. After enjoying a nutritious breakfast, we embark on a 3-hour hike from the serene Hacienda San Ignacio to Villa de Loros. This trek offers one last opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Once at Villa de Loros, we transition from the trails to our transport, taking you to the enigmatic Incan site of Saywite. At Saywite, you will be amazed by the intricate rock monolith adorned with over two hundred carvings, a testament to the Incan architectural and artistic prowess. Our knowledgeable guides will provide a captivating tour of this site, helping you to understand its significance in Incan history.
After exploring Saywite, we gather for a farewell lunch, a moment to reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of the past five days. Our journey then concludes with a comfortable 4-hour drive back to Cusco. We ensure a safe and pleasant drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with memories of a trek that not only challenged you physically but also connected you deeply with the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco)
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 3 hours, 9 km
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Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
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Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
Provided Duffle Bag and Packing Tips
Pack Wisely with Our Essential Packing Tips
We’ll provide a returnable duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing, held 1-2 nights before your tour. Familiarize yourself with the bag, pack efficiently, and get essential trek details, safety guidelines, and updates. It’s a great chance to ask questions, meet fellow trekkers, and prepare for your adventure.
Our Packing Tips:
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