Choquequirao

Choquequirao

Choquequirao Trek: the Other Lost City of the Incas

Choquequirao comes from the Quechua whose meaning is “cradle of gold”. This site is believed to be the last place inhabited by the Inca civilization. Choquequirao is known as the sister of Machu Picchu, due to the similarity in their constructions. To get to this magical place you must hike for two days, ideal for lovers of mystery and hiking.

A huge Inca city that you can only reach on foot, across the Apurímac canyon, with a fraction of Machu Picchu’s visitors. Choose a 4 or 5-day round trip from Cachora.

Choquequirao Trekking 4 Days / 3 Nights 5.0 4 Days / 3 Nights

Choquequirao Trekking

  • Moderate
  • 3,200 m · 10,500 ft
From US$430 per person
Choquequirao Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights 5.0 5 Days

Choquequirao Trek

  • Moderate
  • 3,100 m · 10,170 ft
From US$560 per person

Why choose Choquequirao

Choquequirao sits at about 3,000–3,100 m on a ridge above the Apurímac river. Getting there is the challenge: a long descent into the canyon and a steep climb out, which is why so few people make it. The reward is wandering terraces, temples and the famous llama terraces almost alone.

  • 4–5 daysround trip from Cachora, the classic route.
  • ≈3,000 mthe city sits on a ridge high above the Apurímac river.
  • Hardbig descents and climbs in hot canyon sections.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is the Choquequirao trek?
It is one of the toughest treks around Cusco, because of the long descent into the Apurímac canyon and the steep climb out, often in heat.
Can I combine Choquequirao and Machu Picchu?
Yes. Longer 6 and 8-day versions continue on foot from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu; ask us for dates and prices.
Does Choquequirao need a permit?
No Inca Trail permit is needed; the site has its own entrance, included in our tours.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season, April to October, when trails are firm and river crossings easier.
Verified reviews

What our travelers say

Real reviews from travelers who explored Peru with our local team in Cusco.

  • Chris M Sep 2026 · Friends
    Salkantay Trek 5D

    Amazing Salkantay Trek with the Best Guide.

    Our 5 day Salkantay Trek with Terra Quechua Peru was an absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. The scenery, the challenge, the food, and finally arriving at Machu Picchu made this a trip I’ll never forget…

    Posted on Tripadvisor Read full review – Chris M
  • Edi Sanchez Jun 2026
    Salkantay Trek 4D

    Una experiencia increíble en el Salkantay Trek de 4 días. Los paisajes fueron espectaculares y todo estuvo muy bien organizado. El equipo de Terra Quechua Perú siempre fue amable, atento y profesional…

  • María Eugenia Jul 2025 · AR

    El mejor viaje de nuestras vidas

    No tengo palabras para describir el trabajo de Cristian, Adrian y Guillermo. Cumplimos nuestro sueño pero también conocimos 3 seres humanos maravillosos. Estuvieron pendientes 24/7 de nosotros…

  • Cecille H Aug 2026 · Friends
    Salkantay Trek 5D

    Salkantay Trek - 5 days

    We had the most amazing experience over the last few days making our way up to Machu Picchu. Our guide, Carlos was so accommodating, helping us whenever we needed, telling us lot of interesting facts along the trail…

    Posted on Tripadvisor Read full review – Cecille H
  • Nadia JP Jun 2026 · Local Guide
    Choquequirao 5D

    Realizamos el tour de 5 días y 4 noches a Choquequirao, simplemente fue maravilloso en cuanto a paisajes, al servicio de la agencia y por sobretodo del guía Yas, muy amable y quien estuvo pendiente a nuestros requerimientos…

  • José Carlos Pérez Ortega Apr 2026 · ES

    Experiencia inolvidable

    Si bien eran altas las expectativas, la experiencia real ha sido superior. Enhorabuena Terra Quechua, y en especial a nuestra guía Leidy Canal, sin ella estoy seguro que no hubiera sido lo mismo…