Embark on a 4-day trek to discover the lost Incan city of Choquequirao, known as the ‘Cradle of Gold’. Explore the heart of the rainforest and experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of this hidden gem.
Embark on a 4-day trek to discover the lost Incan city of Choquequirao, known as the ‘Cradle of Gold’. Explore the heart of the rainforest and experience the rich history and stunning landscapes of this hidden gem.
DEPARTING CUSCO AND ENTERING THE APURIMAC CANYON.
Cachora - Guests are collected from their hotel in Cusco and depart at 6:00 a.m., arriving in the town of Cachora (3100 m) around 10:00 a.m. Here, equipment is loaded onto horses, marking the start of the trek down a gently sloping trail. This day’s trek lasts no more than 5 hours, with…
DEPARTING CUSCO AND ENTERING THE APURIMAC CANYON.
Cachora - Guests are collected from their hotel in Cusco and depart at 6:00 a.m., arriving in the town of Cachora (3100 m) around 10:00 a.m. Here, equipment is loaded onto horses, marking the start of the trek down a gently sloping trail. This day’s trek lasts no more than 5 hours, with temperatures starting at approximately 15°C (60°F) and rising to around 25°C (77°F) by the end. Along the way, trekkers will enjoy initial views of the snow-capped Padrayoc Mountain at 5482 m (17980 FASL) and Wayna Cachora. A brief pause is taken at the Capuliyoc pass (2900 m, 9500 FASL) for a panoramic view of the Apurimac Valley, before descending to the warm climate scenery at the river’s beach at the canyon’s base (1550 m, 5080 FASL) for the first camp. (Lunch and dinner included.)
CLIMBING THE CANYON AND APPROACHING CHOQUEQUIRAO
EXPLORING THE LARGEST CITY OF THE INCA EMPIRE AFTER CUSCO.
Ruinas de Choquequirao - Following breakfast, the journey continues to Choquequirao to witness the sunrise. Visiting the Citadel takes approximately 4 hours. This expansive city features temples and distinct areas, with a guide providing insightful explanations about this significant Inca refuge and the importance of the Apurimac River. Visitors will also admire the Vilcabamba range. At midday, the group returns to the camping area for lunch before continuing the trek down into the canyon to establish a new camp at the river’s beach. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.)
EXITING THE CANYON AND RETURNING TO CUSCO.
Cusco - After breakfast at the canyon’s base (06:00 AM), the return journey follows the same path to the canyon’s edge, followed by a smoother two-hour stretch to the town of Cachora, arriving around 12:00 p.m. Along the way, travelers will appreciate the exotic flora and fauna, as well as views of snow-capped mountains and the stunning canyon. The return to Cusco by car takes approximately 3 hours, with arrival at the hotel in the afternoon, marking the end of the services.

- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- Private transportation
- Professional guide
- Full camping gear: tents, mattresses, and sleeping bag
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- All fees and taxes covered
- Choquequirao entrance fee included
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- Private transportation
- Professional guide
- Full camping gear: tents, mattresses, and sleeping bag
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- All fees and taxes covered
- Choquequirao entrance fee included
- Breakfast the first day, Lunch and Dinner the last day
- Water and snacks
- Breakfast the first day, Lunch and Dinner the last day
- Water and snacks
The 4-Day Choquequirao Trek takes you to what’s often referred to as the ‘lost city.’ In the Quechua language, Choquequirao translates to ‘Cradle of Gold’ and is the largest Inca city after Cusco. It was here, in 1536, that the Incas took refuge from the invading Spaniards. The city sits in the Vilcabamba Valley, adjacent to the rainforest, at a height…
The 4-Day Choquequirao Trek takes you to what’s often referred to as the ‘lost city.’ In the Quechua language, Choquequirao translates to ‘Cradle of Gold’ and is the largest Inca city after Cusco. It was here, in 1536, that the Incas took refuge from the invading Spaniards. The city sits in the Vilcabamba Valley, adjacent to the rainforest, at a height of 3400 meters (or 11150 feet) above sea level. Pleasant tropical weather prevails here, making this Inca city as significant as Machupicchu. The expedition kicks off in the city of Cusco and takes you through the Apurimac canyon, whose picturesque landscapes, abundant flora and fauna, and status as one of the world’s deepest canyons, are indeed sight to behold.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.