Machu Picchu Team · Choquequirao Guide
How to Get to Choquequirao
Hidden high above the Apurímac Canyon, Choquequirao is one of the most impressive Inca sites in Peru, and one of the hardest to reach. There is no train, no bus and no road to the ruins: the only way in is on foot. This guide explains exactly how to get there from Cusco, step by step.
Getting There at a Glance
Where Is Choquequirao?
Choquequirao sits in the Andes northwest of Cusco, perched high above the Apurímac River and surrounded by steep mountains, deep valleys and cloud forest. Its name is commonly translated as “Cradle of Gold.”
Between the road and the ruins lies the Apurímac Canyon. To reach the site, you must first descend to the river and then climb back up the other side. That demanding approach is exactly why Choquequirao receives far fewer visitors than Machu Picchu.
The Route, Step by Step
The classic route: Cusco → Cachora → Capuliyoc → Chiquisca → Apurímac River → Santa Rosa → Marampata → Choquequirao, returning the same way.
Cusco to Capuliyoc by road
An early departure by vehicle along the Cusco–Abancay highway, through Limatambo and Curahuasi, then a side road to Cachora and the Capuliyoc trailhead. About 4 hours in total.
Descent to Chiquisca
From the Capuliyoc viewpoint, with your first dramatic view of the canyon, a long downhill trail with switchbacks leads to Chiquisca. It gets warmer as you descend. Trekking poles help protect your knees.
Cross the Apurímac River
The trail continues down to Playa Rosalinas, the lowest point of the route at about 1,500 m, where you cross the Apurímac River by bridge.
Climb to Santa Rosa and Marampata
The hardest part of the trek: a steep climb of several hours, often in the heat, to the villages of Santa Rosa and Marampata. Walk slowly and drink water often.
Arrive at Choquequirao
From Marampata, a gentler trail leads to the archaeological complex: plazas, ceremonial areas, agricultural terraces and the famous Llama Terraces.
Return to Cusco
You return the same way: down to the river and a final long climb back to Capuliyoc, where transport takes you back to Cusco, usually arriving in the evening.
Can You Get There by Train or Car?
No. Unlike Machu Picchu, there is no train, tourist bus or road that reaches Choquequirao. Vehicles can only take you as far as the trailhead at Capuliyoc; from there, every visitor arrives on foot.
That isolation is part of the magic: fewer crowds, a less commercialized environment and the real sense of discovering a lost Inca city. Your reward at the end of the trail includes unique sights like the Llama Terraces, where white stones form llama figures in the Inca walls.
Altitude Along the Route
Choquequirao is lower than Cusco, so altitude is not the main challenge. The real difficulty is the constant descending and climbing through the canyon.
Choose Your Way to how to get to Choquequirao
Most popular
Classic Trek · 4 Days
The best balance between hiking time and exploring the ruins. Ideal for most fit travelers.
Relaxed Trek · 5 Days
Shorter hiking days and more time at the site. Great if you prefer a comfortable pace.
Fast Trek · 3 Days
An accelerated version for strong, experienced hikers with limited time.
Choquequirao to Machu Picchu · 6+ Days
A demanding expedition that connects both Inca sites. For experienced trekkers only.
🧭 Tour or independent? Experienced hikers can trek on their own, but an organized tour includes transport, a guide, meals, camping equipment, pack animals and emergency support, making the logistics much easier for most international travelers.
Before You Go
FAQ: Getting to Choquequirao
Where does the Choquequirao Trek start?
Most itineraries start hiking at Capuliyoc, reached by road from Cusco via the town of Cachora.
Can you drive directly to Choquequirao?
No. Roads only reach the trailhead. The final part of the journey must be done on foot.
Is there a train to Choquequirao?
No. There is currently no tourist train with direct access to the archaeological site.
How long does it take to get there?
About 4 hours by road from Cusco to the trailhead, then usually a day and a half of hiking to reach the site on the classic 4-day itinerary.
Can I hire a horse?
Horse or mule support may be available on some sections depending on local conditions, but it should be arranged in advance and is not always guaranteed.
Can I visit Choquequirao and Machu Picchu on the same trip?
Yes. Many travelers complete the Choquequirao Trek, rest a day in Cusco and then visit Machu Picchu. Longer treks can also connect both sites on foot.
Plan Your Choquequirao Trek
Machu Picchu Team, based in Cusco, organizes Choquequirao treks with transport, expert guides, meals and camping equipment included. Contact us and we’ll help you choose the best itinerary.