| Choquequirao: 3-Day Hike to the Lost City of the Incas ||

Nestled deep within Peru’s rugged Andes lies Choquequirao, a captivating Incan citadel that’s often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas." For the intrepid traveler, reaching this partially excavated site requires a challenging yet rewarding 3-day hike through stunning vistas of the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped peaks. The trek promises an immersive experience, with guided explorations of the site’s intricate stone architecture, terraced agricultural platforms, and remnants of the Inca settlement. While the journey is not for the faint of heart, those who embark on this adventure will uncover a lesser-known gem that’s often compared to the iconic Machu Picchu.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best 3 Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru.

Key Points

• A 3-day hike to the remote and partially excavated Incan citadel of Choquequirao, often referred to as the ‘Lost City of the Incas’.
• The hike offers stunning views of the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped Andean peaks, as well as an immersive experience in Peru’s remote landscapes.
• The tour includes roundtrip private transportation, professional guides, all meals, camping equipment, and entrance tickets to the Choquequirao archaeological site.
• Choquequirao is known for its architectural similarities to the iconic Machu Picchu, providing a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known Incan ruin.
• The hike is designed for experienced, acclimatized trekkers and is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

The 3-day hike to Choquequirao, the lost city of the Incas, starts from $600 per person and is bookable with a pay later option. This private group service is available for a minimum of 2 participants.

Trekkers can look forward to an adventure filled with nature and hiking as they observe the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped mountains.

The tour includes a guided visit to the Choquequirao Archaeological Zone, which shares similarities with the famous Machu Picchu but has only a third of its complex discovered.

The package covers roundtrip transportation, an English or Spanish-speaking guide, meals, camping equipment, and entrance tickets, making it a comprehensive experience for adventurous travelers.

Highlights of the Hike

Embarking on this 3-day hike, travelers can expect an adventure filled with stunning natural landscapes and the opportunity to explore the captivating Choquequirao Archaeological Zone. Along the way, hikers will marvel at the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped mountains that provide a breathtaking backdrop. The guided visit to the Choquequirao ruins, often referred to as the "lost city of the Incas," allows visitors to uncover the site’s similarities to the famous Machu Picchu, with only a third of the complex currently discovered. Whether seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, a connection with nature, or a glimpse into Peru’s Inca heritage, this hike promises an unforgettable experience.

Highlight	Description
Apurimac River Canyon	Witness the stunning canyon carved by the mighty Apurimac River
Snow-Capped Mountains	Admire the dramatic snow-capped peaks that surround the hiking route
Choquequirao Archaeological Zone	Explore the partially excavated ruins of this "lost city of the Incas"
Similarities to Machu Picchu	Discover the intriguing parallels between Choquequirao and the famous Machu Picchu
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure	Embark on an exciting, lesser-known journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes

Itinerary Breakdown

This 3-day Choquequirao hike follows a well-defined itinerary, offering travelers a structured yet immersive experience in Peru’s remote Andes region.

The trek begins with a journey from Cusco to Kapuliyoq and then on to Marampata Camp on the first day.

Day two takes hikers from Marampata to the stunning Choquequirao archaeological site and then to Chikisqa Camp.

The final day’s hike concludes with a return trip from Chikisqa to Kapuliyoq and back to Cusco.

The itinerary includes:

1. Day 1: Cusco to Kapuliyoq to Marampata Camp
2. Day 2: Marampata to Choquequirao to Chikisqa Camp
3. Day 3: Chikisqa to Kapuliyoq to Cusco

This well-paced schedule allows for ample exploration of the Choquequirao ruins and surrounding landscapes.

Included in the Tour

A comprehensive suite of inclusions ensures a seamless and enjoyable Choquequirao hiking experience for participants.

Roundtrip private transportation, professional multilingual guides, and all meals are provided throughout the 3-day trek.

Campers will also benefit from the use of essential camping equipment, horsemen, and horses to assist with luggage and supplies.

Plus, entrance tickets to the Choquequirao archaeological site, as well as access to first aid kits and oxygen, are all covered in the tour package.

The tour’s inclusions aim to create a hassle-free and well-supported adventure, allowing hikers to focus on seeing the stunning natural scenery and exploring the mysteries of the lost Inca city.

More Great Tours Nearby

Excluded From the Tour

While the tour includes a comprehensive set of services, there are a few exclusions that participants should be aware of. Travelers will need to cover the cost of any food and beverages not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions, as well as the rental of sleeping bags if required.

Additional expenses may include:

1. Photographs and videos during the tour, which are optional.
2. Extra activities and tips for the staff, which are also optional.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

It’s essential to consider these exclusions when planning and budgeting for the Choquequirao expedition to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Despite the stunning natural beauty and historical significance of Choquequirao, the hike to this ancient Inca citadel poses certain challenges that limit its accessibility to certain travelers. Specifically, the rigorous multi-day trek involves steep ascents, rugged terrain, and high altitudes, making it unsuitable for individuals with physical limitations such as pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Accessibility	Suitable for	Not Suitable for
Physical Fitness	Experienced hikers	Pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users
Altitude	Acclimatized travelers	Individuals sensitive to high elevations
Terrain	Adventurous trekkers	Those with mobility issues or limited hiking experience

Booking and Payment Options

The tour to Choquequirao can be booked directly with the tour operator, with a pay later option available for interested travelers. This 3-day hike to the lost city of the Incas starts from $600 per person, offering a private group service for a minimum of 2 participants.

The booking process is straightforward:

1. Choose your preferred travel dates and confirm availability with the operator.
2. Secure your spot by providing a deposit or taking advantage of the pay later option.
3. Complete the full payment before the tour’s commencement, ensuring a seamless experience.

Whether you’re seeking an adventure, immersing in nature, or exploring the Incan ruins, the Choquequirao tour provides a captivating and accessible option for travelers.

Exploring Choquequirao

Nestled in the rugged Andes Mountains, Choquequirao is a captivating Incan citadel that has captivated adventurers and historians alike.

Accessible only by an arduous 3-day hike, this ‘Lost City of the Incas‘ promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of the ancient Andean civilization.

During the trek, hikers will be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Apurimac River Canyon and snow-capped peaks.

The guided tour promises an in-depth exploration of the archaeological site, revealing its remarkable similarities to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Visitors will have the chance to observe the intricate stone architecture, terraced agricultural platforms, and the fascinating remnants of a once-thriving Inca settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Hike?

The best time to do this hike is during the dry season from May to September when weather conditions are ideal for trekking. Temperatures are mild, and the chance of rain is lower, making it a prime time to explore the lost city.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Equipment?

Yes, travelers can bring their own camping equipment for this hike. However, the tour operator provides camping gear, so using their equipment may be more convenient. It’s best to check with the operator about any restrictions or preferences regarding personal camping gear.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour, but it’s recommended for participants to be reasonably fit and able to handle the strenuous hike. The tour may not be suitable for very young children or elderly travelers.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Hike?

The typical group size for this hike is a minimum of 2 people. It’s a private group service, so the tour is customized for your group rather than a large public tour.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter for My Luggage?

Yes, the tour operator offers the option to hire a porter to carry your luggage during the hike. This service comes at an additional cost and can be arranged when booking the tour.

Recap

Choquequirao’s remote location and challenging hike make it a rewarding experience for adventurous travelers.

Though less visited than Machu Picchu, this Incan citadel offers a chance to explore ancient ruins amid stunning Andean scenery.

With guided tours and well-planned itineraries, visitors can discover the site’s architectural wonders and uncover the mysteries of this ‘Lost City of the Incas.’

For those seeking a unique Peruvian adventure, Choquequirao is a captivating and lesser-known destination worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: