After breakfast, get ready for one of the most challenging but rewarding days on this TreXperience! First, hike for 4 hours uphill to Marampata (2940 m - 9646 ft). On the way, you will visit sugar cane farms where locals produce “Cañazo,” a local alcoholic drink made for centuries and delivered to cities like Cusco. Lunch is in a local house with amazing mountains and river views. After lunch, ascend another 2 hours up and down to Choquequirao (3050 m - 10006 ft). A spectacular Inca Site perched in the Peruvian Andes, Choquequirao, was one of the last Inca cities built in the cloud forest and abandoned during Peru’s conquest. It might have been one of the entrance checkpoints to Vilcabamba, the last capital of the Incas, in the 16th century. Today, our campsite offers spectacular views of the Apurimac valley and the Peruvian Andes.

• Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
• Hiking duration: 8 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Difficulty: Challenging

Wake up in your tent with a cup of coffee or coca tea provided by your trekking team while you enjoy the most spectacular sunrise at this magical place. It will be a 3-hour downhill to Santa Rosa (2230 m – 7300 ft), our lunch spot after breakfast. Later, continue down for one more hour downhill and 2 hours uphill until the last campsite at Chikiska (1950 m- 6398 ft). This is a perfect day to enjoy the surrounding landscape from hundreds of different flowers, birds, and waterfalls in the distance.

• Distance:  15 km / 9.3 miles
• Approximate Hiking Time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping

On the final day, wake up early and enjoy the last breakfast with your team. Then, prepare for the last 4-hour trek uphill to Capuliyoc. We will arrange a special feast, the Pachamanca underground barbecue, where we will have different kinds of vegetables, meats, and fruits buried underground with hot stones. After lunch, say goodbye to all our trekking team that accompanied you on this expedition. Afterward, take private transportation to the archaeological site of Saywite, a great mysterious rock believed to be the complex irrigation system of the region. You will have plenty of time to explore the area, then return to Cusco and drop off at your hotel around 6:00 pm.

• Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
• Approximate Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Not included

When preparing for the Choquequirao Trek, it's important to pack carefully to ensure you have everything you need for the four-day journey. Here are some essential items to consider bringing:

Essentials

• Sturdy hiking boots: A good pair of hiking boots with ankle support is essential for steep and rocky terrain.
• Warm clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so bring warm layers, including a fleece or down jacket, hat, gloves, and thermal underwear.
• Rain gear: Rain is common in the region, so be sure to bring a waterproof jacket and pants.
• Sun protection: The high altitude and intense sun can cause sunburn and dehydration, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Water: Bring a reusable water bottle and purification tablets or a filtration system, as there are limited opportunities to purchase water along the trail.
• Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars are essential for sustained daily energy.
• First aid kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptics are necessary for minor injuries or illnesses.
• Camera: The Choquequirao Trek offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and the Inca ruins, so don't forget your camera to capture the experience.
• Cash: Bring enough cash for park entrance fees, camping fees, and food and drink purchases along the way.
• Trekking poles: Trekking poles can be helpful for stability and reducing strain on the knees during steep descents.

Clothing:

• Hiking boots
• Hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
• Lightweight pants
• Long-sleeve shirt (sun protection)
• Fleece or light jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Hiking pants
• Hat or bennie
• Gloves
• Thermal underwear
• Swimsuit (for hot springs, if desired)

Gear:

• Backpack (at least 30-40 liters)
• Sleeping bag (rated -10°C)
• Inflatable Mattress (for extra comfort)
• Headlamp
• Trekking poles (recommended)
• Reusable water bottle
• Water bottle or Camel bag
• Snacks
• First aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic)
• Camera
• Cash (for park entrance fees, camping fees, and food/drink purchases)

Others:

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer)
• Plastic bags (for trash or to keep gear dry)
• Map or guidebook of the trek
• Altitude sickness pills

Packing light and only bringing essential items is important, as you'll carry your gear throughout the trek.