The Choquequirao Trek Information is one of the most challenging hiking experiences in the Cusco region. This beautiful route takes you through the impressive landscapes of the Apurímac Canyon, surrounded by mountains, deep valleys, and rich natural scenery.

To help you prepare for this adventure, we have put together useful information about the location of Choquequirao, how to get there, weather conditions, altitude, physical preparation, difficulty level, and entrance tickets.
Read this guide before planning your trek to Choquequirao and get ready to explore one of the most fascinating Inca archaeological sites in Peru.
Where Is Choquequirao Located?
Choquequirao is located in the south of Peru, in the Cusco region, on the right bank of the Apurímac River. The archaeological site is surrounded by dense vegetation and high Andean mountains.
The journey from Cusco to Cachora is approximately 164 km by road. Cachora, located in the Apurímac region, is one of the main starting points for the trek. From this village, the archaeological complex is approximately 32 km away on foot, depending on the route taken.
Choquequirao offers an impressive combination of Inca architecture, mountain scenery, and natural landscapes. Its remote location is one of the reasons why the trek is considered a challenging adventure.
How to Get to Choquequirao
To begin the Choquequirao Trek, you first need to travel from Cusco to Capuliyoc. Our agency usually provides private transportation from Cusco to Capuliyoc, allowing travelers to reach the starting point comfortably and on schedule.
If you prefer to travel independently, you can take a bus or shared vehicle along the Cusco–Abancay route. Buses generally leave from the bus terminal in Cusco. You may also find shared cars in the Arcopata area.
We recommend organizing your trip in advance, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Traveling with an experienced guide and a well-organized support team can make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
At Choquequirao Travel, we can help you arrange transportation, guides, meals, camping equipment, and muleteer services for your trek.
Weather on the Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao trekking route passes through different altitudes and natural environments. For much of the journey, the weather can be warmer than in the city of Cusco, especially when descending toward the Apurímac River.
However, temperatures change throughout the day. You may experience strong sunshine during the hike, cooler conditions in the afternoon, and cold temperatures at night, particularly at higher campsites.
The region has two main seasons:
- Dry season (April to October): These months generally offer better conditions for hiking, with less rainfall and more stable weather. June, July, August, and September are popular months for trekking.
- Rainy season (November to March): Rainfall is more frequent, and trails can become muddy or slippery. Weather conditions may also affect travel plans.
Even during the dry season, rain and sudden changes in temperature are possible. We recommend bringing suitable clothing for both warm and cold conditions.
Maximum and Minimum Altitude on the Choquequirao Trek
The Choquequirao Trek includes significant changes in altitude as the trail descends into the Apurímac Canyon and climbs toward the archaeological site.
The approximate altitude points include:
- Choquequirao Main Square: 3,035 meters (9,957 feet) above sea level.
- Playa Rosalina: 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level.
The difference in altitude makes this trek physically demanding. Although some sections are warmer and lower than Cusco, the steep ascents and descents require good physical preparation.
Altitude sickness can affect travelers differently. We recommend spending a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the trek, walking at a steady pace, and drinking enough water.
Physical Condition Required for the Choquequirao Trek
To complete the Choquequirao hike, you should have good physical and mental preparation. The route includes long walking days, steep uphill sections, and demanding downhill trails.
In terms of physical effort, many travelers find this trek more demanding than the Classic Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek.
You do not need to be a professional athlete, but regular walking, hiking, or cardiovascular exercise before your trip can help you prepare.
During our tours, you will be accompanied by experienced guides and muleteers who support the group throughout the journey. Their knowledge of the route helps make the experience safer and more comfortable.
Recommended Age for the Choquequirao Trek
There is no single age that determines whether someone can complete the Choquequirao Trek. Physical condition, hiking experience, and general health are more important factors.
Adults and older travelers who are accustomed to walking long distances may enjoy this adventure, provided they are in suitable physical condition.
Children can also take part, but parents should carefully consider the length, difficulty, altitude changes, and remote conditions of the route before making a decision. Children must remain under the responsibility and supervision of their parents or guardians.
If you are unsure whether this trek is suitable for you or your family, we recommend speaking with a doctor and discussing your physical condition with our team before booking.
Choquequirao Trek Information Difficulty Level
The trek to Choquequirao is considered a demanding hiking experience because of its steep slopes, long walking days, and changes in altitude.

To help you understand the different levels of hiking difficulty, we use the following scale:
- Easy: A walk that requires little physical effort. It is generally suitable for beginners and children accompanied by their parents.
- Moderate: Suitable for people who exercise regularly or are accustomed to walking on different types of terrain.
- Challenging: Recommended for travelers with some hiking experience, especially those who can walk for five or six hours.
- Demanding: Requires good physical endurance, strength, and previous experience with long hikes.
- Strenuous: Suitable for people who are physically and mentally prepared for a very demanding adventure, sometimes involving the need to carry their own equipment.
The Choquequirao Trek falls between Challenging and Demanding, depending on the itinerary, weather, and each traveler’s physical condition.
Choquequirao Entrance Fee and Ticket Information for 2027
To visit the Choquequirao archaeological site, travelers must pay an entrance fee. This payment is separate from the cost of transportation, meals, camping equipment, guides, and other trekking services.
According to the information published on this page, the Choquequirao entrance fee for 2027 is S/ 60.00 per person.
The entrance ticket can be purchased at the designated Ministry of Culture offices in the Punta Carretera or Capuliyoc areas, as indicated in our current travel information.
Since entrance fees, ticket offices, and payment procedures may change, we recommend confirming the latest details with the relevant authorities before beginning your trek.
If you book a trek with Choquequirao Travel, our team can provide guidance about the entrance fee and help you prepare for your visit.
Choquequirao Trek Availability
The Ministry of Culture is the authority responsible for the management and protection of the Choquequirao archaeological site.
The trek can generally be organized throughout the year, but access conditions may change because of heavy rain, trail maintenance, safety measures, or official restrictions.
For this reason, we recommend checking the latest information before your departure and organizing your trek with enough time.
At Choquequirao Travel, we will be happy to help you plan your adventure and discover this remarkable Inca destination.









